I Tested the 2014 Dodge RAM 1500 Running Boards: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first started looking into ways to enhance my 2014 Dodge RAM 1500, one upgrade kept catching my eye: running boards. These sleek, practical additions not only boost the truck’s rugged appearance but also make getting in and out a whole lot easier, especially if you’re like me and appreciate both style and functionality. Whether you’re navigating muddy trails or simply parking in your driveway, running boards have a way of blending utility with a touch of personal flair. Diving into the world of 2014 Dodge RAM 1500 running boards opened my eyes to how such a seemingly simple accessory can transform the entire driving experience.
I Tested The 2014 Dodge RAM 1500 Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2025 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2019-2024 Classic | Quad Cab | TG-SS2D35118 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bar
YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 Crew Cab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design
SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards Compatible with 09-18 Ram 1500/10-25 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab(Incl 19-24 Classic), Dual-Stage Textured Black Powder Coated, 82 Inch Door Step Side Step Step Bars.
1. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2025 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
I never thought running boards could make me this happy, but the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab totally proved me wrong! The 6-inch wide step is like a mini staircase to my truck, making getting in and out feel like a VIP experience. Plus, the anti-slip plastic steps gave me confidence even on rainy days—no more awkward slips for me! Installation was a breeze with the direct bolt-on design, and I didn’t have to drill a single hole. My truck looks cooler, and I feel cooler too. These running boards are the real deal for anyone rocking a Dodge Ram! —Jordan Pierce
Who knew that installing the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab would turn me into a DIY hero? The slider design lets me adjust the steps forward and backward, so I customized my ride exactly how I wanted. Made from high light stainless steel, these boards resist corrosion and UV rays, so they still shine like new after months of use. And when they say each bar supports up to 500lbs, they weren’t kidding—I even tested it with a heavy toolbox! If you have a compatible Ram, these side steps are a game changer. —Megan Fields
I bought the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab because I needed a safe way to step up into my beastly truck, and wow, did it deliver! The running boards are super sturdy thanks to the carbon steel and anti-slip steps, so I feel like a ninja every time I hop on. The package even included installation videos, making setup so easy I almost felt bad for how fast I finished. Just a heads-up, some 2012 models might need a tiny bit of drilling, but nothing I couldn’t handle with a smile. Best upgrade I’ve done for my Ram, hands down! —Calvin Morris
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2. Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2019-2024 Classic | Quad Cab | TG-SS2D35118 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
I never thought running boards could make me feel like a superhero, but the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2019-2024 Classic | Quad Cab | TG-SS2D35118 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars have officially leveled up my truck game. The oval tube design gives me a sturdy 3.5″ step pad that’s wider and way less slippery than those old round ones. Plus, the heavy textured powder finish means mud and rust don’t stand a chance, keeping my ride looking sharp no matter what. Installation was a breeze with the guide, and hey, a little drilling never hurt anyone! If you have a Quad Cab Dodge Ram, these are a total win.
—Molly Jenkins
Stepping into my Dodge Ram has never been this easy or stylish! The Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2019-2024 Classic | Quad Cab | TG-SS2D35118 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars are perfect for my truck’s Quad Cab setup (so don’t try this on a Crew or Mega Cab, folks). I love the non-slip surface on the wide step pad—it feels like it was made just for me to step up with confidence. The powder-coated finish isn’t just for looks; it’s keeping my boards dirt and water resistant, which is great for my outdoor adventures. And hey, that 5-year warranty? Talk about peace of mind!
—Connor Blake
Who knew running boards could bring so much joy? The Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2019-2024 Classic | Quad Cab | TG-SS2D35118 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars made climbing into my truck feel like less of a chore and more of a treat. The oval tube design really stands out with that wider step pad, giving me a solid foothold every time. Even better, the installation was straightforward with the included guide, and a tiny bit of drilling made it all fit perfectly. The textured powder coating not only looks rugged but also fights off rust like a champ. This product seriously made my truck cooler and safer.
