Not only assist in climbing into your jeep, but running boards also help everyone wipe their feet off before entering, which is great as your Jeep’s interior will be much cleaner.
Getting the right set of running boards depends on many factors, such as what material they are made of, the weight capacity, durability, and how comfortable they are for placing your feet.
Keeping everything that makes running boards good quality, I have compiled a list of the best running boards for Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
These products are from highly trusted brands, are highly popular among customers, and have been carefully chosen to give you the best recommendations.
Table of Contents
- 1 7 Top Rated Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Running Boards Comparisons
- 1.1 1. Tyger Auto TG-JA2J2288B Star Armor Kit
- 1.2 2. AMP Research 75132-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards
- 1.3 3. Mopar Jeep Wrangler 4 Door Running Boards
- 1.4 4. KYX KY8CEN0100 Running Boards
- 1.5 5. VZ4X4 Side Steps 4-Door Running Boards
- 1.6 6. AMP Research 75121-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards
- 1.7 7. U-Box Wrangler Side Step JLU Unlimited Running Boards
- 2 What To Look For When Buying Running Boards For Your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
- 3 Frequently Asked Questions
- 4 Conclusion
7 Top Rated Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Running Boards Comparisons
IMAGE | PRODUCT | EDITOR'S RATING | PRICE |
---|---|---|---|
TOP PICK | 9.7 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
9.5 | CHECK ON AMAZON | ||
9.1 | CHECK ON AMAZON | ||
8.8 | CHECK ON AMAZON | ||
BEST BUDGET | 8.6 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
8.2 | CHECK ON AMAZON | ||
8 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Tyger Auto TG-JA2J2288B Star Armor Kit
The number one product on the list is the Tyger Auto TG-JA2J2288B Star Armor Kit.
These running boards have an amazing quality build, helping them be so strong and sturdy while also having a high weight capacity.
These running boards will not break, bend, or deform even with high amounts of weight put onto them. Also, these are resistant to impacts, basically just as good as the jeep itself.
These feature a weight capacity of 500 lbs, which is some of the highest. This will help have more than one person at the same time.
Moreover, these running boards have three welded tubes for the construction—all these measures 2 inches in diameter.
The design is a tubular one. Not only this but the exterior of these running boards is also coated with a black powder finish.
This helps to avoid any rusting and also offers water resistance.
Therefore, these running boards will last you long without getting damaged externally and starting to look old, which is an issue many customers face with some running boards.
This product, therefore, will perform well in the rainy season as well in protecting itself.
Speaking of which, the end caps are also sealed to keep the water out and prevent rusting. Its one-piece design owes to an easy installation process.
You don’t need any fancy tools for installing them, nor will you need any assistance, which is great.
Therefore, you can do this at home without needing to go to a professional, which should save you some money.
The surface is also anti-slip, so stepping inside and outside the car is made much easier and convenient.
This is great if you have children or for the rainy season. These boards are also very durable, so they will last long without wear and tear.
Lastly, these are wide, so they will keep your Jeep safe from the sides as well.
- 500 lbs weight capacity
- Three welded tubes
- Rust and water-resistant coating
- Anti-slip
- Easy installation
- The packaging does not include hardware
With their amazing construction and weight capacity, these running boards are the top product on the list, and you will not regret getting these, as even your jeep’s sides will be safe.
2. AMP Research 75132-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards
This next product on the list is the AMP Research 75132-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards.
With a black-painted exterior, the running boards will complement the look of your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
In addition, the build quality of these running boards is also excellent. They are made of a die-cast aluminum alloy which is very strong.
This will help make the product very resistant to impacts and able to withstand weight without getting damaged.
But not only this, despite the high strength, these running boards are pretty lightweight.
This is great because heavier running boards weigh down the vehicle, which negatively affects the fuel efficiency, so that will not be an issue with this.
Plus, the handling during installation will also be made much easier due to the lightweight. A PTFE coating on the exterior will help to keep the running boards safe from any corrosion.
Therefore, these automatic running boards will extend whenever you open the door and retract when it is shut.
Moreover, the width, therefore the stepping experience, is also something to be aware of.
These boards have a 6.25 inches’ width, which is great as anyone can comfortably step on these, which also avoids any slippage.
