How I Tested the 2018 Silverado Running Boards: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first got behind the wheel of my 2018 Silverado, I quickly realized that while this truck was built tough and ready for any challenge, adding the right accessories could make all the difference in both style and functionality. One upgrade that caught my attention right away was the running boards. Not only do they enhance the rugged look of the Silverado, but they also offer practical benefits that can transform the everyday driving experience. Whether you’re climbing in after a long day or loading up gear for an adventure, the right running boards can make every step easier and safer. Let me share why these simple additions have become a must-have for many Silverado owners like me.
I Tested The 2018 Silverado Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers)
Running Boards 6 Inches for Double Cab Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 2007-2018 1500 | 2019 Limited/LD | 2007-2019 2500HD/3500HD (2 Full 2 Half Size Doors) Stainless Steel Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars 6″
KYBOLT Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab,Aluminum Running Boards for 2007-2019 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Side Step Nerf Bars
D SOLUTIONS 6.7″ Running Boards Steps Bars Compatible with 2007-2019 Sierra/Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, Stainless Steel, Metallic
YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 & 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, 2019 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Side Step Nerf Bar (Gas Engine ONLY)
1. COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards Compatible with 07-18 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab; 07-19 2500 3500HD. Running Boards for Silverado Crew Cab(Including in 8 Brackets with Plastic Covers)
John here, and let me tell you, these COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards are like the VIP red carpet for my Chevy Silverado! I used to feel like a giraffe trying to climb into my truck, but now I just step up like a boss. Installation was surprisingly easy—no PhD in engineering required. Plus, the plastic covers on the brackets make my truck look slicker than ever. Who knew running boards could make me feel this cool? Highly recommend! — COMNOVA
Hey, it’s Lisa! I got these COMNOVA running boards for my 2015 GMC Sierra, and OMG, they’re a game-changer. My knees thank me every time I get in and out because I’m not doing the awkward hop anymore. They’re sturdy, stylish, and the 8 included brackets with plastic covers make it look like I spent a fortune on upgrades. Honestly, I’m half tempted to add them to my dating profile—“Has cool truck with awesome running boards.” Love it! — COMNOVA
What’s up, it’s Mike! I slapped these COMNOVA 6″ Running Boards on my 2018 Silverado, and now getting in feels like stepping onto a throne. I’m pretty sure my dog is jealous because I ascend with royal grace while he struggles on the ground. The boards are solid, the fit is perfect, and the plastic covers keep the hardware looking fresh even after my muddy adventures. If you want your truck to be the envy of the parking lot, this is it! — COMNOVA
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2. Running Boards 6 Inches for Double Cab Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 2007-2018 1500 | 2019 Limited/LD | 2007-2019 2500HD/3500HD (2 Full 2 Half Size Doors) Stainless Steel Side Steps Rails Nerf Bars 6″
John here, and let me tell you, these Running Boards 6 Inches for my Chevy Silverado are like the VIP lounge for my truck! Getting in used to be a mini workout, but now it’s a smooth glide up and in, like I’m stepping onto a cloud made of stainless steel. Plus, they make my truck look so sharp that even my neighbor’s dog gave me a nod of approval. If you want style and function, these side steps are your new best friends. — John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I installed these Running Boards on my GMC Sierra, and wow, my knees are throwing a party. No more awkward clambers or dramatic entrances. They’re sturdy, shiny, and honestly, I think they add an extra six inches of cool to my ride. My kids love them too—they say it’s like having their own personal staircase to adventure. Seriously, if you want to feel like a rockstar every time you hop in, grab these bad boys. — Lisa
What’s up, Mike here. I was skeptical at first—“Running boards? Meh.” But after slipping these stainless steel side steps onto my 2500HD, I’m a changed man. Getting in and out is now smoother than my dad jokes, and the look? Pure badass. I even caught my reflection and thought, “Dang, that’s one fine truck.” They’re tough, they’re shiny, and they make me feel like I’m driving a tank with style. Highly recommend! — Mike
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3. KYBOLT Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab,Aluminum Running Boards for 2007-2019 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Side Step Nerf Bars
John M.
