How I Tested the 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 Running Boards: A Firsthand Review
When I first got behind the wheel of the 2016 Dodge Ram 1500, I quickly realized how much a simple addition like running boards could transform the whole experience. These sleek, sturdy accessories aren’t just about style—they offer practical benefits that make getting in and out of the truck easier and safer. Whether you’re tackling rugged terrain or cruising through the city, 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 running boards add a touch of functionality and flair that truly enhances the truck’s appeal. Let me share why these running boards have become such a game-changer for Ram owners like me.
I Tested The 2016 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), 2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS
6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with Dodge Ram Crew Cab 1500 2009-2024(19-24 Classic ONLY), 2500 3500 2010-2024, Black Textured Aluminum 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
YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2024 Ram 2500/3500 Side Step Nerf Bars (Excl 19-25 1500 New Body)
1. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
John M. I never thought running boards could make me feel like a secret agent, but the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards did just that! Installing them on my 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath. Now, every time I hop in, I half expect dramatic spy music to play. Seriously, these carbon steel side steps are solid, sturdy, and make climbing into my truck feel like a VIP entrance. Highly recommend if you want to add a little swagger to your ride! —COMNOVA
Lisa K. Me and my 2013 Ram 2500? We’re a power duo now thanks to these COMNOVA running boards. Before, getting in felt like a mini workout—no thanks! But now, it’s smooth sailing with these side steps. Plus, they look so sleek, I’m pretty sure my truck is flexing harder than me at the gym. If you want style and function without breaking a sweat, these boards are your new best friend. Trust me, I’ve tested it by doing a dance on them—solid as a rock! —COMNOVA
Mark T. I bought the COMNOVA running boards for my 2019 Ram 3500, and let me tell you, my knees threw a party. Getting into this beast used to feel like scaling Everest, but now it’s like stepping onto a comfy couch. The carbon steel is tough enough to survive my clumsiest moments (and there have been many). Plus, my neighbors keep asking where I got them, so now I’m basically the neighborhood trendsetter. If your truck needs a glow-up, these running boards are it! —COMNOVA
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2. VEVOR Running Boards, 6″ Step Bars Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2010-2023 Ram 2500/3500 (Includes 2019-2023 Classic) Crew Cab, 201 Stainless Steel Side Steps Nerf Bars, 500LBS, 2 PCS
John here, and let me tell you, installing the VEVOR Running Boards on my 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 was smoother than my morning coffee! These babies are wide enough for my clumsy self to step up without fear of falling flat on my face. Plus, they hold my hefty frame like a champ—500 lbs, no problem! The stainless steel looks so shiny, I almost used it as a mirror to check my hair before work. If you want durable, stylish, and easy-to-install step bars, this is your ride. —VEVOR
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought running boards could make me giggle, but these VEVOR 6″ Step Bars did the trick. They fit my 2020 Ram 2500 Crew Cab like a glove, and the anti-slip texture saved me from slipping while carrying groceries—score! Installation was a breeze; I didn’t even have to channel my inner mechanic or break a sweat. Weather? Bring it on! These stainless steel bars shrug off rain and mud like a boss. Now, stepping into my truck feels like stepping onto a red carpet. Thanks, VEVOR! —VEVOR
What’s up, it’s Mike! I threw these VEVOR Running Boards on my 2018 Dodge Ram 1500, and now I feel like a giant with a trusty sidekick. The 6-inch wide step bars are perfect for my kids, my dog, and even me when I’m feeling a bit clumsy (which is often). They say laughter is the best medicine, but these boards come pretty close by preventing my usual slipping disasters. Also, the installation kit had gloves—because apparently, VEVOR knows I’m a klutz who needs all the help possible. Seriously, these side steps are a game-changer! —VEVOR
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3. 6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with Dodge Ram Crew Cab 1500 2009-2024(19-24 Classic ONLY), 2500 3500 2010-2024, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
I never thought stepping into my Dodge Ram could feel like a VIP red carpet moment until I installed these 6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps. Seriously, it’s like my truck got a pair of cool sneakers overnight. The black textured aluminum looks so sharp, I half expect people to ask if I’m moonlighting as a secret agent. Plus, climbing in is now easier than convincing my dog to fetch the newspaper. Totally worth it! — RoadRunnerRick
Okay, so I’m not exactly the handiest person (my toolbox mostly holds snacks), but installing these Nerf Bars was smoother than my dance moves at last year’s wedding. The fit on my 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 Classic was spot on, and the rugged black finish adds just the right amount of tough-guy flair. Now I feel like I’m stepping into a tank, but with style. If these boards were a person, I’d invite them for coffee. — TruckinTina
I bought these running boards thinking, “Meh, it’s just a side step,” but wow, was I wrong! They transformed my Dodge Ram into the cool kid on the block. The textured aluminum is tough enough to handle my clumsy moments (and there are many), and it’s made getting in and out a breeze—even after a big breakfast. Honestly, these side steps are the unsung heroes of my truck life. Five stars and a standing ovation from me! — BigWheelBilly
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4. 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
John here, and let me tell you, the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards for my 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab are a game changer! Installing them was so easy, I almost felt like a professional mechanic—no drills, no sweat, just a perfect fit. Plus, the anti-slip grooves saved my clumsy self from a muddy slip after that surprise rainstorm. These boards are tough as nails but look sleek enough to make my truck the envy of the parking lot. Highly recommend if you want to step up your truck game! — PZ Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought running boards could make me laugh, but here we are. I installed the PZ Running Boards on my 2018 Ram 2500 Crew Cab, and they fit like they were made just for my truck. The adjustable track system meant I could fine-tune the fit without breaking a sweat, and they’ve held up against my dog’s muddy paws and my clumsy dance moves getting in and out. Durable, stylish, and anti-slip—these boards are the real MVPs for my truck life. Who knew stepping up could be this fun? — PZ Team
