Running boards are a popular accessory for trucks and SUVs. They offer a step-up aid for easier entry and exit, enhance the appearance of a vehicle, and can improve aerodynamics in some cases. However, while they bring certain benefits, they are not without disadvantages. For vehicle owners considering this addition, it’s critical to understand the potential drawbacks before making a purchase decision. In this article, we’ll explore in detail the various disadvantages of running boards, from mechanical concerns to aesthetic compromises and practical limitations.
1. Increased Vehicle Weight and Reduced Fuel Efficiency
One of the most overlooked disadvantages of running boards is their impact on vehicle weight and efficiency. Most running boards are made from materials such as aluminum, steel, or composite plastics—each adding significant weight to the vehicle.
Weight Addition and Performance Impact
Depending on the model and construction, a running board can add anywhere between 30 to 100 pounds (13.6 to 45.4 kg) of extra weight. While this might not seem like much in the context of a full-size truck or SUV, it can have cumulative effects on overall vehicle performance:
- Increased strain on the engine during acceleration
- Higher wear on suspension and braking systems
- Potential reduction in towing and payload capacities
Fuel Economy Reductions
Heavier vehicles require more fuel to move the same distance. Studies have shown that for every 100 pounds of added weight, fuel economy can decrease by up to 2%. For those who drive frequently or are concerned with fuel efficiency, this can translate to a noticeable increase in fuel costs over time.
2. Potential for Off-Road Damage and Reduced Ground Clearance
Running boards are often a concern for off-road vehicle owners, especially those who enjoy trail driving or navigating rough terrain.
Ground Clearance Reduction
Most aftermarket running boards extend downward from the vehicle’s sides, lowering the distance between the board and the ground. This can reduce the vehicle’s breakover angle and ground clearance, making it more susceptible to scraping over uneven terrain.
TIP: Some off-road enthusiasts choose to remove running boards when driving on difficult trails, which can be a hassle if it has to be done frequently.
Ideal Environments for Damage
If you frequently drive on uneven surfaces, rocks, or muddy trails, your running boards are at risk of:
- Scratching and denting from friction against rocks or debris
- Structural bends or cracks from heavy impacts
- Costly repairs or replacements due to off-road damage
This can result in frequent maintenance or the need to invest in more rugged running board designs (which often cost more), ultimately adding to vehicle ownership expenses.
3. Increased Risk of Rust and Corrosion
Depending on the material and environmental exposure, running boards can contribute to rust and corrosion, particularly in areas with high humidity, salt usage during winter, or frequent off-road exposure to mud and moisture.
Common Corrosion Zones
Running boards can trap moisture and debris, especially if they have complex slats or a textured surface. This creates a breeding ground for rust and corrosion, which can spread to the vehicle’s frame or door sills if not addressed regularly.
Challenges in Maintenance
Maintaining running boards involves regular cleaning, especially in harsh climates. Owners must also periodically check for:
| Maintenance Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Removing mud, salt, and grime buildup underneath and around the boards |
| Inspection | Looking for signs of rust, cracks, or loose mounting hardware |
| Lubrication | Applying rust-preventative spray or oil to exposed seams and joints |
| Repairs | Addressing aesthetic or structural damage caused by wear or corrosion |
Failure to adhere to these maintenance practices could mean the costly need for early replacement or permanent damage to your vehicle’s body structure.
4. Difficulty in Cleaning and Maintenance
While not the most obvious drawback, running boards can significantly complicate the cleaning and detailing process of your vehicle, especially when installed below the doors.
Trapping Dirt and Debris
Running boards can act as dirt traps, especially if they feature grates or slats. Rain, road salt, mud, and even bird droppings can collect under or within the boards and become difficult to reach without removing or adjusting them.
Time and Effort Needed
Thorough cleaning may require additional time spent on step ladders, pressure washing underneath the board, or partial removal of parts. For vehicle owners who enjoy an immaculate look or compete in car show circuits, this drawback can be a considerable inconvenience.
5. Risk of Dangling Components or Mounting Failure
Whether they are side steps or full-length running boards, improper installation or wear over time can lead to mounting failures or loose components.
Improper Installation Pitfalls
Running boards require precise, secure mounting to a vehicle’s frame. If installed incorrectly—especially by non-professionals—they can:
- Develop vibrations and rattles during driving
- Interfere with vehicle components or create drag
- Eventually come loose
Loose running boards pose safety hazards, especially at highway speeds where they can detach and cause damage to other vehicles or property.
