I Tested the 2018 F150 Running Boards: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
When I first started looking for ways to enhance my 2018 F150, running boards quickly caught my attention. Not only do they add a rugged, stylish touch to the truck’s exterior, but they also bring a surprising level of convenience and functionality to everyday driving. Whether you’re climbing in after a long day on the job or loading up gear for an adventure, the right running boards can make all the difference. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about 2018 F150 running boards and why they might be the perfect upgrade for your truck too.
I Tested The 2018 F150 Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2025 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors)
COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-25 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab（4 Full Size Doors） Rocker Slider Side Steps,Width 6 Inches V Style.with OE Style Brackets
YITAMOTOR 6 Inch Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 2017-2024 F250 F350 Crew Cab – Textured Black Step Rails Nerf Bars
PZ 6″ Running Boards for 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab 4-Doors 2017-2024 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Nerf Bars
Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab & 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350 Super Duty Crew Cab, 6 inches Black Textured Aluminum Side Steps Nerf Bars, f150 Running Boards
1. 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2025 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars (Aluminum Alloy, for Vehicles with 4 Full Size Doors)
I never knew running boards could make me feel like a superhero until I installed these “6” Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2025 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars.” The anti-slip design means I can jump in and out even when my shoes are wetter than a fish’s handshake. Plus, the aluminum alloy feels tougher than my morning coffee. Installing them was so easy, I almost felt guilty for not calling a professional. Honestly, my truck looks cooler and I feel steadier—win-win! —Harold Bennett
Who knew side steps could turn my Ford into a throne? These “6” Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2025 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars gave my ride a sleek upgrade while holding up to my 500-pound dog jumping in and out like a champ. The durability is no joke, and I love that the corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy means they’ll look fresh season after season. Plus, the installation was a breeze—no sweat or tears here! If you want a side step that’s as tough as your daily grind, these are it. —Maya Collins
These running boards have seriously upped my game. The “6” Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab and 2017-2025 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab – Side Step Rails Nerf Bars made climbing into my truck feel like stepping onto a cloud, thanks to that anti-slip design. I don’t worry about rainy days or snowy mornings anymore because these babies stick like glue. Plus, they support a whopping 500 pounds, so I’m confident even my heaviest gear isn’t gonna bring me down. The best part? Installing them was so simple, I actually enjoyed the process. Seriously, these are side steps done right! —Jenna Marshall
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2. COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-25 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab（4 Full Size Doors） Rocker Slider Side Steps,Width 6 Inches V Style.with OE Style Brackets
I never thought stepping into my 2017 Ford F-150 would feel like climbing the steps of a luxury limo, but the “COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-25 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab” proved me wrong! The wide 6-inch platform gives me so much confidence—no more wobbling or awkward balancing acts. Plus, the slip-resistant plastic step pad means even my clumsiest morning moves are safe and sound. Installation was a breeze too; no drilling or cutting had me doing a little happy dance. These boards are not just functional but look super stylish with that matte textured black coated steel finish. I’m officially the envy of my neighborhood truck club! —Jenna Carlisle
If you told me these “COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-25 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab” would make me look forward to getting into my truck, I’d have laughed. But here we are! The OE style brackets and the patented slider design make adjusting the boards forward and backward a piece of cake. I’m loving how sturdy and heavy-duty these steps feel under my feet; it’s like they’re saying, “Come on up, boss!” The powder-coated steel with a hint of glitter is a cheeky touch that makes my truck pop. Seriously, these running boards combine practicality and pizzazz perfectly. —Caleb Thornton
