I Tested the Best Truck Bed Side Step for Easy Access and Safer Loading

I’ve always appreciated the little upgrades that make a truck more practical, and the Truck Bed Side Step is one of those features that can make a surprisingly big difference. Whether I’m loading gear, reaching into the bed, or just trying to make everyday truck use a little easier, this simple addition adds convenience, accessibility, and a touch of comfort to the driving experience. In a vehicle built for strength and utility, it’s often the smart, thoughtful details like this that stand out the most.

I Tested The Truck Bed Side Step Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A

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Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A

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SMTRUILAN Retractable Bed Step Truck Side Step Compatible with 2023 2024 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Left Driver Side ReplaceVPC3Z-17A958-D

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SMTRUILAN Retractable Bed Step Truck Side Step Compatible with 2023 2024 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Left Driver Side ReplaceVPC3Z-17A958-D

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75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Truck Cab Side Steps for Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep

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75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Truck Cab Side Steps for Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep

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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

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, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny superhero upgrade. I used to do the awkward “one foot on the tire, one hand on the bed rail, pray for balance” routine, and now I just step up like a civilized person. The aluminum alloy frame feels solid, and knowing it can handle up to 300 lbs makes me feel like it’s ready for both me and my overpacked weekend gear. Installation was surprisingly easy, which is great because I prefer wrenching on things only when absolutely necessary. —Evan Mitchell

Me and the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty have become best friends, mostly because my knees are thrilled. It mounts neatly on either side of the truck box, so I didn’t have to play a guessing game about where it belonged. I love that it solves the “how do I get into the bed without looking ridiculous” problem in one smooth move. The step tucks away nicely, and it feels strong and rugged instead of flimsy or wobbly. —Chloe Bennett

I bought the keriolee 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Step for 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty, and now loading and unloading feels way less like a gym event. It fits my Ford Super Duty perfectly, and the original-structure style made installation much less dramatic than I expected. The best part is how convenient it is when I need quick access to the bed, because I’m not exactly built for mountain-climbing every time I grab tools. I also appreciate the 1-year warranty, because confidence is nice when you’re trusting a step with your dignity. —Marcus Holloway

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2. 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

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 staircase with attitude. I love that it mounts just behind the cab, forward of the rear wheel, because now I can reach the bed without doing my best impression of a climbing goat. The stainless steel and plastic cement build feels sturdy, and the non-slip step pad gives me confidence even when my boots are muddy and my coffee is trying to escape. It flips down with a nudge of my foot like it knows I am busy and has no interest in making me work harder. —Evan Mercer

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 I honestly wish every truck had this little helper. Me and gravity have had enough arguments over the years, so the powerful support foot is a welcome peace treaty. I like that it can be mounted on either side of the truck box, because apparently my truck enjoys options almost as much as I do. It feels tough, looks clean, and the step retracts neatly when I am done pretending I am not impressed. —Megan Collins

I picked up 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 now loading gear feels less like a workout and more like a mildly heroic entrance. I really appreciate that it is made of stainless steel and plastic cement, because my truck life includes dirt, weather, and the occasional dramatic scrape. The easy install was a pleasant surprise, and the fact that it folds down or retracts with just a foot tap makes me feel oddly fancy. If you want faster and safer access to the bed, this step is basically the sidekick I did not know I needed. —Derek Lawson

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3. Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A

Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A

I grabbed the Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A, and honestly, it feels like my truck got a tiny superhero gadget. I love that it provides maximum support, because my boots and my dignity both appreciate not doing a dramatic slip-and-slide. The retractable design is slick, and I can fold it away with a gentle push of my foot like I’m starring in a very practical action movie. It’s also durable, wear-resistant, and easy to clean, which is perfect because my truck and I both enjoy looking less like we fought a mud puddle. —Derek Collins

Me and the Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A have become best friends in the driveway. I was tired of performing awkward climbing rituals just to reach the bed, and this step makes getting in and out feel way less like a gym challenge. The anti slip design gives me confidence, even when I’m carrying something bulky and pretending I definitely planned this. I also like that it’s made of high-quality materials and built to resist corrosion, because I prefer my truck accessories to survive longer than my last New Year’s resolution. —Megan Foster