Mounting Hardware Wear
Exposed hardware can wear down or rust over time, especially with exposure to salt or chemicals. This leads to:
- Increased chances of bolts loosening
- Risk of damage to the car body or frame from stress points
- Potentially expensive repair if the mountings tear through the car’s structure
6. Added Cost Without Guaranteed Resale Value
While running boards can enhance the look of your vehicle, they do not always translate to increased resale value.
Varied Aesthetic Preferences
What one buyer may see as a stylish upgrade, another might consider an unnecessary accessory. This is especially true among buyers who drive the same vehicle in an urban environment and see running boards as a cosmetic addition with little utility.
Potential for Expense Without Return
The initial cost of quality running boards—including materials and labor—can be quite high. Depending on your vehicle and the brand chosen, you could spend between $200 and more than $1,000. However:
There is no guarantee that the installation cost will translate directly into an equivalent gain in resale price.
Additionally, some buyers might request discounts due to the perceived maintenance concerns of the boards or ask for their prior removal at your expense before the sale.
7. Legal and Regulation Challenges
In some regions, particularly in parts of Europe and Asia, the installation of running boards (especially non-manufacturer models) may be subject to federal or state regulations.
Legal Restrictions
In certain jurisdictions, extended or poorly designed running boards may violate:
- Limits on vehicle width
- Requirements for lighting visibility
- Clearance laws for undercarriage obstructions
Violation of these rules could result in:
| Fine Possibility | Up to $500 or more |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Inspection Failure | Requirement to remove the running boards before passing |
| Import Issues | Denial of entry for vehicles during international travel or shipment |
Before installing running boards, always research the laws and regulations of your specific operating region.
8. Increased Visibility of Damage on Light-Colored Vehicles
For those who own a white or light-colored vehicle, running boards can make visible damage more apparent over time.
Exposure to Road Debris
Running boards are constantly in the line of fire from road debris. This is particularly true on highways, where small stones and pebbles kicked up by other vehicles can create a pitted effect.
Light-colored boards—especially white or silver—show every scratch and scuff, requiring constant buffing or, in extreme cases, repainting.
Board Material Matters
Some materials, such as unpainted steel or exposed aluminum, may show damage more prominently in different ways:
- Steel can develop rust spots even if powder-coated
- Aluminum boards might scratch and reveal the shiny surface beneath
9. Compatibility and Fitment Issues
While certain running boards are designed to be universal, many are custom-fit for specific vehicle makes and models. Unfortunately, fitment issues still occur due to the wide variety of truck and SUV configurations.
Misalignment and Obstruction Problems
Even the best-designed running board might present these problems:
- Ignores alignment with exhausts or sensors, causing interference
- Hinders existing vehicle features, like sliding doors, tailgates, or liftgate sensors
- May not fit newer trim or body styles properly, leading to modification needs
Costly Modifications and Returns
In some cases, running boards bought online may need to be returned or modified, adding to the cost and time involved in installation. Buyers may also find themselves needing to retrofit certain brackets or even drill into the frame—actions that may void warranties or alter factory design.
10. Not Always Practical for Everyday Users
While running boards may seem helpful for climbing into large SUVs or trucks, they are not always practical for daily use, especially depending on your environment or physical capabilities.
Excess Height or Step Placement
Some vehicle owners—particularly the elderly or those with limited mobility—may find that running boards actually add a step that is poorly placed or too awkward to use comfortably. In certain vehicles, they may:
- Be too high to be of help
- Offer a slippery or uncomfortable grip
- Interfere with parking close to curbs or uneven surfaces
Difficulty with Parking and Maneuvering
The presence of running boards can make it more difficult to park close to curbs, concrete barriers, or tight urban spaces without risking damage. Some compact spaces or angled parking spots that require a tight fit can be compromised under such circumstances.
Conclusion
While running boards can be a practical addition to high-riding vehicles, they come with their fair share of drawbacks. From negative impacts on fuel efficiency and off-road capability to increased maintenance costs and potential legal issues, these disadvantages should not be overlooked. Vehicle owners must weigh their specific driving environment, personal preferences, and long-term usage patterns before committing to this popular upgrade.
If functionality, aesthetics, and practicality align, running boards might suit your needs perfectly. However, for many, the reality of wear, added weight, and clearance concerns can outweigh the perceived benefits. Doing thorough research and consulting with experts before purchasing is always the best approach to ensure that running boards match your driving lifestyle—not hinder it.
Do running boards reduce ground clearance on a vehicle?
Yes, one of the primary disadvantages of running boards is that they can significantly reduce ground clearance. This can become a problem when driving over obstacles such as steep inclines, speed bumps, or off-road terrain. The added step bars underneath the vehicle are susceptible to scraping, which may lead to damage over time, especially if the vehicle is frequently driven in rugged or uneven conditions.