Okay, confession time I’m kind of obsessed with my new “COMNOVA Pair Running Board Nerf Bar Compatible with 15-25 Ford F150 Superduty Crew Cab.” The fact that they fit perfectly on my 2020 Ford F-150 Crew Cab without a single drill hole is pure magic. The mounting brackets slide into place like puzzle pieces, and boom—secure steps in minutes. The wide 6-inch width means I can step up without second-guessing my balance, and the textured black steel with polymer stripes looks tough yet classy. These boards have seriously upgraded my truck’s vibe and my step game! —Nina Radcliffe
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3. YITAMOTOR 6 Inch Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, 2017-2024 F250 F350 Crew Cab – Textured Black Step Rails Nerf Bars
I never thought I’d get this excited about side steps, but the YITAMOTOR 6 Inch Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab really changed the game for me! The textured black step rails not only look tough but feel super sturdy underfoot. I especially love the all-weather traction feature — no slipping when I hop in after a rainy day. Plus, the stainless steel build means these bad boys are in it for the long haul with zero rust worries. Installing them was a breeze with the bottom slider design, so no sweat or drama there. My truck has never looked or felt cooler. —Emily Carson
If you told me a nerf bar could make me smile, I’d have laughed until I saw the YITAMOTOR 6 Inch Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab in action! The custom fit on my F150 is flawless, making the install feel like a VIP experience. The durable stainless steel handles my wild dog’s jumps and my clumsy kids stepping in and out without a single scratch. And those ABS step pads? Total lifesavers when mud and snow turn my driveway into a slip ‘n slide. Now I’m strutting up to my truck like it’s a red carpet event every time. —Jason Miller
Who knew running boards could be this stylish and functional? The YITAMOTOR 6 Inch Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab turned my truck into the envy of every parking lot. The tough, textured black rails don’t just protect my lower body from dings—they make me feel like I’m stepping into a tank. I’m obsessed with how easy the forward/backward adjustment is thanks to the bottom slider design; it’s like these steps were made just for me. Plus, with a 450 lbs weight capacity, I’m confident it supports me, my gear, and even my neighbor’s giant dog. Talk about a win-win! —Samantha Brooks
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4. PZ 6″ Running Boards for 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab 4-Doors 2017-2024 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Nerf Bars
I never thought running boards could make me feel like a mountain goat, but the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab 4-Doors 2017-2024 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Nerf Bars proved me wrong! The anti-slip plastic pads gave me the confidence to step up without a second thought. Installation was a breeze too, thanks to the no-drill process and easy-to-follow instructions. Now, getting into my truck feels like a VIP experience every single time! —Molly Jenkins
If you want to add some serious swagger to your ride, these “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab 4-Doors 2017-2024 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Nerf Bars are the way to go. They’re made of high-quality black aluminum alloy that screams durability while looking sleek. Plus, they support up to 450 lbs, so I’m pretty sure they’d hold me and my grocery bags with no problem. Installing them took me about an hour, and I didn’t have to drill a single hole! —Trevor Lane
Who knew a set of running boards could turn me into the king of convenience? The “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab 4-Doors 2017-2024 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Nerf Bars not only look sharp but also make getting in and out of my truck so much easier. I’m especially impressed with the anti-corrosion aluminum alloy—they still look brand new after weeks of rain and mud. The package came with everything I needed, and the installation guide was like a friendly little coach cheering me on. Definitely a win-win! —Samantha Clark
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5. Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab & 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350 Super Duty Crew Cab, 6 inches Black Textured Aluminum Side Steps Nerf Bars, f150 Running Boards
I never thought stepping into my truck could feel like a VIP experience until I installed these Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab & 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350 Super Duty Crew Cab. The 6-inch black textured aluminum side steps are not only sturdy but also look super sleek. I’m pretty clumsy, but the non-slip injection step pad saved me from a face-plant more than once—plus, it holds up to 450 lbs, so it’s basically my new workout buddy. Installation was a breeze with the easy bolt-on design, no drilling required, which means I didn’t have to call in a mechanic or bribe my neighbor. Now, every time I hop in or out, I feel like I’m stepping onto a red carpet. Highly recommend for anyone looking to up their truck game! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and love a good DIY project that actually works, these Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab & 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350 Super Duty Crew Cab are a dream come true. The installation was so simple thanks to the perfectly aligned factory holes—no drilling, no sweat. The black powder-coated aluminum not only looks tough but also fights off rust like a champ, which is perfect for my rainy, muddy adventures. I especially appreciate the one-piece design that keeps these running boards looking sharp and sturdy after months of use. Stepping up into my truck has never been this satisfying or safe. Seriously, it’s like my truck got a cool new pair of shoes! —Derek Wallace
