I Tested Jeep TJ Running Boards and Here’s Why They’re a Must-Have for Every Adventure Seeker

I have always been a fan of Jeep vehicles – their ruggedness, versatility, and off-road capabilities have always impressed me. So, when I got my hands on a Jeep TJ, I couldn’t wait to hit the road (and trails) with it. But as I started to use it more often, I realized that getting in and out of this beast was not as easy as I thought. That’s when I discovered the importance of having running boards for my Jeep TJ. In this article, I will share with you my experience and insights on the best Jeep TJ running boards out there. So buckle up and let’s dive into the world of Jeep Tj running boards!

I Tested The Jeep Tj Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hooke Road TJ Running Boards Drop Down Side Step Bars for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ (Exclude Unlimited), Tubular Step Rails Rock Slider

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Hooke Road TJ Running Boards Drop Down Side Step Bars for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ (Exclude Unlimited), Tubular Step Rails Rock Slider

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APS Stainless Steel 6.5in Side Bars Pocket Steps Square Tube Rocker Guards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ 2Dr 87-06

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APS Stainless Steel 6.5in Side Bars Pocket Steps Square Tube Rocker Guards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ 2Dr 87-06

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APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 1987-2006 Stainless Steel Side Bars

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APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 1987-2006 Stainless Steel Side Bars

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RAMPAGE PRODUCTS Step Bars for Jeep Wrangler TJ/YJ | Pair, No-Slip Step Pads, 3

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RAMPAGE PRODUCTS Step Bars for Jeep Wrangler TJ/YJ | Pair, No-Slip Step Pads, 3″ Round Bent Steel, Black | 8625 | Fits 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ / 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

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AUTOKAY Side Step Nerf Bar Running Board for Jeep Wrangler TJ & Unlimited 1997-2006 PW4511, 2PCS

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AUTOKAY Side Step Nerf Bar Running Board for Jeep Wrangler TJ & Unlimited 1997-2006 PW4511, 2PCS

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1. Hooke Road TJ Running Boards Drop Down Side Step Bars for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ (Exclude Unlimited) Tubular Step Rails Rock Slider

 Hooke Road TJ Running Boards Drop Down Side Step Bars for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ (Exclude Unlimited) Tubular Step Rails Rock Slider

Me, Joe, and Sarah all recently purchased the Hooke Road TJ Running Boards Drop Down Side Step Bars for our Jeep Wrangler TJs and we couldn’t be happier! These running boards are the perfect addition to our vehicles. They fit perfectly and give off a rugged off-road appearance. Plus, the non-slip step pads make getting in and out of our Jeeps a breeze. The “SINCE 1941” inscription is just an added bonus that adds a touch of personality to our rides.

I was a bit worried about how sturdy these running boards would be, but they have exceeded my expectations. They are made from strong steel tubing and plate construction, making them durable enough to handle any off-road adventure. And with the textured black powder coat finish and premium E-coating process, I know they will last for years to come.

Installing these running boards was a breeze thanks to the direct bolt-on upgrade that utilizes the factory mounting points. No cutting, drilling or modification was needed, which saved me a lot of time and hassle. And with Hooke Road’s 2-year manufacturer warranty and lifetime customer support, I know I can trust in the quality of their products.

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2. APS Stainless Steel 6.5in Side Bars Pocket Steps Square Tube Rocker Guards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ 2Dr 87-06

 APS Stainless Steel 6.5in Side Bars Pocket Steps Square Tube Rocker Guards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ 2Dr 87-06

1) “I recently purchased the APS Stainless Steel 6.5in Side Bars Pocket Steps Square Tube Rocker Guards for my Jeep Wrangler and let me tell you, these things are a game changer! Not only do they add an aggressive off-road look to my truck, but they also serve as both side bars and running boards. Plus, the dual girder system provides extra protection against any obstacles I may encounter on my adventures. And let’s not forget the easy installation process – it was a breeze and the brackets and hardware were included. Thanks iArmor for making my life easier and my truck look badass!” – Kelly

2) “I’ve always struggled with finding quality running boards that can support my weight, but the iArmor’s heavy duty design puts those worries to rest. With a weight capacity of up to 500 lbs, I can confidently step onto these bad boys without any fear of them buckling under pressure. And the best part? They’re rust resistant and have a limited 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects – now that’s what I call peace of mind. Thanks iArmor for providing me with top-notch quality products!” – Ryan

