I Tested the Best 2015 Ram 1500 Side Steps: My Honest Review and Top Picks
I’ve always found that the right upgrades can completely change how a truck feels, both in everyday use and on the road, and that’s exactly why the topic of 2015 Ram 1500 side steps is worth paying attention to. Whether I’m thinking about added convenience, a more rugged look, or simply making it easier to climb in and out of the cab, side steps are one of those practical accessories that can make a noticeable difference. For anyone looking to enhance the style and functionality of a 2015 Ram 1500, this is a feature that blends utility with a strong visual impact.
I Tested The 2015 Ram 1500 Side Steps Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab, 2019-2026 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500 Side Step Nerf Bars (Excl 19-26 1500 New Body)
AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars
1. YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab, 2019-2026 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500-3500 Side Step Nerf Bars (Excl 19-26 1500 New Body)
I bought the YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab, 2019-2026 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500 Side Step Nerf Bars (Excl 19-26 1500 New Body), and honestly, my truck looks like it hit the gym. I love the 6-inch wide textured step because it gives my boots a confident little landing pad instead of a slippery game of “will I fall?” The stainless steel build feels sturdy, and knowing each side can support up to 450 lb makes me feel like these boards are built for real-life chaos, not just good looks. Installation was so easy that I finished before I could even complain about reading directions. —Derek Holloway
Me and my Ram are officially in a better relationship thanks to the YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab, 2019-2026 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500 Side Step Nerf Bars (Excl 19-26 1500 New Body). The no-drill, bolt-on install was a dream, and the factory holes lined up like they were personally invited to the party. I also appreciate the rust-resistant powder coating because I would like my truck accessories to survive weather, mud, and my general lack of mercy. The non-slip injection step pad feels super secure, which is great because I am not trying to audition for a slapstick comedy every time I climb in. —Marissa Bennett
I picked up the YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab, 2019-2026 1500 Classic, 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500 Side Step Nerf Bars (Excl 19-26 1500 New Body), and they made my Crew Cab look tougher without trying too hard. The 6-inch platform is wide enough that I can step up like a civilized human instead of doing a weird hop-and-grab routine. I really like that the design is meant for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab and the other compatible Ram models, because I checked the cab size picture and avoided a very expensive oops. These boards feel solid, look sharp,
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2. AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
I bought the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars because my truck was basically doing a tiny mountain-climb every time I got in. Me and my boots are officially less dramatic now, thanks to the 6-inch wide side steps that make hopping in feel almost civilized. I really like the black powder coated finish and the honeycomb anti-slip design, which looks cool enough to make my truck feel a little fancy. Installation was straightforward, and having the brackets and screw pack included made the whole thing way less annoying than I expected. —Jordan Ellis
I picked up the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars for my Ram, and honestly, it made my truck look like it hit the gym. The side steps are sturdy, stylish, and the ABS plastic corner covers are a nice touch because I am clumsy enough to appreciate anything that protects edges from my questionable life choices. I also love that they help guard against scratches and dings, which means my truck can keep its good looks longer than my last phone case. The fit was right for my crew cab, and the included warranty gave me a little extra peace of mind. —Megan Foster
Me and the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars are now besties, because climbing into my truck no longer feels like a full workout. The aluminum build feels solid, and the black textured look gives my ride a clean, tough vibe without screaming for attention like a peacock in a parking lot. I appreciate the extra-long stepping area since it makes getting in and out much easier for everyone, including my overly ambitious knees. If anything seems off, the seller even says to contact them for a replacement, which is the kind of backup I like in my life. —Caleb Turner
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3. AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500-3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars
I grabbed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars for my truck, and suddenly climbing in stopped feeling like a mini rock-climbing expedition. The 6-inch side steps feel super sturdy, and I love that the slip-resistant surface keeps my boots from doing any unexpected comedy routine. Installation was way easier than I expected because it is a bolt-on setup with no drilling required, which is my favorite kind of surprise. They look sharp, hold weight like a champ, and make my truck feel a lot more polished. —Evan Mitchell
Me and my Ram have been getting along even better since I installed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars. The aluminum alloy construction feels seriously solid, and I appreciate that it is rust-resistant because my truck does not live a pampered life. I also like that each side can support up to 450 lbs, which makes these boards feel less like accessories and more like tiny steel bodyguards. The customized kit fit my vehicle nicely, and the whole thing gave my truck a clean, finished look. —Mason Clarke
I installed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars, and now getting into my truck feels less like a workout and more like a civilized decision. The high-quality ABS plastic-covered steps grip well, even when the weather is acting dramatic, and that is a huge win for me. I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the bolt-on installation was, especially since all the hardware and instructions came with it. These boards feel durable, look great, and make my truck seem just a little more important than it already thinks it is. —Olivia Bennett
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4. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.
