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Top 10 Best Running Boards For Nissan Frontier [2023] Anti-Slip-Extra Protection

The best running boards for Nissan frontier are accessories that enhance the looks of the vehicle and also make it safer.

They may look simple, but the rails can put up with a decent amount of weight to support you and passengers as you enter the truck.

These items also have non-slip step pads, allowing you to get inside the cab without any problem during rain, snow, or over muddy terrains.

Without a doubt, the terrific functionality of the running boards makes them a must-have if you own a Nissan Frontier.

But, which one should you buy?

Learn everything there’s to know about these accessories here to identify which is the most suitable for you and why buy it.

Contents

Our Pick For Nissan Frontier Running Board

PreviewBrandDetails
Tyger Auto 3.5" Fits 2005-21
TAC 3” Fits 05-22
Tyger Auto Fits 2005-2020
TAC 4" Fits 2005-22
APS Fits 2005-2022
TLAPS 4" Fits For 05-20
APS 4" Fits For 05-22
Lund 3" Fits 2005-18
APS 6.5" Fits 05-18
Stehlen 5" For 2005-20

What Are The Best Running Boards/Nerf Bars For Nissan Frontier?

With a sturdy build and a resistant design, the Tyger Rider TG- SS2N35208 is the best Nissan Frontier nerf bar.

This set of bars came on top but just barely.

If you want something a little more low profile and equally effective, we recommend the Tac Side Steps Running Boards instead.

Why Do We Choose Tyger Rider TG- SS2N35208?

The Tyger Rider TG-SS2N35208 is the best Nissan Frontier running board because they’re a perfect fit and match.

Installing the bars is easy even if you don’t have any experience, making them friendlier for all types of Nissan Frontier owners.

Once installed, the units remain in place without budging under a considerable amount of weight.

They also have an aggressive and intimidating look, perfect for machines like the Nissan Frontier vehicles.

Lastly, the non-slip step pads and resistant coating allow it to put up with most weather conditions easily.

10 Best Running Boards For Nissan Frontier Buying Guide

For this section, we’ve put ten running boards under the test to see how well they work with Nissan Frontier vehicles.

While some of these accessories needed some tweaking or extra bolts for a tight fit, most of them integrated with the trucks seamlessly.

Here’s what you need to know about them.

01. Tyger Rider TG- SS2N35208

 

Highlighted Features

  • Textured exterior
  • Oval Tube Design
  • 5-Inch Surface
  • Rust Resistance
  • Bolt-On Installation

This running board has a distinctive oval tube design that looks so well on a Nissan Frontier.

The step pad surface is 3.5 inches wide, which is on the smaller side but still provides comfortable footing.

In fact, the stability experienced over this board feels superior to other alternatives.

The construction of the running board is seamless, sporting a sleek end-to-end coating with a heavily textured powder finish.

As a result, the tubes have outstanding protection against dirt and water to prevent rust or corrosion.

This finish also improves the rugged look of the board, making it look great.

It takes around 30 minutes to install this running board.

The washers may not fit sometimes, but the serrated flange nuts and flat washers have no issues with the mounting bracket.

After some tweaking, everything should fit into place as intended.

Pros

  • Fits on newer and older Nissan Frontier models
  • The installation takes half an hour
  • High resistance against rough environments
  • Sturdy and solid tube frames

Cons

  • The running board may have issues with the washers at first

02. TAC Side Steps 3Inch

 

Highlighted Features

  • Alloy Steel
  • Textured Coated Finish
  • 3-Inch Round Tubes
  • Non-Slip Step Pads
  • Anti-Scratch

The running board has a heavy-texture powder coating finish, which is anti-scratch and makes cleaning the boards a breeze.

Furthermore, the mounting brackets also have a heavy texture finish.

Due to this design, there’s absolutely no reason to worry about rust caused by water or mud splashing underneath.

This running board has an aggressive profile and is perfect for dealing with the roughest terrains.

The engineering-grade steel creates a 3-inch round, heavy-duty tube under a CNC machine bending technique to deal with any weather.

On the surface, the board features step pads manufactured with a mix of polyamides and glass.

Such a combination makes the step pads UV-resistant and anti-slip.

