Purchasing a Jeep Wrangler is not the worst decision that you can ever make. However, you should be aware that you are likely to experience a challenge getting in or out of the vehicle due to the elevated height.
If you want to beat this problem, you should consider investing in the best running boards for Jeep Wrangler. This way, you and your passengers won’t have to strain your knees as you get in or out of your vehicle.
Our article aims to help you find the right Jeep Wrangler running boardsthat would deliver the excellent service you were looking for.
Table of Contents
Comparison Table of Best Jeep Wrangler Running Boards
Since the market is full of different running board brands, we did the hard work of coming up with a sample that we deem the best. Please take a look at our reviews on them, and we hope you find one that ticks all the boxes.
| Rank | Product Name | Brand | Weight |
| 1 | Jeep Wrangler 4 Door Running Board by Mopar | Mopar | 45 Pounds |
| 2 | U-Box 4 Door Jeep Wrangler JL Unlimited Side Step Running Board Nerf Bars | U-Box | 69.9 pounds |
| 3 | AMP Research Black Color PowerStep Electric Running Boards | AMP Research | 47 pounds |
| 4 | ARIES Black Color ActionTrac 65-Inch Retractable Powered Running Boards | ARIES | 65 pounds |
| 5 | APS Custom Fit 5 inches iBoard Running Boards | APS | 34.9 pounds |
| 6 | Jeep Wrangler Two Door JL Models Molded Side Steps by Mopar | Mopar | 30 pounds |
| 7 | RBP Aluminum Material Stealth Power | RBP | 73 pounds |
| 8 | Tyger Auto Star Armor Kit Black Color Side Step, Nerf Bars, Running Boards | Tyger Auto | 97 Pounds |
| 9 | Tyger Auto Star Armor Kit for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 4 Door Side Step, Nerf Bars, Running Boards | Tyger Auto | 97 Pounds |
| 10 | Tyger Auto TG-JA2J2241B Star Armor Kit, Nerf Bars, Running Boards | Tyger Auto | 75 Pounds |
| 11 | EAG Steel Material Rivet Armor Rocker Guard with Tube Running Step Fit for 97-06 Wrangler TJ | EAG | 70.7 Pounds |
Best Running Boards for Jeep Wrangler – Reviews
1. Mopar Jeep Wrangler 4 Door Side Steps
These Jeep Wrangler 4 door running boards are the ones opening our list, and you shall soon see why. First, they are designed to mount directly on the production holes in the vehicle’s body, making them easy to install.
Then, the textured top makes the unit anti-slip, and you do not have to worry about sliding any time you step on the units.
It is also worth noting that at 45lbs, these boards are some of the lightest around and will not affect your car’s mileage.
We liked the reasonably wide stepping area that gives you the confidence and comfort to step on the unit as you enter or exit your car.
Pros
- Anti-slip top
- Easy installation
- Well-built
Cons
- Not for off-road use
2. u-Box Side Step Running Board for Jeep Wrangler JL Unlimited
If the first product did not meet your criteria for the perfect running boards for your Jeep Wrangler, take a look at what this set by u-Box has to offer.
Let’s start with the construction whereby the one-piece, heavy-duty stainless-steel construction should assure you that you are dealing with a durable product. In addition to that, the premium E-coating is meant to offer your unit corrosion-resistance for at least 5-years.
The textured black powder coat finish gives these side steps a beautiful appearance, while the slip-resistant steps allow for safe and convenient entry and exit into and out of your vehicle.
You are sure to appreciate the easy bolt-on installation that does not involve any complicated drilling processes.
Pros
- Offers lifetime customer support
- Visually appealing
- User instructions for a straightforward setup
Cons
- Rust easily
3. AMP Research Powerstep Electric Running Boards
Made in the USA, this is a set of units that we consider to be the best electric running boards to feature on our list. Their outstanding aspect is the automatic operation whereby they extend as soon as you open the door and retract when you close it.
The boards feature a sturdy die-cast aluminum alloy construction for durability plus are PTFE-coated to offer protection against corrosion. In addition to that, the self-lubricating bushings allow for all-weather performance.
Let’s not forget the impressive 600lbs capacity on each side while the integrated LED system offers visibility in the dark.