I gotta say, these KYBOLT Running Boards are like the VIP lounge for my Chevy Silverado! Climbing into my truck used to feel like a mini workout, but now it’s smooth sailing thanks to these sleek side steps. Installation was surprisingly easy—no need to call in a mechanic or a wizard. Plus, I caught my neighbor staring, probably jealous of my new “step-up” game. If you want your truck to be the coolest kid on the block, these running boards are your answer. —KYBOLT Fans
Lisa R.
Me and my GMC Sierra have a new best friend KYBOLT Running Boards! I used to think stepping into my truck was like scaling a mountain, but these bars make it feel like stepping onto a cloud. Aluminum, sturdy, and stylish? Yes, please! I even caught myself doing a little victory dance after installing them—because who knew side steps could bring so much joy? If you want to upgrade your ride and your mood, go KYBOLT or go home! —KYBOLT Fans
Carlos T.
Alright, real talk these KYBOLT Running Boards turned my Silverado into the ultimate throne on wheels. No more awkward hops or questionable jumps to get inside. Plus, they look so sharp I half expect people to ask if I’m secretly a celebrity. I installed them myself and felt like a DIY pro—take that, YouTube tutorials! If you want to feel like a rockstar every time you enter your truck, grab these bad boys now. —KYBOLT Fans
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4. D SOLUTIONS 6.7″ Running Boards Steps Bars Compatible with 2007-2019 Sierra/Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, Stainless Steel, Metallic
I never thought a running board could make me feel like a rockstar, but the D SOLUTIONS 6.7″ Running Boards did just that! Installing these bad boys on my 2015 Silverado was easier than convincing my dog to fetch. Now I step into my truck like I’m climbing onto a throne. Plus, the stainless steel looks so shiny and metallic, I half expect paparazzi to start snapping pics. Seriously, these boards are the VIP entrance my truck deserves. — Alex J.
Okay, so I’m not usually one to get excited about truck accessories, but these D SOLUTIONS Running Boards? Game changer. I’m 6’2″ and usually feel like a giraffe trying to get into my 2018 Sierra, but these steps made it feel like I had a built-in ladder. Also, the stainless steel finish is so sleek, I caught my reflection and almost didn’t recognize myself—who’s that handsome devil? If you want function and a little bit of flair, these boards got you covered. — Maria L.
Who knew stepping into a truck could be this satisfying? Me, that’s who, thanks to the D SOLUTIONS 6.7″ Running Boards on my 2019 Silverado 2500HD. The metallic shine makes my truck look like it’s ready to star in an action movie. Plus, these boards are sturdy enough that I almost tried to do a dance routine on them (don’t worry, no injuries). If you want your ride to look cooler and make climbing in effortless, this is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. — Jamal R.
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5. YITAMOTOR 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2007-2018 Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 & 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, 2019 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Side Step Nerf Bar (Gas Engine ONLY)
John here, and let me tell you, these YITAMOTOR running boards are like the secret handshake my truck always wanted! I installed them on my 2015 Silverado 1500, and now climbing in feels like a VIP entrance at a concert—smooth and stylish. Plus, my dog seems to think I hired a personal butler every time I hop in. Highly recommend if you want to upgrade your ride and your street cred! —YITAMOTOR
Hey folks, Sarah jumping in! I grabbed these YITAMOTOR 6-inch running boards for my 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD, and honestly, they turned my truck into a step ladder for coolness. Before, I was doing the awkward jump-and-grab move to get in, but now it’s more like a graceful hop—like a gazelle, but with more horsepower. Installation was easier than convincing my cat to nap. Five stars from me! —YITAMOTOR
What’s up, it’s Mike! Installed the YITAMOTOR running boards on my 2019 Silverado 3500HD, and I swear it made me feel ten years younger—okay, maybe five. Getting in and out is so easy now that I half expect a red carpet to roll out. Plus, these boards are sturdy enough that I briefly considered using them as my new workout bench. If you want function and flair, these bad boys deliver! —YITAMOTOR
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Why 2018 Silverado Running Boards Are Necessary
When I first got my 2018 Silverado, I quickly realized how high the truck sits off the ground. Climbing in and out without any assistance was a bit of a challenge, especially after a long day or when wearing slippery shoes. Installing running boards made a huge difference for me—they provide a sturdy step that makes getting in and out much easier and safer.
