If you drive a 2022 Toyota Tacoma, adding running boards can make getting in and out easier, protect your paint from dings and mud, and give your truck a finished look. Choosing the right running boards matters because you want a fit that matches your cab style, durable materials that resist rust, and a design that suits how you use the truck.
This guide helps you compare reliable options so you can pick running boards that improve safety, comfort, and the resale appeal of your Tacoma.
Top Picks
|
Category |
Product |
Score |
|---|---|---|
|
🏆 Best Overall |
96/100 |
|
|
🎯 Best for Everyday Use |
SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards (Compatible with 2005–2023 Tacoma Double Cab) |
92/100 |
|
💰 Best Value |
OTHOWE Running Boards Drop Step Style (Compatible with 2005–2023 Tacoma) |
90/100 |
|
⚡ Best Lightweight / Performance |
AutoBull 6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps (Aluminum Nerf Bars, 2005–2023 Tacoma) |
88/100 |
|
💡 Best Innovation (Wide Step) |
87/100 |
|
|
🔧 Best Durability (Heavy-Duty 2-Step) |
AutoBull 6″ 2-Stairs Side Step Rails (Carbon Steel, 2005–2023 Tacoma) |
84/100 |
|
🚀 Best for Newer Models / Future Proof |
OTHOWE Drop Step Style (Designed for 2024–2025 Tacoma — consider if you plan to upgrade) |
85/100 |
How We Picked
When narrowing these running boards for a 2022 Tacoma, you should consider fit, material, finish, ease of installation, step width, weight capacity, and real-world feedback. Fit: preference went to models listing compatibility for 2005–2023 double/crew cab Tacomas so they bolt into factory mounting points. Material and finish: we prioritized carbon steel with quality powder coat or aluminum with a textured finish to resist corrosion.
Ease of install: bolt-on designs that require only basic tools scored higher. Step width and anti-slip surface: wider, textured steps scored better for everyday family use.
Weight limit and build: stronger rails and higher rated capacity matter if you often load heavy gear or have passengers. Finally, customer reviews and long-term reports influenced scoring to reflect durability and real-world performance.
SMANOW Drop Down Running Boards (05-23 Tacoma Double Cab)
If you want sturdier, more user-friendly steps on your Tacoma, these SMANOW drop-down boards are a smart pick. They bolt on to 2005–2023 Double/Crew Cab Tacomas and give you a 4.7-inch lower step that makes getting in and out noticeably easier — especially if you or passengers have mobility concerns or you frequently load kids and gear. The textured black powder coat and non-slip pads mean your feet stay planted in wet or wintery conditions, and the manufacturer rates them for up to 450 lb, so they feel solid underfoot.
Daily use: they smooth out the everyday chore of hauling groceries, getting kids into car seats, or stepping up after a muddy hike. Special occasions: they look clean enough to suit a dressed-up truck at a weekend meet or keep things practical when you’re camping or tailgating. Installation is a bolt-on process with clear instructions, so if you like to do small upgrades yourself you can have them on in under an hour with basic tools.
If you live where salt and slush are common, consider a rust-preventive coating as an extra layer of protection. Overall, if you want an affordable, functional step that blends with your Tacoma’s look and actually makes access easier, these are worth considering for everyday life and weekend adventures.
What People Say
People say these run boards feel solid, install quickly with basic tools, and improve access for kids, elderly passengers, or anyone who dislikes the stock step height. Many reviewers call out the non-slip pads and the clean fit on the truck.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Marcelo
Well thought out and stylish with no sharp edges. Very easy to install with room to adjust; sturdy yet light for single-person installation. Powder coating and non-slip tread work well in wet and winter conditions.
🗣️ Kindle Customer
Bought these to help my father get into his truck after hip surgery. The instructions were clear and we installed both sides in under an hour — perfect fit and solid feel.
Versatility
They work for everyday errands, family use, off-road weekends, and helping anyone who needs a lower step. The black finish pairs with most Tacoma trims, so they don’t look out of place whether you’re off-roading or on a night out.