Once installed, the running boards remain close enough to look like a perfect match, but they’re still at a safe distance to avoid accidents.

The positioning is perfect for quick access to the vehicle.

Plus, the step pads feel sturdy and soft, making them reliable and long-lasting.

Overall, this product could easily be our top choice.

However, the lack of helpful instructions is a bummer.

Pros

  • Perfect fit in 2005-2022 Nissan Frontier
  • Fantastic shape and condition
  • Remarkable positioning for more safety
  • Strong and sturdy mounting brackets

Cons

  • The instructions are not good

03. Tyger Auto TG-AM2N20158

 

Highlighted Features

  • Dual Girder System
  • 2-Inch Diameter Tubes
  • One-Piece Build
  • Black Finish
  • Bolt-On Installation

This rail weighs 40 pounds approximately, which is a bit heavier than expected but welcomed nonetheless.

The weight is a significant feature of the unit, as it creates a heavy-duty and sturdy product capable of withstanding up to 500 pounds.

Another element to consider here is the tube’s diameter, which is 2 inches wide and adds up to the weight.

While installing this unit, you’ll see that the holes lined up perfectly.

Once installed, the rails stick out far enough, protecting the truck’s sides from getting dinged.

The running boards also have a protection bar below, which means you will lose around 2 inches of ground clearance.

Still, it’s a small sacrifice worth making.

Besides being sturdy, the tubes are also long-lasting.

They have sealed end caps on each side to prevent water and dirt out.

This way, using the step rails will be safe even when the weather conditions are not in your favor.

Pros

  • Perfectly packaged with all parts included
  • Solid construction for heavy-duty use
  • Mounting holes line up seamlessly
  • High weight limit capacity

Cons

  • You lose some ground clearance after installing the running board

04. TAC Side Steps Running Boards

 

Highlighted Features

  • Powder Coated Steel
  • Rust-Resistant
  • Non-Slip Steps
  • Bolt-On Installation
  • Installation Hardware

This running board features a combination of PP and alloy steel material that makes it sturdy and resistant.

These materials are also non-slip and resistant to weather conditions, making the Nissan Frontier safer.

As a result, the board effectively gives you a solid footing to avoid accidents caused by a watery or dirty step.

The running board has a double-layer powder coating finish that looks incredible and resists scratches.

This finish is mirror-like and can last a decent amount of time even while driving over rough terrains.

It fits Nissan Frontier models from 2005-2022.

Also, the installation went smoothly. The running board is a bolt-on, so there’s nothing tricky about it.

All the mounting hardware comes included to make the procedure easier.

Use the existing mounting points, and that’s it.

The running board will support around 250 pounds, but it’s not a suitable choice for heavy-duty use.

Anything over that weight limit may compromise its performance.

Pros

  • Very easy to install and mount
  • The running board looks fantastic on the truck
  • Compatible with existing mounting holes
  • Sturdy build

Cons

  • Not capable of supporting as much weight as the other boards

05. APS iBoard Running Boards

 

Highlighted Features

  • Polished Finish
  • Aircraft Aluminum Build
  • Rust & Corrosion Resistance
  • 5-Inch Size
  • Non-Slip Top

If you want seamless integration of a running board into your truck, this unit is the one for you.

Installing it doesn’t require any drilling, and it offers an exact fit to the Nissan’s OEM connectors.

You may have to leave the two lock washers off because the bolts are short, but that won’t interfere with your vehicle’s performance.

You want to take your time with this running board during the installation.

It’s super easy to adjust the height and depth, but it will depend on the vehicle model.

However, in under a few minutes, you can get the job done. The truck will look incredible and stylish.

Overall, this unit is a well-made running board.

The machining is excellent, and every piece of hardware needed comes in the package.

Other sizes are available as well, giving you some flexibility to find the board that better adapts to your Nissan Frontier.

Pros

  • Innovative design that makes the Nissan Frontier look terrific
  • Adjustable height and depth for more comfort
  • Wide step area to enter and leave the vehicle safely
  • Beautiful black finish

Cons

  • You may have to leave the lock washers off

06. TLAPS 4″ Oval Running Boards

 

Highlighted Features

  • Stainless Steel Build
  • Rugged Frame
  • Polished Finish
  • Mount Design
  • 500 Pounds Weight Limit

We got these rails for a 2016 Nissan Frontier, and the installation went quickly and smoothly.

