Navigating the world with a robust truck like a Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra is fantastic, but let’s be honest, getting in and out, especially if you or your passengers aren’t particularly tall, can become a real chore. I remember the constant struggle, feeling like I was scaling a small mountain every time I needed to hop into my truck. This wasn’t just an inconvenience; it put undue strain on my knees and back, and I worried about the long-term wear and tear on the seats as I slid in and out. Finding a reliable solution, like the COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards, was crucial to avoid these daily frustrations and potential injuries.
Running boards serve as more than just an aesthetic upgrade for your truck; they offer practical solutions to common challenges faced by truck owners. They primarily solve the problem of difficult ingress and egress, making it significantly easier for drivers and passengers of all heights and mobility levels to step into and out of elevated vehicles. Beyond accessibility, they also provide a layer of protection for your truck’s rocker panels from road debris, mud, and minor impacts, preserving your vehicle’s exterior.
The ideal customer for running boards, especially a robust set like the COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards, is someone who owns a compatible truck (specifically 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, or 2007-2019 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, and certain 2019 models). They are perfect for families with young children or elderly passengers, individuals with mobility issues, or anyone who frequently uses their truck for work or recreation that involves frequent entry/exit. If you have a lifted truck, running boards become almost indispensable. Conversely, if you own a compact car or a vehicle with a low ride height, running boards would be entirely unnecessary. Similarly, if your truck is a very specific non-Crew Cab model or one of the excluded diesel engine variants, these particular boards won’t be a suitable fit, and you’d need to seek out boards specifically designed for your vehicle’s configuration.
Before making a purchase, prospective buyers should carefully consider several factors: vehicle fitment (double-check the exact year, make, model, and cab type), the material (stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance), the step width for secure footing, the maximum weight capacity, and the ease of installation. Also, think about the design – do you prefer an OE (Original Equipment) style that blends seamlessly with your truck’s lines, or something more rugged? These considerations will guide you to the best choice for your needs.
Introducing the COMNOVA Running Boards
The COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards are a premium accessory designed to enhance the accessibility and aesthetic appeal of compatible Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Crew Cab trucks. They promise a secure, wide step for easy entry and exit, coupled with the durability of stainless steel construction and an OE-style appearance. When you purchase these running boards, the package typically includes two 6-inch wide step bars, along with 8 robust brackets (four for each side) and their corresponding plastic covers, and all necessary mounting hardware for a direct bolt-on installation.
While many running boards on the market offer similar basic functionality, the COMNOVA set distinguishes itself with its innovative, patented slider design. This feature allows for the adjustment of the step position forward and backward on the vehicle, offering a level of customization not often seen in OE-style boards. This adaptability can be a significant advantage over fixed-position steps or even some previous iterations of running boards that lack this adjustability. Compared to some market leaders, COMNOVA often provides a more cost-effective solution without compromising significantly on material quality or load-bearing capacity.
These particular running boards are perfectly suited for owners of 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, 2007-2019 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, and 2019 Silverado/Sierra 1500 LD/Limited Crew Cab models. They are not suitable for the 2007 Silverado 1500 Classic or any diesel engine models, so it’s crucial to verify your truck’s specific configuration before purchasing.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Pros:
* Robust Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance.
* Generous 6-inch Wide Step: Provides ample and secure footing.
* Innovative Patented Slider Design: Allows for customizable step positioning.
* OE Style Aesthetic: Blends seamlessly with the truck’s factory look.
* Easy Direct Bolt-On Installation: No drilling required, making it a straightforward DIY project.
* High Weight Capacity: Each bar supports up to 500 pounds.
Cons:
* Plastic Bracket Covers: Can sometimes make wrench access challenging during installation.
* Perceived Flex for Heavier Users: While rated for 500 lbs, some very heavy users report a slight creak or flex.
* Potential for Missing Hardware: (Rarely) A few users reported minor missing hardware, though customer service usually resolves this quickly.
In-Depth Look at Features & Benefits
Having used the COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards for quite some time now, I can confidently delve into the features that truly make them stand out and the tangible benefits they’ve brought to my daily truck experience. This isn’t just about adding a shiny accessory; it’s about solving real-world problems and enhancing usability.
Robust Stainless Steel Construction
The first thing you notice about these running boards is their solid feel. Made with high-quality stainless steel, they present a sleek, polished look that genuinely elevates the truck’s overall appearance. From the moment I unboxed them, the material’s quality was evident. It feels substantial and well-finished, reflecting light beautifully. Even after enduring various weather conditions – from scorching summer sun to freezing winter rains, and regular exposure to road salt and grime – the stainless steel has held up exceptionally well. There’s no sign of rust, pitting, or significant discoloration, which is a testament to the material’s inherent resistance to corrosion.
Benefit: This robust construction translates directly into longevity and peace of mind. I don’t have to worry about these boards deteriorating quickly or looking aged prematurely. They maintain their pristine appearance, adding lasting value to my vehicle. More importantly, the inherent strength of stainless steel ensures that the boards remain structurally sound, providing reliable support for years to come. This durability is crucial for an accessory that constantly bears weight and faces environmental challenges, ensuring that your investment continues to pay off.
Generous 6-inch Wide Anti-Slip Step Surface
One of the most practical features is the 6-inch wide step surface. This generous width provides an incredibly secure and comfortable platform for stepping into and out of the truck. Unlike narrower steps or tube-style nerf bars, my foot (and anyone else’s, regardless of shoe size) always lands fully and securely on the 6-inch wide step. The anti-slip plastic steps embedded within the stainless steel frame are also highly effective. Even in wet conditions, like after rain or when my shoes are muddy, I’ve never felt any instability or a risk of slipping. The textured surface provides excellent traction.
