Electric Side Steps vs Stepping Boards

Attached beneath your 4-wheel drive or ute - stepping boards and side steps are multipurpose automotive accessories that make it simple to enter your car. Driving a ute can be an incredible experience that gives you the freedom to go further for longer.

Utes and 4-wheel drives are very versatile vehicles, but getting in and out of one can be difficult, especially for those with disabilities. Understanding the distinction between side steps and running boards will help you choose the best set of stepping boards for your vehicle based on your needs.

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Whether you're looking for added luxury or simply desire easier accessibility - choosing betweenelectric side steps and stepping boards is an important factor to consider. In this blog post, we'll dive into these options a little further as we explore their differences and what they have to offer - helping you make an informed decision about which product best suits your needs!

What are electric side steps and stepping boards?

Electric side steps and stepping boards are becoming increasingly popular. They offer a range of benefits, making them an excellent addition to any vehicle. From SUV's and4-wheel drives toutes, electric side steps turn getting in and out of your vehicle into a safe, smooth glide. 

Not only do electric side steps and stepping boards add a touch of customisation to your ride, they also make entering and exiting much easier — especially for kids. And when you’re travelling with your mates and your adventures take you off road, your vehicle needs to be able to handle anything that crops up. Stepping boards assist you out of a 4x4 that’s been bogged down with a quick escape and help you avoid potholes, sand holes and mud puddles. Upgrade your car with side steps today for your next adventure!

How do electric side steps differ from stepping boards?

Electric side steps offer an added level of convenience to vehicles of all sizes. Unlike stepping boards, electric side steps are designed with accessibility in mind, as they are adjustable for a variety of heights. These steps and boards feature an electric-powered slide-out design that makes them easy to deploy, providing a secure platform for passengers to enter or exit the vehicle. The steps also act as running boards – great for loading and unloading luggage or camping gear!

Aside from being a practical addition to your 4x4, electric side steps can give it a sleek aesthetic upgrade. While stepping boards are always visible, electric side steps automatically activate the step or board when it is required. They typically automatically fold down when you open your door or unlock your vehicle. So, if you're looking for a convenient way to make getting in and out of your car easier, electric side steps are an excellent choice.

What are the pros and cons of electric side steps and stepping boards?

The biggest advantage of both electric side steps and stepping boards is the convenience and stability they bring to your vehicle. Before deciding whether electric side steps or stepping boards are right for you, consider the pros and cons of both options.

Height

Stepping boards are fixed at a certain height, making them only suitable for passengers who can access that minimum height. In contrast to stepping boards, electric side steps typically extend to lower levels. These boards will retract under the vehicle when the door is closed, ensuring that ground clearance is not compromised. This makes them much safer for your 4x4, especially when you go off-roading.

These boards can be used in a variety of positions, although they are typically halfway between the vehicle and the ground. Fixed stepping boards cannot be installed this low because they could collide with other roadside obstructions when off-roading. Electric side steps are also useful for people who don't want steps poking out of the bottoms of their cars.

Vehicle Protection

Electric side steps provide easy accessibility to the seats of higher-riding vehicles and can even increase vehicle protection. Not only do they help prevent mud or dirt from entering the cabin but they also protect vulnerable panels on doors and wheel arches from bumps or scrapes from items being loaded into the vehicle. 

Cost

The cost of your stepping board will depend on the kind of vehicle you have. However, adding side steps is ultimately an investment in your 4x4, one that we know you won’t regret! Adding electric side steps to your 4-wheel drive can prevent anything from rock damage when you go camping to scrapes when you’re driving or parking in busy areas. 

Overall, electric side steps and stepping boards are quickly becoming must-have accessories for all types of vehicles – from 4-wheel drives to luxury SUVs – due to their convenience, safety features, ease of use and aesthetics. With all these benefits combined, it’s not hard to see why they’re becoming so popular!

How do you install electric side steps and stepping boards?

Installing electric side steps and stepping boards isn't difficult and can be done easily with a few simple tools. To start off, you need to familiarise yourself with the parts of your electric side step plug-and-play setup so that you are working with all the proper components.

This includes two electric side steps, necessary mounting brackets, hardware for installation, and instructions for proper set-up. Simply follow the detailed instructions and secure your running board. And voila! You've just installed electric side steps and stepping boards on your car with ease.

For all your automotive accessories, you don't need to look any further than Offroad Industries.Get in touch with our helpful staff to find the right fit for your vehicle!