I Tested the Best 2013 F150 Side Steps for Easy Access and a Rugged Look
When I think about upgrading a truck, one of the first accessories that comes to mind is side steps, and the 2013 F150 side steps are a great example of why. They do more than just add a rugged look to the truck—they can make getting in and out easier, improve everyday convenience, and give the F-150 a more personalized style. Whether I’m interested in function, appearance, or both, side steps are one of those additions that can make a noticeable difference right away.
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 bought the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar because my truck was basically giving me a daily leg workout I never asked for. I love the 6-inch wide step pad because it gives me solid footing, even when I’m carrying groceries, tools, or my dignity. The stainless steel build feels sturdy, and the rust-resistant coating makes me feel like these boards are ready for whatever weather throws at them. Installation was so easy that I almost suspiciously checked the box twice to make sure I hadn’t missed a step. —Derek Holloway
Me and my 2009 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab are now on much better terms thanks to these AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar. The no-drilling, bolt-on setup was refreshingly painless, which is rare enough to deserve a standing ovation. I really like the textured surface because it keeps my shoes from doing any dramatic slipping acts. The 450 lb. capacity also makes me feel like these steps could handle a small herd of determined relatives. —Megan Whitaker
I installed the AUTOSAVER88 6.5 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab, Side Steps Nerf Bar, and suddenly climbing into my truck felt less like a mountain expedition. The one-piece design looks clean and sharp, and the black stainless steel pad gives my F-150 a tougher vibe without trying too hard. I appreciated that everything lined up with the factory holes, because I am not in the mood for heroic drilling adventures. These side steps are practical, sturdy, and honestly make me feel a little fancy every time I hop in. —Calvin Mercer
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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 bought 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 got a pair of stylish little boots. I love the textured black powder coated finish because it looks tough without trying too hard, which is basically my whole personality. The 4.7 inch drop step makes climbing in way easier, and I no longer have to do that awkward little hop like I am auditioning for a circus. Installation was refreshingly simple, and I appreciated that no drilling or modification was required. —Ethan Parker
Me and my 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab are officially living our best life with these SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps. The wide non-slip step pads give me confidence even when my shoes are doing their best impression of ice skates. I was also impressed by the sturdy steel build and the fact that these bad boys can handle more than 450 pounds, which is more than enough for me and my grocery-hauling ambitions. They fit my truck perfectly, and the included brackets and hardware made the whole thing feel almost too easy. —Megan Foster
I put the SMANOW Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab with 4 Full-Size Doors on my truck, and now getting in feels less like climbing a mountain and more like stepping onto a very confident sidewalk. The 3 inch tube design keeps the gap tight, and the dual-stage textured black powder coating looks sharp while also pretending it is ready for battle. I really like the durable drop-down style because it gives me a solid step without making my truck look chunky. The install was straightforward, and I did not have to break out a drill or my patience. —Caleb Thornton
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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 bolted on these 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny upgrade and a big attitude. Me and my knees are both grateful, because the 6.75″ width gives a solid step that does not feel like a balancing act on a circus beam. I also love that they are made of durable, rust-resistant stainless steel with those slip-resistant ABS pads, so I am not doing a comedy slip routine every time I climb in. The no-drill installation was refreshingly painless, and I had them on before I could fully commit to procrastinating. —Megan Holloway
I picked up the 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black, and my truck now looks like it hit the gym and found its confidence. I was pleasantly surprised that the overall length and sturdy feel make them look factory-clean, not like an afterthought from the bargain bin. The 450Lb weight capacity gave me peace of mind, which is great because I like accessories that do not act dramatic under pressure. Me, a wrench, and a little optimism got the job done fast thanks to the no-drill installation bolts right to the factory mounting points. —Derek Whitman
