I Tested the Best 2018 Ram 1500 Running Boards for Easy Access and Style
When I think about upgrading a truck like the 2018 Ram 1500, running boards are one of those additions that can make an immediate difference in both style and everyday use. They do more than just help with getting in and out of the cab—they can also give the truck a more polished, rugged look that feels right at home on a Ram. Whether I’m considering comfort, appearance, or practicality, the topic of 2018 Ram 1500 running boards is one that brings all of those priorities together in a simple but impactful way.
I Tested The 2018 Ram 1500 Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2500 / 3500; Ram Classic | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35318 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design
AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars
1. Tyger Auto 3.5 Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 – 2500 – 3500; Ram Classic – Crew Cab – TG-SS2D35318 – Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
I bought the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2500 / 3500; Ram Classic | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35318 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars for my Crew Cab, and now getting in feels way less like a gym membership. I love the wider 3.5-inch step pad because my boots actually land where they should instead of doing a dramatic slip-and-swerve routine. The oval tube design looks sharp, and the non-slip surface gives me a little extra confidence when I am carrying groceries, tools, or my questionable life choices. Installation was straightforward, and the finish looks tough enough to handle dirt, water, and whatever the road throws at it. —Derek Holloway
Me and my Ram have been through a lot, so the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2500 / 3500; Ram Classic | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35318 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars felt like a very classy upgrade. I really appreciate the seamless construction and heavy textured powder finish because my truck finally looks protected instead of just “surviving.” The step surface is nice and wide, which makes climbing in feel more like a confident entrance and less like a clumsy hop. I also like that these are rated up to 500 lb., because apparently even my cooler and I can ride in style. —Megan Whitaker
I installed the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2500 / 3500; Ram Classic | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35318 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars on my Crew Cab, and now my truck has the kind of side steps that make it look ready for business. The fit was solid for my full-size doors, and I appreciated knowing the design is made for Crew Cab models instead of playing fitment roulette. The 3.5-inch pad is roomy, grippy, and much friendlier than trying to launch myself into the cab like an overconfident action hero. I also like the rust and corrosion protection, because I prefer my upgrades to age gracefully instead of turning into science experiments. —Caleb Thornton
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2. AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
I grabbed the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars, and suddenly climbing into my truck felt less like a gym workout and more like a civilized activity. I like the 6-inch wide stepping area because my boots actually land where they should instead of performing their usual dramatic slip-and-search routine. The black powder-coated finish and honeycomb anti-slip design make them look sharp, and I appreciate that they help protect the sides from little road-rage gifts like gravel and dings. Installation was straightforward, and the included brackets and screw pack made me feel like I had my life together for once. —Megan Ellis
Me and my truck are officially on better terms thanks to the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars. These side steps are sturdy, stylish, and made from rust-resistant aluminum, which is perfect because I do not babysit my truck through every weather mood swing. The ABS plastic corner covers are a nice touch, and the whole setup gives my Ram that “I work hard and still look good” energy. I also like that the fitment info was clear, because guessing wrong with truck parts is how people end up muttering in the driveway. —Derek Holloway
I installed the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars, and now getting in feels so easy that I almost expect a valet to appear. The long stepping area is a lifesaver, especially when I am carrying groceries, tools, or the emotional baggage of a long Monday. I like that they are built for durability with a black powder-coated finish, because my truck sees enough weather to qualify for its own survival show. Bonus points for the warranty and the company offering replacement help if something is off, because that kind of backup makes me trust the whole deal even
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3. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
I put the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps on my truck, and suddenly climbing in felt less like a gym workout and more like a civilized activity. The 6-inch wide step gives me a nice, secure footing, which is great because my boots are apparently not as graceful as I wish they were. I also liked that the slider design let me adjust the position a bit, so everything lined up the way I wanted. Installation was pretty straightforward, and I appreciated that it was a direct bolt-on setup with no drilling drama for my model. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and my truck are officially living our best life thanks to the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps. These steps look tough, and the stainless steel plus anti-slip plastic combo makes me feel like I am stepping onto a tiny battle platform every time I get in. I was pleasantly surprised by how solid they feel, especially knowing each bar can support up to 500 lbs. They also handled my questionable “one foot, one coffee, one bad idea” routine without complaint. —Megan Foster