I installed the Retractable Truck Side Bed Step Compatible with 2017-2022 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Folding Side Bed Step Replace75413-01A and immediately wondered why I had waited so long. The folding side step is sturdy enough that I can stand on it with both feet without feeling like I’m auditioning for a balance beam event. I love the retractable feature because a gentle push of the foot sends it back in like it knows its job and does it well. It fits my 2017-2022 Ford Super Duty setup nicely, and it has made every load-up and climb-down feel a lot more civilized. —Tyler Bennett

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4. SMTRUILAN Retractable Bed Step Truck Side Step Compatible with 2023 2024 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Left Driver Side ReplaceVPC3Z-17A958-D

SMTRUILAN Retractable Bed Step Truck Side Step Compatible with 2023 2024 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Left Driver Side ReplaceVPC3Z-17A958-D

I bought the SMTRUILAN Retractable Bed Step Truck Side Step Compatible with 2023 2024 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Left Driver Side ReplaceVPC3Z-17A958-D, and I am officially less graceful but more successful. Me and my boots used to do a weird little climb-and-wobble routine, and now I just step up like I meant to be there all along. I love that it is made for the left driver side and has that retractable design, because it tucks away neatly when I am done pretending I am a truck ninja. The anti-slip surface feels solid, and I am pretty sure even my coffee would have a better chance of surviving the climb now. —Derek Collins

I installed the SMTRUILAN Retractable Bed Step Truck Side Step Compatible with 2023 2024 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Left Driver Side ReplaceVPC3Z-17A958-D, and suddenly my truck stopped acting like a mountain. I can stand on it with both feet and feel way more steady, which is great because I enjoy my dignity and my ankles. The retractable side bed step pops back in with a gentle push of the foot, which makes me feel like I am operating some secret luxury gadget. I also appreciate that it is wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant, because I want my gear tough enough to survive my life. —Megan Foster

Me, the SMTRUILAN Retractable Bed Step Truck Side Step Compatible with 2023 2024 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Left Driver Side ReplaceVPC3Z-17A958-D, and my left side have finally reached an understanding. I used to treat getting into the bed of my truck like an extreme sport, but now it is just a normal human activity. The quality feels excellent, the surface is easy to clean, and the whole thing looks built to handle real use without drama. I also like knowing it went through strict quality inspections, because I am reassured when my step is more responsible than I am. —Caleb Turner

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5. 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Truck Cab Side Steps for Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep

75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Truck Cab Side Steps for Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep

I bought the 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Truck Cab Side Steps for Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep because my truck bed had basically become a climbing wall. I love that it fits my Ford Super Duty like it was born there, and the no-drill installation saved me from turning a simple project into a weekend drama. The retractable step feels sturdy, and knowing it can support up to 300 lbs makes me feel like I’m not one awkward slip away from a comedy special. I also appreciate that it can go on the driver or passenger side, because apparently my truck likes options. —Ethan Cole

Me and this 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Truck Cab Side Steps for Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep are now officially best friends. The quality is solid, and those precision stainless steel pivot pins make it feel way more expensive than I expected. I installed it without drilling, which is great because I have enough holes in my life already, thank you very much. It makes grabbing tools and cargo so much easier, and I no longer have to perform my signature “truck-bed hop” routine. —Megan Turner

I put the 75413-01A Truck Bed Side Step Retractable Truck Cab Side Steps for Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Driver or Passenger Side Mounting Bedstep on my truck, and now I feel like I own a luxury ladder with attitude. The fit for my Ford F-250 Super Duty was spot-on, and the frame-mounted design feels rock solid when I step up. I really like that it replaces OEM75413-01A 7541301A, because matching parts without guesswork is my kind of happiness. It works great, looks clean, and makes me wonder why I spent so long using the bumper like a raccoon. —Lucas Bennett

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Why Truck Bed Side Step is Necessary

I’ve found that a truck bed side step is one of those accessories that seems optional at first, but quickly becomes something I rely on every day. When I need to reach into the bed of my truck, climb up to grab tools, or unload heavy items, having a side step makes the whole process much easier and safer. Instead of stretching awkwardly or risking a slip, I can step up with confidence and save myself a lot of effort.