Practicality
Installation is straightforward and typically done in under an hour using standard sockets and a screwdriver. The textured coating helps with grip, but if you live in salty or very wet climates it’s a good idea to add a rust inhibitor or bed-liner spray for longer-term protection.
Key Benefits
- 4.7″ drop makes entering/exiting easier
- Textured powder coat plus non-slip pads for grip
- Bolt-on install with included brackets and hardware
- Wide weight capacity (up to 450 lb)
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2005–2023 Tacoma Double/Crew Cab
Rating: 4.6 (total: 1,039+)
OTHOWE Drop Step Running Boards (24-25 Tacoma Double Cab)
If you want an easier, more confident step into your 2024–2025 Tacoma double cab, these OTHOWE drop-step boards are worth a look. They’re built from carbon steel, come with pre-made mounting brackets and hardware, and give you a lower, grippy platform that makes loading kids, climbing in with gear, or getting out after a muddy hike less of a hassle. You’ll notice the difference on everyday tasks like grocery runs and school drop-offs, and they also tidy up the truck’s profile for weekend meet-ups, tailgates, or camping trips.
Installation is a straightforward bolt-on—no drilling or body mods required—so if you like tackling a quick upgrade yourself you can get them mounted with basic tools. Reviewers repeatedly call out the fitment and sturdiness: they line up well and feel solid underfoot.
If you live where roads get salted or you spend a lot of time off-road, adding a rust-preventive layer is a sensible precaution. Overall, if you want a durable, vehicle-specific step that actually improves access without changing the truck’s look, these are a practical upgrade you can live with every day.
What People Say
Owners repeatedly mention easy, bolt-on installation, a snug OEM-like fit, and a sturdy feel underfoot. Many appreciate the non-slip pads and clean look, while a few note minor concerns like how the steps sit with lifted trucks or the longevity of plastic end caps in hot climates.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Ralph Rostas
Installing was easier than I expected — I did it solo using a jack stand to hold one end while bolting the bar to the brackets. Leave the brackets a bit loose to line up the rail, then tighten; fit was perfect and the finished install felt sturdy, not cheap.
🗣️ Crisco
They look like Toyota’s Predator steps and feel solid. No off welds or thin spots in the powder coat; install took less than an hour, all hardware included. Note: with a 3″ lift the steps stick out a bit and the plastic end caps may wear in hot sun, but overall a very solid clone of the OEM look.
Versatility
These work well for daily errands, getting kids into car seats, helping older passengers, and weekend activities like camping or tailgating. The black finish pairs with most Tacoma trims, so they look appropriate whether you’re out on a trail or parked at a meet.
Practicality
Installation is straightforward and typically done with basic sockets and a jack stand to hold the rail while you bolt it on. Because they’re bolt-on with labeled hardware, alignment is the main task—leave brackets a bit loose to adjust before tightening.
If you drive in salty or very wet conditions, consider an extra rust-preventive spray to protect the powder coat over time.
Key Benefits
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2024–2025 Tacoma Double Cab with 4 full-size doors
- Heavy-duty carbon steel construction for durability
- Non-slip step pads for better traction in wet or snowy conditions
- Bolt-on installation with included brackets and hardware (no drilling)
- Rated for up to 450 lb capacity, feeling solid underfoot
Rating: 4.6 (total: 914+)
OTHOWE Running Boards (05–23 Tacoma Double Cab)
If you want an easier, more confident step into your 2005–2023 Tacoma double cab, these OTHOWE drop-step running boards are a solid, no-nonsense option. Built from heavy-duty carbon steel with non-slip step pads and pre-made mounting brackets, they give you a lower, grippy platform that helps when you’re loading kids, hauling gear, or climbing in after a muddy hike. They sit clean against the truck so they don’t shout ‘aftermarket’ at a glance, but they do make day-to-day things — groceries, school runs, or helping older passengers — noticeably simpler.
Installation is a bolt-on process with labeled hardware, so you can usually knock it out with basic tools and a jack stand to hold the rail while you line things up. Reviewers point to a snug fit and solid feel underfoot; a few note that trucks with lifts can make the rails stick out a bit and that the plastic end caps might be worth keeping an eye on in very hot climates.
For everyday use and weekend trips alike, these are a practical upgrade that actually improves access without changing the truck’s overall look.
