OEM Parts vs Aftermarket Parts: Toyota and Mopar Parts Explained

Climbing into a lifted truck or tall SUV isn't always graceful, especially with kids in tow or gear to load before sunrise. The right running board can make that step a lot easier. This guide covers what running boards are, how they compare to nerf bars and other step options, and what to check before buying. Feel free to explore running board options we carry at Lum's Auto Center. What Are Running Boards on a Truck or SUV? A running board is a flat platform mounted along the lower sides of the vehicle, just below the doors, giving passengers a wider, stable surface to step on when getting in or out. They're common on pickups, large SUVs, off-road builds, and family vehicles where ride height turns the door sill into a real stretch. Running boards shorten the step up on most trucks and SUVs, and depending on the design, they can also shield lower doors and rocker panels from splash and road debris on gravel roads or muddy trails. How Running Boards Are Built and Mounted Manufacturers build running boards from aluminum, steel, or heavy-duty molded plastic, and each material comes with its own tradeoffs. Aluminum is corrosion resistant and lighter, which is why it shows up so often on SUV applications. Steel is heavier and stronger but needs a quality protective finish to hold up over time. Plastic tends to be the budget option and works fine for lighter-duty use. Mounting usually relies on brackets that bolt into the vehicle's existing factory mounting points along the rocker panel or pinch weld, so most fixed boards go on without drilling. Installation time varies by vehicle and kit, often an hour or two for a straightforward bolt-on set. Powered boards take longer: AMP Research puts a typical PowerStep installation at three to five hours, since the boards wire into the door sensors, though plug-and-play kits that connect through the OBD-II port simplify that work. Why Shoppers Add Running Boards to Trucks and SUVs Running boards solve real, everyday problems that go well beyond looks. We hear from customers across the board on this one, parents buckling kids into car seats, contractors loading up before sunrise, and plenty of people in between who just got tired of hauling themselves up into the cab. Easier Access for Lifted Trucks and Tall SUVs Lifted trucks and tall SUVs look great, but that extra ground clearance makes climbing in tougher for shorter passengers. We've talked with plenty of customers whose kids need a wider stepping surface just to reach the cab comfortably. A running board turns a stretch and a scramble into a simple step up. Passenger Convenience and Family-Friendly Use Compared to a narrow nerf bar, a running board's wider platform gives a steadier place to plant a foot, which matters for children and elderly passengers who need a more forgiving margin for error. Families running carpools or weekend trips often find this one of the more practical upgrades they make to a vehicle. Better Footing in Wet Weather Along the Oregon Coast Drive around Warrenton, OR, Astoria, Seaside, Ocean Park, or Tillamook long enough, and you already know the ground rarely stays dry or clean for long. Running boards Warrenton OR drivers rely on typically feature textured pads, molded grooves, or grip-focused finishes designed to improve traction when the ground and your boots are both wet. No step surface is slip-proof, so it's still worth taking your time on a wet or icy morning. That texture matters more than people expect once you're stepping down onto a rain-slicked board in the dark. Everyday Use for Work Trucks Work truck owners tend to care less about flash and more about dependability. If you're loading tools at 5 AM before a job site, you want a step that's low maintenance and just works every time. Many work truck buyers lean toward a clean, understated look, favoring fixed running boards over powered options that add more things that could eventually need service. Running Boards vs. Nerf Bars: What's the Difference? The nerf bars vs running boards question comes up a lot, and it really comes down to shape, coverage, and purpose. Nerf bars are tubular, often 3, 4, or 5 inches in diameter, usually made of metal with a rubber or textured pad, and they run either cab length or wheel to wheel. Built with a more rugged look, they provide more side impact protection, which appeals to off-road minded owners. Running boards take a flat, platform style approach instead, typically 4 to 7 inches wide, with some stretching up to 10 inches. They sit tucked close to the body for a cleaner, more finished appearance and offer a wider continuous stepping surface, better suited to frequent passenger access. Feature Running Boards Nerf Bars Coverage Continuous flat platform Tubular bar, cab length or wheel to wheel Style Sleek, close to body Rugged, more exposed Best Use Case Frequent passenger access, families Off road protection, side impact Material/Mounting Type Aluminum, steel, or molded plastic; bolt-on brackets Steel tube with rubber/textured pad; bolt-on brackets Neither option wins outright. It comes down to whether you're prioritizing a wide, family friendly step or a rugged bar that doubles as side protection. Other Side-Step Options: Drop Steps, Power Running Boards, Hitch Steps, and Rock Sliders Traditional running boards aren't the only way to make truck side steps easier to use. A few alternatives solve specific problems that flat boards don't always address. Drop Steps Drop steps essentially add a second level to a running board setup. The main bar sits close to the body for style, while a lower step extends down for easier entry on lifted trucks. You gain easier access, but you trade off a bit of ground clearance and stepping area