What are Nerf Bars? - Midwest Aftermarket

The term 'nerf bar' in the context of cars could seem like something from a gamer's lexicon or a science fiction film. However, truck and SUV owners are starting to favor these beneficial modifications more and more. What are nerf bars precisely? How are they installed? Are these bars worth the money spent?

Midwest Aftermarket is at your service to provide simplified solutions to your quest for what are nerf bars, along with a diversified range of products to level up your driving experience.

An Insight into Nerf Bars

Nerf bars are tubular or flat bars. These are attached to the sides of trucks and SUVs. They are often referred to by different names, such as:

  • Boss bars
  • SidebarsSide steps
  • Step bars
  • Step rails
  • Step tubes
  • Truck steps
  • Tube steps

The primary purpose of boss bars is to offer a step enabling simpler access to the car's interior. It is mainly for passengers with troubled mobility or who wish to avoid straining themselves when getting into higher cars.

Sidebars are usually located directly below the doors. These bars extend the whole length of the car's interior. They can be formed of materials like:

  • Aluminum
  • Stainless steel
  • Heavy-duty plastic

They are available in various forms, such as round or oval tubes.

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How to Install Nerf Bars?

Armed with essential equipment and a little DIY knowledge, installing side steps is a reasonably simple task. Make sure you have all the equipment you'll need, such as:

  • Torque wrench
  • Socket set
  • Drill (optional)

Setting Them Up

Make sure the step bars are correctly positioned and equally spaced by pressing them against the underside of your car's body.

Marking Places

The mounting places on the vehicle's body where the step rails will be installed should be marked with a pencil or tape. These spots may already have pre-drilled holes, and they are usually close to the doors.

Drill Holes (if required)

If your car lacks pre-drilled mounting holes, you might have to do the drilling yourself. The mounting hardware with your sidebars should be the same size as the drill bit you use.

Mounting Bracket Installation

Attach the mounting brackets to the vehicle's body using the supplied hardware, ensuring they are firmly in place.

Fix Step Tubes

After the brackets are in position, fasten the step tubes to them with the bolts or screws that come with them. Tighten the bolts according to the manufacturer's instructions using a torque wrench.

After installation, check the truck steps' stability to ensure they are firmly fastened and able to bear weight without swaying or shifting.

Final Modifications

Before tightening all of the bolts firmly, make any necessary last-minute modifications to the alignment or location of the tube steps.

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Are Nerf Bars Worth It?

Boss bars may or may not be worth the purchase. It depends on your own needs and tastes. Some things to think about are as follows:

Convenience

Thanks to side bars, taller cars' cabins are simpler to reach for kids, senior citizens, and anyone with mobility impairments.

Protection

Side steps act as a step and shield the car's body panels from rocks, debris, and other cars' dents, scratches, and dings.

Aesthetics

Many people select step bars because they look good and can give trucks and SUVs a tough or sporty appearance.

Resale Value

Because tube steps are a popular aftermarket addition that many purchasers seek out, installing them may boost the resale value of your car.

The Bottom Line

Knowing what are nerf bars brings convenience, security, and flair to trucks and SUVs. They are both functional and aesthetically pleasant. Although installing them is ultimately a personal opinion, you will find the many advantages well worth the expenditure.