2013 Ford F150 Side Steps – Choosing And Installing The Best Entry
Adding 2013 ford f150 side steps to your vehicle significantly improves accessibility for passengers while providing a rugged aesthetic and extra paint protection. This guide breaks down the different styles of steps available, the specific tools you need for a DIY install, and how to maintain them for years of reliable use.
Getting in and out of a full-sized truck shouldn’t feel like a mountaineering expedition, especially if your Ford has a leveling kit or a lift. You probably agree that while the high ground clearance is great for the trail, it can be a literal pain for daily errands or loading the family.
I promise that by the end of this guide, you will know exactly which style of step fits your lifestyle and how to bolt them onto your frame in under two hours. We will preview the different materials, the mounting points specific to the 12th-generation F-Series, and the common pitfalls to avoid during installation.
Investing in 2013 ford f150 side steps is one of the most practical upgrades you can make to your rig, offering a solid stepping surface and a shield against road debris. Let’s dive into the technical details so you can get the job done right the first time.
Understanding the Different Styles of Side Steps for Your F150
Before you grab a wrench, you need to decide which “footing” matches your truck’s personality and your personal needs. Not all steps are created equal, and the 2013 model year supports a wide variety of mounting configurations.
Classic Nerf Bars
Nerf bars are usually tubular in shape and come in round or oval designs, typically ranging from three to six inches in diameter. These are excellent for a sporty look and usually feature recessed rubber step pads for better traction in wet weather.
Most nerf bars for the 2013 F150 are made from stainless steel or powder-coated mild steel. If you live in the “salt belt,” I highly recommend the stainless option to prevent the brackets from turning into a pile of rust within two winters.
Wide Running Boards
Running boards offer a flatter, wider surface that runs the length of the cab, providing more stable footing for children and elderly passengers. Because they sit closer to the body of the truck, they also do a better job of blocking rocks kicked up by the front tires.
These are often preferred by owners who want a factory-clean look rather than a rugged off-road appearance. They are typically constructed from high-grade aluminum with a non-slip plastic top plate.
Power Deployable Steps
For the ultimate “wow” factor, power steps hide under the rocker panels and drop down automatically when you open the door. These provide the lowest step height, making them the most ergonomic choice for lifted trucks.
While they are the most expensive option, they preserve your ground clearance when retracted. Keep in mind that these require more intensive wiring and periodic lubrication of the motor linkages.
Essential Tools and Materials for a Successful Installation
One of the best things about the 2013 Ford F150 is that the factory already provided the mounting holes. You won’t need to do any drilling or welding for the vast majority of aftermarket kits.
To make the job go smoothly, gather a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and a set of metric sockets, specifically 10mm and 13mm. You will also want a torque wrench to ensure the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Socket Set: Deep-well sockets are best for reaching over the mounting studs.
- PB Blaster or WD-40: Use this to clean out factory threads that might be filled with road grime.
- Safety Glasses: Rust flakes love to fall into your eyes the moment you crawl under the truck.
- Anti-Seize Lubricant: Applying this to the bolt threads will make future removals much easier.
If you are working on your back in the driveway, a piece of cardboard or a mechanic’s creeper will make moving around much more comfortable. Always ensure the truck is parked on a level surface with the parking brake engaged before you begin.
A DIY Installation Guide for 2013 ford f150 side steps
Installing 2013 ford f150 side steps is a straightforward process that most DIYers can handle on a Saturday morning. The key is to stay organized and avoid over-tightening the hardware before everything is aligned.
Step 1: Locate the Factory Mounting Points
Crawl under the side of the truck and look at the inner rocker panel. You will see several sets of factory-drilled holes, some of which may have plastic plugs or tape covering them.
Remove any coverings and use a wire brush to clean the area around the holes. This ensures the mounting brackets sit flush against the metal, preventing squeaks and vibrations later on.
Step 2: Install the Mounting Brackets
Most kits come with three brackets per side: front, center, and rear. Identify which is which, as they are often not interchangeable due to the contour of the truck’s frame.
Hand-thread the bolts or nuts onto the factory studs, but leave them slightly loose. This “play” in the hardware allows you to shift the step forward or backward to get the perfect alignment with the doors.