compared to a single wide board. Electric Power Running Boards Power running boards deploy automatically when you open the door and retract when you close it, keeping the vehicle's profile clean and preserving ground clearance off-road. AMP Research's PowerStep shows what the category offers: 600 lbs of support per side, roughly 10 to 12 inches of extension in about a second, anti-pinch technology that re-lowers the board if it meets resistance, weatherproof motors tested to -40°F, and LED courtesy lights. The PowerStep XL steps down about 3 inches lower for lifted rigs. Kits come matched to your specific make, model, and year. Ratings vary by product, and some listings rate one board while others rate the full system. Read the fine print before assuming a number applies to your setup. Hitch-Mounted Steps Hitch-mounted steps attach directly to your trailer hitch and give you a step up to the truck bed, cargo, or a roof rack, while also helping protect your rear bumper from scuffs. They fit standard 1¼ inch, 2 inch, and 2½ inch receivers, usually come with treaded pads for grip, and some models even include an integrated third brake light. They're a solid option if you need occasional bed access without adding permanent side steps. Rock Sliders Rock sliders are the heavy-duty side steps for trucks that off-road enthusiasts lean on. Structural by design, they mount to the frame or body and are typically built from steel or aluminum to protect the rocker panels during rock crawling or trail driving. They double as a step and, in some cases, as a jack or recovery point, though specific protection capability varies by product. Check the specs on the exact model you're considering rather than assuming one rating applies across the board. Appearance and Style Considerations Style matters almost as much as function for a lot of buyers. A wider board tends to feel more stable underfoot and gives off a sturdier look, while a narrower bar often reads as cleaner and sportier. Finish options include chrome, stainless steel, black powder coat, and paintable surfaces that can be matched to your vehicle's color. There's no single correct answer here since so much of it comes down to what look you're going for and how you use the truck day to day. Fitment Basics: What to Check Before You Buy Before you buy, it helps to know that running boards being universal is mostly a myth. Fit varies by vehicle, and getting it right matters for both function and appearance. Matching Boards to Your Vehicle's Make, Model, and Trim Running boards are generally engineered around a specific make, model, year, and sometimes trim level. A universal kit might technically bolt on, but it risks misalignment, uneven gaps, or premature wear, especially with power deploying boards that rely on precise sensor placement. Checking compatibility against your exact vehicle before ordering saves headaches later. Mounting Points, Load Rating, and Installation Notes Confirm whether the board uses your vehicle's factory mounting points, and pay attention to whether a load rating applies to a single board or the whole system, since that distinction affects how you should think about weight capacity. If you're adding a power running board with wiring and sensors, plan for a more involved installation than a simple bolt-on kit. If you're not sure which combination of features, materials, and mounting hardware fits your truck or SUV, our team can walk through the options with you and connect you to Lum's accessories suited to your vehicle. Get Help Choosing Running Boards at Lum's Auto Center OEM vs. Aftermarket and Brand Availability If you're still weighing side steps vs running boards, or wondering who installs running boards on trucks in your area, our service team at Lum's Auto Center can help you sort through the options for your specific make and model. We carry accessories for Toyota, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles, including Mopar parts, and can walk you through the tradeoffs between OEM and aftermarket choices so you know exactly what you're getting. Ready to Move Forward? Whether you're searching for running boards installed near me or just want to confirm fitment before you buy, reach out to our team or stop by our Warrenton location. You can also browse Lum's running boards online or contact us directly to schedule a consultation before making a purchase, especially if you want to avoid fitment surprises down the road. Frequently Asked Questions About Running Boards Do running boards fit all trucks and SUVs? No. Most are engineered for a specific make, model, year, and sometimes trim, and they mount to factory points that differ between vehicles. Even within one model line, a crew cab and an extended cab need different lengths. Always confirm fitment against your exact vehicle before ordering. Can I install running boards myself? Fixed bolt-on boards are within reach for most people with basic tools, often taking an hour or two when the vehicle has factory mounting points. Powered boards are a bigger job. AMP Research puts a typical PowerStep install at three to five hours because the boards wire into the door sensors. How much weight can running boards hold? It depends on the product. AMP Research rates its PowerStep and PowerStep XL at 600 lbs per side. Many fixed boards and nerf bars are rated lower, and some listings don't publish a rating at all. Check whether the number applies to one board or the full system. Do running boards hurt ground clearance or off-road ability? Fixed boards and drop steps sit below the rocker panel, so they reduce clearance and can catch on obstacles. Power running boards retract above the frame rails when the doors close, and rock sliders are built to take contact with rocks and terrain.

