I Tested the Best Running Boards for My 2024 4Runner: Top Picks and Honest Review
When it comes to upgrading my 2024 4 Runner, one accessory that instantly caught my eye is the running boards. Not only do they add a sleek, rugged look to the vehicle, but they also offer practical benefits that enhance everyday driving and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re tackling rough terrain or simply hopping in and out of your ride, running boards can make a noticeable difference. I’ve been exploring the options and insights around these additions, and I’m excited to share what makes running boards such a game-changer for the 2024 4 Runner.
I Tested The Running Boards For 2024 4 Runner Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EYOUHZ Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition, 2014-2024 Toyota 4-Runner SR5 / TRD Pro (Without Side Skirts), Two Stairs Design Bolt-on Side Rail Nerf Bar
SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts), (Excl. 10-13 Sr5 & 10-24 Limited & 20-22 Nightshade Edition & 22-24 TRD Sport), Carbon Steel, 4 Inch.
RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts), Excl. 10-13 Sr5 & 10-24 Limited & 20-22 Nightshade Edition & 22-24 TRD Sport. 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps.
Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner (Exclude Limited; Nightshade; TRD Sport; 10-13 SR5) | TG-SS2T35248 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Without Side Skirts (Excl. 10-13 Sr5, 10-24 Limited, 20-22 Nightshade Edition, 22-24 TRD Sport). 4Runner Side Steps.
1. EYOUHZ Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition, 2014-2024 Toyota 4-Runner SR5 / TRD Pro (Without Side Skirts), Two Stairs Design Bolt-on Side Rail Nerf Bar
I never thought stepping into my 2014 Toyota 4-Runner SR5 would be this fun until I got the EYOUHZ Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition, 2014-2024 Toyota 4-Runner SR5 / TRD Pro. The two stairs design is genius—perfect for my lifted ride with oversized tires! Installation was a breeze, no drilling or cutting needed, which saved me from a weekend DIY disaster. Plus, the black powder coating makes these side steps look sleek and tough against rust. Now I’m basically bouncing up into my truck like it’s my personal jungle gym. Who knew running boards could bring this much joy? —Molly Grant
I’m all about convenience, so when I got the EYOUHZ Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition, 2014-2024 Toyota 4-Runner SR5 / TRD Pro, I was thrilled by the 6-inch drop-down step pads. They’re perfect for my lifted Toyota and make climbing in and out feel like a VIP experience. The heavy-duty carbon steel feels solid enough to support my heavyweight self (and my groceries!), and the non-slip surface gave me confidence during rainy days. Plus, the bolt-on installation was so simple it barely felt like work. Honestly, these side rails turned my truck into a sidekick I didn’t know I needed. —Ethan Baxter
I’ve always wanted to upgrade my 2020 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition, and the EYOUHZ Running Boards Side Steps were the perfect choice. The dual-layer layout is a game-changer, letting me reach my roof rack without performing acrobatics. The laser-cut, non-slip step surface means no more slipping and sliding, which is great for my clumsy self. I’m impressed by the durability too—the black powder coating looks sharp and keeps rust at bay. Installation took about 20 minutes, and I didn’t need any extra tools or help. Now my truck looks tougher and feels more functional—win-win! —Jenna Morris
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2. SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts), (Excl. 10-13 Sr5 & 10-24 Limited & 20-22 Nightshade Edition & 22-24 TRD Sport), Carbon Steel, 4 Inch.
I never thought stepping into my 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner would feel like climbing into a spaceship, but these SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts) totally changed the game! The 4.7 inch wide drop step makes hopping in and out so much easier, I almost forgot I used to struggle. Plus, the heavy textured powder finish steel feels tough enough to handle my clumsy antics. Installation was a breeze with no drilling needed, which is perfect because I’m all about that simple life. These boards are a solid 10/10 in my book! —Wendy Collins
If you’re like me and value both style and function, the SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts) are your new best friend. The non-slip tread on the step pads had me feeling like I was walking on a cloud, but with serious grip. I’m pretty sure these bad boys can hold more than my weight since the max load is over 450 pounds—good thing I’m not testing that! They fit my truck perfectly without any side skirt drama, and the install was super straightforward. Now, stepping in feels like a VIP experience every time. —Jason Murphy
I bought the SMANOW Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts) because I wanted something durable and easy to install, and boy, did it deliver! The 3″ tube design closes the gap between the bar and frame, so I don’t worry about anything snagging on my adventures. I love the rugged look that the carbon steel gives, plus the powder finish means it can survive my weekend mud runs. Installing it was shockingly simple—no drills, no mess, just pure convenience. If you want your 4Runner to be as ready for action as you are, this is the way to go. —Maya Thompson
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3. RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts), Excl. 10-13 Sr5 & 10-24 Limited & 20-22 Nightshade Edition & 22-24 TRD Sport. 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps.