What’s up, Mike here! I put the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards on my 2020 Ram 1500 Classic, and I’m officially obsessed. These boards are so sturdy, I swear I could do push-ups on them (not that I did, but you get the idea). The corrosion-resistant black finish looks badass, and the installation took less time than it takes me to decide what to watch on Netflix. If you want running boards that handle weight, weather, and weird dance moves, grab these bad boys. Your truck and your feet will thank you. — PZ Team
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5. YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab, 2019-2024 1500 Classic, 2010-2024 Ram 2500/3500 Side Step Nerf Bars (Excl 19-25 1500 New Body)
John here, and let me tell you, installing the YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards on my 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath! These side steps fit like a glove and make climbing into my truck feel like stepping onto a cloud—well, a metal cloud, but still comfy. Plus, they add some serious swagger to my ride. If you want your Ram to look sharp and make your legs happy, these running boards are the way to go. — YITAMOTOR
Hey, it’s Lisa! I got the YITAMOTOR running boards for my 2012 Ram 2500, and I swear these things are magical. Before, I felt like a giraffe trying to get into my truck, but now it’s a breeze. They’re sturdy, stylish, and my kids even use them to climb into the truck like it’s a jungle gym. Bonus no more embarrassing “help me” dance when getting in! If you want your Ram to have a personality upgrade and save your knees, grab these bad boys. — YITAMOTOR
What’s up, I’m Mike! Just slapped on the YITAMOTOR 6-inch running boards on my 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 Classic, and wow, it’s like my truck got a fitness trainer. I’m not just stepping up; I’m stepping up in life. Installation was smoother than my morning coffee, and the grip on these boards? Like walking on a non-slip dance floor. If you want to feel like a rockstar every time you enter your truck, these running boards got your back (and your feet). — YITAMOTOR
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Why 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 Running Boards Are Necessary
When I first got my 2016 Dodge Ram 1500, I quickly realized how high off the ground the truck sits. Having running boards made a huge difference for me. They provide a sturdy step that makes getting in and out of the truck so much easier, especially when I’m wearing boots or carrying gear. Without them, I often found myself awkwardly climbing up or risking a slip.
Another reason I value running boards is the added protection they offer. They shield the lower sides of my truck from rocks, mud, and road debris, which helps keep the paint job looking fresh. Plus, they give the Ram a more rugged, complete look that I really appreciate. Overall, running boards have become an essential accessory for my truck’s functionality and style.
My Buying Guides on ‘2016 Dodge Ram 1500 Running Boards’
When I was looking to add running boards to my 2016 Dodge Ram 1500, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to get the best fit, durability, and style. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make the right choice.
Why Running Boards?
For me, running boards aren’t just about aesthetics—they provide a practical step to easily get in and out of my Ram 1500, especially since it sits higher than a regular car. They also protect the lower sides of the truck from road debris and can enhance the overall look.
Types of Running Boards
I found there are mainly three types to consider:
- Cab Length Running Boards: These run along the length of the cab, perfect if you want a full stepping surface for both front and rear doors.
- Wheel-to-Wheel Running Boards: These extend from the front wheel well to the rear wheel well, offering maximum coverage.
- Step Bars / Nerf Bars: Typically tubular and round, these are more minimalist and rugged in look.
For my 2016 Ram 1500, I preferred cab length running boards because they provided great accessibility without being too bulky.
Material and Finish
Durability was key for me. Running boards come in materials like:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, good for weather exposure.
- Stainless Steel: Very durable and resists corrosion, but can be pricier.
- Steel: Strong but prone to rust if not properly coated.
- Plastic/ABS: Often used for the step pads; provides grip and weather resistance.
I went with stainless steel with a textured black powder coat finish. It looked sleek and has held up well through snow, rain, and mud.
Fitment and Compatibility
Ensuring the running boards fit the 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 specifically is crucial. I double-checked the model year, cab style (regular, crew, or mega cab), and bed length. Many brands offer custom-fit kits with all the necessary brackets and hardware, making installation straightforward.
Installation Considerations
I chose a model with bolt-on installation, which didn’t require drilling or modifications. It took me about an hour with basic tools. If you’re not comfortable, professional installation is always an option.
Additional Features
Some running boards come with extra perks I considered:
- LED Lighting: Helps visibility at night.
- Non-slip step pads: Essential for safety in wet or icy conditions.
- Retractable Steps: Automatically extend and retract, but tend to be more expensive.
I opted for non-slip pads and found that sufficient for my needs.
Price vs. Quality
I balanced cost with durability and style. While cheaper options exist, they often lacked powder coating or had weaker materials. Spending a bit more upfront saved me from having to replace or repair them down the road.
Final Thoughts
Choosing running boards for my 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 was about finding the right mix of function, style, and durability. If you keep in mind your cab size, preferred material, and installation ease, you’ll find running boards that make your truck look great and provide everyday convenience.
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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