Picking the right bed cover isn't just about looks. It changes how your cargo stays loaded and dry, and how much protection you get against theft. If you're comparing types of truck bed covers for a truck you already own, or you're still shopping for the right truck, this guide breaks down how each style works and which one fits your daily routine. Why Truck Bed Covers Matter for Oregon Coast Drivers Around Warrenton, OR, rainfall isn't a seasonal inconvenience, it's a year-round reality. The Astoria/Warrenton area sees a normal annual rainfall of 70.26 inches, with November alone averaging 11.05 inches (NWS). A bed cover keeps your cargo dry through that, cuts down on UV fading for your bed liner, and keeps tools or gear tucked out of sight when you're parked at a trailhead or job site. Soft Tonneau Covers: Roll-Up and Folding Styles Soft bed covers are built from vinyl or canvas material stretched over a frame. They're the lightest, most affordable category, and most owners can install one without drilling into the bed. How Roll-Up Covers Work and Who They Suit A roll-up soft cover uses vinyl or canvas stretched over a bow frame. You unsnap it and roll it toward the cab, opening the entire bed in seconds. Installation typically takes under 30 minutes with no drilling required. This style suits drivers who need frequent full-bed access, like weekend haulers moving mulch or furniture. How Folding (Tri-Fold) Covers Work and Who They Suit Tri-fold covers use marine-grade vinyl stretched over a rigid aluminum frame, split into three hinged panels. You fold the rearmost panel toward the middle, then toward the cab, giving you a choice between partial or full bed access. This works well for drivers who split time between work errands and weekend trips, since you can leave part of the bed covered while loading taller items in front. Soft Cover Pros, Cons, and Weather Considerations Soft covers keep out light rain but aren't sealed tight, so standing water or a heavy downpour can find its way in around the edges. Security-wise, they offer essentially zero theft deterrence; a pocket knife can slice through the vinyl in seconds. Their advantage is weight: soft covers come off easily when you need the whole bed open, and installation rarely takes more than an hour. Hard Tonneau Covers: Roll-Up, Folding, and One-Piece Styles Hard covers come in three main configurations: hard roll-up, hard folding, and one-piece hinged. All three trade some of the soft cover's flexibility for meaningfully better security and weather sealing. Hard Roll-Up and Hard Folding Covers Hard roll-up covers use interlocking aluminum, polycarbonate, or composite slats, which add real reinforcement compared to a soft shell alone. Hard folding covers mount rigid panels on an aluminum frame, using a hidden or quick-release latch that auto-locks each panel. Many models include weather sealing features such as perimeter bulb seals and internal drain tubes that channel water out behind the wheel wells. Some hard roll-up and folding covers can be driven with the cover open, partially open, or fully closed, offering more flexibility than a one-piece design. One-Piece Hinged Hard Covers A one-piece hard cover lifts from the tailgate end like a hood, using a single solid panel. It's the most rigid and secure configuration, which is why work trucks and fleet vehicles commonly pair it with a spray-on bedliner. The tradeoff is flexibility: cargo taller than the closed cover simply won't fit, so this style suits drivers hauling consistent, lower-profile loads. Hard Cover Pros, Cons, and Security Benefits Hard covers overall provide strong locking mechanisms and good weather sealing. Per LINE-X's own comparison guide, hard folding, retractable, one-piece, and topper-style covers rank among the best options for security. Brand-specific weight ratings back up that durability angle: BAKFlip lists its BAKFlip G2 at 300 lbs of evenly distributed support and the BAKFlip MX4 at 400 lbs. The downside is weight and bulk, which can make removal a two-person job compared with a soft cover. Retractable and Snap-On Cover Options Not every driver wants a fixed roll-up or hinged panel. Retractable and snap-on styles fill the gap between full security and everyday convenience. Retractable Covers for Flexible Access Retractable covers use interlocking aluminum or polycarbonate slats that retract into a canister mounted at the front of the bed, operated with a simple handle pull. What you end up with is a flush, locked appearance with full bed access whenever it's open. Retrax backs its RetraxPRO MX and XR models with its Legendary Lifetime Warranty, while RetraxONE models carry a limited lifetime warranty with replacement costs prorated after the first year. Its aluminum-slat covers support up to 500 lbs of evenly distributed weight and are tested from -40°F to 180°F and up to 95 percent humidity. Installation runs about 2 to 3 hours, longer for electric-powered versions that need power routing. If you're unsure about fitment or wiring, our service team can walk through installation details before you buy. Snap-On and Low-Profile Vinyl Covers for Budget Buyers Snap-on vinyl covers mount on a frame clamped to the bed rails and secure with snaps, with individual sections that unsnap for quick access. Per LINE-X's comparison, this style stays visible