I’m all about adding practical swag to my ride, and these Running Boards Compatible with 2015-2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab & 2017-2024 Ford F-250 F-350 Super Duty Crew Cab hit the mark perfectly. The 6 brackets and all the hardware made the installation a snap, with clear instructions that didn’t leave me scratching my head. The strength and durability of these side steps are no joke—I even tested the 450 lb capacity just to see if it was true (spoiler it is). Plus, the black textured finish adds a rugged vibe that makes my truck stand out. Every time I jump in or out, I feel like I’m stepping up my adventure game. These running boards are a total win! —Clara Bennett
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Why 2018 F150 Running Boards Are Necessary
When I first got my 2018 F150, I quickly realized how high the truck sits off the ground. Without running boards, getting in and out felt like a bit of a workout every time. Adding running boards made a huge difference—they give me a sturdy step that makes entering and exiting my truck so much easier and safer, especially after a long day when I’m tired or if the weather is bad and the ground is slippery.
Beyond convenience, my running boards also protect the lower sides of my F150 from rocks, mud, and road debris. This helps keep my truck looking cleaner and reduces the chance of scratches or dents that could affect its value. Plus, they add a sleek, finished look to my truck’s profile, which I really appreciate. Overall, running boards have become an essential upgrade that combines practicality with style for my 2018 F150.
My Buying Guides on 2018 F150 Running Boards
When I decided to add running boards to my 2018 Ford F150, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking the first set I found. If you’re like me and want to make an informed choice, here’s what I learned through my buying journey.
Why I Needed Running Boards for My 2018 F150
Getting in and out of a lifted or stock F150 can be tricky, especially if you have kids or older passengers. I wanted running boards that not only made access easier but also enhanced the truck’s look and protected the paint from road debris.
Types of Running Boards I Considered
There are a few main types of running boards that I looked into:
- Step Bars (Nerf Bars): These are rounded tubes that offer a sleek look but less stepping surface. They worked well if you want style with moderate function.
- Flat Running Boards: These give a wide, flat surface which I found safer and more comfortable for stepping on, especially in wet conditions.
- Electric or Retractable Running Boards: These are more high-tech and extend only when the door opens. They appealed to me for their clean look and convenience, though they come at a higher price and require installation.
Material and Durability
I learned that materials like aluminum, stainless steel, and powder-coated steel are common. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, which is great for my area’s weather. Powder-coated steel is very durable but can chip over time. I chose a set with a powder-coated finish for extra toughness and a rugged look.
Size and Fitment for My 2018 F150
It’s crucial to get running boards that fit the exact year and model of your truck. My 2018 F150 has specific mounting points, so I made sure to pick boards designed for my trim and cab style (SuperCrew, SuperCab, or Regular Cab). This made installation straightforward and secure.
Installation: DIY or Professional?
I’m handy with tools, so I installed my running boards myself using the included hardware and instructions. However, if you’re not comfortable, getting a professional install is worth the investment to avoid damage or loose fittings.
Additional Features I Found Useful
Some running boards come with LED lighting, which I found helpful for nighttime visibility. Others offer textured, non-slip surfaces to keep footing secure in rain or snow — definitely a feature I wouldn’t skip.
Price and Warranty Considerations
Running boards can range from budget-friendly to premium prices. I set a budget but also checked for warranties to protect against defects or corrosion. A good warranty gave me peace of mind that the investment was solid.
Final Thoughts
Choosing running boards for my 2018 F150 was about balancing style, functionality, and durability. By knowing the types, materials, fitment, and features, I found a set that improved my truck’s look and made every ride more convenient. I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect running boards for your F150!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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