The weight capacity is something that makes this product one of a kind. The outstanding load capacity of 600 lbs will allow you to put enormous amounts of the load onto these boards.
This is because of the precision stainless steel pivot pins. These make the running boards much more stable.
In addition, the self-lubricating bushes do not need any maintenance making it much more convenient for you, as you won’t have to be worrying about cleaning the boards all the time.
These boards will also protect themselves in all kinds of weather, which is great.
- Die-cast aluminum alloy
- 600 lbs weight capacity
- Automatic running boards
- 6.25 inches width
- Maintenance-free
- Can stop working after two years
This product, which has its automatic function, amazing weight capacity, and ability to keep itself safe from wear and tear, is one that you cannot ignore when mentioning running boards for Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
3. Mopar Jeep Wrangler 4 Door Running Boards
Next up are the Mopar Jeep Wrangler 4 Door Running Boards. These have a very easy installation process are these will easily mount onto the holes directly.
This is great because you can now carry out the installation process by yourself at home, without needing assistance or going to a professional, which is cost-saving.
After all, getting running boards installed by a professional can cost you anywhere between $50 to $150, which is unnecessary, especially after you paid so much for the running boards.
The instructions should be easy to understand, and if you still don’t get it, you could always watch a tutorial.
There are plenty on the internet. In addition, these running boards have a textured top exterior.
This helps to make the boards anti-slip, therefore helping if you have children in your family, or if you’re in a hurry, as a tiny mistake could lead to slipping and falling, which is dangerous as the vehicle floor is at a height.
This is great for the rainy season as the wet surface can become quite slippery, but that will be avoided.
The stepping area is also quite wide, helping make the stepping experience much more comfortable.
Moreover, these running boards are also very lightweight. These weigh only 45 lbs, which makes them some of the lightest running boards around.
This will help ease the installation process a lot as you won’t need any assistance to handle them. Also, the fuel mileage will not be affected the slightest bit.
This is good because some running boards weigh the car down therefore affecting performance and fuel mileage, but that will be avoided with these.
These are also very well built therefore keeping themselves resistant to impacts and able to withstand a lot of weight.
- Easy installation
- Anti-slip
- Wide stepping area
- Lightweight
- Not for off-road usage
Overall, these running boards are extremely convenient with their lightweight and wide stepping surface.
4. KYX KY8CEN0100 Running Boards
The next product is the KYX KY8CEN0100 Running Boards. Starting with the installation, the process is easy bolt-on and does not require any drilling.
You don’t need any fancy tools for the installation, and common tools may be used. In addition, all of the important hardware, as well as the instructions, come with the packaging.
The instructions should be easy to understand therefore making it easy to do this at home by oneself, as they are built to be easy enough to be installed by non-experienced individuals as well.
Installing these will take only about an hour, saving you time. Secondly, the weight capacity of these running boards is also remarkable.
With an amazing build and construction of top-grade steel, these running boards are able to withstand a weight of up to 500 lbs.
This is great as you can have more than one person there without having to worry about them falling apart.
Also, when putting on weight, you shouldn’t be worried. The construction quality also helps provide protection for the sides of the car.
This will protect the car doors from any impacts, apart from the running boards performing their primary function. Moving on to the design, this is also patented and very stylish.
Therefore it will give your jeep wrangler a more attractive look from the side instead of running the look. There is an extra step area for your convenience.
The surface is powder-coated to be slip-resistant, which will help in the rainy weather. Moreover, these boards are rust-resistant and will not wear off fast.
Lastly, these come with 5-year durability, which ensures that these will last you long without any wear and tear at all.
- Easy 1-hour installation
- 500 lbs weight capacity
- Protect sides
- Slip and rust-resistant
- 5-year durability
- Bend easily when stepped on
These boards tick all the boxes and will also last you long. I cannot help but highly recommend these.
5. VZ4X4 Side Steps 4-Door Running Boards
This next product is the VZ4X4 Side Steps 4-Door Running Boards. Firstly, it is very important for running boards to be mounted quite well onto the vehicle.
These running boards contain three bolts on each side, which will help hold them to each side of the truck properly so that stepping on them does not create any issues.
Moreover, all of the required hardware, such as the brackets, bolts, and screws, are included in the packaging.
You will not have to go and buy them, plus you will know exactly what is needed for the installation, and the installation can be done right when the product arrives, without any delay.