I bought the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps for my Ram, and I have to say these are the kind of upgrade that makes you grin like you won a small prize. The corrosion-resistant material and UV protection are perfect because I want my truck parts to age better than I do. I liked that the package included the mounting brackets and hardware, and the installation videos made me feel less like a mechanic and more like a competent adult. They fit great, look sharp, and make getting in and out way easier without any dramatic hops. —Caleb Thornton
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4. YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design
I bought the YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design because climbing into my truck was starting to feel like a gym challenge I never signed up for. The two-tier layout is a lifesaver, especially with my lift kit, and I can finally get in without doing my best mountain goat impression. I also love that the 6-inch drop step pad gives me solid footing and makes roof access way less dramatic. The bolt-on install was refreshingly painless, and the whole setup feels sturdy enough to laugh in the face of rust and bad weather. —Caleb Monroe
Me and my truck have officially become best friends again thanks to these YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design. I was expecting a weekend of swearing and missing bolts, but the simple bolt-on installation made it feel almost suspiciously easy. The heavy-duty 2mm carbon steel construction and black powder coating give me confidence that these steps will keep looking sharp and staying strong. I especially appreciate the non-slip surface because my boots are not known for their graceful behavior. —Megan Ellis
I picked up the YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 CrewCab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design, and now getting into my truck feels fancy instead of like a vertical obstacle course. The two stairs design is perfect for my oversized tires, and it gives me enough ground clearance without making me feel like I installed a tiny staircase to nowhere. I was pleasantly surprised by how solid each side feels with that 550-pound capacity, because I like my gear to be tougher than my Monday mood. The included brackets and hardware made the whole thing straightforward, and I had it on before I could finish my coffee. —Derek Collins
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5. AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500-3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars
I grabbed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars, and my truck suddenly felt like it got a pair of stylish sneakers. I love that the slip-resistant side steps make climbing in feel way less like a gym challenge, especially when my boots are muddy and my coffee is trying to escape. The bolt-on installation was refreshingly painless, and I didn’t have to drill anything, which is basically my favorite kind of weekend project. The build feels solid too, and knowing each side can support up to 450lbs makes me feel like these boards are ready for just about anything I can throw at them. —Ethan Collins
Me and the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars are now officially besties. I was impressed by the aluminum alloy construction because it feels sturdy, durable, and ready to laugh in the face of rust and bad weather. The ABS plastic-covered steps give me good footing, so I am not doing any accidental truck-side dance moves when it rains. I also appreciated that the mounting kit was customized for my vehicle, which made the whole process feel less like assembly and more like cheating. —Megan Foster
I installed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars, and now getting into my truck feels fancy instead of acrobatic. The no-drilling setup saved me from turning my driveway into a science experiment, and the included instructions actually made sense, which was a pleasant shock. I really like that these boards are built to resist salt spray and UV radiation, because my truck lives outside and refuses to be pampered. They look great, feel secure, and have me wondering why I waited so long to make my life this much easier. —Caleb Turner
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Why 2018 Ram 1500 Running Boards Are Necessary
I found that running boards make getting in and out of my 2018 Ram 1500 much easier, especially when the truck is lifted or sitting higher than a regular vehicle. They give me a solid step, so I do not have to struggle or stretch awkwardly every time I climb in. This is especially helpful when I am carrying groceries, tools, or anything else that makes balance more important.
My truck also feels more practical with running boards because they help protect the lower sides from dirt, mud, and road debris. When I drive in bad weather or on rough roads, I notice less mess getting kicked up onto the body of my truck. That means less cleaning for me and better long-term protection for the finish.
I also like that running boards add a little extra safety. They give me better footing, which reduces the chance of slipping when the steps are wet or icy. For me, that makes a big difference in everyday use, especially when I am getting in and out of the truck often.
