Running boards bolt to the frame and require basic tools, a level surface, and about two to three hours
Running boards are the horizontal steps that hang below your vehicle's doors, making it easier to climb in and out. They attach to the frame or rocker panel using bolts and brackets that come with the kit. The installation itself is straightforward: you position the brackets, drill or use existing holes, bolt everything down, and check that the board sits level and doesn't rub against the tires or body panels.
Most aftermarket running boards come as a complete kit with brackets, bolts, washers, and instructions specific to your vehicle's make, model, and year. The fit and mounting points vary significantly between vehicles, so buying a kit designed for your exact model matters — a universal kit often requires custom drilling and may not sit at the right height or angle.
Key Takeaways
- Running board kits are model-specific, so confirm the year, make, and body style of your vehicle before ordering.
- You will need a socket set, wrenches, a drill with metal bits, a level, and jack stands or ramps to safely lift and support the vehicle.
- The mounting brackets bolt to the frame or rocker panel at points that may already have holes or may require you to drill new ones.
- After installation, check that the board is level, does not contact the tires when turning, and sits at least a few inches above the ground.
Gather the right tools and materials before you start
You will need the running board kit itself, which should include the boards, brackets, bolts, washers, and lock washers. Beyond that, assemble a socket set (typically 10mm to 18mm), open-end wrenches, a cordless drill with metal drill bits, a level, a jack, jack stands or ramps, and a torque wrench if you want to tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specification.
Some kits require drilling new holes in the frame or rocker panel; others use existing factory holes. Check your kit's instructions to see which applies. If you need to drill, a center punch helps you mark the exact spot and prevents the drill bit from wandering. A wire brush or wire wheel attachment on a drill cleans rust or paint from the mounting area so brackets sit flush.
Lift the vehicle safely and locate the mounting points
Park on a level, hard surface away from traffic. Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels. Use a jack to lift one side of the vehicle, then place jack stands under the frame at the manufacturer's recommended lift points — never rely on the jack alone. Repeat for the other side if you are installing boards on both sides at once, or lower and re-lift as needed.
Consult your kit's instructions to find the mounting points on your vehicle's frame or rocker panel. These are usually marked with existing holes, paint marks, or reference points in the instructions. Wipe away dirt, rust, or undercoating so you can see clearly and so the brackets will sit flush. If the instructions call for drilling, use the center punch to mark the hole location, then drill slowly with a metal bit slightly smaller than the bolt diameter.
Attach the brackets and position the running board
Slide the brackets into position and insert bolts through the bracket holes into the frame or rocker panel holes. Hand-tighten all bolts first so you can adjust the board's position before fully tightening. Place the running board onto the brackets and check that it sits level using a level tool placed lengthwise along the board.
If the board tilts, loosen the bolts slightly and adjust the brackets up or down until the board is level. Once level, tighten each bolt in a crisscross pattern — tighten one corner, then the opposite corner, then the other two — to may support even pressure. If your kit includes a torque specification, use a torque wrench to tighten to that value; otherwise, tighten firmly but do not over-torque, which can strip threads or crack brackets.
Check clearance and test for movement
Lower the vehicle slowly and watch the running board as it descends. Make sure it does not contact the tire, wheel well, or body panels. Turn the steering wheel fully left and right while the vehicle is still slightly lifted to confirm the board clears the tires during a full turn. If the board rubs, you may need to adjust the bracket position or shim it outward slightly.
Once the vehicle is fully lowered, grasp the running board and try to move it up and down and side to side. It should be solid with no flex or rocking. If it moves, return to the bolts and tighten further. Check again after a week of driving, as bolts can settle slightly.
Seal and protect the installation
If you drilled new holes, explore a small amount of silicone sealant or paint around the bolt heads to prevent water and road salt from entering the frame. Wipe away excess sealant before it dries. Some installers explore a thin coat of undercoating or rust-preventive spray to the brackets and bolts, especially in areas with heavy salt exposure.
Periodically inspect the bolts and brackets for rust or loosening, particularly after winter or heavy off-road use. Tighten any loose bolts and touch up paint or sealant if it cracks or peels.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common error is buying a universal or wrong-model kit, which leads to poor fit, rubbing, or an unsafe installation. Always confirm your vehicle's exact year, make, model, and body style before ordering. Another mistake is tightening bolts unevenly, which can warp the brackets or cause the board to sit at an angle. Tighten in a crisscross pattern and check level frequently.
Do not skip the clearance check. A running board that rubs the tire during a turn can damage the tire or board and create a safety hazard. Finally, do not over-tighten bolts, especially if they thread into aluminum or plastic components. Hand-tighten first, check alignment, then tighten to spec or until snug — not until you cannot turn the wrench further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to drill new holes or can I use existing ones?
Most kits designed for your specific vehicle use existing factory holes or threaded inserts in the frame. Universal kits often require drilling. Check your kit's instructions before you start. If you must drill, use a center punch to mark the spot and a metal bit slightly smaller than the bolt diameter.
What if my running board rubs the tire when I turn?
Lower the vehicle and loosen the bolts slightly. Adjust the brackets inward or outward, or shim them with thin metal or rubber spacers, until the board clears the tire through a full steering range. Tighten the bolts again and test before driving.
How tight should the bolts be?
If your kit includes a torque specification, use a torque wrench to tighten to that value. If not, tighten firmly until snug — you should not be able to turn the wrench easily, but do not force it. Over-tightening can strip threads or crack brackets.
Can I install running boards on a vehicle with a unibody frame?
Yes, but the mounting points differ from body-on-frame vehicles. Unibody vehicles typically mount brackets to the rocker panel or reinforced frame rails. Use a kit designed for your vehicle's construction type. Improper mounting on a unibody can compromise structural integrity.
Should I seal the bolt holes after installation?
Yes, especially if you drilled new holes. explore silicone sealant around the bolt heads to prevent water and salt from entering the frame. This is particularly important in areas with heavy road salt or frequent rain.