2025 running boards or no running boards that is the question.

Just purchased this 2025 Tacoma double cab long bed and I’m waiting for delivery Monday. I was thinking about running boards. I was wondering what type of running boards hide the spot wheels on the body. Does anybody have any experience with this? do I really need running boards? I’m coming out of a 2009 SR5 Tacoma and I never had running boards. Thoughts?

 

Are you planning on leveling or lifting the truck?

 

I will cast a vote for getting running boards. I have a 2024 sport. Unless you are pretty tall, say 6'1" or taller, I think the running boards will make it easier for getting in and out of the vehicle. Also, the stretch to get in the truck puts added stress on the bolster/spring of the seat. So I am thinking it as preventative maintenance.
I have yet to pull the trigger. I was all set on an oval style side step but my wife had a strong negative reaction. Now I am back to a 4 or 5 inch running board style, maybe the Rough Country or Go Rhino or Westin Outlaw.

 

For functionality I like the grid style running boards, they look better on fullsize or HD trucks. For style I like Ford OEM on the F-150 as they are tight to the cab.

 

I have young kids, so they like the ability to use the running boards. Plus, they help with rock chips and door dings. I have the OEM Toyota cast aluminum ones. Not cheap, but very good quality.

 

When I got my 3rd gen OR in 2016 I immediately put the toyota cast aluminum running boards on.

They help my wife getting into the truck, they provide some door ding protection, and they help deflect stones kicked up front the front wheels. (I can hear them ding against the running boards)

They've held up well, and have been great for standing on to clean the top of the cab.

I will get the current version (PT738-35240) when I buy a 4th gen.

 

Yes! The 3rd gen versions are awesome. I put them on both my 3rd gen trucks, they also hide the ugly pinch welds on the cab as well. The 4th gen ones they redesigned and not as good looking or functional as the older ones. I wish they would just re-make the 3rd gen ones for the 4th gen.

 

Do you know if the 24 vs 25 boards look different? And if so will the 25 fit a 24? It's hard to tell on the parts site.

 

No I am not lifting it.

 

24 and 25 are the same trucks, so all the accessories are the same.

 

do the ford fit the tacoma double cab?

 

Gotcha, I just googled it and I think it showed me the 4 runner boards that are a little more expensive and slightly different looking.

 

I go with no steps then, unless someone is having trouble getting in/out like kids of significant other. Then I see the reason to install.

 

I got the OEM tube steps and have been very happy w/ them. I have an xtracab, so the steps make accessing the rear storage much easier. Here's a pic from when they were installed if seeing them would help you out:

 

AMP Powersteps if you want the look of no steps but still want the functionality

 

I need the steps. I have the OEM Predators,they cover up the pinch weld nicely.

 

I’ve been thinking of that style but I’ve got big clunky feet in big clunky boots. Also, how critical is the seat position for hitting the step without thinking about it?

 

I've had them on three trucks now, and I only use them for getting in..not much good for getting out,for me anyway. And to be honest I don't think they would be great with big clunky feet in big clunky boots. I'm 5'5" on a tall day and wear 9-9.5 boot. Never thought I'd be giving out that info on this forum...lol

 

Ha! Yeah, the getting out is a problem with some steps. Ironically the best step I’ve used for ergonomics are the retractable ones. They are just way more that I want to spend on a step stool! Thanks for the info though. It is kind of what I thought. I do like the look of them though.