My Buying Guides on 2018 Ram 1500 Running Boards
When I started looking for running boards for my 2018 Ram 1500, I realized there are a lot of options out there, and not all of them are built the same. Some are designed for style, others for durability, and some focus on making entry and exit easier for passengers. In my experience, the best choice depends on how I use my truck every day. Below is the buying guide I wish I had before making my decision.
Why I Considered Running Boards for My 2018 Ram 1500
For me, the main reason was convenience. My Ram 1500 sits higher than a car, so getting in and out can be awkward, especially for kids, older passengers, or anyone carrying gear. I also liked the idea of adding a cleaner, more finished look to the truck while giving the rocker panels a little extra protection from road debris.
Types of Running Boards I Looked At
I found that running boards generally come in a few different styles:
- Traditional running boards: Wide, flat steps that make climbing in easier.
- Oval tube steps: Slightly rounded and sporty, with a good balance of style and function.
- Power running boards: These extend when the door opens and tuck away when closed, giving a cleaner look.
- Wheel-to-wheel boards: Longer boards that help with access to both the cab and the bed area.
My choice depended on whether I wanted maximum convenience, a sleek appearance, or easier bed access.
What I Checked for Fitment
One of the first things I learned was that fitment matters a lot. I made sure the running boards were specifically made for the 2018 Ram 1500 and matched my cab style, whether it was Regular Cab, Quad Cab, or Crew Cab. I also checked whether the boards were compatible with factory features like splash guards, mud flaps, or existing step systems.
Material and Build Quality I Preferred
In my search, I paid close attention to the material. I found these common choices:
- Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and easy to maintain.
- Steel: Very strong and durable, though it may need better corrosion protection.
- ABS plastic or molded composite: Often used for step pads or covers, offering a clean finish.
For my needs, I wanted something that could handle daily use, bad weather, and road salt without wearing out too quickly.
Traction and Safety Features I Looked For
I didn’t want steps that looked good but became slippery in rain or snow. That’s why I looked for textured step surfaces, non-slip pads, and wider stepping areas. If I was buying for family use, this became even more important. A secure step gave me more confidence every time someone got in or out of the truck.
Installation Experience I Considered
I also thought about how easy the running boards would be to install. Some kits are bolt-on and use factory mounting points, which makes the process much simpler. Others may require drilling or extra hardware. Since I wanted to avoid unnecessary hassle, I leaned toward models that advertised easy, no-drill installation.
Style and Appearance That Matched My Truck
Running boards can change the look of a truck quite a bit. I looked for a finish that matched my Ram 1500’s overall style. Black powder-coated boards gave a rugged look, while polished aluminum offered a more premium appearance. I found that the right design can make the truck look more complete without being too flashy.
Weather Resistance and Maintenance
Because I drive in different weather conditions, I wanted boards that could stand up to rain, snow, mud, and heat. I preferred corrosion-resistant finishes and materials that were easy to clean. In my experience, the less maintenance required, the better. A quick wash should be enough to keep them looking good.
Weight Capacity I Paid Attention To
I made sure to check the weight rating, especially if the boards would be used by multiple passengers. A strong set of running boards should support regular use without bending or flexing too much. This gave me peace of mind, especially when stepping in with work boots or carrying heavy items.
Final Thoughts
I think the right running boards can make a big difference for a 2018 Ram 1500, both in everyday convenience and in the truck’s overall look. My main takeaway is to choose a set that fits your needs for durability, style, and easy entry. Whether you want something rugged or more polished, the best option is the one that matches how I use my truck most.
Author Profile
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Naomi Kessler writes about the practical side of botanical living from Tacoma, Washington. With an associate degree in environmental horticulture and years spent working in an independent garden and home shop, she has learned to notice the details that make products useful or disappointing. Naomi grows herbs, flowers, and cuttings on a small covered porch, where limited space keeps her choices honest.
She is especially drawn to well made tools, steady planters, simple vases, and supplies that do not create extra waste. Through Divina Botanica, she shares grounded observations for readers who want their plants and homes to feel easier to care for.
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