There are many benefits to owning a truck. It is a versatile vehicle featuring enough space for cargo, has excellent performance, can navigate rough terrain, and has good safety features. But despite all that, getting on and off a truck can be challenging, especially if you are short or have a disability.
That is where running boards and side steps come in. They are functional and can help boost the beauty of your truck. If you have not yet installed these additions, here are compelling reasons why you should.
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1. They Make Entry and Exit to the Truck Easier
The most obvious reason for installing truck side steps and running boards is to have an easier time getting in and out of the truck. A truck is a taller vehicle compared to other cars. That means some people, especially children or someone with knee problems, can struggle getting in.
Running boards and side steps eliminate this challenge. They provide passengers with an extra step to place their feet and lift themselves to the truck. Side steps and running boards are even more advantageous for anyone with lifted trucks. Plus, while these two serve the same purpose, they differ in design. So you can choose the one that best suits your vehicle.
2. Enhanced Safety
Installing side steps and running boards goes beyond making it easy for one to enter and exit the car. It is also a matter of safety. When someone is having a difficult time climbing into a truck, they might slip, fall and injure themselves.
And if the weather is bad, even if the step height is not that high, someone could still slip. Running boards and side steps have textured surfaces that reduce the risk of someone slipping and getting injured.
3. Make Washing Day Easier
Part of truck maintenance is keeping it clean. This protects it and keeps it looking good. But since trucks tend to be higher, it can be hard to thoroughly clean the top surface if you have nothing to step on. Running boards and side steps make your work easier.
You have a solid place to stand on and eliminate dust, mud, and any other grime from your car. These additions also give you a place to wipe your legs before getting into the car. Most trucks are used for utilitarian activities, meaning the owners encounter mud and dirt often.
If dragged into the truck, it will ruin the floor mats and carpets. You can scrape off some of that mud on the side steps, hence minimizing the dirt getting into the truck.
4. Some Are Retractable
You can opt for power side steps that are retractable. That means they only appear when you open the door to alight or climb into the truck. If you want to maintain the look of your car without any additions like running boards and side steps, choose those that are retractable. Plus, they can also increase your truck clearance when needed.
5. They Look Good
Another reason you can opt to install running boards and side steps is that they are cosmetic accessories that will make your truck look good. Depending on which one you get, they can make your truck have a streamlined or rugged look. Installing steps can also make a truck look more imposing.
6. Protect the Truck From Road Debris
This applies only to nerf bars and running boards, but it is worth mentioning. Installing either will protect the side of your truck from road debris, hence protecting the paint.
Because of where the step is located, it blocks kicking rocks from hitting the door and damaging it. If your truck is used for off-road activities, the more reasons to get nerf bars and running boards. This will go a long way in preserving the original paint, as the cost of painting a car is not cheap.
7. Allow Your seats to Last Longer
Have you ever realized that when driving a truck that is higher than the average car, you are likely to slide over the seat as you alight? With time, this will cause the stitching, fabric covering, and foam to degrade to a point where the seat rips.
When this happens, you will no longer get that proper support that enhances a comfortable ride. With a set of side steps or running boards, you and your passengers will step down from the truck instead of sliding over the seats. This will protect your seat from premature wear and tear, hence saving you money in the long run.
8. You Have Options
While they all serve the same purpose, the side steps and running boards are not all the same. They have different features. So you can be sure you will find something that complements your truck’s looks.
If you want to enjoy all the benefits mentioned above, install running boards and side steps on your truck. You will have easy access to your car, protect your seats and enhance how your truck looks.