30/01/2026 9:15 am
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Hey everyone! I just picked up a 2023 Toyota RAV4 and I’m looking to add some running boards to make it a bit easier for my kids to hop in and out. I’m planning on doing the installation myself in my driveway this weekend, but I’m a bit nervous about the process. I’ve watched a few videos where people had to trim plastic underbody panels or struggle with blind bolts, and I’d really like to avoid any heavy drilling or permanent modifications if possible.
I’ve been looking at a few options like the Tyger Auto risers and the TAC side steps, but it's hard to tell which ones actually line up perfectly with the factory mounting points. My budget is around $300-$400, and I’m really prioritizing a 'bolt-on' experience that doesn't require a professional shop or specialized tools. I'm especially curious about any brands that include clear instructions and all the necessary brackets without needing a second pair of hands to hold everything in place.
Has anyone here installed side steps on a fifth-gen RAV4 recently? Which specific brand or model did you find the easiest to bolt on without running into fitment issues?
6 Answers
16
30/01/2026 9:40 am
Same here!
10
30/01/2026 9:50 am
Same here!
8
30/01/2026 9:25 am
I went through this last year. Honestly, I was super stressed about the same thing because I'm not exactly a master mechanic and didn't want to mess up my new ride. I ended up picking up the Tyger Auto TG-RS2T40208 Riser Running Boards for around $350. My experience was actually way smoother than the YouTube horror stories lol.
So basically, the fifth-gen RAV4 has these factory mounting points under the rocker panels that are hidden by some plastic plugs. I didn't have to drill a single hole, which was a huge relief! The brackets lined up perfectly with the M8 holes. It took me maybe ninety minutes in my driveway. Pro tip: just loosely thread the bolts in first so you can wiggle the board into place before tightening everything down. It made the whole "no second pair of hands" thing totally doable. The instructions were decent, and they really do feel rock solid once they're bolted on. Definitely a win for the kids getting in and out!
7
30/01/2026 10:20 am
Honestly, if ur priority is safety for the kids, I gotta tell you that some of those 'easy' bolt-on kits are basically a letdown. I've had issues with brackets that flex way too much under weight, which is seriously sketchy when you've got little ones jumping on 'em. Most 5th gen kits use those factory holes, but the thickness of the steel in the brackets is where they usually cheap out. Tbh, I was pretty disappointed with a set of generic side steps I tried—the powder coating flaked off in months, and the rust actually started affecting the hardware!! Not exactly 'safe' long-term...
So yeah, before you buy, are you looking for a wider flat surface for the kids to plant their feet, or are you okay with a narrower tube style?? Also, do you live somewhere with snowy winters? Salt will absolutely wreck the cheaper brackets and make 'em brittle.
2
30/01/2026 9:45 am
Same here!
1
30/01/2026 9:15 am
For your situation, I'd say you're basically in the clear with most bolt-on kits. Honestly, I did this on my 5th gen last year and was SO relieved when the brackets lined up with the factory holes.
Sooo, here's what I learned:
- Most use the existing M8 weld nuts under the rocker panels.
- The ones I got didn't require any trimming (thank god!!).
- A 12mm socket is basically all u need.
It was a decent option for a driveway job... took me like forty-five mins total. gl!
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