The parts come perfectly packaged and wrapped, meaning no dents or scratches.

If you have experience doing this job, the process should take around 30 minutes.

Testing the rails proved that they put up with people of different weights.

The nuts remain in place, guaranteeing they don’t come loose by staying tight while on the roads.

Whether you’re a thin person or on the heavier side, the bars resist around 230 pounds without bouncing or moving.

The steel material provides strength and resistance, allowing the step bars to put up with weather conditions.

It has a rugged frame and a polished finish to maximize rust protection.

This custom-designed bar set fit your specific application on Nissan Frontier.

If you don’t have any experience working with these vehicle parts, you’ll need some extra help.

The package includes instructions, but they’re poor and not educative at all.

Pros

  • Perfectly packaged and scratch-free
  • The step bars remain in place without bouncing
  • Each rail can resist a considerable amount of weight
  • Straightforward and hassle-free installation

Cons

  • The instructions are poor and lack detailed guidelines

07. APS iBoard Running Boards

 

Highlighted Features

  • 4-Inch Wide Boards
  • 6061 Aircraft Aluminum Build
  • Matte Black Powder Coating
  • Non-Slip Top
  • UV-Resistant

The black powder coating and overall shape of these running boards make them stand out from the rest.

Each piece is 4-inches wide, a perfect size to provide your Nissan Frontier broader step area and secure your footing.

These running boards are panel mounted for easier installation and compatible with Nissan Frontier 2005-2024 Crew Cab.

For more durability, the running boards feature 6061 aircraft aluminum-grade frames.

This material offers incredible resistance against corrosion and rust, making the parts withstand the roughest environments and rust conditions.

They can also put up with 300 pounds without budging.

These boards also provide adjustability to adapt to any circumstance.

You can set the running boards higher or lower to make them more comfortable for you or passengers.

For example, the elderly or people with limited movement will have an easier time getting in and out of the Nissan Frontier.

While installing the boards is a breeze, the quality of the hardware is not ideal.

Pros

  • Straightforward installation with all hardware included
  • Adjustable for more comfort entering or leaving the truck
  • Fantastic look with plenty of space for secure footing
  • Beautiful finish

Cons

  • The quality of the installation hardware could be better

08. Lund 23082178 3″ Round Bent Nerf Bars

 

Highlighted Features

  • 3-Inch Round Nerf Bars
  • Bent Ends
  • Rugged & Durable Coating
  • Non-Slip Step Pads
  • Pre-Assembled

This running board is 3-inch wide, smaller in size, but just as good-looking in style.

It has bent ends on both sides, curving slightly towards the vehicle to add a classic design to the 2005-2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab.

Despite not being as wide as the other, the surface is still large enough and non-slip for solid footing.

The running board comes pre-assembled to make the installation process more bearable.

You don’t have to drill or remove anything to fit it.

Plus, the bar comes with all the mounting hardware to help you save some money.

There are mounting brackets available to match the exact make, model, and year of your truck.

This running board also has a rugged and durable black powder coating to protect the steel.

The finish makes the material resistant to corrosion, rust, and UV.

Pros

  • A stylish design adds personality to your truck
  • Well-made unit with long-lasting materials
  • The installation is hassle-free
  • It supports up to 350 pounds of weight

Cons

  • The Nissan studs may not be compatible with this running board

09. APS Off-Road 6.5-Inch Side Armor Running Boards

 

Highlighted Features

  • 5-Inch Size
  • Aluminum Construction
  • Slotted Step Pads
  • Square Tube Design
  • 300 Pounds Weight Limit

With 6.5 inches of width and a dual girder system, this running board is the ultimate protective barrier against obstacles and impacts.

The board features a single piece of aluminum with grille openings, which perfectly let ice, dirt, and water come through without resistance.

This particular shape not only keeps the unit clean but also maintains the surface non-slippy.

This running board works as a rock slider or running board.

Due to the large surface, the board gives you a sturdy base to enter or leave the truck.

