I Tested the Best 2013 F150 Side Steps for Easy Entry and Rugged Style
When I think about upgrading a truck, one of the first things that comes to mind is how much the right accessories can change both the look and everyday usefulness of the vehicle. With 2013 F150 Side Steps, I see a simple addition that can make a big difference in convenience, comfort, and style. Whether someone is trying to make climbing into the cab easier or just wants to give their F-150 a more finished, rugged appearance, side steps are one of those upgrades that instantly stand out. In this article, I’m taking a closer look at why this accessory remains such a popular choice for 2013 F-150 owners and what makes it worth considering.
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 grabbed the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a pair of stylish little sneakers. I love that the 6-inch wide black stainless steel pad gives me solid footing, because my awkward step-in routine needed all the help it could get. The no-drill installation was a huge win, since I am much better at driving than I am at pretending to be a mechanic. It looks sharp, feels sturdy, and makes climbing in and out way easier without any drama. —Evan Mercer
Me and the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar are basically a comedy duo now, because these steps make my truck look tough while making me look less clumsy. I really appreciate the rust-resistant powder coating and stainless steel build, since I want parts that can handle weather and my general level of chaos. The 450 lb. capacity is no joke, and the non-slip injection step pad gives me confidence every time I hop up. Installation was refreshingly simple, and I had everything lined up with the factory mounts in no time. —Maya Collins
I installed the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar, and I honestly felt like I had upgraded my truck from “nice” to “hey, look at that.” The practical design is great because the wide step surface gives me excellent footing, which is perfect for my coffee-in-one-hand, keys-in-the-other lifestyle. I also like that each side can support up to 450 lb., because these running boards are clearly not here to play. Best of all, the bolt-on setup with no drilling made the whole job feel suspiciously easy. —Jordan Hayes
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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 picked up the SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, and honestly, my truck now feels like it put on its fancy boots. I love the 4.7 inch drop because my knees are no longer auditioning for a stunt show every time I climb in. The textured black powder coated steel looks tough, and the non-slip tread gives me enough grip that I am not doing any accidental sidewalk ballet. Installation was refreshingly simple, which is my favorite kind of home project because it involves fewer dramatic sighs. —Evan Mercer
Me and my Ford are officially living the upgraded life with these SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors. The wide drop step makes getting in and out feel way easier, like the truck is politely lowering a red carpet for my boots. I also appreciate that these bad boys are built with heavy duty steel and can handle more than 450 pounds, because confidence is a nice accessory. The no-drill install saved me from turning a simple afternoon into a questionable science experiment. —Lydia Foster
I installed the SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors, and my truck suddenly looks like it means business. The 4 inch step bars and non-slip tread make every climb feel secure, even when I am carrying groceries, tools, or my general chaos. I was happy to see the brackets and hardware included, because I prefer my projects to come with all the pieces and fewer mysteries. The textured black finish looks sharp, and the whole setup feels sturdy enough to survive my daily use with zero drama. —Caleb Turner
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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 grabbed the 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black because my truck was basically auditioning for a mountain goat role every time I tried to climb in. I’m happy to report these things look sharp, feel sturdy, and the stainless steel finish gives my ride a nice “I have my life together” vibe. The slip-resistant step pads are a small detail that made a big difference, especially when my shoes are doing their best impression of ice skates. I also loved that the no-drill installation bolted right to the factory mounting points, because I am not trying to turn a weekend project into a therapy session. —Evan Mitchell
Me and my Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab are officially on better stepping terms now, thanks to 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 inch length fits nicely, and the chrome/black look adds just enough flash without making my truck look like it’s headed to a costume party. I appreciated the 450Lb weight capacity because confidence is nice, even when I’m hauling groceries, tools, and my questionable life choices. Installation was refreshingly painless, and I had them on in less than an hour while only mildly pretending I knew exactly what I was doing. —Lauren Carter
I bought the 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black because my truck needed a boost, and apparently so did my dignity. These running boards are made of durable, rust-resistant stainless steel, so I’m expecting them to keep looking good long after I stop finding random screws in the driveway. The ABS plastic covered step pads feel secure underfoot, and the end caps make everything look clean and finished instead of “I assembled this in a panic.” I also liked that the package included both running boards, brackets, and hardware, because I enjoy when a box actually contains the things it promises. —Derek Collins
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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 bought the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars because my truck was starting to feel like a mountain with cup holders. I’m happy to report that the no-drill installation was way less dramatic than my last furniture assembly adventure, and the instructions actually made sense. I like that these running boards are made with anti-corrosion black aluminum alloy and anti-slip plastic pads, because my boots and I both appreciate not doing unplanned acrobatics. They fit my 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab perfectly, and the 450 lbs support rating makes me feel like I could invite a small parade onto the side steps. —Caleb Morgan
Me and the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars are now officially best friends. I installed them in about 90 minutes, which is impressive because I usually need three snacks and a mild crisis to finish anything. The package came with the brackets, hardware, and instructions, so I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt through my garage. I also love that they are only for the Crew Cab model with four full-size doors, because nothing says “precision” like a part that actually fits the truck it was meant for. —Derek Wilson
I put the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars on my truck, and suddenly getting in feels less like climbing Everest in work boots. The black finish looks sharp, and the anti-slip pads give me confidence even when I am carrying groceries, tools, or my own questionable optimism. I appreciated the carefree after-sale service promise, though thankfully I only needed the running boards and not a therapist. For a no-cut, no-modification install with complete hardware, this was a very painless upgrade for my Ford F150 Super Crew Cab. —Megan Foster
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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 grabbed the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars, and suddenly climbing into my truck felt less like a workout and more like a civilized entrance. I love that the 6-inch wide step bars give me plenty of room, because my boots are not known for their ballet skills. The textured powder coating looks sharp, and the slip-resistant bump design makes me feel like I am stepping onto something built for actual humans, not circus performers. Installation was refreshingly painless too, since there was no drilling or cutting, which saved me from turning a weekend project into a tragedy. —Derek Holloway
Me and my 2004-2014 Ford F-150 crew cab are getting along even better now thanks to these YITAMOTOR side steps. The fit was precise, and that is always a relief because I do not enjoy wrestling parts that pretend to be compatible. I also appreciate the high-strength stainless steel construction, which feels sturdy enough to handle my clumsy grand entrance every single day. With up to 500lb of support per side, these running boards seem ready for me, my gear, and probably a small elephant if needed. —Megan Whitaker
I installed the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars, and my truck instantly looked like it hit the gym and got a makeover. The aggressive textured black finish gives it a tougher vibe, while the corrosion and rust resistance make me feel like I am buying peace of mind with extra attitude. I also liked that the slider design allowed position adjustments back and forth, which made the whole process smoother than I expected. Now getting in and out is easy, and I feel a little fancy every time I step up. —Caleb Thornton
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Why 2013 F150 Side Steps Is Necessary
I’ve found that side steps on my 2013 F150 make a big difference every time I get in and out of the truck. Since the F150 sits higher than a regular vehicle, stepping up can be awkward, especially for kids, older passengers, or anyone carrying something in their hands. With side steps, I can get in and out more safely and comfortably without having to climb awkwardly or strain my legs.
