A lifted truck is going to be hard to hop into if it doesn’t have some sort of retractable steps. You can run those old fashion nerf bars like they used to put on trucks back in the 90’s. Or you can step into the 21st century with some retractable steps for  your lifted truck. Whats cool about these power steps is they are almost completely hidden when you have the door shut. After lifting a truck and giving it that massive stance, a power retractable running board is always the next step for customers. Rather they have a wife, kids, or just don’t want to struggle when they have to get into their lifted ride. And the fact that these electric steps for lifted trucks make life so much easier is the main reason. Rather you have a Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F150 or Dodge Ram I will review them all here in the guide.  The top dogs in the power step game is AMP research. We use them on all of our exotic builds and most all customer go with them when it comes time. They have been proven to be a well built product and have great customer service, thats why I would call these the best power running boards. Anyway enough with the small talk, lets get to the buyers guide for these.

AMP Research PowerStep Running Board 1999- 2007 Silverado 

First up is the amp research power running board for the Chevrolet Silverado. These boards fit many of the popular crew cab and extended cab models for this year range. They are made from a high strength die cast aluminum and coated to withstand corrosion. Precision stainless steel pivots help keep the steps going up and down, and they are zero maintenance which is awesome. They have a extruded foot plate so you will not slip when trying to get into your lifted truck. Along with an intergrated LED light that comes standard with these steps, for night time jumping into your ride. And they support 600 pounds per side which is a big bonus when it comes to durability. Boasting a full 5 year 60,000 mile warranty, you can really go wrong with these guys. When it comes to gm retractable running boards, these are what customers want!

AMP Research PowerStep Running Board Silverado

AMP Research Power Running Boards for Ford F-150 2009-2013

Well this might start to sound repetitive but amp makes the best power running boards. These will Fit the Ford F15o in a range of years. The ford f150 power running boards problems are not a problem, we install these all the time for people with F150’s and we haven’t had a complaint yet. One thing I didn’t really mention yet, was the breeze these things are to wire up when installing. They include a wiring harness which makes it all that much better when you go to install. Along with the delay to go up when the door is shut, which is a really cool feature. The best for your buck when it comes to ford power running boards. Yes these things are pricey, but there is a reason for it. All in all you F150 guys will love these steps. If you have a newer version on the F150 these ones here will fit 2015 Ford F150 here.

AMP Research 75141-01A Power Step for Ford F-150 2009-2013

AMP Research Retractable Steps Dodge Ram 2009-2010 

Alright Alright, I get it, these steps are the only thing on the buyers guide. But the problem is these are the only guys that are doing them right. They are the only ones who give a killer warranty and cover all the model trucks that get lifted. Here at Ultimate Rides we lift silverados, F150s and Rams, its what we do day in and day out. These running boards are the ones of choice for everyone, which is why we are covering them for the Dodge Ram. These things boast all the same features as the other models, like the LED lights and easy install. The components and warranty are all the same across all lifted truck models.

You know I couldn’t forget about my favorite vehicle of all time the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. These Jeep Wrangler power steps are just what you need to take your wrangler to the next step after lifting it. We put these boards on our “big red” build and they were sweet. The power steps offer the same cool features as the other guys and have the LED lights along with the aluminum components. Just like the rest these wrangler power steps offer the same warranty as all the others. If you are in the market for your Wrangler then these are the ones to get. They will fit all four door wranglers, and they also have them for the two door wrangler.

AMP Research 75122-01A PowerStep Running Board

The Benefits Of Buying Retractable Steps For Lifted Trucks

Maybe you look at the price tag and wonder why you should buy expensive, retractable steps for your lifted truck. You are not crazy. This is a pretty rational question to ask. Especially if you are a shopper on a budget. However, there are plenty of major benefits and minor benefits that await. First, you need to understand the benefits of buying any type of step for your lifted truck. Then, you will certainly catch on from there!

Even normal steps on your lifted truck deliver a great benefit. Simply put, this offers easy access to your truck. Yes, it is that simple. Lifted trucks are obviously much higher off the ground than a normal vehicle. As a result, it is much more difficult to climb inside of a lifted truck. Especially for shorter people. You do not want someone struggling just to enter your newly lifted truck. So you need some helpful nerf bars or steps.

Now, there are special benefits that come from retractable steps for a lifted truck. Most importantly, the steps can hide out of the way while not in use. This allows a natural appearance for your truck. So you will not need to worry about the steps altering the overall style of your truck. Secondly, it guarantees there will be no damage done to the steps or other cars. You do not need to worry about scratching another car while trying to park. Retractable steps are the way to go.

To Sum up these power steps for your lifted ride

Its obvious AMP has the market cornered when it comes to the leader in retractable steps for lifted trucks or Jeeps. Yea they come at a cost of more than double a conventional style nerf bar would cost. I think it is worth the added cost for a few reasons. One being that the lo0ks of your lifted truck are not compromised when you go with these, because they fold back up when you shut the door. You still get that tall appearance which is an added bonus. The fact that its power makes it convenient when needed, we have even powered them separately so they can work when you want them to, which is pretty cool. They are definitely a conversation piece when you open the door and they pop down with the lights on. And lastly the name and warranty is something you can trust. If you feel like you will have trouble installing these, and you are located in the Chicago land area, give our service center a ring and they will be able to help install and wire these bad boys up for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How Can I Install Retractable Steps On My Truck?

A: Usually, we provide detailed instructions for customers when it comes t the installation process. However, retractable steps may be too much for the average customer. So we highly recommend professional help with your installation process. You do not want to take any risks with your steps. An improper installation may cause issues with the retractable design. This can cause serious issues out on the open road.

Q: Should I Get Long Nerf Bars?

A: Generally speaking, retractable steps come in the form of nerf bars or long steps. So keep an eye out for this type of physical design. One simple step will not do. Mostly because it cannot properly retract like a full, long step. Pay close attention to the details of each and every product. However, if you want to make it easy then stick to the options in our list!

Q: Does Color Matter?

A: No, not at all. Instead, we recommend focusing on the material. Especially if you live in an area with a long winter. Winter brings about salt trucks. For those who do not know, that salt is a big problem for steel and other material that rusts. Therefore, it is wise to get material that can withstand this type of rust. If not, then properly clean off the steps each and every day.