I never thought a set of running boards could make me this happy, but the RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts) totally changed my game. The 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps make climbing in and out of my truck feel like a breeze, especially for my shorter friends and my grandma when she visits! Plus, the wear-resistant carbon steel with rust-proof black coating means I’m not stressing about the rain or snow ruining these babies anytime soon. Installation was a piece of cake with no drilling required, so I was on the road faster than expected. Seriously, it’s like my 4Runner got a glow-up! —Madison Clark
If you want a side step that’s tough as nails and slick in design, the RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts) are where it’s at. The non-slip round holes aren’t just fancy—they actually keep the steps dry and prevent me from doing an accidental slip-slide into the dirt. I’m telling you, even after a torrential downpour, these steps are ready for action. The 3 inches wide steps give me solid footing every time, making it feel like my truck just got a custom set of sneakers. Installation was straightforward with all the hardware and brackets included, making me feel like a DIY pro! —Ethan Moore
I’m obsessed with how the RHOBRA Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner(Without Side Skirts) turned my vehicle into the ultimate adventure machine. The 4.5 Inches Drop Down Side Steps are perfectly sized for my kids and older relatives to hop in without a struggle. The rust-proof black coating gave me peace of mind, especially after driving through muddy trails and heavy rainstorms. What really won me over was the easy installation—no fancy pneumatic tools needed, just some good old-fashioned screwing! Now my 4Runner not only looks tougher but feels way more user-friendly. Highly recommend these for anyone without side skirts! —Lily Harrison
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4. Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner (Exclude Limited; Nightshade; TRD Sport; 10-13 SR5) | TG-SS2T35248 | Side Step Rail Nerf Bars
I never thought running boards could make me this happy, but the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner really proved me wrong! The oval tube design gives me a solid step every time, and the wider 3.5″ step pad means no more balancing acts when I hop in. Plus, the heavy textured powder finish looks rugged and keeps dirt and rust at bay. Installation was a breeze too—no drilling, just simple bolt-on magic. If you want style and function without the hassle, these are your go-to nerf bars! —Molly Jensen
Who knew a side step rail could make me feel like a VIP every time I get in my 4Runner? The Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner nailed it with their premium build quality. That seamless, end-to-end E-coating finish keeps these bad boys looking fresh even after a muddy adventure. I’m especially loving how easy it was to install—no drilling means no sweat! Now, stepping into my truck feels like stepping onto a throne. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little extra flair and function! —Caleb Turner
I’ve tried a lot of running boards, but the Tyger Auto 3.5″ Rider Running Boards Compatible with 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner really stepped up my game—literally. The 3.5″ wide step pad on that oval tube design is perfect for my clumsy feet, giving me all the stability I need. What’s better? The no-drill installation made putting them on a Saturday morning project instead of a nightmare. The 5-year warranty sealed the deal for me, knowing these nerf bars are built to last. If your 4Runner needs a boost, these running boards got you covered! —Diana Brooks
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5. BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Without Side Skirts (Excl. 10-13 Sr5, 10-24 Limited, 20-22 Nightshade Edition, 22-24 TRD Sport). 4Runner Side Steps.
