There was a time when getting into my truck felt like a daily workout, especially for my passengers. Whether it was my spouse struggling to hoist themselves up, or friends and family finding it awkward to climb into the high cab, it became clear that this wasn’t just an inconvenience; it was a genuine hurdle. I knew I needed a reliable solution like a set of Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards to make entry and exit seamless, or face continued discomfort and potentially even safety issues for those less agile.
Key Considerations Before Investing in Truck Steps
For anyone with a taller truck, the practical benefits of adding `running boards` or `side steps` are immediate. They primarily solve the problem of difficult cabin access, but they also offer a degree of protection against door dings from adjacent vehicles in parking lots. The ideal customer for these accessories is typically someone who frequently transports passengers, has children or older family members, or simply wants an easier way to get in and out of their lifted or standard-height truck without straining. If you’re an extreme off-roader who needs every inch of ground clearance possible, traditional `running boards` might not be your first choice, and you might consider rock sliders instead, which offer better trail protection but often a smaller step surface. Before buying, consider the material (carbon steel vs. aluminum), the finish (powder coat vs. polished), the step surface width and grip, the weight capacity, the ease of installation, and crucially, precise vehicle compatibility to ensure a perfect fit.
Introducing the Tyger Auto TG-SS2C35068 Side Steps
The Tyger Auto TG-SS2C35068 running boards are robust side steps designed to provide easy and stable access to your truck’s cabin while adding a rugged aesthetic. These 3.5-inch oval tube `nerf bars` promise a wider, more secure step surface compared to conventional round bars. When you purchase them, you receive both driver and passenger side `running boards`, along with all the necessary hardware and brackets for a straightforward, bolt-on installation onto your truck’s rocker panel. Unlike some bulkier, less refined options on the market, these Tyger Auto running boards offer a clean, seamless construction with a distinctive textured black finish that complements the look of modern trucks. This specific model is tailored for `2019-2025 Chevy Silverado` and `GMC Sierra 1500` `Crew Cab` models, as well as `2020-2025 2500/3500HD` Crew Cab versions, including diesel models with DEF tanks. It’s important to note they are not compatible with 2019 Silverado/Sierra 1500 LD and Limited models. These are perfect for the everyday truck owner who values functionality, durability, and style, but perhaps less so for someone looking for minimalist rock sliders for extreme off-road punishment.
Pros:
* Effortless Installation: Truly a bolt-on process with no drilling required, often completed in under an hour.
* Sturdy & Durable Construction: Made from seamless carbon steel with a heavy textured E-coating for superior rust and corrosion resistance.
* Wider, Safer Step: The 3.5-inch oval tube design provides a substantial and non-slip step pad for greater stability.
* Perfect Fitment: Designed specifically for `Crew Cab` Silverado/Sierra models, ensuring a factory-like look and secure attachment.
* Aesthetically Pleasing: The textured black finish offers a rugged, clean, and off-road inspired appearance.
* Excellent Warranty: Backed by a 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
Cons:
* Price Fluctuations: As with many online products, the price can vary, so it’s worth monitoring for deals.
* Minor Installation Niggles: While generally easy, some users found the instructions could be slightly clearer on which specific frame holes to use, or that careful leveling is needed during final tightening.
* Long-Term Durability (Theoretical): While the 5-year warranty is great, as with any aftermarket accessory exposed to the elements, only prolonged use will truly tell how the finish holds up against sustained abuse (though early signs are very promising).
Deep Dive into Features and Practical Advantages
Having lived with these `Tyger Auto` `running boards` for a considerable period, I can confidently attest to their practical performance and the tangible benefits they offer. They aren’t just an add-on; they truly enhance the daily utility of my truck.
Robust Oval Tube Design and Wide Step Pad
The first thing you notice about the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards is their distinctive oval tube design. Unlike many `nerf bars` that feature a slimmer, round profile, these offer a generous 3.5-inch wide step pad. From a functional perspective, this wider surface makes an enormous difference. My foot has ample space to land securely, whether I’m wearing boots, sneakers, or even dress shoes. The non-slip surface, which is integral to the step pad, provides incredible grip even when wet or muddy, eliminating any trepidation about slipping, especially during adverse weather conditions. This translates directly into greater stability and confidence when entering or exiting the vehicle, a crucial benefit, particularly for passengers who might not be as nimble. It’s a vast improvement over precariously balancing on a narrow bar or trying to skip the step altogether.
