Pickup truck owners display some of the rawest passion for vehicles around, and whether your preferences put you behind the wheel of a RAM 1500, a Ford F-150, a Chevy Silverado or a Toyota Tacoma, you have noticed the accessories at the dealership that help you master the harder hauling and towing jobs.
Drivers have a frequent expectation of these vehicles acting as a workhorse to perform some of the most rugged assignments. Many of these practical truck accessories help you to accomplish your tasks.
Nerf Bars
Nerf bars, which some call side steps, work best with trucks that have been lifted because you don’t have to worry as much about the nerf bar hitting pavement. In any weather condition, the nerf bars will give you a sturdy step. You can buy this in several styles and shapes. The stainless steel on the steps prevent rust, and they also provide you with some side protection.
For an off-road enthusiast, a nerf bar serves as a brush guard. Depending on the brand you buy, you can oftentimes get a lifetime warranty on products. For someone of an older age, these auto accessories prove valuable because of the safety concerns.
Side Steps
Another option this car buying guide would like to emphasize is the side step. You can choose the side step as retractable, or you can choose it as a fixed option. This will hand you extra support when hopping into an elevated truck bed. Many times, the foot support will give you a couple extra inches.
With this system, you can adjust the full load, and you don’t have to worry about using a ladder to do it. Side steps have also proven valuable for passengers who want to reach the cabin because it provides you with safe and easy access.
Running Boards
In the modern world, some pickup trucks have these flat metal boards as one of the more standard features. However, the downside of running boards is how if you want to get them in different colors that have been customized, it will cost you extra. Running Boards have the advantage of both decoration and practicality. Because of the extra foot support, many people have attributed them to the lowered the number of falls.
In addition, this lowers the damage the side of your car will experience because of misdirected road debris. If you decide to have your truck detailed, you should first make sure your detailing professionals pay close attention to the running board to keep from damaging it.
What are the Disadvantages of Auto Accessories?
With many accessories, you have plenty of reasons to get them and a few disadvantages to remaining vigilant. For example, the model and make of the pickup could have an impact on the availability of your upgrades. You should also stay aware of your truck’s elevation because a truck with a lower elevation could have a harder time with these. Some truck owners also simply cannot justify the extra costs with step modifications.
Whenever snow and dirt start to accumulate on the running board, it can make the truck look dirtier than what it is. In addition, you must remember how your ground clearance for your vehicle will only be as good as the lowest point on the truck. This truck accessory, however, hasn’t been made for looks, and it almost strictly serves practicality. In fact, it also makes it a little harder to crawl under the pickup if you want to check something underneath it.
In evaluating the pros and cons of step modifications for the truck, you can decide if you want side steps, nerf bars or running boards—or none of the above. This car buying guide aims to put you in a good position to choose. You should also look at your personal budget to give you a better idea of what you want and what you don’t want.
For someone of a smaller stature or someone of an older age, this modification can be a big help, and this is mainly what they are intended for. Getting in and out more easily also helps to make it a safer experience.