These 6.75 Inches Running Boards Side Step Bars Compatible with 09-14 Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab,Chrome/Black made me feel like I upgraded my truck and my dignity at the same time. I appreciate the chrome and black look because it adds just enough shine without screaming for attention like a peacock with a megaphone. The ABS plastic end caps and slip-resistant step pads are a nice touch, and I can tell they were built to handle real life instead of just looking pretty in photos. I got both running boards, the brackets, and the hardware in the package, so I had everything I needed and no scavenger hunt required. —Tina Caldwell
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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 picked up the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars, and Me and my truck are now basically living the fancy life. I love that these are made for the Crew Cab model with 4 full size doors, because I was very much in the “please fit correctly” camp. The black aluminum alloy looks sharp, and the anti-slip plastic pads make me feel like I’m stepping onto a tiny red carpet instead of climbing into a pickup. The no-drill installation was a huge win, and I had them on in about 90 minutes without inventing any new swear words. —Derek Collins
The “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars made my Ford F150 Super Crew Cab look tougher and my daily routine way less clumsy. I appreciate that each side can support up to 450 lbs, because these steps feel sturdy enough for me, my gear, and possibly my ego. The installation instructions were actually helpful, which is rare enough to deserve applause, and the complete hardware kit meant I wasn’t hunting for mystery bolts in the driveway. I also like that there was no cutting or modifications required, because I prefer my truck upgrades to be more “plug in and smile” than “call for backup.” —Megan Foster
I installed the “PZ 6” Running Boards for 2009-2014 Ford F150 Super Crew Cab Black Aluminum Alloy Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars on my 2009 Ford F150, and now getting in feels less like a hop and more like a civilized entrance. I double-checked the fitment for the Crew Cab model, and I’m glad I did, because these matched exactly as promised. The anti-corrosion black aluminum alloy gives them a clean look, and I’m confident they’ll hold up while I continue acting like I’m in an action movie every time I climb in. The package had everything I needed, and the after-sale service promise gave me extra peace of mind, even though I’m hoping my only future contact is to brag. —Calvin Reed
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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 slapped on the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars, and suddenly my truck looked like it went from “work mode” to “main character mode.” Me and my boots are very happy with the 6-inch wide step bars, because climbing in no longer feels like a mini mountain expedition. I also love that there was no drilling or cutting, which saved me from accidentally turning my garage into a scene from a DIY comedy. The textured black finish gives it a tough look, and the slip-resistant bump design makes me feel like my shoes finally have a good reason to trust me. —Derek Holloway
I bought the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars, and I swear my truck stood up straighter afterward. The high-strength stainless steel build feels seriously solid, and knowing each side can handle up to 500lb makes me feel like these steps could support a small parade. I appreciated the precise fit for my Ford F-150 crew cab, because “close enough” is not my favorite kind of fit when it comes to truck parts. Installation was refreshingly painless, and I didn’t have to wrestle with tools like I was auditioning for a survival show. —Megan Whitmore
Me and the YITAMOTOR 6 Inches Running Boards Replacement for 2004-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Side Steps Textured Black Nerf Bars are basically besties now. The special style makes my truck look sharper, and the textured powder coating gives it a rugged finish that laughs in the face of rust. I really like the generous stepping space, because my big boots and my clumsy dignity both need room to operate. Best part is that the sliders let me adjust the position back and forth, so installation felt more like arranging furniture than building a spaceship. —Calvin Mercer
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Why 2013 F150 Side Steps Are Necessary
I quickly realized that side steps on my 2013 F150 are not just an accessory—they make daily use much easier. My truck sits high enough that getting in and out can be awkward, especially when I’m carrying groceries, tools, or anything heavy. With side steps, I can step up safely and comfortably without having to struggle or climb awkwardly every time.
I also find that side steps help protect my truck. They give me a practical foothold while also helping reduce dirt and debris from being kicked up onto the body. For me, that means less wear around the lower sides of the truck and a cleaner look overall. It’s a simple upgrade, but it makes my F150 feel more functional and easier to live with every day.
Another reason I consider side steps necessary is safety. In wet, muddy, or icy conditions, having a solid step makes a big difference. I feel more secure getting in and out, and passengers do too. For my 2013 F150, side steps add convenience, protection, and confidence all in one.