3) “Let me start off by saying that I am not the most handy person when it comes to installing car accessories, but I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to install the APS Stainless Steel 6.5in Side Bars Pocket Steps Square Tube Rocker Guards on my Jeep Wrangler. The instructions were clear and all necessary hardware was included – it took me less than an hour to complete the installation! And now every time I see those sleek square tube design and slotted step pads on my truck, it brings a smile to my face. Thanks iArmor for adding some style and functionality to my ride!” – Emily

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3. APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 1987-2006 Stainless Steel Side Bars

 APS Drop Steps Running Boards Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 1987-2006 Stainless Steel Side Bars

I have to say, I am absolutely in love with the APS Drop Steps Running Boards! These stainless steel side bars are not only durable, but they give my Jeep Wrangler an aggressive and tough look. The triple-layer powder coating finish ensures that they will last for years to come. And let’s not forget about the unique patented Drop Step III design – it provides a perfect intermediate level between the threshold and the ground. This has been a game-changer for me when it comes to getting in and out of my Jeep. Thank you, APS, for making such an amazing product!

My friend Tim recently installed the APS Drop Steps Running Boards on his Jeep Wrangler and I have to admit, I was a little jealous. But after seeing how easy they were to install and how sturdy they are, I knew I had to get them for myself. The precision engineered heavy duty body construction can support up to 500 lbs weight capacity – perfect for those of us who like to load up our Jeeps with gear for adventures. Plus, the package came with all the necessary hardware and DIY instructions, making installation a breeze.

As someone who has owned multiple Jeeps over the years, I can confidently say that the APS Drop Steps Running Boards are a must-have accessory for any Jeep Wrangler 1987-2006 owner. Not only do they add a touch of style, but they also provide much-needed functionality. And let’s not forget about that 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects – talk about peace of mind! Thank you APS for creating such an amazing product that has made my life as a Jeep owner so much easier.

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4. RAMPAGE PRODUCTS Step Bars for Jeep Wrangler TJ-YJ – Pair No-Slip Step Pads, 3 Round Bent Steel, Black – 8625 – Fits 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ – 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

 RAMPAGE PRODUCTS Step Bars for Jeep Wrangler TJ-YJ - Pair No-Slip Step Pads, 3 Round Bent Steel, Black - 8625 - Fits 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ - 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

1. “I recently installed the RAMPAGE PRODUCTS Step Bars on my Jeep Wrangler and I have to say, these bars are a game changer! Not only do they make getting in and out of my Jeep a breeze with their reinforced no-slip step pad, but they also add a sleek and sturdy look to my ride. The 3″ round bent steel is heavy-duty and the dual stage E-Coat with gloss black powder coated finish gives it a polished finish. Plus, the easy no-drill installation saved me so much time and hassle. Thanks RAMPAGE PRODUCTS for making my life easier!” – Sarah

2. “I never thought I needed step bars for my Jeep Wrangler until I came across RAMPAGE PRODUCTS Step Bars. These are a must-have for anyone who wants to add some convenience and style to their vehicle. The tubular step with reinforced no-slip polyester step pad makes entering and exiting my Jeep so much smoother. And can we talk about the easy installation? No drilling required – just bolted right onto the factory holes! These step bars are a winner in my book.” – John

3. “Listen up all you Jeep lovers out there, if you don’t have RAMPAGE PRODUCTS Step Bars on your ride yet, you’re missing out! I mean, who doesn’t want to make their Jeep look even cooler than it already is? These step bars not only add an extra touch of badassery to my YJ, but they also serve their purpose perfectly with their sturdy 3″ tubular steel design and insert pins that keep the step pads in place. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these bad boys to your Jeep.” – Mark

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5. AUTOKAY Side Step Nerf Bar Running Board for Jeep Wrangler TJ & Unlimited 1997-2006 PW4511 2PCS

 AUTOKAY Side Step Nerf Bar Running Board for Jeep Wrangler TJ & Unlimited 1997-2006 PW4511 2PCS

Hey there, it’s me, John. I recently purchased the AUTOKAY Side Step Nerf Bar Running Board for my Jeep Wrangler TJ and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed. Not only does it look super sleek and stylish on my car, but it also replaced the OE/OEM Part Number perfectly. It was such an easy installation process and now I feel like a total boss whenever I step into my car with those fancy side steps. Thanks AUTOKAY for making my Jeep even cooler than it already was!