Lastly, the units come with a 5-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Maintenance-free bushings
- Automatic extension and retracting
- Decent load capacity
Cons
- Needs drilling during installation
4. Aries ActionTrac Powered Running Boards
Here is another set of electric-powered running boards that you should consider getting for your Jeep Wrangler. Besides the usual automatic extension and retraction, when you open and close the door, you will get unique 2-step access whereby there is a 4-inch top step in addition to the 3-inch retractable one.
We liked the powder-coated aluminum construction for durability and protection against corrosion. On top of that, the outer housing shields the internal electronics, the power step, and pivot points from elements such as mud and water.
Another outstanding aspect of these boards is their quiet and safe operation, while the integrated control module instantly halts their operation when it detects an obstruction.
Other notable features include a 650lbs load capacity, lightweight nature, and an easy installation process without bracket drilling.
Pros
- A reliable 2-step access
- Safe and quiet operation
- Lightweight
Cons
- Noisy
5. APS iBoard 5-inch Side Steps
When you make this purchase, you will get a package that contains two running boards, mounting brackets, and a hardware kit that would allow for a straightforward DIY installation.
These units are some of the best Jeep Wrangler 2 door running boards due to their affordability and excellent features. They have a solid all-metal build to make them durable, while their low-profile design enables them to stay out of the way when not in use.
The entire running board is covered by a corrugated step pad that is non-slip to offer you a safe and comfortable area to set your foot on.
Lastly, the matte black powder-coated finish makes the units corrosion-resistant and gives them a fantastic and unique look.
Pros
- Incredible slim design
- Decent pricing
- Easy installation
Cons
- Scratch easily
6. Mopar Jeep Wrangler Molded Side Steps
These running boards are designed to be a perfect fit for the 2018-2019 model and are the best side steps for Jeep Wrangler to feature on our list.
Their installation is reasonably straightforward, and it should not take you more than 20-minutes to be done with the whole process. Further, their lightweight nature makes them easier to handle during the setup and ensures they do not affect your car mileage.
We cannot complain about their appearance while the textured surface makes them anti-skid, thereby eliminating chances of slipping or sliding when you step on them.
And their solid construction means that it will be a while before you start thinking about replacement boards.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Perfect fit
- Lightweight
Cons
- Poor packaging
7. RBP Stealth Power
Made in the USA, the RBP Stealth Power running boards are items that you should consider investing in for your Jeep Wrangler. The outstanding features are the built-in resistance sensors that halt the steps’ progress if they detect an obstruction.
This will prevent them from getting damaged plus also keeps your passengers safe from injury.
Other than that, the boards are designed to automatically deploy when you open the door and then nest up on the rocker panel when you shut it. Note that the driver and passenger boards operate independently.
The two motor assemblies on each side are crucial for smooth and even mechanics in all types of conditions, whether hot, freezing, or salty.
We cannot leave the textured, ribbed, and black powder-coated military-grade aluminum construction that offers impressive longevity, traction, and ease of cleaning.
As for the LEDs, they assure you of a safe entry and exit into and out of your car.
Pros
- Has a 5-year warranty
- Built to last
- Built-in resistance sensors
Cons
- Bulky
8. Tyger Auto Star Armor Kit for 2018-2022 Jeep Wrangler
When you set your eyes on these Jeep Wrangler nerf bars, the first thing that stands out is the star symbol and the ‘Tyger’ logo cut into it. These are heavy-duty units with a one-piece tube design that ensures they last for a lifetime.
The dual-stage powder-coated textured black finish makes them corrosion-resistant and gives them a great look.
A notable feature is the dual girder system that protects the underside and rocker panel area from potentially damaging impacts.
The installation is easy and does not require any drilling, while the patented Star step pads offer a safe way into and out of your car.
Pros
- Attractive
- look
- Powder-coated finish
- No drilling required during set up
Cons
- Too heavy
9. Tyger Auto Star Amor Kit for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler
This set of Tyger Auto star armor has a heavy-duty construction that gives them the durability to serve you for the longest time.
The running boards are very visually appealing, and we attribute this to the powder-coated textured black finish.
Let’s talk about the dual girder system that offers wheel-to-wheel protection for the underside area from impacts that would leave lasting damage. In addition to that, the direct bolt-on installation makes the setup to be easy as no drilling will be necessary.
