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So you’re thinking about adding a set of running boards to your 4th Gen Toyota Tacoma—awesome choice! Running boards are not only practical but also give your truck a sleek, rugged look. But before you pull the trigger on that purchase, there are a few key things you need to know to make sure you’re choosing the right set for your truck.
1. Fitment Is Key!
First and foremost, you want to ensure the running boards are specifically designed to fit the 4th Gen Toyota Tacoma Double Cab. After all, the last thing you want is to buy something that doesn’t fit right. Look for running boards that are custom-designed for your Tacoma’s OEM plug holes—this means no drilling or modifications needed! 3D scanning technology is often used to make sure the fit is seamless, so make sure you choose a set that guarantees a perfect fit.
2. Material Matters
Running boards come in a variety of materials, and each has its pros and cons. Here are the most common options:
3. Coating and Finish: Protect Your Investment
Running boards are exposed to all kinds of elements—mud, snow, rain, and dirt—so the coating is a critical factor. Here’s what to look for:
If you're planning to take your Tacoma off the beaten path, you’ll want a running board with top-notch protection against the elements.
4. Weight Capacity
It’s important to know how much weight your running boards can support. If you have a larger family or carry heavy gear often, make sure the boards are built to handle the load.
5. Design and Style
While functionality is key, you also want your running boards to match the look of your truck. Running boards come in a variety of styles, including sleek, low-profile designs or more rugged, off-road-ready looks. Some even feature two-level steps, perfect for getting in and out of your Tacoma or accessing your roof rack.
6. Installation: Ease vs. Effort
Make sure you choose running boards that are easy to install. Look for a set that offers a bolt-on installation—no drilling or complicated adjustments needed. A straightforward install will save you time and headaches, and it’s something you can often do yourself.
Wrap-Up: Picking the Right Running Board for Your Tacoma
Choosing the perfect running board for your 4th Gen Toyota Tacoma comes down to a few simple factors: fitment, material, coating, weight capacity, style, and installation. By keeping these in mind, you’ll be able to find the perfect running boards that meet your needs and look great on your Tacoma.
Have you already installed running boards on your Tacoma? Or have any questions about choosing the right set? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!
1. Fitment Is Key!
First and foremost, you want to ensure the running boards are specifically designed to fit the 4th Gen Toyota Tacoma Double Cab. After all, the last thing you want is to buy something that doesn’t fit right. Look for running boards that are custom-designed for your Tacoma’s OEM plug holes—this means no drilling or modifications needed! 3D scanning technology is often used to make sure the fit is seamless, so make sure you choose a set that guarantees a perfect fit.
2. Material Matters
Running boards come in a variety of materials, and each has its pros and cons. Here are the most common options:
- High-Strength Steel: This is the material of choice for durability and support. It can withstand rough conditions and heavy use, especially for those who use their Tacoma for off-roading or hauling.
- Aluminum: Lighter than steel but still sturdy, aluminum boards resist rust and corrosion, making them a great option for those in wetter or saltier climates.
- Plastic or Composite: These are often more affordable and lightweight but may not provide the heavy-duty support that steel or aluminum can.
3. Coating and Finish: Protect Your Investment
Running boards are exposed to all kinds of elements—mud, snow, rain, and dirt—so the coating is a critical factor. Here’s what to look for:
- Corrosion-resistant coatings: These coatings are used to prevent the running boards from rusting or corroding when exposed to moisture, salt, chemicals, etc. Common corrosion-resistant coatings include powder coating and electrophoretic coating. These coatings provide extra protection and extend the lifespan of the running boards.
- Abrasion-resistant coatings: These coatings enhance the surface durability of the running boards, reducing wear and tear from frequent foot traffic or friction. For example, anodized aluminum coatings effectively increase the hardness and wear resistance of aluminum running boards.
- UV-resistant coatings: These coatings help prevent the running board surfaces from fading or becoming brittle due to UV radiation, particularly for plastic or rubber running boards.
- Anti-slip coatings: To ensure safety, many running boards feature anti-slip coatings or textured surfaces. These coatings increase the traction of the running boards, preventing slipping accidents in wet conditions.
- Decorative coatings: In addition to functional coatings, some running boards also have decorative coatings to enhance their appearance. These can include paint coatings or stainless steel plating, often used to improve the visual appeal of the running boards.
If you're planning to take your Tacoma off the beaten path, you’ll want a running board with top-notch protection against the elements.
4. Weight Capacity
It’s important to know how much weight your running boards can support. If you have a larger family or carry heavy gear often, make sure the boards are built to handle the load.
5. Design and Style
While functionality is key, you also want your running boards to match the look of your truck. Running boards come in a variety of styles, including sleek, low-profile designs or more rugged, off-road-ready looks. Some even feature two-level steps, perfect for getting in and out of your Tacoma or accessing your roof rack.
6. Installation: Ease vs. Effort
Make sure you choose running boards that are easy to install. Look for a set that offers a bolt-on installation—no drilling or complicated adjustments needed. A straightforward install will save you time and headaches, and it’s something you can often do yourself.
Wrap-Up: Picking the Right Running Board for Your Tacoma
Choosing the perfect running board for your 4th Gen Toyota Tacoma comes down to a few simple factors: fitment, material, coating, weight capacity, style, and installation. By keeping these in mind, you’ll be able to find the perfect running boards that meet your needs and look great on your Tacoma.
Have you already installed running boards on your Tacoma? Or have any questions about choosing the right set? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!
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