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How to Buy Heavy-Duty Running Boards Without Overpaying

How to · Auto

How to Buy Heavy-Duty Running Boards Without Overpaying

Get your truck set up right with solid side steps while timing the market and keeping cash in your pocket.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $400 before anything else
Across the 0% window $22.22/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $400 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Running boards take a beating from rocks, mud, and boots every single day. They make getting in and out of a lifted truck actually manageable, but buying them at retail price is a waste of money. You want to look for online retailers slashing prices during major holiday sales when the markup drops.

We are looking at about $400 for a decent set. You want to save your cash for the install or other gear rather than dropping it all at once.

That 0% window is a deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance left when those 18 months are up, the remaining amount will start getting hit with regular interest.

The steps

  1. 01

    Hunt the holiday sales

    Major holiday weekends are when online truck parts retailers drop their prices the most. Watch the listings a month ahead so you know what a real sale looks like.

  2. 02

    Check the weight capacity

    Not all side steps are built the same. Look for heavy-duty steel or aluminum that can take a real boot heel without bending or rusting out after one winter.

  3. 03

    Map out the installation

    Check if you can bolt them on in your driveway with basic tools or if you need to pay a shop. Factor that labor cost into your total budget before you click buy.

  4. 04

    Use your card window

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, which offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. That spreads your cost out without adding extra fees.

  5. 05

    Track the monthly target

    Splitting the $400 cost across the 18-month window comes out to about $22.22 per month. Set up an auto-pay so you do not have to think about it.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Can I install running boards myself?

Most sets use factory mounting holes on your truck frame and bolt on with basic sockets. If you are handy with a wrench, you can knock it out in an hour or two.

What is the difference between running boards and side steps?

Running boards usually run the full length of the cab and offer a flat step surface. Side steps are often individual hoops mounted just below each door.

Do running boards rust easily?

Steel boards need a good powder coat to survive winter road salt. Aluminum options cost a bit more, but they will not rust out on you.

Will adding steps hurt my ground clearance?

They hang down a few inches below the cab, so they might catch on severe off-road obstacles. For daily driving and getting in easily, the drop is minor.