Step 3: Mount the Step Bar to the Brackets
This is the part where a second pair of hands is incredibly helpful. Lift the step bar onto the brackets and align the pre-installed T-bolts or threaded inserts with the bracket slots.
Secure the bar to the brackets using the provided washers and nuts. Once the bar is sitting level and looks centered under the cab, you can begin the final tightening sequence.
Step 4: Torque the Hardware
Start with the bolts holding the brackets to the truck, then move to the bolts holding the bar to the brackets. Most manufacturers recommend between 15 to 20 foot-pounds of torque for these fasteners.
Give the bar a firm shake to ensure there is no movement. If you hear a “clunk,” one of your brackets is likely misaligned or loose, so double-check every nut before moving to the other side.
Choosing the Right Materials for Durability and Grip
The environment you drive in should dictate the material of your steps. If you spend your weekends at the off-road park, you need something that can take a hit without buckling.
Stainless Steel vs. Aluminum
Stainless steel is incredibly strong and offers a high-luster finish that looks great with chrome bumpers. However, it is heavier than aluminum and can be more expensive.
Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant and lightweight. This is the preferred choice for those looking to keep their truck’s gross weight down to maximize fuel efficiency or towing capacity.
Powder Coating and Finishes
A high-quality powder coat provides a textured surface that adds extra grip when your boots are covered in mud or snow. Look for “textured black” finishes if you want a rugged, tactical appearance.
Be wary of cheap “painted” steps, as the paint will quickly chip away from road salt and gravel impact. Once the bare metal is exposed, rust will spread rapidly under the remaining finish.
Safety Considerations and Off-Road Clearance
While 2013 ford f150 side steps provide a great boost, they do change the profile of your truck. If you are a frequent trail rider, you need to consider how they affect your breakover angle.
Low-hanging steps can act as a “plow” in deep mud or get hung up on large rocks. If you plan on serious rock crawling, you might want to look into rock sliders, which are designed to support the weight of the truck if it bottoms out.
For the average daily driver, the safety benefit of a secure footing far outweighs the slight loss in ground clearance. Just remember to clear any ice or slush off the step pads during winter to prevent slips.
- Check Clearance: Ensure the steps don’t interfere with the opening of the doors or the movement of the front tires at full lock.
- Weight Ratings: Most quality steps are rated for 300–500 lbs. Never exceed the manufacturer’s weight limit.
- Maintenance: Periodically check the torque on your mounting bolts, especially after driving on corrugated dirt roads.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 ford f150 side steps
Do I need to drill holes in my 2013 F150 to install side steps?
No, the 2013 Ford F150 comes from the factory with pre-drilled mounting holes and studs in the rocker panels. Almost all aftermarket side steps are designed to be “bolt-on,” meaning no drilling or permanent modification to your truck is required.
What is the difference between nerf bars and running boards?
Nerf bars are usually round or oval tubes with individual step pads for each door. Running boards are flat, wide platforms that run the full length of the cab. Running boards generally offer more surface area for your foot, while nerf bars offer a more aggressive, off-road look.
Will 2013 side steps fit a SuperCab and a SuperCrew?
The mounting points are the same, but the length of the bar is different. You must ensure you purchase the kit specific to your cab size. A SuperCrew (four full doors) requires a much longer step than a SuperCab (extended cab with smaller rear-opening doors).
How do I prevent my side steps from rusting?
The best way to prevent rust is to choose stainless steel or aluminum materials. If you have mild steel steps, wash them regularly to remove road salt and touch up any chips in the powder coating immediately with a rust-inhibiting paint.
Final Thoughts on Upgrading Your F150
Installing a set of 2013 ford f150 side steps is a rewarding project that pays off every time you climb into the driver’s seat. Whether you choose the sleek look of low-profile boards or the rugged utility of nerf bars, you are making your truck safer and more functional.
Remember to take your time during the alignment phase and always use a torque wrench to secure the hardware. A little bit of preventative maintenance, like checking the bolts every oil change, will keep your steps solid for the life of the vehicle.
Take pride in doing the work yourself and enjoy the new look of your rig. Stay safe on the road, keep your treads clean, and enjoy the ease of access your new steps provide!
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