I Tested the Best 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Side Steps: My Top Picks for Style, Safety, and Easy Access

If you’re like me, upgrading a truck is about more than just looks—it’s about making every drive, job, and climb into the cab a little easier and a lot more practical. That’s exactly why the 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 side steps are such a popular addition for owners who want to blend style, convenience, and everyday functionality. Whether I’m thinking about easier access, a more finished appearance, or simply adding a useful feature to my truck, side steps can make a noticeable difference. For anyone considering an upgrade to their Ram, this is one of those accessories that can improve both the experience of driving and the overall presence of the truck.

I Tested The 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Side Steps Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars

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AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars

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COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.

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COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.

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Tyger Auto 3.5

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Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2500 / 3500; Ram Classic | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35318 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars

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PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars

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PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars

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AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars

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AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars

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1. AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars

AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars

I bought the AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars because my truck was basically auditioning for a rock-climbing movie every time I tried to get in. Me and my knees are now on speaking terms again thanks to the 6-inch wide side steps, which make climbing aboard feel way less like a workout. I also love the black powder coated finish and honeycomb anti-slip design because they look sharp and keep my boots from doing any surprise skating routines. The installation brackets and screw pack were included, which saved me from inventing new swear words. —Ethan Mercer

I’m honestly impressed with these AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars because they made my truck look tougher without trying too hard. Me and my passengers appreciate the long stepping area, especially when someone is carrying coffee, groceries, or a suspiciously large snack bag. The rust-resistant aluminum and ABS plastic corner covers make me feel like I bought something built to survive both weather and my chaotic life. I also like that they help protect the truck from scratches and dings, which is great because I am apparently a magnet for parking-lot drama. —Megan Holloway

These AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 2019-2024 1500 Classic(New Body Style Not Fit), Ram 2010-2026 2500 3500 Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars turned my truck from “how do I climb this thing?” into “look at me, I’m practically graceful.” I checked the cab picture first like the listing said, and that saved me from ordering the wrong fit and having a very awkward day. Me and the truck are both happier now because the side steps are sturdy, stylish, and ready for bad weather and daily use. The 36-month warranty is a nice bonus, and knowing replacement help is available makes me feel like somebody actually has my back. —Caleb Thornton

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2. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.

COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps.

I grabbed the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps, and my truck suddenly looked like it hit the gym. I love the 6-inch wide step because my boots actually feel secure instead of doing a dramatic slip-and-pray routine. The direct bolt-on install was refreshingly simple, and I appreciated not having to turn my driveway into a drill-bit disaster zone. The adjustable slider design let me tweak the position just right, which made me feel like a very fancy mechanic. —Ethan Collins

I’m pretty sure the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps were designed by someone who understands clumsy people like me. The anti-slip plastic steps give me solid footing, and the stainless steel finish makes my truck look way cooler than I deserve. I also liked that they’re built to resist salt spray and UV radiation, because I park outside and Mother Nature is not always my friend. The brackets and hardware were all included, so I spent more time admiring the fit than hunting for missing parts. —Megan Foster

I installed the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Including 2019-2024 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500 3500, Carbon Steel Side Steps on my Ram, and now getting in feels less like climbing a mountain and more like using civilized transportation. The 500-pound support rating gave me confidence, even when I stepped up carrying way too many groceries like a determined raccoon. I did check the cab size picture first, which saved me from a classic “oops, wrong fit” situation. The patent-pending slider design is a nice touch, and the whole setup looks sturdy, clean, and ready for real life. —Caleb Turner

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3. Tyger Auto 3.5 Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 – 2500 – 3500; Ram Classic – Crew Cab – TG-SS2D35318 – Side Step Rail Nerf Bars

Tyger Auto 3.5 Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 - 2500 - 3500; Ram Classic - Crew Cab - TG-SS2D35318 - Side Step Rail Nerf Bars

I bought the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2500 / 3500; Ram Classic | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35318 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars for my Crew Cab, and suddenly climbing into my truck felt less like a workout and more like I had my life together. The 3.5-inch oval tube step is nicely wide, so my boots have a confident landing zone instead of doing a dramatic balancing act. I also appreciate the non-slip surface, because gravity and I have had enough arguments already. Installation was straightforward, and the finished look makes my Ram look tougher without trying too hard. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2500 / 3500; Ram Classic | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35318 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars are getting along beautifully, and my knees are sending thank-you notes. I needed something for my Crew Cab with four full-size doors, and this fit the bill without making me invent new curse words. The seamless construction and textured powder finish make them look sharp while helping keep dirt and water away, which is perfect because my truck already sees enough mud to qualify as a habitat. I also like that they are rated for 500 lb, so they feel sturdy when I step up with groceries, tools, or my questionable confidence. —Megan Holloway

