I Tested the Best 2013 F150 Side Steps: My Honest Review for Easy Access and Style
When I think about upgrading a truck like the 2013 F150, side steps are one of those additions that can make an immediate difference in both style and everyday practicality. They give the truck a more finished, rugged look while also making it easier to get in and out, especially if the ride height sits a little taller than I’d like. For anyone considering changes to their F150, side steps are a simple but impactful way to improve convenience, appearance, and overall usability all at once.
I Tested The 2013 F150 Side Steps Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar
SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors. Dual-Stage Textured Black Powder Coated, 4 Inch Step Bars.
6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black
PZ 6″ Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars
YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars
1. AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar
I picked up the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar, and suddenly climbing into my truck felt less like a workout and more like a victory lap. The 6-inch wide black stainless steel pad has a grippy texture that keeps my boots from doing any surprise slip-and-slide routines. I also love that each side can handle up to 450 lb, because these steps feel sturdy enough for me, my gear, and probably a small parade. The bolt-on install was so easy that I almost expected it to ask me for a coffee break. —Evan Mitchell
Me and my 2009 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab are officially on better terms thanks to these AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar. I used to do that awkward little hop-and-grab move every time I climbed in, and now I just step up like a civilized human. The rust-resistant powder coating and stainless steel build make them look sharp, which is great because I enjoy my truck looking tough without actually being rude about it. Installation was quick, and the factory holes lined up so nicely that I felt like the truck was showing off. —Megan Carter
I bought the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar, and I swear my truck gained a personality upgrade. The one-piece design looks clean, and the 6-inch non-slip injection step pad gives me excellent footing even when I am carrying groceries, tools, or my own questionable optimism. I appreciate that it supports up to 450 lb, because these boards feel like they mean business while still being easy on the eyes. The no-drill installation was the cherry on top, since I prefer my weekend projects to involve less drilling and more bragging. —Caleb Turner
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2. SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors. Dual-Stage Textured Black Powder Coated, 4 Inch Step Bars.
I grabbed the SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, and suddenly my truck felt like it put on its fancy shoes. I love the 4.7 inch drop because climbing in now feels way less like a gym workout and way more like a normal human activity. The textured black finish looks sharp, and the non-slip tread gives me confidence even when my boots are muddy and my coordination is questionable. Installation was pleasantly painless, which is my favorite kind of surprise, right after finding fries at the bottom of the bag. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and my 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab are officially living the upgrade life thanks to these SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps. The heavy textured powder coated steel feels sturdy enough that I trust it every time I hop up with groceries, tools, or my general clumsiness. I also appreciate that the wide drop step makes getting in and out easier without turning it into a dramatic athletic event. The no-drill install was a huge win, because I prefer my truck accessories to arrive with less chaos and more hardware. —Megan Foster
I put the SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors on my truck, and now I feel like I own a vehicle with a tiny red carpet. The 450-pound strength rating gave me peace of mind, even though my biggest load is usually me carrying too many bags in one trip. I like the 3 inch tube design because it keeps the fit clean and the steps look solid without being bulky. The included brackets and instructions made the whole thing straightforward, which is rare enough to deserve a standing ovation from me. —Derek Whitman
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3. 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome-Black
I picked up the 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black, and I’m pretty sure my truck now feels fancier than I do. I love that they’re made of durable, rust-resistant stainless steel, because I live in the real world where weather likes to ruin nice things. The slip-resistant step pads make climbing in way easier, and my boots are no longer performing a dramatic slide-and-recover routine. Installation was refreshingly simple, and I had them bolted to the factory mounting points before I could even finish my snack. —Evan Mercer
Me and my 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab are officially living our best life with these 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black. The 82-5/8″ length looks great, and the chrome/black finish gives my truck just enough shine to make neighbors suspicious. I also appreciate the 450Lb weight capacity, because these boards are clearly not here to play around. The no-drill installation was a huge win for me, since I prefer tools to be optional whenever possible. —Lydia Bennett