Benefit: The primary benefit here is enhanced safety and comfort. Getting into a tall truck can be awkward, and a narrow step can exacerbate this, leading to slips or missed steps. This wide, anti-slip surface virtually eliminates those concerns, making entry and exit a confident and effortless motion for everyone, including children and older passengers. It reduces the stretch and strain, transforming a potentially inconvenient action into a smooth transition. This feature alone drastically improves the daily usability of the truck.
Innovative Patented Slider Design
This is where the COMNOVA running boards genuinely show their innovation. The Patented Slider Design allows you to adjust the position of the step forward or backward on the vehicle. During installation, I experimented with this, and it proved to be incredibly useful. I was able to fine-tune the step’s placement to perfectly align with my preferred entry point and leg swing, as well as considering where my passenger typically steps. It’s a simple mechanism but offers significant flexibility.
Benefit: The ability to customize the step’s position ensures optimal ergonomics for different users and specific needs. Whether you prefer the step closer to the door or slightly further back, you can set it up for maximum comfort and accessibility. This level of personalized fit distinguishes these boards from many fixed-position alternatives, ensuring that the step is exactly where you need it to be for the most natural and comfortable entry and exit. It’s a subtle but powerful benefit that enhances the overall user experience.
Effortless OE Style Direct Bolt-On Installation
Installing these running boards was remarkably straightforward, living up to the promise of a direct bolt-on process with no drilling required. The included instructions, while sometimes a bit sparse, combined with the intuitive design, made it a manageable DIY project. All the mounting points aligned perfectly with the existing holes on my truck’s frame. It was largely a matter of bolting the brackets into place and then securing the running boards to the brackets. The non-welded design, with four distinct brackets per side, means that the components are separate, which actually aids in installation, allowing for minor adjustments before final tightening.
One point to note, as some other users have mentioned, is that the plastic covers for the mounting brackets can be a little tricky when trying to angle your wrench or line up bolts. I found that gently maneuvering them or, as some suggest, slightly modifying the internal plastic angles with pliers, made the process smoother. However, this is a minor hurdle in an otherwise very simple installation. I managed to get both sides done in about two hours, working by myself.
Benefit: The ease of installation saves significant time and money that would otherwise be spent on professional installation. It empowers truck owners to perform the upgrade themselves, making the entire process more cost-effective and rewarding. The direct bolt-on nature also means no irreversible modifications to your truck’s frame, preserving its integrity and making it easier to remove the boards if ever desired. This feature is a huge plus for anyone who prefers practical, no-fuss vehicle enhancements.
Exceptional Weight Capacity (500 lbs per bar)
The stated 500 LBS weight limit per bar is impressive, and for the vast majority of users, it holds up exceptionally well. I weigh around 235 pounds, and the boards feel incredibly solid and secure underfoot. There’s a minimal amount of give, perhaps comparable to or even less than OEM steps I’ve experienced on other trucks, but certainly not enough to cause concern. I’ve even had my much heavier friend (around 280 lbs) step on them, and while he noted a slight creaking sound and a bit more flex than I observed, they still supported him without issue. This minor observation is an honest assessment, not a significant flaw given the weight rating and overall performance.
Benefit: This high weight capacity provides immense confidence in the running boards’ durability and reliability. It means they can safely accommodate heavy individuals, multiple people stepping on simultaneously (e.g., during cleaning), or even serve as a temporary platform for reaching items in the bed or on the roof. This robust load-bearing capability ensures that the boards are not just a convenient step but also a sturdy and dependable part of your truck’s structure, capable of handling real-world use without fear of bending or failing.
Aesthetic Enhancement and Protection
Beyond their primary function, these running boards significantly enhance the overall look of my truck. The OE style ensures they integrate seamlessly, appearing as if they were factory-installed. The polished stainless steel adds a touch of sophistication and rugged elegance that complements the truck’s design perfectly.
Benefit: From an aesthetic standpoint, they instantly give the truck a more finished and capable appearance. But beyond looks, they also provide a practical layer of protection. They extend just enough to shield the lower rocker panels from road debris, flung gravel, and even minor dings from shopping carts or other vehicles in parking lots. This dual benefit of improved looks and added protection makes them a truly valuable addition.
Praise from Other Truck Owners
After exploring various online forums and product review sections, it’s clear that my positive experience with these running boards is widely shared. Many users have expressed immense satisfaction, often highlighting the ease of installation and the significant visual upgrade these boards provide. One owner happily noted how simple they were to mount, requiring no drilling, and how they completely transformed the look of their truck. Another individual, who tested the boards by jumping on them (a bit excessive, perhaps!), confirmed their excellent durability and sturdiness, especially considering the price point.
A common theme among reviews is the excellent customer service. In instances where a user received an incorrect part or had a minor issue, COMNOVA’s support team was quick to respond, often sending replacement parts like brackets or hardware promptly and without charge. While a few heavier individuals did mention a slight flex or creaking sound when stepping on the boards, they still acknowledged the boards’ ability to hold up reliably within their stated weight capacity, giving them high marks for value and overall performance.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
The daily struggle of climbing into a tall truck is more than just an annoyance; it can lead to unnecessary strain, potential slips, and even accelerated wear on your vehicle’s interior. Addressing this problem is crucial for both personal comfort and the longevity of your truck. The COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards stand out as an excellent solution for several compelling reasons. Their robust stainless steel construction ensures lasting durability and resistance to the elements, meaning they’ll look good and perform well for years. The intuitive direct bolt-on installation makes them incredibly accessible for any DIY enthusiast, saving time and money. Most importantly, the generous 6-inch wide, anti-slip step and high weight capacity provide a safe, secure, and comfortable entry and exit point for everyone. If you’re ready to transform your truck’s accessibility and aesthetics, these running boards are a fantastic investment. To explore them further and make them yours, Click here to check the product out.