These running boards have a surface that is anti-slip. This will help in wetter seasons and also keep the passengers safe in case anyone is in a hurry, as slipping may lead to an accident.
Plus, the stepping experience is also a lot more comfortable when the surface does not slip. Not only this, the exterior has a black powder coat.
Firstly, this helps the exterior be water-resistant. Secondly, the coating helps prevent any corrosion.
Overall, this product is great for long-lasting and durable performance, as it will not wear off anytime soon after the purchase.
Speaking of which, the ABS plastic material is also some of the most durable materials that could have been used, helping this product last long.
Lastly, these boards have the perfect fit for your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, as long as it is four doors.
- Mount well
- Hardware for installation included
- Anti-slip
- Water and corrosion resistant
- Durable ABS plastic
- Color more fade than fenders
These running boards, with their anti-slip properties and convenient features, are another option you should try.
6. AMP Research 75121-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards
The next product is the AMP Research 75121-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards.
These are heavy-duty running boards that are very strong and stable and will carry a lot of weight.
These have a matte black exterior to perfectly complement your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
The most important part is the boards being automatically operated. These will extend with the door opening and retract with it closing.
This is great as the boards will be out of sight when the doors aren’t open; helping you to preserve the look if that is what you wish.
About the look, these also have a low-profile LED light. This will help improve the look while also improving night vision.
The material and build are also worth mentioning. These boards are made with a very strong aluminum alloy.
This not only helps them to withstand a lot of weight and protect themselves during impacts, but these are also very lightweight, therefore helping make the handling much easier during installation while also not affecting the fuel mileage negatively at all.
The outer layer is a coat of Polytetrafluoroethylene with anodization.
This coating will help prevent any rusting, therefore helping preserve the look of these running boards long term.
The materials are also weatherproof therefore making them even more durable. The weight capacity is definitely worth mentioning.
This is one of the few running boards that can support a weight of up to 600 lbs, so you can put on almost as much weight as you’d like, and you don’t have to worry about getting the boards damaged.
Moreover, these are stable. Lastly, a five-year warranty proves this will last you longer and will also back you up in case you get a defective product.
- Low profile LED light
- Aluminum alloy construction
- Lightweight
- 600 lbs weight capacity
- Five-year warranty
- Hard to install
These are another great set of automatic running boards which come with all the features to make them high quality.
7. U-Box Wrangler Side Step JLU Unlimited Running Boards
This last product on the list is the U-Box Wrangler Side Step JLU Unlimited Running Boards.
These come with lifetime customer support to assist you with any issues whenever you have any, so it won’t end after purchasing it.
These boards have a very strong build; they are made of heavy-duty stainless steel. Furthermore, this makes them resistant to impacts, able to withstand the weight.
Moreover, this also makes the running boards very durable, so they will last you very long without wearing off.
The one-piece design also helps make the product very durable. The exterior has a premium E coating.
The coating makes the running boards resistant to corrosion for five years, so the product will last you pretty long without starting to look old, as a lot of customers have complaints against their running boards looking old after only a short time.
A textured black powder finishing also makes the running boards look attractive to help compliment the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
These are also resistant to any slipping offering a safe stepping experience.
Lastly, the bolt-on installation means that these running boards don’t need any drilling for installing, so doing so should be quite easy, and you can do it at home without having to make too much of an effort.
Just take them out of the box and mount them on.
- Lifetime customer support
- Heavy-duty stainless steel
- Durable
- Premium E coating
- Bolt-on installation
- Not resistant to rust
These durable running boards should last you pretty long, and in case of any issues, you’ll always have customer support to help you out.
What To Look For When Buying Running Boards For Your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
If you struggle entering your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, then a running board might be a great option for you.
But before you finalize your purchase, it would be good for you to read this buying guide, so you can buy one that will be suitable for you.
Which Type Of Running Board Do You Need?
When you’re looking for running boards for your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, there are two main things to consider: the type and the size.
Traditional boards are the most common type on the market, but if you want something that’s less visible but still functional, then a retractable running board might be a better option.
The size of your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited will also determine how long your board needs to be.
Remember that this isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety too! So, when choosing running boards, take a look at their size.
Are they cab-length or wheel-to-wheel?