What People Say
Buyers tell you the install is straightforward if you use a jack stand to support the rail and leave the brackets a bit loose while aligning. Most mention a snug, OEM-like fit and a solid feel underfoot, while a few point out that lifted trucks may make the steps protrude more and the plastic end caps could need attention in hot, sunny climates.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Ralph Rostas
I installed it by myself with a jack stand to hold the one end up when I bolted the bar onto the mounting brackets. Leave the brackets somewhat loose. It makes lining up the rail itself a LOT easier. Once everything was bolted, tightened them all up. The fit was perfect. Didn’t need to adjust anything. Really impressed TBH.
🗣️ Crisco
The steps are pretty solid. I did not notice any off welds or thin spots in the powder coat. The install was easy. Took less than an hour. All hardware was included and came with extra washers. With a 3 in lift the steps do stick out a little bit and the plastic end caps may not hold up as long in hot sun, but overall a good clone of the OEM look.
Versatility
You can rely on these for everyday stuff — getting kids in and out, loading gear, or helping older passengers — and they’re tidy enough for weekend meet-ups, tailgates, or camping. The black/flat-tube look pairs well with most Tacoma trims whether you’re on the road or off the trail.
Practicality
Installation is a bolt-on affair: basic sockets, a jack stand to hold one end, and the included hardware. Leave the brackets a touch loose to make alignment easier, then tighten everything once the rails sit right.
If you live where roads are salted or you do a lot of off-roading, consider adding a rust-preventive spray to protect the powder coat over time.
Key Benefits
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2005–2023 Tacoma Double Cab with 4 full-size doors
- Heavy-duty carbon steel construction for durability
- Non-slip step pads for better traction in wet or snowy conditions
- Bolt-on installation with included brackets and hardware (no drilling)
- Wide 3″ drop-step design for easier access and 450 lb load rating
Rating: 4.6 (total: 914+)
AutoBull 6-Inch Running Boards (05–23 Tacoma Double Cab)
If you want an easy, dependable step for your 2005–2023 Tacoma double or crew cab, these AutoBull 6‑inch running boards are worth a look. You get a wide stepping area with a honeycomb anti-slip pattern that actually helps when shoes are wet or muddy, plus aluminum construction and a black powder coating that keeps them looking tidy through everyday use. They bolt on using the included brackets and hardware, so you can usually handle installation with basic tools and a helper or a jack stand to hold the rail while you line things up.
For daily life they make hauling kids, pets, or groceries into the truck noticeably easier, and they’re handy for older passengers or anyone who likes a more secure foothold. For weekend plans — tailgates, camping, or loading gear for a trail run — they add protection along the rocker panels and give you a stable platform when you’re stepping in and out.
Just double-check fitment: these are for 4 full-size door Double/Crew Cabs (2005–2023) and aren’t compatible with Access Cab two‑door rears or the 2024 Tacoma. If you want a straightforward upgrade that balances looks, grip, and weather resistance, these are a practical choice.
What People Say
Owners mention a snug, OEM-like fit and appreciate that all brackets and hardware are included. Many point out the honeycomb tread gives genuine grip in wet conditions and the powder coat holds up to daily wear; a few remind you to verify you have the Double/Crew cab model since Access Cabs and the 2024 Tacoma aren’t compatible.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ TruckDad
Fitment was spot on for my 2016 Double Cab. All brackets and hardware were included and the rails sat flush once I lined everything up. The honeycomb tread gives good grip after a rainy drive and the finish has held up so far.
🗣️ SaraG
Installed these over a weekend. Took my time aligning with a jack stand — left the brackets a bit loose while positioning and tightened once everything matched. Solid feel underfoot and they don’t look overly aftermarket. Warranty gave me extra peace of mind.
Versatility
These boards work for everyday tasks — kids, groceries, pets — and for weekend activities like tailgates, camping, or loading roof racks. The clean black look pairs with most Tacoma trims whether you’re on local roads or headed to the trail.