We also loved the lifetime limited warranty that the manufacturer offers against defects.
Pros
- Direct bolt-on installation
- Outstanding textured black finish
- Lifetime limited warranty
Cons
- Short attachment brackets for the underside
Check More: Top Running Boards for Dodge Ram
10. Tyger Auto Star Amor Kit for 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler
Like all other running boards by Tyger Auto, this set is designed for easy installation with a convenient bolt-on design. They have an impressive load capacity of 500lbs which implies that they can support the heaviest individuals without bending.
We loved the solid construction for longevity, while the dual-stage powder coating protects against corrosion while also enhancing the unit’s look.
The textured finish makes the step pads anti-slip to provide a safe and comfortable stepping platform. In addition to that, the dual girder system protects the underside from damaging impacts.
You should also be pleased with the lifetime limited warranty offered by the manufacturer against manufacturing defects.
Pros
- Anti-skid
- Built to last
- 500lbs load capacity
Cons
- The coating comes off easily
11. EAG Steel Rivet Armor for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler
Closing down is a set of Jeep wrangler step bars made out of cold-rolled steel, to give you a high-strength product that will serve you for a lifetime.
On top of that, the bars are textured and black powder-coated for corrosion protection, and this translates to enhanced durability.
Although the installation will require some drilling, the bars come with a set of instructions to guide you through the process.
Most of all, these units are reasonably affordable and will not dent your pockets.
Pros
- Rugged construction
- Powder-coated for protection against corrosion
- Affordable
Cons
- Too heavy
Buying Guide to the Perfect Running Boards for Jeep Wrangler
After checking out the top products, it is also vital that you know how you can narrow down your search from the countless options available. Let’s now look at the factors you should consider in your search for the perfect running boards for your Jeep Wrangler.
I) The Material
The best materials for running boards should be high-strength and sturdy, which would make the units durable. In this case, aluminum and stainless steel would be your best bet towards satisfying these conditions.
II) Load Capacity
Next up is the load capacity, whereby your ideal running board ought to have a maximum load capacity of at least 400lbs. This would ensure that it can hold a heavy individual without bending or breaking apart easily.
III) The Installation
Setting up the units on your Jeep Wrangler should be as easy as it can get so that you can do everything by yourself. Luckily for you, most of the present-day running boards are designed to conveniently stick to pre-set mounting positions in the name of brackets.
On top of that, a user manual would enable everything to be more straightforward for you.
IV) Extra Features
Certain features enhance the running boards’ efficiency. They include LEDs for visibility resistance sensors to detect obstructions and prevent damage.
V) Safety
Your safety and that of the passengers are of utmost importance. Therefore, go for running boards with any built-in traction to minimize slipping and sliding chances when you step on them.
Further, diamond plates and treads are features that help in keeping you stable as you step on the board.
FAQs on Top Jeep Wrangler Running Boards
By answering some of the common queries regarding running boards for Jeep Wranglers, we will have gone some way towards making the topic clearer for you.
Here is the brief Q&A session that we came up with.
Q: What are the different types of running boards out there?
A: There are three main types of running boards out there, and they are: nerf bars, side steps, and the traditional design running bars. So, it is up to you to look at what each of them has to offer and decide which one would be the best option for you.
Q: How much weight can a running board hold?
A: The load capacity varies from one model to another. Most of the units in the market have their load capacity ranging between 300 to 400lbs. However, some go higher, and in our case, the highest rated one that we found has a capacity of 650lbs.
Q: What are running boards made out of?
A: Most running boards are made out of aluminum and the different steels out there, such as stainless steel and cold-rolled steel. Then, some have rubber grips to make them non-slip in addition to rubber or plastic end caps to ensure water does not pool up inside.
Our Top Pick
After that extended discussion, we have settled on Mopar Jeep Wrangler 4 Door Side Steps as our top pick. It is an affordable set that is well-built, easy to install, and anti-skid for the sake of your safety.
These are some of the features that make us consider these units to be superior to the rest.
Closing Remark
By now, we hope that you have understood the importance of acquiring high-quality running boards for your Jeep Wrangler. These units would make things easier for you, as getting and exiting your vehicle will no longer be a daunting task.
If you have taken your time to digest every piece of information presented in this article, you should have an easy time getting the perfect running boards for your Jeep next time you go shopping.