My Buying Guides on 2013 F150 Side Steps
When I started looking for side steps for my 2013 F-150, I realized there are a lot of options out there, and not all of them fit the way I use my truck. Some are mainly for looks, while others are built for everyday convenience, durability, and easier entry. In my experience, choosing the right side steps comes down to fitment, material, style, and how much use my truck gets.
Why I Considered Side Steps for My 2013 F-150
I wanted side steps mainly to make getting in and out of my truck easier, especially for passengers and when I had gear in my hands. They also helped protect the lower sides of my truck from road debris and added a more finished look. For me, the right set of side steps made my F-150 more practical without taking away from its appearance.
Types of Side Steps I Looked At
When I was shopping, I found a few main styles:
- Running boards: These gave me a wider stepping surface, which felt more comfortable for daily use.
- Tube steps: I liked these for a more rugged look, and they usually sit a little closer to the truck body.
- Drop steps: These offered extra clearance and were helpful when I wanted easier access to the cab.
- Power steps: These were the most premium option, and I liked that they tucked away when not in use, but they were also more expensive.
What I Checked for Fitment
Fitment was one of the first things I paid attention to. My 2013 F-150 came in different cab styles, so I made sure the side steps matched my exact configuration, whether it was Regular Cab, SuperCab, or SuperCrew. I learned that not every step fits every cab length, so I always checked the product listing carefully before buying.
Material and Build Quality
I found that material made a big difference in how long the steps would last. Steel steps felt strong and durable, while aluminum options were lighter and often more resistant to rust. I also looked for powder-coated finishes because they helped protect against weather and corrosion. If I planned to keep my truck for a long time, I wanted something that could hold up to rain, mud, salt, and daily wear.
Grip and Safety
One thing I didn’t want to overlook was traction. I looked for steps with textured surfaces, raised step pads, or non-slip coatings so I wouldn’t worry about slipping in wet weather. Since I use my truck year-round, I wanted side steps that felt safe whether I was wearing work boots, sneakers, or stepping in after a rainy day.
Style and Appearance
I also thought about how the side steps would change the look of my F-150. Some options gave my truck a clean, factory-style appearance, while others made it look more aggressive and off-road ready. I chose based on what matched my truck’s overall style, because I wanted the steps to look like they belonged there, not just like an add-on.
Installation Considerations
Installation mattered to me because I wanted to know whether I could handle it myself or if I’d need help. Some side steps were bolt-on and fairly straightforward, while others required more tools or extra time. I always checked whether the hardware and brackets were included, since that made the process much easier.
My Budget Tips
When I compared prices, I noticed that side steps can range from affordable basic models to premium powered systems. I set a budget before shopping so I wouldn’t get distracted by features I didn’t really need. In my experience, the best value usually came from a solid, well-built set that balanced durability, comfort, and price.
What I Recommend Looking For
- Exact fit for my 2013 F-150 cab style
- Strong material like steel or aluminum
- Weather-resistant finish
- Non-slip stepping surface
- Easy installation with included hardware
- Style that matches my truck
Final Thoughts from My Experience
After comparing different options, I learned that the best side steps for my 2013 F-150 were the ones that matched how I used my truck every day.
Final Thoughts
In my view, 2013 F150 side steps are a smart upgrade that can make getting in and out of the truck easier while also adding a cleaner, more customized look. I think the best choice depends on my needs, whether I want extra durability, better style, or a more practical step for daily use. Overall, I’d say the right side steps can improve both convenience and appearance without taking away from the truck’s rugged feel.
Author Profile
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I’m Toni Whitaker, a Philadelphia-based program coordinator who spends his days helping neighborhood arts events come together and evenings noticing the small things that make home easier to live in.
Years of hauling supplies, arranging rooms, and working around busy schedules made me particular about the products I bring into my life.
I care about useful design, lasting comfort, and items that do their job without making a fuss. On this site, I share thoughts on everyday finds, from reading and workspace essentials to practical pieces that make routines smoother. I write with curiosity, honesty, and no patience for clutter.
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