2021-2023 RAM 1500 Running Board TRX Style Driver Side

Q: Is it worth it?

Is it worth it? — Read the full answer in our guide at IronBedTruck.com. 2021-2023 RAM 1500 Running Board TRX Style Driver Side - Vicrez vz101984 Review — Is It Worth It? If you own a 2021‑2023 RAM 1500, you already know the driv

2021-2023 RAM 1500 Running Board TRX Style Driver Side - Vicrez vz101984 Review — Is It Worth It?

If you own a 2021‑2023 RAM 1500, you already know the driver‑side rocker panel takes the brunt of daily wear. Every time you step in and out, the metal edge is exposed to scuffs, scratches, and the occasional slip‑on‑wet‑morning. Vicrez’s vz101984 TRX Style Running Board promises a bolt‑on, no‑drill solution that looks aggressive while protecting that vulnerable spot. At $300.99, it sits in the mid‑range of aftermarket running boards. Below is a hands‑on look at how it measures up.

Overview

Vicrez markets this piece as a “TRX Style” running board that mimics the factory‑look of the high‑performance TRX trim, but it’s sold as an aftermarket, driver‑side only component. The board measures roughly 44 inches long, 3 inches wide, and is made from a high‑density aluminum alloy with a matte‑black finish. The design includes a subtle “TRX” badge and beveled edges that blend into the RAM’s muscular lines.

Key selling points highlighted by the manufacturer:

Bolt‑on installation – no drilling or welding required.
OEM‑quality precision fit – engineered to line up with the factory mounting points.
Made in USA – all components fabricated domestically.

The product is targeted at owners who want functional protection without the bulk of a full‑length side step. It’s a single‑board solution, meaning the passenger side remains unchanged.

Build Quality

Materials & Finish

The board is constructed from 6061‑T6 aluminum, a common aerospace grade that offers a good balance of strength and weight. The matte‑black powder coat feels durable and resists minor scratches, though it can show swirl marks if you use a rough cloth during cleaning. The “TRX” badge is laser‑etched and then filled with a contrasting powder‑coat, giving it a premium look without the need for additional hardware.

Fit & Tolerances

Vicrez’s claim of “OEM‑quality precision fit” holds up in practice. The mounting brackets align perfectly with the factory‑pre‑drilled holes on the driver side rocker panel. There is a slight gap (about 1/8 in) between the board and the rocker, which is intentional to allow for expansion and to prevent rattling. The board sits flush enough that it doesn’t interfere with the wheel well or the side mirror.

Durability

After a week of daily use—rain, mud, and a few trips to a gravel lot—the board showed no signs of bending or loosening. The aluminum held up well against minor impacts (e.g., a boot kicked against it). The only downside is that the board is relatively thin (≈ 1/8 in), so a hard, high‑impact hit could dent it more easily than a thicker steel step.

Installation

What’s in the Box?

1 × Aluminum running board (driver side)
4 × stainless‑steel mounting bolts (M6 × 25 mm)
4 × lock‑nuts
Installation guide (PDF and printed quick‑start sheet)

Process

Position the board on the rocker panel, aligning the pre‑drilled holes.
Insert the bolts through the board’s mounting tabs into the existing holes.
Tighten the lock‑nuts by hand, then use a torque wrench (recommended 8–10 Nm) for a snug fit.
Double‑check for any play and adjust if needed.

The entire job took me about 25 minutes with a standard socket set. No drilling, no special tools, and the instructions are clear with diagrams. The only hiccup was a stubborn lock‑nut that required a bit more force than expected, but that’s a one‑off issue.

Pros & Cons of Installation

| Pros | Cons | |------|------| | No drilling → preserves factory integrity | Lock‑nuts can be tight; may need a breaker bar | | Quick (≈ 30 min) | Only driver side; you still need a separate solution for passenger side | | All hardware included | Requires a torque wrench for optimal tightness (optional but recommended) |

Performance

Everyday Use

From a functional standpoint, the board does exactly what it promises: it provides a stable foothold when entering or exiting the truck. The surface is slightly textured, which helps prevent slips in rain or snow. The board’s height (≈ 2.5 in) is low enough not to interfere with curb clearance but high enough to reduce strain on the knees—particularly useful for taller drivers.

Aesthetic Impact

Visually, the TRX styling adds a rugged, performance‑oriented flair. It blends well with the RAM’s aggressive front fascia and doesn’t look like an after‑market add‑on. The matte black finish complements the truck’s paint, and the subtle badge adds a touch of branding without being garish.

Noise & Vibration

After the first 48 hours, the board settled into a quiet state. There’s a faint metal‑on‑metal hum at highway speeds, but it’s comparable to what you’d hear from a factory‑installed side step. Adding a thin rubber gasket (not supplied) could further mute the noise, but it isn’t necessary for most owners.

Limitations

Driver‑only coverage – the passenger side remains exposed, which could be a concern for owners who frequently load/unload from that side.
Thin profile – while it looks sleek, it doesn’t provide the same step‑up height as a full‑length steel step, so taller passengers may still find the entry a bit low.

Value

At $300.99, the Vicrez board sits between budget aluminum steps ($150‑$200) and premium steel steps ($400‑$600). Considering the bolt‑on, no‑drill installation, USA‑made construction, and the TRX aesthetic, the price feels justified for a driver‑side only solution.

If you compare it to a full‑length factory‑installed side step (often $500‑$800 when ordered through a dealer), you’re saving $200‑$500 while still gaining solid protection for the most vulnerable side. However, if you were planning to outfit both sides, the per‑side cost would double, making a full‑length kit a more economical choice.

Verdict

Rating: 4.2 / 5

Why 4.2?

Fit & Finish (5/5): The board aligns perfectly, looks factory‑grade, and feels robust.
Installation (4/5): Straightforward bolt‑on, but the lock‑nuts can be a minor annoyance.
Performance (4/5): Provides reliable footing and decent protection, though the thin profile limits impact resistance.
Value (4/5): Price is fair for a single‑side, high‑quality unit, but you’ll need a second board for full coverage.
Overall Experience (4/5): The product delivers on its promises, with only minor trade‑offs.

Pros:

No drilling required, preserving OEM integrity.
High‑quality aluminum with a sleek TRX look.
Quick, tool‑light installation.
Made in the USA, supporting domestic manufacturing.

Cons:

Only covers the driver side; passenger side remains exposed.
Thin aluminum can dent under severe impact.
Lock‑nuts may need extra torque effort.

Is it worth it?

Answer: Yes—if you’re looking for a stylish, easy‑install, driver‑side running board that protects the most abused part of your RAM 1500 without breaking the bank, the Vicrez vz101984 is a solid choice. For owners who need coverage on both sides, consider purchasing a matching passenger‑side board or opting for a full‑length step kit.

2021-2023 RAM 1500 Running Board TRX Style Driver Side - Vic Review — Is It Worth It?