Well, howdy there! Let’s yak about these SUV runnin’ boards, ya hear? Folks call ’em steps too, or sometimes even them fancy “side steps.” Whatever you name ’em, they’re mighty handy, I tell ya.

What are these runnin’ boards anyways? They’re like little platforms, see? Stuck on the sides of your car, right under the doors. Makes it a whole heap easier to climb in and out, ‘specially if your car’s as tall as a beanstalk. Got a big ol’ SUV or a pickup truck? Then you know what I’m talkin’ about. It’s like havin’ a little step stool built right in.
Now, why would ya want ’em? Lemme tell ya, it ain’t just for show. Sure, some of ’em look mighty purdy, all shiny and whatnot. But mostly, it’s about gettin’ in and out without breakin’ your neck. My old knees ain’t what they used to be, and climbin’ into them high-up cars, well, it’s a chore. These runnin’ boards, they make it easy-peasy. Even the young’uns can hop in without a fuss.
- Makes gettin’ in and out easier.
- Good for folks with bad knees or little kids.
- Keeps your car cleaner, less mud on the seats.
And another thing, they keep your car a bit cleaner too. You ever try gettin’ into a muddy truck after a rainstorm? You end up with dirt all over the seats. But with runnin’ boards, you can wipe your feet off before you climb in. Less mess for this old lady to clean up, that’s for sure.
Put ’em on yourself, ya say? Well, some folks do. I hear it ain’t too hard if you’re handy with tools. Got yourself a ratchet and some wrenches? You might be able to do it yourself. They say you gotta line up the holes and bolt ’em on. But if you ain’t sure, best to get someone who knows what they’re doin’. Don’t wanna mess up your car, right?
Now, there’s all sorts of runnin’ boards out there. Some are plain and simple, just a sturdy step. Others are all fancy-schmancy, with lights and whatnot. Me? I like the ones that are strong and won’t rust. Don’t need nothin’ too flashy. Just somethin’ that’ll help me get in and out of my car without fallin’ on my face.
The fellas at the store, they told me somethin’ important. They said when you put them on, ya gotta make sure them holes line up with the bolts. Seems important. And if your car don’t have holes already, well, you gotta drill ’em. That sounds scary to me, I’d get my grandson to do it. They also said it is easier to get it done if you start with parts that are loosely fitted, that way things ain’t all crooked at the end.
So, are runnin’ boards worth it? I reckon they are. ‘Specially if you ain’t as spry as you used to be. They make life a whole lot easier, and that’s worth somethin’ in my book. And they keep the inside of your car cleaner. You see all that mud on the roads these days after the rains? Well, it ain’t gettin’ on my seats if I got running boards, that’s for sure. Keeps my car looking nice too.
If you’re thinkin’ ‘bout gettin’ some, just go on down to the store and have a look. They got all kinds, so you can pick what suits ya. And don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. That’s what them store folks are there for. And they can tell you what you will need for tools to put them on yourself, if you are brave enough to do that.
Safety first, I always say. Make sure them boards are on tight and can hold your weight. And watch your step when you’re gettin’ in and out. Even with runnin’ boards, you gotta be careful. But all in all, they’re a good thing to have, ‘specially if you got a big ol’ car like mine. They can make all the difference in the world, and they can even add some value to your car if you plan on selling it. Anything that makes a car easier to use is a good thing in my books.
Anyways, that’s my two cents on runnin’ boards. Hope it helps ya make up your mind. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I gotta go make some biscuits.
Tags: SUV running boards, car steps, side steps, vehicle accessibility, installation, DIY, truck accessories, car accessories, auto parts, safety