Practicality
Installation is bolt-on with included brackets and hardware; use a jack stand or an extra set of hands to hold the rail while you align the mounts, leaving fasteners slightly loose until everything lines up. The aluminum and powder coat reduce upkeep, though periodic checks and a rinse after salty roads will help longevity.
Key Benefits
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2005–2023 Tacoma Double/Crew Cab with 4 full-size doors
- 6-inch wide stepping area with honeycomb anti-slip tread for better traction
- Rust-resistant aluminum construction with black powder-coated finish
- Includes left/right rails, mounting brackets, and full hardware for bolt-on installation
- 36-month warranty for added confidence
Rating: 4.5 (total: 412+)
Tyger LanderX Running Boards (05–23 Tacoma Double Cab)
If you want running boards that actually look purposeful and hold up, the Tyger LanderX is a great fit for your 2005–2023 Tacoma Double Cab. You get that distinctive triangular tube styling that gives the truck a more rugged profile while still offering a wide, 5‑inch drop for easy entry and exit.
They’re built from heavy-duty carbon steel with a dual-stage E‑coating and textured powder finish, so you won’t worry as much about everyday scuffs or light surface corrosion. Installation is straightforward: the kit includes driver and passenger rails, brackets and hardware, and bolts on to factory holes with no drilling. Reviewers consistently note the bolt holes line up and basic hand tools (12mm/13mm) are usually all you need. For daily use these boards make hauling kids, pets and groceries easier and protect the rocker panels from scrapes.
For weekends — tailgates, camping, or swapping gear for a trail run — they give you a sturdy platform and are tall enough to work well with modestly lifted rigs. If you drive a Double Cab Tacoma and want something that balances style, strength and simple bolt-on installation, these are worth considering.
What People Say
People say these run pretty true to fitment: bolt holes line up, installation is quick with basic tools, and the boards feel solid underfoot. Owners like the look and the heavy-duty feel, while a few mention the underside is hollow (but still sturdy). A common tip is to verify you have the Double Cab model before ordering.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Tran N. Doan
One reviewer walked through a near‑solo install: they opened the box, sorted parts, removed factory bolts and bolted on the brackets using 12mm and 13mm sockets. Passenger side took about 20 minutes and the driver side was faster once they’d learned the process. They also mentioned the bolt holes aligned perfectly and the finish felt grippy and rust-resistant.
🗣️ jlong
Another user said the boards completely upgraded the truck’s look and felt very sturdy after installation. They installed both sides in under an hour, noted a snug fit on a 2024 Tacoma TRD Off Road, and praised the overall build quality and appearance.
Versatility
These boards suit everyday driving — getting kids, pets or heavy shopping in and out is easier — and they’re useful for weekend projects, tailgates, or outdoor trips where you need a stable step. The aggressive tube styling also pairs well with lifted setups, so they work for both practical and visual upgrades.
Practicality
Installation is bolt-on with included brackets and hardware; leave fasteners slightly loose while you line things up, then tighten. Most users finished both sides in under an hour using basic sockets and a jack stand or helper. Periodic rinsing after salty conditions and routine checks of mounting bolts will keep them performing.
Key Benefits
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2005–2023 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab (4 full-size doors)
- Distinctive triangular carbon steel tube design with a 5-inch drop for easier entry
- Dual-stage E-coating and textured powder finish for improved surface corrosion resistance
- Includes driver & passenger rails, brackets and all mounting hardware for bolt-on install
- 500 lb weight capacity and a 5-year warranty for U.S. customers
Rating: 4.8 (total: 168+)
COMNOVA Aluminum Running Boards (6.5 Inch)
If you drive a Double Cab Tacoma and want a simple way to make getting in and out easier, these COMNOVA 6.5‑inch running boards are a practical option. They give you a roomy stepping surface thanks to the wider pad, and the non‑slip step inserts make them feel secure when you climb in with groceries, kids or a wet dog.
The aluminum construction with a textured, dual‑stage powder coat is built to shrug off rust and light road grime, and the subtle glitter finish makes them look smarter than plain matte black without being flashy. Installation is designed to be straightforward: the kit includes left and right rails, brackets and hardware, and the slider design lets you fine‑tune positioning before you tighten everything down. For everyday driving they protect the rocker area and make hauling stuff easier; for weekends they work great as a stable platform when loading gear at the tailgate, stepping up for a roof rack, or just giving you a safer foothold at the campsite.