above the bed rails rather than sitting flush, so it won't have the low-profile look of retractable or hard one-piece designs. It's a reasonable entry point if a simple, budget-friendly setup matters more than a polished finish. Soft vs Hard Tonneau Cover: Side-by-Side Comparison Here's a quick comparison to help narrow down which type of cover is best for your situation. Cover Style Best For Relative Cost Bed Access Weather Sealing Look Soft roll-up Frequent full-bed loading $ Full, rolls to cab Water-resistant Sits above bed rails Soft tri-fold Mixed work and weekend use $ Partial or full Water-resistant Low, slight rail profile Snap-on vinyl Budget basic coverage $ Section by section Water-resistant Sits above bed rails Hard roll-up Security with full access $$ Full, rolls to cab Good, often with seals and drains Low profile Hard folding All-around daily driver pick $$ Partial or full Good, often with seals and drains Flush, low profile Retractable Flexible access, premium finish $$$ Any position, locks open Good, sealed canister and drains Flush, cleanest look One-piece hinged Work trucks, consistent low loads $$$ Full, but limits cargo height Best sealing Flush, matches paint Matching a Cover to How You Actually Use Your Truck Which cover is best really depends on how you use your truck week to week, not just which one looks best in the driveway. Matching Cover Type to Bed Access Needs If you're constantly loading bulky items, a roll-up or folding cover keeps that flexibility intact. If security matters more than access, a hard folding or one-piece design makes more sense. Weather Protection and Cargo Security on the Oregon Coast Given the rainfall totals mentioned earlier, hard one-piece and retractable covers come closest to sealing out water, though no cover on the market is truly waterproof. For drivers navigating gravel or rural roads in Clatsop County or Pacific County, that sealing difference matters more over time, especially if you're storing gear between trips rather than unloading daily. How you use the bed matters just as much. If your truck works during the week, think about what else lives back there: a crossbed toolbox, ladder rack, or bed rails all affect which covers fit, and some styles won't clear a toolbox at all. If your weekends involve crab rings, waders, camping gear, or kayak paddles, a locking cover means you can leave gear in the bed at a trailhead or boat ramp instead of hauling it into the cab. Tall or awkward loads, like a cooler stack or a rolled tent, favor a folding or retractable cover you can open partway, while a one-piece cover caps how tall your cargo can be. Looks and Getting It Installed Appearance splits the categories fairly cleanly. Soft roll-up and snap-on covers sit above the bed rails, so the cover reads as an add-on. Hard folding, retractable, and one-piece covers mount flush or near-flush for a factory look, and one-piece covers can often be color-matched to your truck's paint. Soft covers remain the quicker path to basic protection, while hard and retractable covers ask for a bigger investment in exchange for security and a cleaner look. Fitment is vehicle-specific by year, make, model, and bed length, so covers aren't universal across every model year, even within the same brand. Always confirm fitment before buying. Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Bed Covers Are Tonneau Covers Waterproof? No cover on the market is fully waterproof. All tonneau covers are water-resistant to varying degrees, and hard one-piece and retractable styles come closest to sealing out water completely. Do Tonneau Covers Affect Fuel Economy? Results vary by cover type, speed, and load, so there's no universal mpg gain to expect. A SEMA wind-tunnel study tested 13 covers and found about a 5 percent drag reduction, which translated to an estimated 2 percent fuel economy improvement at an average 48 mph. Consumer Reports found the opposite in a road test: a V8 Ram returned 22.3 mpg at highway speed with the tailgate up and no cover, dropping to 21.4 mpg with a soft tonneau installed, about a 4 percent loss. Treat any fuel economy claim as a secondary benefit, not a guarantee. Can I Install a Tonneau Cover Myself? Soft roll-up and tri-fold covers are generally the easiest to install, often installable in 20 to 45 minutes without drilling. Hard folding covers take closer to 1 to 2 hours, and retractable covers, especially electric versions, can run 2 to 3 hours with additional wiring work. If you'd rather have it done right the first time, you can schedule a service appointment with our team. Find the Right Tonneau Cover at Lum's Auto Center Talk to Our Team We sell and install Toyota, Mopar, and aftermarket tonneau covers across our Oregon and Washington locations, so whether you're weighing a soft roll-up for weekend trips or a hard one-piece for job-site security, our team can talk through what fits your truck. If you're still deciding what type of cover is best for your specific model, explore tonneau cover options at Lum's Auto Center or browse our full accessories lineup for other upgrades worth pairing with a new cover. Fitment questions, hauling gear up the coast, wondering how a cover holds up under Oregon Coast rain? Contact our team at any of our Oregon and Washington locations and we'll help you match the right cover to your truck.