Jeep Wrangler Running Boards, Nerf Bars and Rock Sliders

This guide is for Jeep Wrangler owners choosing a side step: a running board, a tube nerf bar, a drop step or a rock slider with a step built in. Start with JK or JL and 2-door or 4-door, then decide how much rocker protection you want for the trail.

What to check first on your Wrangler

• JK or JL. Our pages split the 2007-2018 Wrangler JK from the 2018-2026 Wrangler JL, and step titles do the same. 2018 appears on both, so confirm which body you have.
• 2-door or 4-door. Steps are cut to the length they are listed for. Two of the JL steps below are titled for the 4-door Unlimited; where a title names no door count, the fitment notes on the product page do.
• Factory rock sliders. Raptor notes that its Gen 2 RT steps for the Wrangler do not fit with factory rock sliders, so check what is already on your rockers.

The options

A running board is a flat step below the doors with a wide standing surface. A nerf bar or side step is a bar or step mounted along the side that gives a foothold, typically with a step pad at each door. A rock slider with a step adds protection for the lower body. In slush and road salt, read what each maker says about the step surface and finish. For a broader comparison, see Running boards vs nerf bars vs power steps.

For the Wrangler JL

• Raptor 2018+ Wrangler JL Unlimited 4 Door Black Cab Length Gen 2 RT Steps: Raptor's Magnum RT Gen 2 Drop Steps, which Raptor says are 30% longer and wider than its original RT Drop Steps, with a slotted step area for traction in any weather. They are 14-gauge steel with a 3-stage black powder coat, mount to the rocker panel and install without drilling. Raptor rates the step for 500 lb, and the kit includes driver and passenger boards, brackets and hardware. Not for use with factory rock sliders.
• Ironman 4x4 Raid Heavy Duty Side Steps, Jeep Wrangler JLU 4 Door (2018+) (SS077JL): a side step bar set. Ironman describes 360° robotic welding for consistent welds and a direct bolt-on installation with no drilling, cutting or welding.

A rock slider with a step

• ARB Rock Sliders Step Nerf Bar, 2018-2022 Jeep Wrangler (4450250): ARB describes a side rail and step combination that protects the front quarter panels and lower sills, with an integrated step for easier access. ARB is plain about its limits: an excellent barrier against rock ledges, but not a true rock slider for aggressive rock crawling. The fitment table lists the trims it is listed for.

For the Wrangler JK

• Raptor Nerf Bars, 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler (RAPGTS71JP): the same Magnum RT Gen 2 Drop Steps for the earlier Wrangler, with brackets and hardware. Raptor's fitment note on the product page gives the door count; not for use with factory rock sliders.
• Rugged Ridge Nerf Bars, 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK (OMI11591.06): 3-inch round steel tube steps in a black textured finish. Check the fitment table for the door count.

A step for the roof

• Smittybilt Atlas Door Steps, 2007+ Wrangler and 2020+ Gladiator, Sold as Pair: not a side step but a step that bolts into the factory door hinges with no drilling, for access to the roof and roof rack. Smittybilt describes 1/8-inch steel with black powder coat, non-slip serrated surfaces, support for up to 350 lb, built-in tie-down points, and gaskets to protect the paint.

Shop by Wrangler and brand

• By Jeep: Running Boards for 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler JL and Running Boards for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK.
• By type: Truck Running Boards and Truck Steps: Nerf Bars & Side Steps.
• By brand: Raptor Series Running Boards, Raptor Series Nerf & Step Bars and Rugged Ridge Nerf & Step Bars.

Each product page lists the years, makes and models it fits. Use the vehicle selector to confirm your year and doors; we ship across Canada and prices are in Canadian dollars.

FAQ

Will a JK step fit my JL Wrangler?

Do not assume it. Our pages split the 2007-2018 Wrangler JK from the 2018-2026 Wrangler JL, and the steps in this guide are titled for one or the other. 2018 appears on both pages, so confirm which body you have with the vehicle selector.

Do steps for a 4-door fit a 2-door Wrangler?

No. Steps are cut to the length they are listed for. The Raptor JL steps are titled for the JL Unlimited 4 Door and the Ironman steps for the JLU 4 Door. Where a title names no door count, check the fitment notes on the product page.

Will these steps fit with factory rock sliders?

Raptor says its Gen 2 RT steps for the Wrangler do not fit with factory rock sliders. For the other steps here, read the product page before you order.

Is the ARB step a true rock slider?

Not by ARB's own description: an excellent barrier against rock ledges, but not considered a true rock slider for aggressive rock crawling.