If you want a bolt‑on, corrosion‑resistant step that adds foot room and a neater appearance to your Tacoma, these are worth considering.
What People Say
Owners and the product details highlight a straightforward bolt-on install, roomy 6.5‑inch stepping surface and a textured finish that resists rust. People appreciate the non-slip pads and the adjustable slider mounting for easier alignment.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Product Listing
EASY TO INSTALL: Just mount it, direct bolt-on, no need to drill. Each step bar can support up to 500 LBS. The package includes two steps (one left and one right), mounting brackets, hardware, and instructions.
🗣️ COMNOVA Info
MATERIAL: Running boards are made of aluminum with unique powder coating. The aluminum running boards provide excellent resistance to rust and corrosion in stormy and snowy environments. APPEARANCE: The 6.5-inch running boards with Comnova logo step pads provide more foot room and increase friction between the foot and the step.
Versatility
These boards are handy every day — they make loading kids, pets and groceries easier and protect rocker panels from dings. For weekends they double as a stable step at tailgates, when loading roof gear or during light outdoor adventures. The understated textured finish pairs well with stock or mildly lifted Tacomas.
Practicality
Installation is intended to be bolt-on using the included brackets and hardware; leave fasteners loose to line things up, then tighten. They’re rated to support heavy loads and are aluminum‑based, so rinse them after salty drives and check mounts periodically to keep them solid.
Key Benefits
- Model-specific fit for 2005–2023 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab (4 full-size doors)
- 6.5‑inch wide step pad gives extra foot room and better grip
- Aluminum construction with dual-stage textured powder coat for corrosion resistance
- Slider design allows forward/backward adjustment during installation
- Bolt-on install with included brackets and hardware; 500 lb capacity per step
Rating: 4.5 (total: 157+)
AutoBull Running Boards (Carbon Steel)
If your Tacoma has the higher step-in or you haul kids, gear or a dog, these AutoBull two‑step running boards make life easier. The drop‑down, double‑step design gives you a lower, more natural platform to climb on and a second, higher step for taller riders. They’re built from two layers of coated carbon steel with a black powder finish, so they feel solid underfoot and purposely hide wear from road splash.
You’ll get a pair of left/right rails plus the brackets and hardware — installation is bolt‑on and a lot of owners say it lines up without trimming. Use them every day for safer entry and to protect your rocker panels, or for weekends when you’re loading up the roof rack or stepping up at the tailgate.
If you want a rugged, vehicle‑specific step that actually makes accessing a Double/Crew Cab Tacoma less awkward, these are an easy, practical pick.
What People Say
Owners repeatedly mention straightforward bolt‑on installation and a solid, well‑fitting product — the powder coat and fit get positive notes. A few buyers reported shipping damage, so check the pieces on arrival and keep photos if you need a replacement.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ M. Traini
Easy install on my ’18 Tacoma — installed in less than an hour and everything fit as expected. Powder coat looks even and the rails don’t feel cheap; they’ve given me a solid, more comfortable stepping surface.
🗣️ Adan Adames
Product looks great and material used is good quality. Fit right, very sturdy and easy installation.
Versatility
Great for daily use — kids, pets and groceries feel easier to manage with the lower step — and handy for trips when you need a stable foothold at the tailgate or roof rack. The subdued black finish fits stock or mildly modified Tacomas without standing out.
Practicality
Installation is designed to be bolt‑on with included brackets and hardware; leave bolts loose to position rails, then tighten once aligned. Rinse off salt after winter drives and periodically check hardware tightness.
The heavier steel construction gives a sturdy feel but also adds weight to handle during install.
Key Benefits
- Model‑specific fit for 2005–2023 Toyota Tacoma Double/Crew Cab (4 full doors)
- Two‑step drop design gives an easier lower step and a higher step for adults
- Constructed from 2 layers coated carbon steel with black powder coat for durability
- Includes left and right rails, mounting brackets, hardware and 36‑month warranty
- Rated weight capacity and protects rocker panels from scrapes and road debris
Rating: 4.4 (total: 134+)
FAQ
Will These Running Boards Fit My 2022 Toyota Tacoma?
