2017 Tacoma Running Board - Paint flaking

I read the discussions on this and a couple of solutions mirrored my thoughts:
1. Strip and repaint
2. Use a bed liner type coating to protect it (Rhino, Rustoleum, etc
3. Replace
4. Powder coat

So, after some research it appears the factory cast aluminum was not prepped or primed properly before the wrinkle paint was applied. So stripping them will be a chore but I've had other aftermarket side-steps that never lasted and rusted out in the New England salt and sand environment. So I find a Rust-OLeum #254170 professional Aluminum primer and will give that a try and then a final coat using Raptor, Rhino, or Rust-O-Leum type bedliner paint. I just joined this forum but this is my third Tacoma. I've had a 2000, a 2009 and now a 2017. Any comments or feedback are welcome. I'm sure there are many out there experience the same issue.

 

Welcome to TacomaWorld

 

The issue with the aluminum running boards is oxidation that starts on the underside from paint chipped off from stones etc. Once the oxidation starts, it slowly creeps under the paint and then the paint flakes off in chunks. A much heavier undercoat will be needed to keep it from starting again. The rest of the truck and frame was undercoated BUT had I known the issue with the running boards, I would've insisted on them being sprayed as well! Lesson Learned!

 

Well I’m selling mine if you decide to go with the “replace” route…

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/fs-3rd-gen-double-cab-side-steps.765163/

 

Welcome to TW!