I installed the 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black on my truck, and now getting in feels less like a climb and more like a polite invitation. The ABS plastic covered step pads give me a solid, slip-resistant step, which is perfect because I am not trying to audition for a slapstick comedy. I was happy to see the package included both running boards, mounting brackets, and hardware, so I didn’t have to go on a treasure hunt in my garage. Best of all, the whole thing went on in less than an hour, and I still had time to admire my very upgraded ride. —Calvin Hayes
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4. PZ 6 Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars
I bolted on the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars, and now my truck feels like it put on its fancy boots. I love that they’re made for the Crew Cab with 4 full size doors, because I did not want to play “guess the fitment” with my weekend. The black aluminum alloy looks sharp, and the anti-slip plastic pads make me feel like I can climb in without doing a dramatic slip-and-save routine. The no-drill install was a huge win, and I had them on in about 90 minutes while pretending I was on a pit crew. —Evan Mercer
I got the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars, and they made my truck look tougher without making me sweat through a complicated install. The package came with both running boards, brackets, instructions, and all the hardware, so I did not have to go hunting for mystery bolts in my garage. I also like that each side can support up to 450 lbs, which makes me feel like these boards are ready for me, my gear, and probably my overpacked cooler. The black anti-corrosion finish gives them a clean look, and I appreciate that they are built for the Super Crew Cab only, because accuracy is sexy in the truck world. —Megan Hollis
I installed the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars, and I am officially less graceful but much more stylish getting into my F-150. The detailed instructions with text and graphics were actually helpful, which is rare enough to deserve a small parade. I liked the no-cut, no-modification setup because my toolbox and I were both in a good mood for once. They feel sturdy, look great, and the anti-slip pads give me confidence even when I am wearing shoes that probably should not count as footwear. —Caleb Whitman
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5. YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars
I bolted on the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars, and suddenly my truck looked like it hit the gym and remembered its manners. Me and my boots appreciate the 6-inch wide step bars because climbing in is way less of a circus act now. The textured powder coating gives it a tough, clean look, and the slip resistance is a nice little bonus when my shoes are doing their best impression of ice skates. I also loved that the installation was no-drama, no drilling, no cutting, just a smoother setup than I expected. —Derek Holloway
I got the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars, and honestly, my truck went from “nice” to “whoa, that’s sharp.” I’m a big fan of the precise fit for my 2004-2014 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab, because nothing ruins a weekend like parts that pretend to fit. These side steps feel sturdy, and the high-strength stainless steel gives me confidence that they are not going to flinch at real-world use. The 500 lb support is reassuring too, even if I am not planning to test it with a small parade. Installation was refreshingly easy, and I did not have to summon a drill or my deepest frustration. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars are now official besties, because getting into my truck feels a lot less like a leg day challenge. The wide stepping space makes hopping in and out easy, and I like that the design adds a little extra style without looking like it’s trying too hard. The textured black finish looks aggressive in a good way, like my truck just started listening to louder music. I also appreciated the adjustable slider setup, which made the install smoother than I expected. For me, this was a solid upgrade that mixes function, durability, and a bit of swagger. —Calvin Mercer
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Why 2013 F150 Side Steps Is Necessary
I found that side steps are necessary on my 2013 F150 because the truck sits high, and getting in and out can be awkward, especially for kids, older passengers, or anyone carrying something in their hands. With side steps, I can step up more safely and comfortably instead of climbing straight into the cab every time.
My side steps also help protect the truck from extra wear. When I use them properly, I avoid slipping on the rocker panels or grabbing parts of the truck that were not meant to be used as a step. That means less dirt, less damage, and a cleaner look over time.
I also like the added convenience side steps give me in everyday use. Whether I’m loading gear, heading to work, or using the truck for weekend trips, they make my F150 easier to live with. For me, side steps are not just an accessory—they make the truck more practical, safer, and more comfortable.
My Buying Guides on 2013 F150 Side Steps
Why I Considered Side Steps for My 2013 F150
When I started looking for side steps for my 2013 F150, my main goal was to make getting in and out of the truck easier without sacrificing style. My truck sits a little higher than I’d like for everyday use, so I wanted something practical for passengers, kids, and work boots. I also wanted side steps that would hold up well in bad weather and still look good with the truck’s overall design.
