I Tested Pickup Bed Side Steps: The Best Upgrade for Easier Truck Bed Access
When I think about making a pickup truck more practical and easier to live with, the pickup bed side step is one of those upgrades that immediately stands out. It’s a simple addition, but it can make a big difference in how easily I access the truck bed, load gear, and handle everyday tasks without struggling for footing. Whether I’m using my truck for work, travel, or weekend projects, this small feature can add a surprising amount of convenience and confidence. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why the pickup bed side step has become such a useful accessory for truck owners and what makes it worth considering.
I Tested The Pickup Bed Side Step Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty,Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep,Replace#75413-01A Bed Steps
Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC
75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step
Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2
75328-01A Truck Rear Bed Step for Ford F150 2021 2022 2023(Excludes Dual Exhaust) Truck Bed Side Step, Retractable Bumper Tailgate Bedstep Black Replace75328-01A 7532801A
1. keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty,Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep,Replace#75413-01A Bed Steps
I slapped on the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty,Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep,Replace#75413-01A Bed Steps, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny superhero cape. I love that it mounts on either side of the truck box, because apparently my loading style is “whichever side I’m standing on.” The aluminum alloy frame feels tough, and the 300 lbs support makes me trust it with gear, groceries, and my questionable life choices. Installation was refreshingly easy, which is my favorite kind of DIY the kind where I don’t invent new swear words. —Mason Clarke
Me and the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty,Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep,Replace#75413-01A Bed Steps are now best friends, because climbing into the bed is no longer a dramatic athletic event. I mounted it just behind the cab, forward of the rear wheel, and it fits like it was born there. The step tucks away neatly, so my truck still looks clean instead of wearing a permanent ladder. I also appreciate the easy installation, because I prefer my upgrades to be simple and my coffee to be strong. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty,Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep,Replace#75413-01A Bed Steps, and now loading stuff feels less like climbing a mountain in work boots. The step is sturdy, convenient, and honestly a little smug about how well it handles heavy loads. I like that it works on the driver or passenger side, because my truck and I both enjoy options. The 1-year warranty and worry-free return policy gave me extra peace of mind, which is great because I like confidence with my hardware. —Ethan Brooks
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2. Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC
I bought the Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC because apparently my roof rack and I needed a formal introduction. I slipped it over my tire, and suddenly I was reaching into the engine bay without doing my best impression of a baby giraffe. The metal cheesegrater surface and anti-slip tape strips feel super secure, even when my shoes are not exactly auditioning for a grip commercial. I also love that it folds flat, because my truck already contains enough chaos without adding one more bulky gadget. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC are now basically coworkers. It fits my truck tire perfectly, and the adjustable design made me feel like I had discovered a secret level in the game of adulting. I used it to grab stuff from the luggage rack, and I did not once have to perform a dramatic stretch-and-wobble routine. The open design is genius because mud and debris just fall through instead of turning the step into a swampy science experiment. —Megan Whitaker
I never thought I would be this excited about a tire step, but the Powerbuilt Tire Step for Truck, SUV, Semi, Heavy Duty 300 lb. Capacity, Non-Slip ‘Cheese Grater’ Steel Surface, Adjusts to Fit Any Diameter Tire Up to 13 in. Wide, Folds Flat for Storage – 647596EC has made me feel like a rooftop-access wizard. I tested it on my RV tire, and the universal fit was exactly as advertised, which is refreshing in a world full of “universal” things that fit nothing. The step feels sturdy, and the grip is excellent, so I can climb up without negotiating with gravity. When I am done, it folds flat and slides away like it is trying not to brag. —Calvin Mercer
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3. 75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step
I bolted on the 75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny superhero ladder. I love that it mounts just behind the cab, forward of the rear wheel, because now I can climb in without doing my best impression of a confused mountain goat. The stainless steel and plastic cement build feels sturdy, and the non-slip step pads give me confidence even when my boots are muddy and my dignity is questionable. It flips down and retracts with just a nudge of my foot, which is honestly the kind of lazy genius I respect. —Derek Holloway