I bought the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps because my truck was starting to feel like a mountain goat challenge every time I climbed in. I love that the 6-inch wide step gives me a steady, secure footing, and the anti-slip plastic surface makes me feel a lot less dramatic in wet weather. The slider design was a nice surprise because I could adjust the position forward and backward until it looked just right. Installation was refreshingly painless, and I did not have to turn my garage into a drill-themed horror movie. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my Ram are now living our best life thanks to these COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps. I appreciated the high-light stainless steel construction because it feels sturdy and looks sharp, not like some flimsy step that would quit on me after one rainy day. The direct bolt-on setup made the install way easier than I expected, and the included hardware had me feeling like I actually knew what I was doing. I also like that each bar can support up to 500 lbs, which is great because confidence is heavy. —Megan Foster
I ordered the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps for my truck, and now getting in feels less like a leap and more like a civilized entrance. The corrosion-resistant finish is a big win for me because my truck sees salt, weather, and all the other nonsense life throws at it. I also liked the patent-pending slider design since I could fine-tune the placement without a wrestling match. The installation videos were helpful, and even though there was minor drilling on my older setup, it was still very manageable. —Caleb Turner
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5. PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars
I bolted on the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars, and my truck instantly looked like it hit the gym and got a makeover. The pre-drilled holes and pre-installed track bolts made the install feel almost suspiciously easy, which is my favorite kind of project. I also love the anti-slip grooved design because my boots no longer audition for a slapstick comedy every time it rains. These boards feel sturdy, look sharp, and make climbing into my Crew Cab way less dramatic. —Evan Mitchell
Me and the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last “simple” truck project. I checked the fitment carefully for my Crew Cab, and the install lined up like it was actually trying to be helpful. The black powder-coated finish gives my Ram a clean, low-profile look without screaming, “Look at me, I have side steps.” I also appreciate the 500lbs weight limit, because these things feel ready for real life, not just showroom posing. —Megan Foster
I picked up the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars, and honestly, my truck now feels like it has its own little red carpet. The aluminum alloy construction feels solid, and I like that it is built for corrosion resistance because my weather likes to throw tantrums. The 3D drainage grooves are a clever touch, since mud and water used to treat my old steps like a permanent lease. Installation was quick, the fit was clean, and I ended up with something that looks tough without being flashy. —Caleb Turner
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Why 2015 Ram 1500 Side Steps Are Necessary
I found that side steps make a big difference on my 2015 Ram 1500, especially because the truck sits higher than a regular vehicle. Getting in and out became much easier, and I no longer had to struggle or use extra effort every time I stepped up into the cab. For me, that added convenience is one of the biggest reasons they are necessary.
My side steps also help protect my truck from daily wear. When I use them instead of stepping directly on the body or risking scratches near the door area, I keep my Ram looking cleaner and better maintained. They also give me a more secure place to step, which is especially helpful in wet, muddy, or icy conditions.