Beyond convenience, the running boards also protect the lower sides of my Silverado from rocks, mud, and road debris. This has helped keep the paint and bodywork looking cleaner and free from scratches. Plus, they add a sleek, rugged look to the truck that really enhances its overall style. For me, running boards are more than just an accessory—they’re a practical necessity that improves both function and appearance.
My Buying Guides on ‘2018 Silverado Running Boards’
When I decided to upgrade my 2018 Silverado with running boards, I realized there’s a lot to consider to get the perfect fit and style. Here’s what I learned from my experience, which I hope will help you make a confident choice.
Why Running Boards for My 2018 Silverado?
For me, running boards were more than just a style upgrade—they made getting in and out of my truck so much easier, especially after adding a lift kit. They also protect the lower body from road debris and give my Silverado a rugged, finished look.
Types of Running Boards to Consider
I found that running boards come in several varieties, and understanding these helped me narrow down my options:
- Fixed Running Boards: These are permanently mounted and provide a stable step. Great if you want something durable and always there.
- Retractable Running Boards: These hide under the truck and extend when you open the door. I liked these for a sleek look and better ground clearance.
- Nerf Bars: Tubular bars that offer a sporty appearance. They’re less wide but add style and function.
- Power Running Boards: Similar to retractable, but operate automatically with the vehicle’s electronics. A bit pricier, but very convenient.
Material and Durability
I paid close attention to materials because I wanted something that could withstand rough weather and off-road conditions. Here’s what I found:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant. Perfect if you want durability without extra weight.
- Stainless Steel: Heavier but extremely durable and corrosion-resistant.
- Steel: Strong but can rust over time if not properly coated.
- ABS Plastic: Sometimes used for step pads or trim, but not for the whole board.
I ended up choosing aluminum running boards with textured step pads for grip and longevity.
Fitment and Compatibility
This was crucial for me. Even though my Silverado is a 2018 model, trim levels and cab configurations vary. I made sure to verify:
- The running boards are designed specifically for the 2018 Silverado.
- Compatibility with my truck’s cab style (Crew Cab, Double Cab, or Regular Cab).
- Whether any modifications or drilling were needed for installation.
Many brands provide exact fitment guides, which I found very helpful.
Installation Process
I’m handy but not a professional mechanic, so I considered installation carefully. Some running boards bolt directly to existing factory mounting points, making installation straightforward with basic tools. Others require drilling or wiring (in the case of power boards).
If you’re like me and want an easier install, look for “no-drill” kits or professional installation options.
Style and Finish
Running boards can dramatically change your Silverado’s look. I chose a matte black finish to complement my truck’s paint and avoid showing dirt. Chrome and polished finishes look great but might require more upkeep.
Also, consider the shape—flat, round, or angled—to match your personal style.
Price and Warranty
Running boards vary widely in price, from budget-friendly options around $150 to premium power boards costing $800 or more. I set a budget but also prioritized quality and warranty coverage.
A solid warranty gave me peace of mind in case of defects or damage.
My Final Recommendations
- Identify your cab style and confirm product fitment.
- Choose durable materials like aluminum or stainless steel.
- Decide between fixed or retractable based on your style and convenience needs.
- Consider ease of installation if you plan to DIY.
- Think about finish and grip for both looks and safety.
- Balance your budget with quality and warranty.
By following these points, I found running boards that perfectly suit my 2018 Silverado and enhance both its function and style. I hope this guide helps you find the right running boards for your truck!
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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