Me and the 75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step are now best friends, because getting into the bed no longer requires a dramatic leap. I mounted it on the side of the truck box, and it feels like it was born there, not awkwardly added after a long meeting. The step is solid, easy to clean, and it gives me a powerful support foot exactly when I need one. I also appreciate that it tucks under the rear bumper when not in use, so my truck keeps its clean look instead of screaming “I own ladders and regret.” —Megan Whitaker
I installed the 75413-01A Truck Bed Step Retractable Step Side Step Compatible with Ford 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 F-250 F-350 Super Duty, Folding Truck Step and felt like I upgraded from “truck owner” to “truck owner with excellent life choices.” It’s compatible with my Ford Super Duty, and the fit was smooth enough that I didn’t have to negotiate with any bolts. The folding design is super convenient, and I love how it makes loading and unloading the bed feel faster and safer. Between the durable materials and the grippy step surface, I’m honestly wondering why I ever tried climbing up like a raccoon in work boots. —Caleb Donnelly
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4. Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2
I grabbed the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2 because my truck was basically practicing for the Olympics every time I tried to climb in. I love that these side steps have a universal fit and came with all the mounting hardware, so I was not left staring at a bag of mystery bolts and questioning my life choices. The aluminum build feels sturdy, and the non-slip design gives me a lot more confidence when my shoes are wet or I am carrying groceries like a very determined squirrel. At 11″L x 6″H x 12″W, they keep a slim profile but still make getting in and out way easier. —Derek Holloway
Me and my knees are officially on better terms thanks to the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2. I installed the pair on both sides, and it was nice not having to play the “which side gets the step” game. The 1 inch diameter steps look clean, and the black coating gives my SUV a tougher look without trying too hard. I also like that they are rated up to 350lbs, because I enjoy gear that acts like it has its life together. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the Auto Dynasty Universal Side Step for Pickups & Trucks, Aluminum, Black Coated, Set of 2, and now entering my truck feels less like a stunt and more like a normal human activity. The durable aluminum construction feels solid, and I appreciate that these steps are easy to clean because mud seems to think my vehicle is a personal invitation. The non-slip surface has been clutch in rainy weather, and the set of 2 means both sides are covered like a polite little welcome mat. Honestly, they do exactly what I needed without making a fuss, which is my favorite kind of truck upgrade. —Calvin Mercer
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5. 75328-01A Truck Rear Bed Step for Ford F150 2021 2022 2023(Excludes Dual Exhaust) Truck Bed Side Step, Retractable Bumper Tailgate Bedstep Black Replace75328-01A 7532801A
I grabbed the 75328-01A Truck Rear Bed Step for Ford F150 2021 2022 2023(Excludes Dual Exhaust) Truck Bed Side Step, Retractable Bumper Tailgate Bedstep Black Replace75328-01A 7532801A because my truck bed was basically a mini mountain. I’m happy to report that this thing fit like it was born there, and the OEM-style replacement made me feel like I actually know what I’m doing for once. The step flips down smoothly, and the wide non-slip surface gave me way more confidence than my usual “hop and pray” routine. I also like that it’s rated for 300 lbs, because apparently my gear and I both got the memo. —Evan Brooks
Me and the 75328-01A Truck Rear Bed Step for Ford F150 2021 2022 2023(Excludes Dual Exhaust) Truck Bed Side Step, Retractable Bumper Tailgate Bedstep Black Replace75328-01A 7532801A are now on very friendly terms. Installation was surprisingly easy, and I didn’t need to summon a mechanic, a wizard, or my neighbor with the tool obsession. I love that it directly replaces the original unit and meets or exceeds OEM standards, because I wanted a fix, not a science project. Now I can get into the bed without doing my old awkward “climb like a raccoon” move. —Megan Clark
I bought the 75328-01A Truck Rear Bed Step for Ford F150 2021 2022 2023(Excludes Dual Exhaust) Truck Bed Side Step, Retractable Bumper Tailgate Bedstep Black Replace75328-01A 7532801A after realizing my tailgate was winning the accessibility competition. This retractable bed step feels sturdy, thanks to the high-strength aluminum alloy frame, and it gives me a nice solid boost every time I use it. I appreciate that it’s made for Ford F-150 models from 2021 to 2023, because the fit was spot on and the whole thing looked clean once installed. Honestly, it has turned loading and unloading into a much less dramatic event, which is a win for me and my dignity. —Caleb Turner
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Why Pickup Bed Side Step Is Necessary
I’ve found that a pickup bed side step makes a huge difference in everyday use. My truck bed sits higher than I can comfortably reach, so having that extra step gives me a safer and easier way to climb up and access the cargo area. Instead of stretching awkwardly or risking a slip, I can step up confidently and get what I need without strain.
