The market for aftermarket running boards and side steps is crowded, especially for mid-size trucks like the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. The AutoBull Crew Cab Running Boards aim to offer a balance of durability and affordability without leaning heavily into flashy design. After spending time with a set installed on a 2018 Canyon, here is a grounded assessment of what these nerf bars actually deliver.
These steps are built around a black textured aluminum construction. The material choice is practical: aluminum resists rust better than steel in many climates, and the textured finish does a reasonable job of hiding minor scuffs from boots and trail debris. The mounting brackets are steel, which is typical at this price point, and they attach to the truck’s factory rocker panel pinch welds. Installation is straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills, taking roughly an hour with standard hand tools. The included hardware is adequate, though using a torque wrench on the bolts is recommended to avoid over-tightening into the aluminum.
In real-world use, these steps serve their primary purpose well: they make entering and exiting the crew cab noticeably easier, especially for shorter drivers or passengers. The step surface provides decent traction even when wet, though the textured coating can feel slightly slippery with muddy boots if not wiped down. The step width is generous enough to place your foot comfortably, and the drop-down design keeps them close to the cab, which minimizes the risk of snagging on obstacles during light off-road use. The black finish blends reasonably well with most factory trim, though it does not match the gloss of the truck’s paint—a non-issue for those prioritizing function over aesthetics.
Key functional features include a 300-pound weight capacity per step, which is sufficient for most adults and light cargo loading. The aluminum construction keeps the overall weight manageable, and the steps are designed to be corrosion-resistant with proper care. The included brackets are vehicle-specific, ensuring a snug fit without drilling into the body panels. The step surface is a flat platform rather than a round tube, which provides a more secure footing compared to some round nerf bars.
However, there are trade-offs worth noting. The aluminum is not as rigid as steel, so under heavy load or when stepping off awkwardly, there is a slight flex in the step. This is not a safety concern at the rated capacity, but it feels less solid than some heavier-duty options. Additionally, the textured powder coating can chip over time if the steps are frequently exposed to road salt or gravel, and touch-up paint is not included. The brackets are painted black, but they are more prone to surface rust than the aluminum step itself, especially in winter climates. Another limitation: these steps reduce ground clearance by about 4 inches, which may be a problem for those who take their Canyon or Colorado on moderate to difficult off-road trails. If you frequently drive over large rocks or deep ruts, a different style of rock slider or higher-clearance step would be more appropriate.
Comparing these to traditional tube-style nerf bars, the AutoBull steps offer a wider, flatter stepping surface that many find more comfortable. Tube steps, by contrast, often require a more deliberate foot placement and can feel less secure in wet conditions. However, tube bars are generally more affordable and can be lighter. The AutoBull steps sit somewhere in the middle: better than budget tubes for daily usability but not as robust as premium steel steps from brands like N-Fab or Go Rhino. For the price, they are a reasonable middle-ground option.
Who are these steps for? They are best suited for owners of 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado or GMC Canyon crew cabs who want a practical, easy-to-install step for daily driving, light cargo loading, and occasional light off-road use. They work well for families with children or shorter individuals who need a stable platform to enter and exit the truck. They are not ideal for serious off-roaders who need maximum ground clearance or extreme durability. They are also not the best choice for those who want a high-gloss, chrome, or stainless steel aesthetic. If your priority is a functional, reasonably priced step that does the job without fuss, the AutoBull set is worth considering. Just keep expectations realistic about long-term finish durability and the slight flex under load.