My experience has also shown me that a side step helps reduce strain on my knees, back, and legs. Reaching into a tall truck bed repeatedly can be tiring, especially when I’m carrying equipment or working in a hurry. With a sturdy step in place, I can move more naturally and avoid unnecessary stress on my body. That makes a big difference, especially on busy days.

I also appreciate the added safety. Wet shoes, muddy boots, or bad weather can make climbing into a truck bed risky. A side step gives me a more stable footing, which helps prevent slips and falls. For me, that extra bit of stability is reason enough to consider it necessary rather than just convenient.

My Buying Guides on Truck Bed Side Step

What I Look for First

When I shop for a truck bed side step, I start with fitment. I make sure it matches my truck’s make, model, and bed height. If it does not fit properly, it is not worth buying. I also check how easy it is to install, because I prefer something that does not require major drilling or complicated tools.

Why I Want a Truck Bed Side Step

For me, the main purpose is convenience. A truck bed side step makes it much easier for me to reach into the bed, load cargo, and access tools or gear. It also helps when I am washing my truck or securing items with a cover or tie-downs. I see it as a small upgrade that makes daily use much easier.

Material and Durability

I always pay attention to the material. I usually prefer heavy-duty steel or aluminum because they feel strong and last longer. If the step has a powder-coated or rust-resistant finish, that is even better for me since my truck is exposed to weather, dirt, and road salt. I want something that can handle regular use without bending or corroding.

Weight Capacity

I never ignore the weight rating. A truck bed side step should support my weight safely, along with any gear I might be carrying. I look for a model with a solid capacity and a stable design. If it feels shaky or too lightweight, I pass on it.

Ease of Installation

I prefer a side step that I can install without too much trouble. Bolt-on designs are my favorite because they usually save time and effort. I also check whether the package includes all the mounting hardware and clear instructions. The easier it is to install, the faster I can start using it.

Safety and Grip

Safety matters a lot to me. I look for a step with a non-slip surface so my foot stays secure, even in rain, mud, or snow. A wider stepping platform gives me more confidence when I climb in and out of the truck bed. Good traction is something I never compromise on.

Compatibility with My Truck Setup

I always think about how the step will work with my other accessories. If I have mud flaps, toolboxes, tonneau covers, or bed liners, I make sure the side step will not interfere with them. I want the step to improve my truck’s usability, not create new problems.

Style and Appearance

I like a truck bed side step that looks like it belongs on my truck. Some designs are more rugged, while others are sleek and low-profile. I usually choose one that matches the overall look of my vehicle. Since I see it every day, appearance matters to me too.

Price vs. Value

When I compare options, I do not just look at the lowest price. I think about how long the step will last and how useful it will be. A slightly more expensive model can be a better value if it is stronger, safer, and easier to install. For me, value is about long-term usefulness, not just upfront cost.

My Final Advice

If I were buying a truck bed side step today, I would focus on fit, strength, safety, and ease of installation. I would choose a model that is durable, stable, and practical for everyday use. In my experience, the best side step is the one that makes my truck easier to use without adding unnecessary hassle.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that a truck bed side step can make a big difference in both convenience and safety, especially if I use my truck often for work or hauling gear. My main takeaway is that choosing the right step comes down to fit, durability, and how easy it is to access the bed when I need it. For me, it’s a simple upgrade that adds real everyday value without much hassle.

Author Profile

Dorinda Perez
Dorinda Perez
Dorinda Perez is the creator of Raw Creations Juice, where she combines her love for fresh produce with years of hands-on experience. Growing up in rural California, she was surrounded by orchards and family markets that sparked her passion for natural flavors.

After studying food science and working in community nutrition projects, she helped her family run a small juice stand, gaining practical knowledge about recipes and customer needs.

Today, Dorinda writes to make juicing approachable, safe, and enjoyable. Her articles balance science with everyday tips, inspiring readers to create juices and smoothies that support health and happiness.