Cab length means they are installed just below your door; wheel-to-wheel means they’re installed all along the outside edge of your vehicle from front to back.
Choose A Long Lasting Finish
When it comes to choosing a running board for your Jeep, there are many options. You can choose a painted finish, chrome, polished, or black powder coated.
The colors of your running boards will affect how they look on your Jeep and also how long they last retaining that look.
So make sure they suit your taste as you’re going to look at them for a longer period.
For example, you might want to opt for black powder-coated running boards because they’ll match your Wrangler if it has a similar color.
Plus, the color black never looks bad with anything. A powdered coating also lasts for a long time.
Should Be Easy To Install
An important thing you should consider when buying running boards for your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is whether or not they are easy to install.
If they aren’t, then you may end up spending more time trying to figure out how to install them than you would have if you had just bought a different set of running boards.
The best way to ensure that the process is simple and straightforward is by purchasing ones that come with instructions.
This way, you’ll know exactly what needs to be done in order for everything to work properly and fit snugly into place.
Another way to confirm is to check owner ratings. If the majority says that the board is a hassle to install, then you should look for something else.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is It Worth Getting Running Boards For My Jeep Wrangler Unlimited?
Yes, running boards are definitely worth the cost.
This is because these will help keep the dirt and debris outside your vehicle’s floor, helping keep everything inside clean, so you won’t have to be cleaning everything up inside very often.
In addition, these boards also assist passengers in climbing inside, which is great if you have passengers who find it harder to climb in.
For example, children, the elderly, or shorter people, this will help prevent any slipping while getting inside and outside as well, keeping everyone safe.
Q2. How Can I Install Running Boards In My Jeep Wrangler Unlimited?
Installing running boards will take only a few minutes, and no drilling is required.
Usually, the packaging will come along with all of the necessary hardware, such as the nuts and bolts needed for installation.
You have to find the holes where you’re supposed to bolt the running boards on. These will be located on both sides of your Jeep.
Use the plate nut to attach brackets onto the body of the jeep. Then install these in the holes.
Connect the plate nuts to the mounting brackets by using the nuts, and remember not to tighten the nuts just yet.
Align the holes to the brackets installed in the Jeep and install the running boards, and after this, close over the nuts using the bolts.
Make sure that the running boards are installed at 180 degrees and now tighten every bolt. Install the other board using the same method.
Q3. How Much Weight Can Running Boards Carry?
Running boards can carry enough weight to support everyone stepping on it. Usually, they can support a few hundred pounds. Most running boards have weight capacities of 300 to 400 lbs.
However, some better quality ones, for example, ones that are made with more sturdy materials, have weight limits of up to 500 lbs.
Sometimes, the weight limit can even be 600 lbs, but this is uncommon. Electronic/automatic running boards have the highest weight capacities.
Q4. Will My Jeep Wrangler Running Boards Fit All Truck Models?
Running boards are usually designed to fit one specific type of vehicle. However, in fact, a lot of them fit more than one type of car model.
If you buy running boards for your Jeep Wrangler, it may be possible that they do fit other vehicles as well, but it is better to make sure of that before buying them.
Mostly, it is best for you to buy the running boards made specifically for your vehicle.
Conclusion
Before buying running boards, it is important to check the ease of installment and whether they are a good value for your money or not.
This can be checked by the build quality, durability, rust resistance, and how long lasted they are.
Also, remember to get one with a warranty to ensure that they will last you, as no one wants to keep getting their car parts replaced.
Considering all of the important factors, popularity, and customer feedback, I can say that the best running boards for Jeep Wrangler Unlimited currently available in the market are definitely the Tyger Auto TG-JA2J2288B Star Armor Kit.
However, all the other products on the list are also worth a try.
I am Tahir Azam, and I have been writing amazing articles for TaxiHack for as long as I can remember. I know everything that is to know when it comes to automobiles and is always on top of industry news and developments. While I am not an expert by any means, I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of many different problems and, of course, their solutions. The articles on our website are some of the best and well-researched content that you will find, and I spend countless hours making sure this remains to be true. This is why I ask you to take your time out and read some of my articles, especially if you find a topic that resonates with you or is something you are looking into. This way, you will find the perfect mix of information and tips on your desired topic. Learn more about Tahir.