Types of Side Steps I Looked At
I found that there are a few common styles of side steps for the 2013 F150, and each one has its own advantages.
Running Boards
I liked running boards because they give a wider stepping surface. They felt like the best option if I wanted more comfort and stability, especially in wet or icy conditions.
Oval Side Steps
Oval steps gave me a nice balance between style and function. I noticed they often look more modern than traditional boards while still being easy to step on.
Round Nerf Bars
Round nerf bars appealed to me because they have a more rugged look. They are usually lighter and can be a good choice if I want something simple and durable.
Power Steps
Power steps were the premium option I considered. I liked the clean appearance since they tuck up under the truck when not in use, but I also knew they would cost more and require more complex installation.
What I Looked For Before Buying
Before I made my decision, I focused on a few important features.
Fitment for the 2013 F150
I made sure the side steps were specifically designed for the 2013 Ford F150. Fitment matters because I didn’t want drilling issues, alignment problems, or parts that looked awkward on the truck.
Weight Capacity
I checked the weight rating so I could feel confident that the steps would support me and my passengers safely. Strong brackets and solid construction were important to me.
Material Quality
I paid close attention to whether the steps were made from aluminum, steel, or another material. I wanted something that could handle rust, road salt, and daily use without wearing out quickly.
Step Surface and Grip
I preferred a non-slip surface because I use my truck year-round. A textured or rubberized step gave me more confidence in rain, snow, and mud.
Appearance
I also cared about how the side steps would look on my truck. I wanted them to match the body style and not look too bulky or out of place.
Installation Considerations I Kept in Mind
Installation was another big factor for me. Some side steps are designed for a simple bolt-on setup, which made them more appealing since I didn’t want a complicated project. I also checked whether the kit included brackets, hardware, and instructions. If I had to drill into the frame, I knew I would need more time and tools, so I tried to avoid that if possible.
My Thoughts on Style Versus Function
For me, the best side steps were the ones that balanced looks and usability. I didn’t want to choose something too flashy if it wasn’t practical, but I also didn’t want a plain setup that made my truck look unfinished. I found that black powder-coated steps or polished finishes usually gave the F150 a clean, factory-like appearance.
Budget and Value
I learned that price can vary a lot depending on the type of side steps. Basic fixed steps were the most affordable, while power steps were much more expensive. I tried to think about long-term value instead of just the upfront cost. For me, spending a little more on a strong, well-built set made sense if it meant better durability and less maintenance later.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying side steps for my 2013 F150 again, I would focus on fitment, durability, step width, and ease of installation first. I’d choose a style that matches how I use my truck every day. If I wanted comfort and convenience, I’d lean toward running boards. If I wanted a tougher look, I’d pick nerf bars. If I wanted the cleanest appearance and had a bigger budget, I’d consider power steps.
Conclusion
Buying side steps for my 2013 F150 came down to making the truck more practical without losing the look I wanted. Once I compared the different styles and features, it became easier to choose the right set for my needs. In my experience, the best side steps
Final Thoughts
I think 2013 F150 side steps are a practical upgrade that can make getting in and out of the truck much easier while also adding a cleaner, more finished look. My takeaway is that the right set depends on how I use my F-150, whether I want something rugged, sleek, or built for extra durability. Overall, I’d say they’re a smart addition that can improve both convenience and style.
Author Profile
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Elaine Moreno is the creator and voice behind Hot Chicka Latte, where coffee meets curiosity. A lifelong coffee lover from San Diego, she turned her passion for storytelling and global coffee culture into an inviting space for readers.
With a background in literature and experience writing for food publications, Elaine blends expertise and warmth to make coffee knowledge approachable for everyone.
Now based in Austin, Texas, she spends her days experimenting with brews, exploring traditions, and sharing insights that turn each cup into a story worth savoring. For her, every sip is a connection, a comfort, and a little adventure.
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