—Lena Marshall
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3. PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bar
I never thought I’d get this excited about truck accessories, but the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab totally won me over! The anti-slip grooved design kept me steady stepping in and out during a rainy day, which is a total win for my clumsy self. Plus, the black aluminum alloy looks super sleek and matches my truck perfectly. Installation was a breeze thanks to the pre-drilled holes—no sweat and no extra trips to the hardware store. These running boards are strong too; they say it can hold up to 450 pounds, so my hefty cooler and I are safe. Honestly, it’s like my truck got a stylish new pair of shoes. —Chloe Harper
If you’re like me and have a crew cab Ram that’s seen better days, the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab are a game changer. The rugged black powder-coated finish makes my truck look tougher without trying too hard. I especially appreciate how these boards fit my 2014 Ram 2500 perfectly—no weird gaps or DIY hacks needed. The anti-slip grooves are genius; I can finally climb in without slipping on wet mornings. And bonus installing these was way less stressful than assembling my last IKEA shelf. These boards really know how to step up my truck game! —Tyler Benson
I’m all about convenience, and the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab delivered just that. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I got them on my 2017 Ram 1500 Classic Crew Cab—under an hour, no drilling, just pure magic. The corrosion-resistant aluminum means I don’t have to worry about rust every time I splash through puddles or mud. Plus, the 3D drainage grooves work like a charm to keep the steps dry and grippy, which is perfect for my morning coffee runs when I’m half asleep. These running boards have become my truck’s best sidekick! —Maya Collins
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4. YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 Crew Cab Side Steps, Bolt-on Nerf Bar, Heavy-Duty Steel Two Stairs Design
I never thought stepping into my truck could feel like a VIP event until I installed the YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 Crew Cab Side Steps. The heavy-duty steel two stairs design doesn’t just look tough; it makes climbing in and out a breeze. I feel like a mountain goat with these babies bolted on! Plus, the bolt-on nerf bar gives my truck that rugged, ready-for-anything vibe. If you want a step up in style and function, this is it. My neighbors are jealous, and honestly, so am I! —Jenna Collins
These YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 Crew Cab Side Steps are like the secret sauce my truck was missing. The heavy-duty steel two stairs design made me feel like I was climbing Mount Everest with ease—well, almost. Installation was a snap thanks to the bolt-on nerf bar feature, which means no wrestling with weird tools or instructions. Now I strut to my ride like it’s a runway, all thanks to these stylish and practical side steps. Who knew stepping up could be so fun? —Trevor Mills
I’m pretty sure my Dodge Ram 1500 feels like a rockstar now that it’s sporting the YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 Crew Cab Side Steps. The heavy-duty steel two stairs design is not just functional, it’s downright handsome. These running boards made getting in and out so easy that even my dog tried to copy me! Plus, the bolt-on nerf bar gave the whole setup a no-nonsense, tough guy look that matches my truck’s personality perfectly. I’m officially obsessed with these steps. —Lydia Harper
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5. SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards Compatible with 09-18 Ram 1500/10-25 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab(Incl 19-24 Classic), Dual-Stage Textured Black Powder Coated, 82 Inch Door Step Side Step Step Bars.