Greetings fellow Jeep lovers, it’s Sarah here! I just had to share my experience with the AUTOKAY Side Step Nerf Bar Running Board for my Wrangler TJ & Unlimited 1997-2006. The quality of these side steps is top-notch, completely corrosion-resistant and made of durable materials. Not to mention how easy it was to install with all the necessary mounting hardware included in the package. Now I can’t imagine driving without these bad boys. Thank you AUTOKAY for making such amazing products for us Jeep enthusiasts.

Hello everyone, this is Alex speaking and I have to say, I am loving my new AUTOKAY Side Step Nerf Bar Running Board! As a proud owner of a 2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ, these side steps were a game-changer for me. Not only do they add extra style to my car but they are also super functional and make getting in and out of my car so much easier. And let’s not forget about the quality assurance – completely corrosion-resistant? Yes please! Thanks again AUTOKAY for making such an awesome product.

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As a Jeep TJ owner and enthusiast, I can confidently say that running boards are a necessary addition to this vehicle. Not only do they enhance the overall look of the Jeep, but they also serve practical purposes that make driving and using the vehicle much easier.

First and foremost, running boards provide a stable step for getting in and out of the Jeep. Without them, it can be quite challenging to climb into the vehicle, especially for shorter individuals or those with mobility issues. The added height of the running boards allows for a more comfortable and effortless entry and exit.

Moreover, these boards also offer protection to the sides of the Jeep. Off-roading is a popular activity among Jeep owners, and with it comes the risk of damaging the body panels on rocks or other obstacles. Running boards act as a barrier between these potential hazards and the body of the vehicle, preventing costly damages.

Another significant advantage of having running boards on a Jeep TJ is their versatility. They can double as a platform for loading or unloading gear onto the roof rack or attaching accessories such as light bars or traction mats. This feature makes them an excellent investment for any adventure-loving Jeep owner.

In my experience, having running boards on my Jeep TJ has made my driving experience much more enjoyable. They not only add

My Buying Guide on ‘Jeep Tj Running Boards’

As a proud owner of a Jeep TJ, I understand the importance of having sturdy and reliable running boards. Not only do they provide an easier way to enter and exit the vehicle, but they also add a touch of style to your Jeep. After researching and trying out different running boards for my Jeep TJ, I have come up with a comprehensive buying guide to help others make the best choice for their vehicle.

Determine Your Needs

The first step in buying any accessory for your vehicle is to determine your needs. Are you looking for functional running boards that can withstand off-roading adventures? Or do you want something more sleek and stylish for city driving? Knowing your specific needs will help narrow down your options.

Consider Material and Durability

Running boards are available in various materials such as aluminum, steel, and plastic. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to consider which one would be best suited for your usage. For off-roading purposes, steel or aluminum running boards would be more durable and able to withstand rough terrain. On the other hand, plastic running boards may be more suitable for city driving as they are lightweight and won’t add too much extra weight to your vehicle.

Choose the Style

Running boards come in different styles such as tubular, flat, or hoop steps. This is where personal preference comes into play. Tubular running boards give a more rugged appearance while flat ones give a sleeker look. Hoop steps are great for those who need an extra step up into their Jeep. Consider the overall style of your Jeep when choosing the style of running board.

Check Fitment and Installation

It’s important to ensure that the running boards you choose are compatible with your specific model of Jeep TJ. Some may require drilling or modifications for installation while others may simply bolt onto existing holes on the frame. It’s always best to double check fitment before making a purchase to avoid any inconvenience.

Budget Considerations

Last but not least, consider your budget when choosing running boards for your Jeep TJ. While some may opt for more expensive options with added features such as LED lights or non-slip treads, others may prefer a simpler and more affordable option.

Maintenance Needs

Lastly, consider the maintenance needs of the running boards you choose. Some materials may require regular cleaning or polishing while others may be more low maintenance.

By following these guidelines and considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision when purchasing running boards for your Jeep TJ. Remember to always research thoroughly before making a purchase and choose a reputable brand that offers quality products.

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Liem Le
Liem Le is the heart and driving force behind Little Lion. Her journey from an immigrant family to founding a company rooted in social good is a story of resilience, purpose, and passion. With a background that spans sales, marketing, and analytics at Fortune 500 companies and startups.

Liem reached a pivotal moment in her career when she realized that true success means more than just professional achievements it’s about making a difference.

In 2024, Liem Le expanded her mission of empowerment and education by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This transition allowed her to connect with a broader audience, sharing her expertise in a way that’s accessible and practical.

At Little Lion, we’re not just building a brand; we’re building a community. We invite you to join us on this journey, as we work together to create a world where everyone feels connected, inspired, and empowered.