It’s an ergonomic design that provides superior support to keep you and your passengers safe.

The square tube design of the running board also makes it stand out.

It offers an aggressive off-road look to make your Nissan Frontier an intimidating vehicle to catch everyone’s attention wherever you go.

With that said, the lock nuts included are questionable.

You may want to get a new set for extra peace of mind.

Pros

  • Superior balance with a super-wide surface
  • An excellent design that keeps the running board clean and safe
  • It gives your Nissan Frontier an aggressive look
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • You may need to buy extra lock nuts before installation

10. Stehlen 733469497158 Running Boards

 

Highlighted Features

  • Oval-Style Tube
  • Rugged Frame
  • Black Fine Shimmering Finish
  • Steel Tubes
  • Mounting Brackets

The following running board boasts a gorgeous oval-style design for the tube, creating a spacious platform with outstanding sturdiness.

Combined with the heavy-duty steel, the board’s construction can resist a staggering 500 pounds as a weight limit.

Add to that a convenient size of 5 inches, and this unit is a perfect addition to full and medium-sized trucks.

To keep you and everyone else safe, the running board has slip-resistant step pads with engraved patterns.

These features offer a more stable and safer running board regardless of weather conditions.

As a result, little ones, teens, adults, and elders, can step foot into the car without concerns.

While installing the running board is easy, the standard bolts on the Nissan Frontier came up a tad too short.

If this issue happens to you, a quick solution is to leave the washers off.

Also, expect this unit to fit in seamlessly on your Nissan.

Pros

  • Super easy to install in the 2013 Nissan Frontier
  • Different sizes available
  • Superior resistance
  • An improved weight limit

Cons

  • The Nissan Frontier standard bolts are a bit short

How To Select Nissan Frontier Running Board

Not sure how to find the best running boards for Nissan Frontier?

Here’s what you must consider finding the ideal choice.

Design & Size

First thing’s first: the running boards must look incredible to rock your Nissan Frontier on the roads.

In that regard, the most popular designs for these accessories are ovals or rounded shapes.

One is not better than the other, so it’s up to you to decide which one looks better.

However, you do have to consider the size of the tubes.

They come in widths of 3 and 6 inches, which means less or more space to support your feet.

If you want more room to step in and out of the vehicle safely, a larger running board is a must.

These can also help if there are children or seniors in the family.

Otherwise, smaller tubes will do the trick.

Tube Construction

The tubes or frames of the running boards are available in different materials, like alloy steel, aluminum, or forged carbon steel.

Choosing which one to buy depends a lot on which brand you prefer and the running boards that you most like.

Still, there are a few things you should know about each of these materials.

Alloy steel is superior to carbon steel in many ways, but carbon steel is the better option due to its higher corrosion resistance.

Forged carbon steel is also durable because it’s a stronger material and less likely to warp or bend under the considerable weight.

Again, it’s ultimately your decision which one you want to buy.

It’s not just about resistance, either.

You must consider the quality of the material and how it will look on your Nissan Frontier.

Sep Pads

Like the tubes, the step pads must be resistant and durable to last a long time.

The materials of the step pads vary a lot, but we’re fond of the polyamide and glass fiber combination.

You can see this variation in TAC running boards.

This combination of materials makes the step pads resistant to UV and anti-slip.

It’s the ultimate protection barrier to support your feet while steeping inside or outside the vehicle.

Finish

If you want a durable set of running boards, they must feature a solid finish.

For example, the double-layer finish of the TAC running boards is anti-scratch and anti-dents.

Therefore, you can put the Nissan Frontier through complicated terrains, and the boards won’t receive any damage.

Installation

Running boards with a bolt-on installation will make your life much easier.

All you have to do is pair up the mounting holes, secure them with bolts, and that’s it.

In some cases, you may find that the nuts or bolts are a bit too short for tightening the boards properly.

If that’s the case, you have to run to the store to get new and larger ones to make sure the bars remain in place.

So, look for a running board or nerf bar with all the hardware included.

The installation will go smoothly, and you will save some money, too.

Final Words

Found your best running boards for Nissan Frontier yet?

After learning more about them and what they can do, it’s easier to narrow down the list of options to only a few.