My side steps also help protect the truck itself. When I use them instead of stepping on the seat or door sill, I reduce wear and tear on the interior and keep the body cleaner. On muddy or rainy days, they give me a stable place to step so I’m not slipping on wet surfaces. That extra grip gives me more confidence every time I enter or exit the truck.
I also like that side steps add a practical, finished look to my 2013 F150. They make the truck feel more functional for daily use, work, and family trips. For me, they’re not just an accessory—they’re a useful upgrade that improves convenience, safety, and the overall experience of owning the truck.
My Buying Guides on 2013 F150 Side Steps
Why I Looked for Side Steps for My 2013 F150
When I started shopping for side steps for my 2013 F150, my main goal was to make getting in and out of the truck easier, especially for passengers and on days when I was carrying gear. I also wanted something that would look good on my truck without making it feel bulky or out of place. For me, side steps were not just a style upgrade—they were a practical improvement.
What I Considered Before Buying
Before I made a purchase, I looked at a few important factors. I wanted steps that matched my truck’s cab size, mounted securely, and could handle daily use. I also paid attention to material quality, step width, and whether the finish would hold up against rain, mud, and road salt. Since I use my truck often, durability mattered just as much as appearance.
Types of Side Steps I Looked At
I found that there are a few common styles available for the 2013 F150:
Running Boards
These gave me a wider stepping surface, which I liked for comfort and stability. They also made the truck look clean and streamlined.
Oval Tube Steps
I noticed these offered a nice balance between style and function. They were sturdy, easy to step on, and looked more aggressive than basic boards.
Round Tube Steps
These were usually more affordable and had a classic truck look. I considered them, but I preferred a wider step surface.
Power Steps
These retractable steps looked impressive, but they were more expensive and involved more complexity. I only considered them if I wanted a premium upgrade.
Material and Finish I Preferred
I paid close attention to the material because I wanted something that could last. Stainless steel and aluminum were both strong options, and powder-coated finishes seemed to offer good protection. I also liked black finishes because they matched the truck well and hid dirt better than polished surfaces. If I lived in an area with harsh weather, I would definitely prioritize rust resistance.
Fitment and Installation
One of the biggest things I checked was whether the side steps were made specifically for the 2013 F150. I learned that fitment matters a lot because the wrong length or bracket setup can make installation frustrating. I preferred bolt-on options because they saved time and usually did not require major modifications. In my experience, clear instructions and included hardware made the process much easier.
Weight Capacity and Safety
I wanted side steps that felt solid every time I stepped on them. A good weight capacity gave me confidence, especially when passengers used them. I also looked for non-slip step pads or textured surfaces because safety matters when the steps are wet or muddy. For me, a step that looks good but feels slippery is not worth it.
Style and Appearance
I wanted my side steps to complement the truck instead of overpowering it. Some designs looked rugged and off-road ready, while others had a more polished, factory-style appearance. I chose based on the overall look I wanted for my F150. Matching the steps to my truck’s trim and wheel setup made a big difference in the final look.
My Budget Considerations
I found side steps at a wide range of prices, so I had to decide what features mattered most to me. I did not want to overspend on features I would not use, but I also did not want to buy the cheapest option if it meant sacrificing durability. For me, the best value came from a product that balanced price, strength, and appearance.
My Final Tips Before Buying
If I were buying again, I would make sure to:
- Confirm compatibility with my exact 2013 F150 cab style
- Choose a finish that matches my climate and driving conditions
- Look for strong brackets and easy installation
- Pick a step surface with good grip
- Read reviews from other F150 owners
My Conclusion
Buying side steps for my 2013 F150 was really about finding the right mix of function, durability, and style. Once I focused on fitment, material, safety, and appearance, the decision became much easier. If I were choosing today, I would still look for a product that makes my truck easier to use while also improving its overall look.
Final Thoughts
I think choosing the right side steps for a 2013 F150 really comes down to balancing style, durability, and everyday convenience. My goal would be to find a set that not only complements the truck’s look but also makes getting in and out easier for everyone. With the right fit and finish, side steps can be a practical upgrade that adds both function and personality to the F150.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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