Guide to Power Running Boards
Running boards are handy accessories for many truck and SUV owners. If you have a tall vehicle, they make it much easier to get in and out of the vehicle. However, running boards will decrease the ground clearance of your vehicle, which might be a big deal if you like to go off-road.
If you like the usefulness and function of running boards but would like to keep your ground clearance, then retractable power running boards are a great option. Powered running boards can retract when not in use, thus restoring your vehicle's ground clearance if necessary.
What is the Purpose of Running Boards?
Why get running boards in the first place? Simply put, running boards make it easier to get in and out of your truck or SUV's cabin. This is especially true if you have a lifted truck or SUV with tall tires.
At some point, climbing in and out will become a chore. It can also be helpful to have running boards if you have passengers who need help to climb in and out. For example, children and seniors.
The main downside of running boards is that they will decrease the usable ground clearance on your truck or SUV. If you don't take your vehicle off-road, this might not be an issue, but if you do, then the obvious solution is retractable power running boards.
Traditional running boards on a pickup truck
Pros and Cons of Power Running Boards
Traditional running boards are permanent (until you remove them) fixtures below the sides of your truck or SUV. They typically sit right beneath the body, enabling you to step on them to get into the cabin. Power running boards sit in the same place, but they extend and retract when the doors are opened and closed.
Power running boards will cost you more than traditional running boards, but the ability to retract them restores your ground clearance and gives your vehicle a sleeker look.
Many power running boards can extend closer to the ground than a regular running board, making it even easier to get in and out of the vehicle. Since power running boards retract when not in use, they're easier to keep clean.
The bottom line is if you want running boards and your budget allows for an upgrade to power running boards, it makes sense to do so. To break it down, here are the main pros and cons of electric running boards.
Pros:
- Better accessibility
- Restores ground clearance
- Easier to maintain
- Sleeker appearance
Cons:
- Expensive
- More complex to install
- Electronics might malfunction
- Harsh winter weather might cause failure
Brands To Consider
Several companies make power running boards for trucks, including Rough Country, AMP Research, Westin Automotive, and several others. We take a look at some of the top brands with several models to choose from at H&H Truck Accessories.
AMP Research Power Running Boards
With the longest list of models to choose from, AMP Research power running boards are among the most popular. There are a few different types at different price points, so you'll want to confirm your vehicle information before shopping.
AMP Research power running boards tout easy plug-and-play installation and a five-year/60,000-mile warranty. Some AMP Research models come with built-in LED lights as well.
Westin Automotive Power Running Boards
Westin Automotive makes a nice selection of power running boards for trucks. To find out which model will fit your truck or SUV, check the product page or enter your vehicle's year, make, and model.
The Pro-E Powered Running Boards by Westin feature a textured black finish and they fold up flush with your vehicle's body so it almost looks like there's no board there at all. These running boards retail at $1,500 for a pair.
Rough Country Power Running Boards
Rough Country is well-known for making a wide variety of off-road accessories and parts for trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. The company also makes power running boards. Compared to the other two brands listed here, Rough Country power running boards run a bit cheaper at $1,000 for a pair.
Some models have very specific fitment, so make sure to check your vehicle's information before shopping. For an affordable price, Rough Country power running boards include LED lights, no-drill installation, and a safe stop mechanism that engages if a blockage is detected.
How To Install Power Running Boards
Most brands tout easy installation for their power running boards, but installation does require some knowledge of electrical systems and how to wire parts to your vehicle. A power running board kit should come with a wiring harness, hardware, instructions, and motors.
Even though it appears to be a straightforward process, if you're not confident with the wiring and the electrical systems of your vehicle, you can get power running boards installed at H&H Truck by adding installation to your purchase or buying in-store.
Outfit your truck, SUV, or Jeep with quality truck accessories from H&H Truck. We have a wide selection of power running boards with five brands to choose from. Find the right product for you by entering your vehicle information to start shopping.