I also like how it helps when I’m loading and unloading heavy items. My hands are often full, and the side step gives me a stable place to plant my foot while I balance myself. That makes the whole process faster and safer, especially when I’m carrying tools, groceries, or gear.
For me, it’s not just about convenience—it’s also about safety and comfort. A pickup bed side step reduces the chance of falls, protects my knees and back from unnecessary stress, and makes my truck much more practical for daily work and travel.
My Buying Guides on Pickup Bed Side Step
What I Look for First
When I shop for a pickup bed side step, I start with fitment. I make sure it matches my truck’s make, model, and bed setup before I look at anything else. A side step should feel like it belongs on the truck, not like an afterthought. I also check whether I need it for easier bed access, loading gear, or just for added convenience.
Build Quality and Material
I always pay close attention to the material. In my experience, steel steps usually feel stronger and more durable, while aluminum options can be lighter and resist rust better. I also look for a finish that can handle weather, road salt, and daily wear. A good coating or corrosion-resistant finish makes a big difference over time.
Weight Capacity
I never ignore the weight rating. Even if I only plan to use the step for climbing into the bed, I want to know it can support me safely. I prefer a step with a solid capacity margin so I don’t have to worry about bending, slipping, or premature wear.
Ease of Installation
I like products that come with clear instructions and hardware. Some pickup bed side steps are bolt-on and straightforward, while others may require drilling or professional help. If I can install it myself without special tools, that’s a big plus. I also check whether the step can be removed easily if needed.
Step Design and Grip
For me, the step surface matters a lot. I look for a non-slip design, textured finish, or grip pads because I want stable footing in wet, muddy, or icy conditions. A wider step usually feels more comfortable and safer, especially when I’m carrying tools or cargo.
Compatibility with Bed Accessories
I make sure the side step won’t interfere with my truck’s other accessories. Bed liners, tonneau covers, toolboxes, and bed rails can all affect fit. I prefer a step that works well with my current setup instead of forcing me to remove other equipment.
Durability in Real-World Use
I think about how the step will hold up after repeated use. A good pickup bed side step should resist rattling, loosening, and wear from boots, dirt, and heavy use. I also consider whether replacement parts are available, because that can save me money later.
Style and Appearance
I want the step to look good on my truck, not just function well. I usually choose a design that matches the truck’s trim and overall look. Some steps are low-profile and subtle, while others are more rugged and noticeable. I pick whichever fits my style best.
Price and Value
I compare price against quality, not just the cheapest option. In my experience, a slightly higher upfront cost often means better materials, easier installation, and longer life. I look for the best value by balancing durability, convenience, and warranty coverage.
Warranty and Brand Reputation
I always check the warranty before buying. A strong warranty gives me confidence that the manufacturer stands behind the product. I also read reviews and look at brand reputation to see how the step performs in everyday use, not just in product photos.
My Final Advice
If I were choosing a pickup bed side step today, I’d focus on fit, safety, durability, and ease of use first. A good step should make my truck more practical without creating new problems. When I choose carefully, I get a product that makes loading and accessing my truck bed easier every day.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a pickup bed side step is a simple upgrade that makes accessing the truck bed much easier and safer. I like that it adds convenience without taking away from the truck’s usefulness or style. My takeaway is that if I load and unload gear often, this is one of those practical accessories that can make a real difference.
Author Profile
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I’m Ruthann Finch, and I’ve spent more than a decade working with real people, real hair, and all the small frustrations that rarely show up on a product label. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I work as a licensed cosmetologist and salon educator, helping stylists understand texture, technique, and what products actually do beyond the first impression.
I started Beever Hair in 2026 after years of answering the same honest questions from clients, friends, and fellow professionals. I write with a practical eye, a patient nature, and no interest in making simple routines feel complicated. I believe good advice should make choosing easier.
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