One of the most popular choices for Jeep owners is adding running boards or nerf bars to their vehicle. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage.
Lets find out the differences between running boards and nerf bars and which one is better for your Jeep Wrangler.
Running Boards vs Nerf Bars:
Running boards and nerf bars are both designed to provide a step up into your Jeep Wrangler, making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Running boards are typically wider and flatter than nerf bars. They are designed to provide a larger surface area for your foot when stepping up into your Jeep Wrangler. Running boards are often made of materials like aluminum, steel, or plastic and can be textured or coated to provide better grip and durability.
Nerf bars, on the other hand, are usually narrower and rounder than running boards. They are designed to provide a smaller surface area for your foot to step on, but they make up for it by being more durable and providing better protection for your Jeep Wrangler’s body. Nerf bars are often made of materials like stainless steel or powder-coated steel, and they can come in a variety of finishes to match your Jeep’s look.
Advantages of Running Boards:
One of the biggest advantages of running boards is their larger surface area. This makes them a great choice for families with children or older passengers who may need more space to step up into the vehicle. Running boards can also be a great choice for off-road enthusiasts who need a wider surface area to stand on when traversing rough terrain.
Also when we install running boards on a Jeep Wrangler it provides a more finished look than nerf bars. Running boards can be color-matched to your vehicle’s paint or designed to complement other accessories like fender flares or grille inserts.
Advantages of Nerf Bars:
One of the biggest advantages of nerf bars is their durability and protection. Nerf bars are designed to protect your Jeep Wrangler’s body from rocks, debris, and other hazards that can cause damage. They can also provide protection against parking lot dings and scrapes.
Another advantage of nerf bars is their design. Nerf bars are typically narrower and rounder than running boards, which can give your Jeep Wrangler a more aggressive and rugged look. They can also be a great choice for off-road enthusiasts who need a more durable and rugged step up into their vehicle.
Which One Is Better for Your Jeep Wrangler?
Ultimately, the decision between running boards and nerf bars comes down to personal preference and usage. If you are looking for a wider surface area and a finished look, running boards may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for durability and protection, nerf bars may be the better choice.
It’s important to consider your needs and usage when making a decision. If you plan on doing a lot of off-roading, a more durable and rugged option like nerf bars may be the better choice. However, if you’re mostly using your Jeep Wrangler for daily driving, running boards may be the more practical choice.
Do Running Boards Cause Rust?
Running boards themselves do not cause rust on a vehicle. However, if they are not properly installed or maintained, they can contribute to rust formation.
When running boards are installed on a vehicle, they are typically attached using bolts or screws that go through the body of the vehicle. If these bolts or screws are not properly sealed, moisture and debris can get trapped between the running board and the body of the vehicle. Over time, this can lead to rust formation.
Do Nerf Bars Prevent Rock chips?
Nerf bars can help prevent rock chips to some extent, but they are not a foolproof solution. The primary purpose of nerf bars is to provide a step up into your vehicle and to protect the body of your Jeep Wrangler from rocks, debris, and other hazards that can cause damage.
Final Thoughts:
Both running boards and nerf bars have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage. Take into consideration your needs and budget before making a decision. Whether you choose running boards or nerf bars, adding an accessory to your Jeep Wrangler can add both functionality and style to your vehicle.