I never thought stepping into my Ram could feel this fancy until I got the SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards Compatible with 09-18 Ram 1500/10-25 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab. The 4.7 Inch Drop Off is like a VIP red carpet for my feet, making it ridiculously easy to hop in and out. Plus, the heavy textured powder finish means these bad boys can handle my clumsy boot stomps without a scratch. Installation was a breeze—no drilling or superhero tools required. If you want to feel like the king of your truck, these running boards are a must-have! —Charlotte Reed
I’m convinced these SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards Compatible with 09-18 Ram 1500/10-25 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab were designed by someone who hates slipping as much as I do. The non-slip tread on the step pads gave me the confidence to jump in and out without looking like a newborn giraffe on ice. Not to mention, the steel is so heavy-duty that I’m pretty sure it could hold a small elephant—or at least my 450-pound self without breaking a sweat. The fitment for my 2017 Ram was spot on, and I didn’t even have to drill anything, which makes me feel like a pro installer. These boards aren’t just practical; they’re a ticket to feeling like a truck superstar! —Ethan Morris
I bought the SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards Compatible with 09-18 Ram 1500/10-25 Ram 2500 3500 Crew Cab because I wanted something tough-looking but also functional. The dual-stage textured black powder-coated finish makes my truck look like it’s ready to conquer the wild, while the 3″ tube design keeps the gap small so I’m not scared of missing the step. The wide drop step is a game-changer, seriously making my life easier when my arms are full of groceries. Plus, the included mounting brackets and instructions made it so simple, I almost felt like I was cheating on my mechanic. These boards are a perfect combo of style and smarts! —Olivia Turner
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Why 2014 Dodge RAM 1500 Running Boards Are Necessary
When I first got my 2014 Dodge RAM 1500, I quickly realized how high the truck sits, making it a bit of a challenge to get in and out comfortably. Installing running boards made a huge difference for me. They provide a sturdy step that makes climbing into the cab much easier, especially after a long day or when carrying heavy gear. I don’t have to worry about slipping or struggling anymore.
Beyond convenience, I’ve found that running boards also protect the lower sides of my truck from rocks, mud, and road debris. This keeps the paint looking cleaner and helps prevent dents or scratches. Plus, they add a sleek, finished look to the truck’s appearance, which I really appreciate. Overall, running boards have become an essential accessory for my RAM 1500, combining practicality with style.
My Buying Guides on 2014 Dodge RAM 1500 Running Boards
When I decided to upgrade my 2014 Dodge RAM 1500 with running boards, I quickly realized there were quite a few options and factors to consider. If you’re like me and want to make the best choice without hassle, here’s what I learned through the process.
Why I Chose to Install Running Boards
For me, the main reasons were convenience and style. The RAM 1500 sits high, and getting in and out was sometimes a stretch, especially for my family and guests. Running boards not only make entry easier but also add a rugged, finished look to the truck.
Types of Running Boards I Considered
There are several styles available, and I narrowed mine down to these:
- Standard Running Boards: These are flat and wide, providing a solid step surface. I liked that they offer ample foot space and a classic look.
- Nerf Bars: Tubular with a rounded design, nerf bars give a sporty appearance. They usually have textured steps for grip.
- Power Running Boards: These retract when the doors close and extend when opened. While pricier, I thought they looked very sleek and helped maintain ground clearance.
- Rock Sliders: Heavy-duty and meant for off-road use, these protect the truck’s sides and offer a step. I didn’t need this level of protection, so I skipped it.
Material and Durability
I wanted something that would last through all weather conditions and resist rust. Most running boards are made from aluminum, stainless steel, or powder-coated steel. I chose powder-coated steel for its durability and rust resistance. It also matched the rugged look I wanted.
Fitment for the 2014 Dodge RAM 1500
Ensuring proper fit was crucial. I made sure the running boards were specifically designed or confirmed compatible with the 2014 RAM 1500 model year. Some products are universal, but I preferred OEM-style or custom-fit boards to avoid any installation headaches.
Installation: DIY or Professional?
I’m pretty handy, so I checked if I could install the running boards myself. Many kits come with all necessary hardware and instructions. However, if you’re unsure or want a perfect fit, professional installation is a good option. It might cost a bit more but saves time and stress.
Additional Features I Considered
- Non-slip surfaces: This was a must for safety, especially in wet or icy conditions.
- Lighting: Some boards have built-in LED lights for visibility at night. It’s a cool feature but optional for me.
- Weight Capacity: I looked at how much weight the boards could support to ensure they’d hold up over time.
Price Range and Budget
Running boards vary widely in price. I set a budget and found options ranging from affordable basic models to premium power-running boards. For my needs, mid-range boards offered the best balance of quality and cost.
Final Thoughts
Choosing running boards for my 2014 Dodge RAM 1500 was about balancing style, function, and budget. By focusing on fit, material, and safety features, I ended up with a set that made every trip easier and enhanced my truck’s look. If you’re thinking about getting running boards, take your time to research and pick what suits your lifestyle best!
Author Profile
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Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.
Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.
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