Seamless Carbon Steel Construction and E-coating Finish
The material and finish of these `side steps` are genuinely impressive. Crafted from `seamless carbon steel`, the construction feels incredibly solid and robust. This isn’t a flimsy piece of sheet metal; it’s built to last. What truly sets these Tyger Auto running boards apart is their end-to-end full body `E-coating heavy textured powder finish`. This isn’t just a paint job; it’s a comprehensive protective layer that completely seals the steel, keeping dirt, water, road salt, and debris away from the core structure. I’ve driven through everything from heavy rain to slushy winter roads, and the finish has held up remarkably well. There’s no sign of rust or corrosion, even at the seams, which is often a weak point on lesser quality `running boards`. Beyond the protection, the textured finish itself is a significant aesthetic advantage. It gives the `running boards` a rugged, off-road appearance that perfectly complements the character of a pickup truck, maintaining a clean yet tough look that resists showing minor scuffs and scratches.
Effortless Bolt-On Installation
One of the most touted features, and one that absolutely holds true, is the ease of installation. `Tyger Auto` claims an easy bolt-on installation with `no drilling required`, and they deliver. I was genuinely surprised at how quickly these were mounted. The package includes all the necessary hardware and brackets, and they align perfectly with the factory holes in the truck’s frame. For anyone with even basic DIY skills, this is a very manageable project. I managed to get both `running boards` on in just under an hour, which is remarkable for a product of this size. The process involved popping out some existing plugs from the truck’s frame, attaching the brackets, and then bolting on the `running boards`. It truly is almost a “plug and play” experience. This not only saves you significant money on professional installation but also gives you the satisfaction of having done it yourself, without having to permanently modify your vehicle.
Precision Fitment for Silverado and Sierra Crew Cabs
Fitment is paramount for any aftermarket accessory, and `Tyger Auto` has nailed it with these `running boards`. They are specifically engineered to be compatible with `2019-2025 Chevy Silverado` and `GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab` models, as well as `2020-2025 2500` and `3500HD Crew Cab` trucks, including diesel variants with DEF tanks. This precise engineering means no guesswork, no modifications, and a seamless integration with the truck’s existing lines. The `running boards` sit just right, not too far out and not too tucked in, providing optimal step access while maintaining a clean profile. This perfect alignment ensures that the `running boards` look like an original factory component, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the truck rather than looking like an afterthought.
Impressive Weight Capacity and Stability
Beyond looks and ease of installation, the sheer strength of these `running boards` is notable. With a `300-pound weight limit`, they easily accommodate adults of various sizes, feeling incredibly solid and secure underfoot. There’s no flex, no creak, and no wobble when stepping up or down. The robust mounting brackets and their direct attachment to the truck’s frame contribute significantly to this stability. This high weight capacity means not only reliable support for occupants but also peace of mind. Furthermore, their sturdy construction and placement provide an unexpected bonus: they can act as a first line of defense against accidental door dings from other vehicles in tight parking spots, a small but welcome perk for any truck owner.
Tyger Auto’s Commitment to Quality and Warranty
Finally, `Tyger Auto` stands behind its product with a `no-hassle 5-year warranty` for US customers against manufacturing defects. This kind of warranty is a strong indicator of a manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s quality and durability. For me, it provides immense peace of mind. Knowing that my investment is protected for half a decade against any potential flaws gives me confidence in the longevity of these `running boards`. It’s reassuring to know that `Tyger Auto` is committed to their customers and the performance of their accessories.
What Real Users Are Saying
Having explored countless online forums and review sections, the consensus among other users of these `Tyger Auto` `running boards` is overwhelmingly positive, echoing my own experience. Many have praised the surprisingly simple installation process, often mentioning that it took them an hour or less, even with no prior experience. Users frequently highlight the perfect fit and attractive appearance, particularly how the textured crackle finish complements their truck’s black accents. The sturdy feel and solid quality of the `side steps` are also recurring themes, providing a secure platform for entry. While some noted that checking prices for the best deal is wise, the general sentiment is that these `running boards` offer excellent value and significantly improve accessibility, making the daily routine of getting into a tall truck much more comfortable.
Final Thoughts and Why These Side Steps Are a Must-Have
The problem of comfortably and safely accessing a tall truck cabin is a real one, often leading to awkward climbing, potential slips, and undue strain on knees and hips. Without a proper solution, entering and exiting your vehicle can become a chore, impacting your daily comfort and potentially leading to premature wear on your truck’s interior from scuff marks. The Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards are an exceptional fit to solve this very problem. They offer unparalleled ease of installation, making them accessible even for novice DIYers. Their robust, E-coated carbon steel construction ensures long-term durability and superior rust protection, providing a truly reliable step. And finally, the wide, non-slip step pad offers enhanced safety and stability for everyone getting into your truck. For a transformative upgrade that blends function, durability, and style, these `Tyger Auto` `nerf bars` are truly a smart investment. To learn more and get yours, Click here to check them out .