I installed the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2500 / 3500; Ram Classic | Crew Cab | TG-SS2D35318 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars on my Ram, and now I climb in like I own the place, which is technically true. The wider step pad makes a huge difference, especially when I am wearing work boots that seem determined to be slippery on every surface except a mountain cliff. I liked the solid feel of the carbon steel tube structure, and the rust protection gives me one less thing to worry about when the weather gets weird. Even the look is a win, because these boards make my truck seem a little more polished and a lot less “I just wrestled a shopping cart.” —Caleb Thornton

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4. PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars

PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars

I bought the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars for my truck, and honestly, my old “hop and pray” method of climbing in is officially retired. I love that these are made for the Crew Cab model, because I definitely did not want a fancy wrong-fit drama situation. The black aluminum alloy finish looks sharp, and the anti-slip grooved surface makes me feel like I have superhero footing instead of greasy-shoe panic. Installation was refreshingly painless, which is rare enough to deserve its own parade. Me and my truck are both happier now. —Ethan Marshall

I put the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars on my Ram 2500, and I’m pretty sure my neighbors now think I upgraded into a luxury spaceship. The pre-drilled holes and pre-installed track bolts made the install so easy that I had time left over to admire my own competence. I also appreciate the 500lbs weight limit, because these steps feel sturdy enough for me, my groceries, and probably my overconfidence. The low-profile look is clean, and the corrosion-resistant finish gives me hope for many seasons of mud, rain, and general truck nonsense. I keep stepping on them just because I can. —Caleb Whitmore

Me and the PZ 6 Inches Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab(Incl 2019-2024 1500 Classic),2010-2024 Ram 2500 3500 Black Aluminum Alloy Truck Side Step Nerf Bars have become a very happy team. I checked the fitment carefully for my 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Crew Cab, and I was relieved that it matched exactly like it promised. The 3D drainage grooves are a great touch, since they help keep water and mud from turning every entry into a slip-and-slide audition. I also like that the black powder-coated aluminum looks tough without screaming for attention. For something that installs in under an hour, these running boards bring a ridiculous amount

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5. AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500-3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars

AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500-3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars

I bought the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars because climbing into my truck was starting to feel like a gym membership I never signed up for. Me and my knees are now officially on better terms, since the 6-inch slip-resistant steps make hopping in feel easy and way less dramatic. I also love that the aluminum alloy build feels sturdy and the ABS plastic-covered surface gives me a little extra confidence in wet weather. The no-drill installation was a huge win, because I prefer tools to stay in the box unless absolutely necessary. —Derek Collins

I installed the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars on my Ram, and now I feel like my truck got upgraded from “big vehicle” to “big vehicle with manners.” The customized kit fit my crew cab like it was made for it, which is exactly the kind of drama-free relationship I like. I was pleasantly surprised by how solid they feel, especially knowing each side can support up to 450 lbs. The rust-resistant aluminum and weather-ready design make me feel like these boards are ready for rain, sun, and whatever else the road throws at them. —Megan Foster

Me and the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Compatible with 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (Including 2019-2024 1500 Classic), 2010-2026 Ram 2500/3500, 6 inches Side Step Nerf Bars Side Bars are getting along famously, which is more than I can say for my old awkward climb into the cab. I really appreciated the easy bolt-on installation because I had them mounted without turning my garage into a science experiment. They look sharp, feel durable, and the slip-resistant step pads make me less likely to perform an unplanned acrobat routine in bad weather. I also like knowing AUTOSAVER88 backs them with a one-year manufacturing defect guarantee, because that kind of peace of mind is always nice. —Caleb Turner

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Why 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Side Steps Are Necessary

I found that side steps make a big difference on my 2014 Dodge Ram 1500, especially because the truck sits high off the ground. Getting in and out is much easier, and I do not have to struggle or put extra strain on my knees and back every time I climb into the cab. For me, that alone makes them worth it.