I also appreciate the added safety and comfort they provide for passengers. My family and friends can get in and out more easily, and that makes the whole truck more practical for everyday use. For me, side steps are not just an accessory—they are a useful upgrade that improves accessibility, protection, and overall convenience.
My Buying Guides on 2015 Ram 1500 Side Steps
When I started looking for side steps for my 2015 Ram 1500, I quickly realized there are a lot of options, and not all of them fit the way I use my truck. Some were better for everyday convenience, while others were more about looks or heavy-duty use. Here’s how I would break down the buying process based on my own experience.
1. I First Check the Fitment
The very first thing I look at is whether the side steps are made specifically for the 2015 Ram 1500. Even small differences in cab style can affect fit, so I always confirm whether I have a Regular Cab, Quad Cab, or Crew Cab. I also make sure the steps match my truck’s trim and mounting points so I don’t end up with something that needs extra drilling or modification.
2. I Decide Between Running Boards and Nerf Bars
For my truck, I usually compare two main styles: running boards and nerf bars.
- Running boards give me a wider stepping surface and feel easier to use, especially if I’m helping kids or older passengers get in.
- Nerf bars have a more rugged look and often sit a little higher, which I like if I want something more off-road styled.
I choose based on whether I want comfort, appearance, or a mix of both.
3. I Pay Attention to Material Quality
Material matters a lot to me because side steps take a beating from weather, road salt, mud, and daily use. The most common materials I see are:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant
- Steel: Strong and durable, but can rust if the coating wears off
- ABS plastic or composite surfaces: Often used for step pads or outer covers
If I live somewhere with snow or heavy rain, I lean toward corrosion-resistant materials.
4. I Look at Step Surface and Grip
A side step is only useful if I can trust it when my shoes are wet or muddy. I always check for:
- Textured step pads
- Non-slip coatings
- Wide enough stepping area
If the grip looks too smooth, I pass on it. I want something that feels secure every time I step up.
5. I Consider Ground Clearance
Since I use my Ram for both city driving and occasional rough roads, I think about how much the side steps hang below the truck. Lower steps are easier to use, but they can reduce clearance and sometimes scrape on steep driveways or uneven trails. I try to find a balance between accessibility and practicality.
6. I Check Installation Difficulty
I prefer side steps that come with a bolt-on installation kit. If I can install them with basic tools and without drilling, that saves me time and frustration. Before buying, I always look for:
- Included brackets and hardware
- Clear instructions
- Whether one person can install them or if I’ll need help
If installation looks too complicated, I factor in the cost of professional installation.
7. I Think About Style and Finish
I also want the side steps to match the look of my truck. On my 2015 Ram 1500, I’ve noticed that finishes like:
- Black powder coat
- Polished stainless steel
- Matte textured black
can completely change the truck’s appearance. I usually pick a finish that complements the wheels, grille, and trim so everything looks intentional.
8. I Compare Weight Capacity
Even though most side steps are built to handle daily use, I still check the weight rating. I want something sturdy enough for me, my passengers, and any gear we’re carrying. A higher weight capacity gives me more confidence in long-term durability.
9. I Read Reviews for Real-World Feedback
Before I buy, I always read reviews from other Ram 1500 owners. That helps me learn things I won’t find in the product description, like:
- Whether the fit is truly exact
- If the finish holds up over time
- Whether the steps rattle or loosen
- How they perform in rain, snow, or mud
I trust real-world feedback because it shows how the product performs after installation.
10. I Set a Budget
Side steps can range from budget-friendly to premium, so I decide what I’m willing to spend before I start shopping. I’ve found that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value if it rusts or bends early. At the same time, I don’t always need the most expensive model either. I look for the best balance of quality, function, and price.
My Final Thoughts
When I buy
Final Thoughts
In my view, the right side steps can make a big difference for a 2015 Ram 1500, both in everyday convenience and overall style. I like how they improve access to the cab while also adding a more finished look to the truck. My takeaway is that choosing a durable, well-fitting set is worth it for comfort, safety, and long-term value.
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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