Most of the options discussed are designed for Tacoma Double Cab/Crew Cab models and many listings explicitly cover model years 2005–2023, so if you have a 2022 Tacoma Double Cab you’ll often find a direct fit. You should check the product page for the exact vehicle coverage because some items are made specifically for 2024–2025 Tacomas or exclude certain body types, and fit can vary by trim and aftermarket lifts. Confirm that the listing says it’s for a Double Cab with four full-size doors, verify the mounting method (many use factory threaded holes), and look for the phrase vehicle-specific fit or a fitment chart from the manufacturer before you buy.
How Hard Is Installation And What Tools Or Tips Should You Know?
Installation is generally straightforward and many owners report being able to bolt them on in under an hour using basic hand tools. You’ll typically need a socket set (10–19 mm sizes are common), a ratchet, and something to support the bar while you align it, such as a jack or a friend. A helpful tip is to leave the mounting brackets slightly loose while you line up the rail, then tighten everything once the board sits correctly. Use thread locker or anti-seize on fasteners if you want extra security or easier future removal, and follow the included torque recommendations if provided.
Remember that most running boards are bolt-on, not rock sliders, so don’t expect them to take heavy off-road impacts.
How Do You Prevent Rust And Keep Running Boards Looking Good Over Time?
Prevention and maintenance are the best ways to keep them lasting: rinse off road salt and mud regularly, wash and dry the steps, and inspect welds and fasteners periodically. If you’re in a salty or snowy climate, consider applying a rust inhibitor to mounting areas and the underside, or use a spray-on bedliner or touch-up coating on raw edges before installation to improve durability.
Re-torque the bolts after the first few hundred miles and then at regular intervals, and replace any damaged plastic end caps or worn anti-slip pads to keep the surface safe. If you spot surface rust, treat it promptly with a rust converter and repaint or reseal the area to prevent spread.
What Buyers Prefer
When choosing between the SMANOW drop-down, OTHOWE drop-step, and OTHOWE fixed running boards, you mainly consider fit for your Tacoma year, whether you want a motorized hidden step or a simple fixed platform, and how the look/finish complements your truck. You also prioritize build quality, anti-slip traction and corrosion resistance, along with ease of installation and cost—opting for the drop-downs for convenience and a cleaner appearance or the fixed OTHOWE boards for a rugged, budget-friendly solution.
Wrapping Up
Pick running boards that match how you use your Tacoma: Tyger Auto is the best overall for fit and finish, while SMANOW gives a dependable daily step with easy install and a solid price-to-quality balance. If weight savings and corrosion resistance matter, the aluminum AutoBull option and COMNOVA wide step are worth considering.
Make sure the model you buy explicitly lists compatibility with 2005–2023 Double/Crew Cab Tacomas (or 2024–2025 if you’re planning to upgrade), and focus on a durable finish and secure mounting so you get safer access and long-term value.
| Product | Image | Rating | Material | Weight Limit | Item Dimensions (L x W x H) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drop Down Running Boards Compatible with 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab |
 |
4.6/5 (1,039 reviews) | Carbon Steel | 450 Pounds | 80 x 4 x 4.7 inches |
| Running Boards Compatible with 2024-2025 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab |
 |
4.6/5 (914 reviews) | Carbon Steel | 450 Pounds | 75 x 3 x 5 inches |
| Running Boards Compatible with 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab |
 |
4.6/5 (914 reviews) | Carbon Steel | 450 Pounds | 80 x 3 x 5 inches |
| 6 Inches Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma |
 |
N/A | Aluminum | N/A | 85.43 x 7.48 x 7.48 inches |
| Tyger Auto LanderX Running Board Compatible with 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma |
 |
4.8/5 (168 reviews) | Carbon Steel | 500 Pounds | 77.01 x 6.38 x 5.12 inches |
| COMNOVA Aluminum Running Boards Compatible with 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma |
 |
4.5/5 (157 reviews) | Aluminum | 500 Pounds | 82 x 6.5 x 2 inches |
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