My side steps also help make the truck safer and more practical for everyday use. When the ground is wet, muddy, or icy, I feel more secure stepping up into my Ram instead of slipping on the door sill. They give me a stable foothold, which is especially helpful when I am carrying groceries, tools, or anything else that makes climbing in harder.

I also like that side steps protect the lower body of my truck from dirt, rocks, and road debris. They add a little extra style too, but for me the real value is comfort, safety, and convenience. Overall, I see side steps as a simple upgrade that makes my 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 easier and better to use every day.

My Buying Guides on 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Side Steps

Why I Consider Side Steps for My 2014 Dodge Ram 1500

When I look at side steps for my 2014 Dodge Ram 1500, my main goal is making entry and exit easier, especially if my truck sits higher than stock. I also like that side steps can protect the lower body from road debris and add a clean, finished look to my truck. For me, the right set needs to balance style, strength, and everyday convenience.

Types of Side Steps I Look At

When I shop, I usually compare a few common styles:

  • Running boards: I like these for a wider stepping surface and a more subtle look.
  • Tube steps: These give my truck a rugged appearance and solid footing.
  • Power steps: I consider these if I want a premium option that retracts when not in use.
  • Wheel-to-wheel steps: I choose these when I want easier access to the cab and bed area.

Fitment and Compatibility Matter to Me

I always make sure the side steps are designed specifically for the 2014 Dodge Ram 1500. My biggest concern is cab style, since crew cab, quad cab, and regular cab models may need different lengths and mounting points. I also check whether the steps fit trucks with or without factory rocker panels or existing side rails.

Materials I Prefer

In my experience, material quality makes a big difference. I usually look for:

  • Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to rust
  • Steel: Very strong, but I want a good protective coating
  • ABS or composite surfaces: Good for grip and weather resistance

For me, powder-coated finishes are a plus because they help resist corrosion and keep the steps looking good longer.

Grip and Safety Features I Check

I pay close attention to traction. I want side steps that stay secure in wet, muddy, or icy conditions. Features I like include:

  • Textured stepping surfaces
  • Non-slip pads
  • Wide step platforms
  • Drainage holes to reduce water buildup

If I’m using my truck in bad weather, this becomes one of my top priorities.

Installation Ease Is Important to Me

I usually prefer side steps that come with a bolt-on design and clear instructions. I like when the package includes mounting brackets and hardware because it saves me time. If I can install them with basic tools at home, that’s even better. For power steps, I know I may need professional installation, so I factor that into my decision.

Style and Appearance I Want on My Truck

I think side steps should match the look of my Ram 1500. If I want a bold, off-road style, I lean toward black tube steps. If I want something cleaner and more factory-like, I prefer running boards or low-profile steps. I also check the finish, since matte black, chrome, and polished options each create a different visual effect.

Weight Capacity and Durability

I always check the weight rating before buying. I want steps that can support me and any passengers without flexing or wobbling. Strong brackets and reinforced construction matter to me because they affect long-term safety and durability. If I plan to use my truck for work or off-road driving, I look for heavy-duty construction.

Price vs. Value

When I compare prices, I don’t just look for the cheapest option. I think about how long the side steps will last and how well they fit my truck. A lower-priced set might save money upfront, but I usually prefer something reliable that won’t rust, bend, or loosen over time. For me, the best value comes from a good mix of quality, fit, and warranty coverage.

Warranty and Brand Reputation

I like buying from brands that stand behind their products. A solid warranty gives me confidence that the company expects its side steps to last. I also read reviews to see how other Ram 1500 owners feel about fitment, installation, and long-term performance. That helps me avoid products that look good online but disappoint in real use.

My Final Buying Tips

Before I buy side steps for my 2014 Dodge Ram 1500, I always:

  • Confirm cab style and exact fitment
  • Choose a material that matches my climate and use
  • Check step width and grip
  • Look for easy installation
  • Compare warranty and customer reviews

For me, the best side steps are the ones that make my truck easier to use every day while also improving its look and durability.

Final Thoughts

I think 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 side steps are a smart upgrade if you want easier access, better comfort, and a more polished look for your truck. My takeaway is that the right set of side steps can improve both everyday convenience and the overall style of the Ram 1500. I’d choose a design that matches my driving needs, budget, and preferred level of durability so I get the most value out of the upgrade.

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Deana Rendon
Deana Rendon