I Bought a Used Chevy Silverado With Faded Running Boards, Now I’m Debating a Bold Bedliner Makeover or a Risky DIY Fix

This evening, I was scrolling through the "Chevrolet Silverado 1500/1200" group on Facebook and came across an interesting post by Nick Dyson. Nick recently bought a used Chevy Silverado with full-length running boards that have seen better days. The paint is peeling near the front doors, and he’s wondering how to restore them without breaking the bank.

Nick is considering giving his truck’s running boards a rugged, black, gritty bedliner-style treatment to restore their look and provide lasting protection. He posted, “Bought used, with full-length running boards in need of some love, as they’re missing paint by the driver and passenger side front doors. I’ve thought about giving them the same type of treatment as a bedliner, black and gritty. Is there any product out there that would achieve this, or should I just get the spray-on stuff and brush it on without fear of it looking like a hack job?”

It’s a fair question and one that many truck owners have asked before. Running boards take a beating over time from road debris, weather exposure, and constant foot traffic. The idea of using bedliner coating to refresh them is tempting because it’s durable, provides a tough texture, and can be a budget-friendly alternative to replacing them outright.

The Case for a Bedliner Makeover

Using a bedliner coating on running boards isn’t a new idea. Many Silverado owners have taken this route with varying levels of success. The advantages are clear: bedliner coatings are designed to withstand impact, resist rust, and provide a non-slip surface. When applied properly, they can transform faded running boards into tough, long-lasting components that can endure years of abuse.

One popular option is Raptor Liner, a durable, easy-to-apply coating that many truck owners swear by. Another choice is Herculiner, which can be applied with a brush or roller. These products give running boards a rugged, tactical look while adding protection against scratches and corrosion.

Leroy, another member of the Facebook group, chimed in on Nick’s post, saying, “Buy the same stuff you used for the bedliner, sand it down, and spray it.” This simple advice sums up the general consensus among truck enthusiasts—prep the surface properly, use a quality bedliner product, and apply it evenly for the best results.

For those who want to see how different Chevy Silverado models handle rugged conditions, check out this article about the 2024 Chevy Silverado's handling, which touches on durability and performance improvements.

The Risk of a DIY Fix

On the flip side, going the DIY route with a spray-on or brush-on bedliner could lead to an uneven, unprofessional finish. If the surface isn’t sanded and cleaned properly, the coating might not adhere well, leading to peeling or bubbling over time.

Some Silverado owners have reported that their DIY bedliner applications looked great at first but began to chip after a few months. If not applied evenly, the texture can also feel too rough, making the running boards uncomfortable to step on.

Another issue to consider is matching the look with the rest of the truck. If the running boards have a sleek factory finish, a bedliner treatment may stand out in an unappealing way. Before committing, it’s wise to test the coating on a small area first to see how it blends in with the truck’s overall aesthetic.

For those hesitant about making major modifications, it might be useful to explore the pros and cons of the latest Silverado EV models, which offer new perspectives on truck durability and style.

Alternative Solutions

If the bedliner idea seems too risky, there are other options to restore running boards:

1. Repainting – A high-quality spray paint designed for metal surfaces can restore the look without adding too much texture.
2. Plasti Dip – A temporary solution that allows you to change the color and peel it off later if you don’t like the results.
3. Vinyl Wrapping – A clean and reversible method that provides protection and a sleek finish.
4. Replacement – If the running boards are severely damaged, buying a new or used set might be a better long-term investment.

My Own Opinion

Personally, I think the bedliner option is a solid choice, but only if done properly. If you rush the prep work or apply it unevenly, you might end up with something that looks worse than what you started with. I’d lean towards using Raptor Liner for a clean, durable finish, but I’d take the extra time to mask off surrounding areas and apply it in light, even coats. Running boards get a lot of wear and tear, so durability is key. That said, if you're unsure about bedliner, a high-quality repaint might be the safer bet. Either way, putting in the effort to restore them properly will definitely enhance the look of your truck.

Additional Relevant Topics

If you're wondering about safety concerns with the Chevy Silverado, you might be interested in this story about a driver experiencing brake failure at 65 mph. It's a reminder of why proper maintenance is critical for truck owners.

For those who drive in extreme weather, check out this article on driving the 2024 Silverado in bad snow. It provides valuable insights into how well the truck performs in challenging conditions.

GM continues to push the boundaries with its truck lineup. This article explores how the Silverado combines EV and diesel power, offering an intriguing blend of efficiency and performance.

Additionally, if you're curious about the evolving Silverado lineup, check out this detailed look at the Silverado EV and its hidden gems. It dives into the truck's innovative features and challenges.

The Moral of the Story

Nick’s dilemma highlights a common struggle among truck owners: how to balance affordability with quality when restoring worn-out components. The key takeaway here is that proper preparation and research can make or break a DIY project. Whether going with a bedliner treatment or an alternative fix, taking the time to sand, clean, and apply coatings evenly is crucial for a professional-looking result.

What Do You Think?

Have you ever restored your truck’s running boards or other exterior components? What method worked best for you? Share your experience in the comments below.

Narek Hareyan is a young automotive journalist with experience in a golf cart dealership and an interest in the automotive industry. Follow Narek on X for daily news coverage about cars.