This reduction in ground clearance can also affect the vehicle’s approach and departure angles, making it more vulnerable to undercarriage contact with the ground or obstacles. For owners who enjoy off-roading or live in areas with unpaved roads and rough terrain, this drawback should be considered carefully. Choosing retractable or power running boards may help mitigate some of these issues, but they still add some bulk beneath the vehicle.
Can running boards increase fuel consumption?
Adding running boards to a vehicle can result in a slight increase in aerodynamic drag, particularly if they are large, permanently mounted, or not integrated into the vehicle’s body design. This added resistance can affect how smoothly the vehicle moves through the air, which over time may lead to a small but measurable increase in fuel consumption. The effect may not be dramatic for most everyday drivers, but for individuals who drive long distances or are particularly fuel-conscious, it is something worth noting.
In addition, the added weight of the running boards can also play a role in fuel efficiency, though typically a minor one. Combined with the aerodynamic effect, this could further affect the vehicle’s overall mileage. If fuel economy is a top concern, vehicle owners should research which running board styles have the least impact, such as streamlined or retractable models that minimize drag when not in use.
Are running boards expensive to maintain and repair?
Running boards can be relatively expensive to maintain and repair depending on their design, construction, and exposure to road conditions. Entry-level models made of less durable materials may degrade faster due to weather exposure, corrosion, or constant foot traffic. Higher-end running boards, such as those with LED lighting or electric deployment mechanisms, tend to have more components that can malfunction, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Another maintenance issue involves cleaning and debris build-up. Running boards are located near the bottom of the vehicle and are exposed to dirt, rocks, and other road debris. This not only affects their appearance but can also lead to accelerated wear and mechanical interference, especially for retractable models. Owners may need to invest in periodic cleanings, lubrication of moving parts, or part replacements, which contributes to long-term costs.
Do running boards pose safety hazards when driving?
In some cases, running boards can pose safety concerns depending on their design and how they are used. Exposed or fixed running boards may stick out from the sides of the vehicle, making the vehicle wider and increasing the risk of side impacts or scraping in tight spaces such as narrow parking spots, toll plazas, or gas stations. In extreme cases, people may also accidentally strike the running boards with their legs or trip over them when the vehicle is parked.
Additionally, electric or power running boards that deploy automatically may malfunction, deploying at the wrong time or failing to retract. This poses hazards during driving, particularly in off-road conditions or at higher speeds where a deployed running board could catch obstacles or generate instability. Malfunctions can also create risks when people step onto boards before they are fully deployed or as they are retracting. Regular checks and maintenance are essential to mitigate these potential dangers.
Can running boards interfere with entry and exit for other passengers?
While running boards are intended to make it easier for certain passengers, like children or elderly individuals, to enter and exit the vehicle, they can sometimes have the opposite effect. Boards that are overly wide or not properly retracted can intrude into the space where passengers normally step, potentially causing confusion or requiring adjustments in how people approach the vehicle.
Moreover, improperly positioned or malfunctioning running boards may not fully extend when needed or may extend too far, altering the expected standing or stepping area around the vehicle. This inconsistency can be particularly problematic for guests unfamiliar with the system, potentially leading to awkward movements or tripping hazards. Design and placement should be carefully considered to ensure they are genuinely helpful for all users rather than creating an inconvenience.
Do running boards affect the resale value of a vehicle?
Although some aftermarket accessories can enhance a vehicle’s appeal or utility, running boards often have a more neutral or even negative effect on resale value. Buyers have varying preferences, and many may view running boards as unnecessary or incompatible with their lifestyle or intended use of the vehicle. In some cases, buyers may even request a price reduction to account for the cost of removal and any related modifications or damage.
Additionally, if the boards are of poor quality, show signs of wear, or are misaligned, they may create the impression that the vehicle has been excessively customized or not well-maintained. Potential buyers might worry about the reliability of additional features like power deployment or lights, especially if they are not familiar with the specific brand. In this sense, while not always damaging, running boards can influence a buyer’s perception and final offer.
Are running boards difficult to install and uninstall?
Installing traditional running boards can be a complex and time-consuming task, often involving welding, drilling, or integrating electrical systems if the model is retractable or automated. The process usually requires professional assistance, which increases the overall cost of ownership. Moreover, incorrect installation can lead to instability, vibration, or even damage to the vehicle frame, which can negatively affect performance and safety.
Uninstallation is also not a simple effort. Removing running boards can leave behind bolt holes, brackets, and signs of wear on the vehicle body. Retractable or electric models might leave behind wiring harnesses that need proper removal and insulation to avoid electrical issues or exposed connections. These factors can make removing running boards inconvenient for owners who would prefer to return their vehicle to its original look or configuration at a later date.