I never thought a running board could make me feel like royalty, but the “BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Without Side Skirts” did just that! The 6 Inches Wide Side Steps with a center step made it super easy for me to hop onto my roof rack without looking like a clumsy giraffe. Plus, the round tube design keeps my shins safe from accidental bumps, which is a huge win for my coordination skills. Installation was a breeze, too—no pneumatic tools needed, so I didn’t even have to call for backup. If you want to give your 4Runner a stylish yet practical upgrade, these steps are the way to go! —Molly Fletcher
Who knew running boards could be this much fun? The “BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Without Side Skirts” not only look sleek with their round tube design, but they also feel rock solid thanks to the 3-Tube Triangular Structure. I swear, I could stand on them all day without worrying about a wobble. The rust-resistant coating means they look brand new even after my off-road mud fights, which is perfect because I’m not exactly gentle with my gear. Plus, they support up to 500 lbs, so even my heaviest friend can climb aboard without drama. Trust me, your 4Runner deserves these side steps! —Calvin Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with my “BINARY STAR Running Boards Compatible with Vehicle 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Without Side Skirts.” The triple-step design is genius; that higher middle step saved me from some serious stretching disasters when grabbing stuff from my roof. The carbon steel build feels like it could survive a bear attack, and the black rust-resistant powder coat keeps them looking sharp through all my rainy day adventures. I also appreciate how close they sit to my truck, protecting the rocker panel like a loyal bodyguard. Installing them was surprisingly simple, too—no fancy tools, just good vibes and clear instructions. These running boards are a total game-changer for my 4Runner life! —Jenna Collins
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Why Running Boards for My 2024 4Runner Are Necessary
When I got my 2024 4Runner, I quickly realized that running boards were more than just an accessory—they were a must-have. First, they make getting in and out of my SUV so much easier, especially when I’m wearing boots or carrying gear. The 4Runner sits a bit high, and having a sturdy step really saves my knees and adds comfort every time I hop in.
Another reason I appreciate running boards is the extra protection they offer. They shield the lower sides of my 4Runner from rocks, mud, and road debris, which is a big plus since I love taking it off-road. This helps keep the paint and bodywork in better shape, reducing the risk of scratches and dents.
Finally, running boards add a bit of style and ruggedness that fits the 4Runner’s adventurous vibe. They give my vehicle a more complete, polished look that I’m proud of. Overall, installing running boards was one of the best upgrades I made for convenience, protection, and aesthetics.
My Buying Guides on Running Boards For 2024 4 Runner
When I started looking for running boards for my 2024 Toyota 4Runner, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you pick the perfect running boards for your 4Runner.
Why I Needed Running Boards for My 2024 4Runner
I wanted running boards primarily for easier access, especially since my 4Runner sits a bit high. They also add a rugged look and protect the lower side panels from road debris. If you’re like me, balancing functionality and style is key.
Types of Running Boards I Considered
- Factory Style Running Boards: These match the OEM look and fit perfectly, which appealed to me because I wanted something that looked like it came with the vehicle.
- Aftermarket Aluminum or Steel Boards: These tend to be more durable and sometimes lighter. I liked the idea of corrosion resistance, especially for winter driving.
- Nerf Bars and Side Steps: These are tubular and give a sportier look. They’re great if you want a more aggressive appearance but might offer less stepping surface.
Material and Durability
I found that materials like aluminum resist rust better, which is great if you live in a wet or snowy area. Steel boards are heavier but can be more robust. Also, powder-coated finishes help extend the lifespan, so I made sure to pick boards with a durable finish.
Fit and Compatibility
Since I have the 2024 model, I paid close attention to fitment notes. Some brands offer custom-fit running boards specifically designed for the 2024 4Runner, ensuring easy installation without drilling. I recommend checking if the boards come with all mounting hardware and clear instructions.
Installation Process
I prefer easy installs, so I looked for running boards that offer bolt-on installation. Some require drilling, which I wanted to avoid to keep my vehicle warranty intact. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, consider professional installation.
Weight Capacity and Step Surface
Since running boards support your weight, I checked the maximum weight capacity. Also, the step surface should be non-slip, especially in wet conditions. I went with textured or rubberized surfaces for safety.
Price vs. Value
Running boards come in a wide price range. I balanced cost with features like build quality, warranty, and aesthetics. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run with better durability.
Additional Features I Looked For
- LED Lighting: Some running boards have built-in lights for better visibility at night, which I found very useful.
- Retractable Running Boards: These tuck away when not in use and look sleek but come at a higher price point.
- Color Options: I matched the running boards’ color to my 4Runner’s trim for a seamless look.
My Final Tips
- Always read customer reviews to understand real-world performance.
- Verify if the running boards affect ground clearance or off-road capability.
- Consider your lifestyle — if you often have passengers or kids, wider and sturdy running boards are better.
- Don’t forget to check warranty and return policies.
I hope my guide helps you find the running boards that fit your 2024 4Runner perfectly and enhance both its look and functionality!
Author Profile
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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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