Dodge Ram Crew Cab Side Steps: Desert vs Ambush
By Body Armor 4x4 | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Desert Series and Ambush side steps for Dodge Ram Crew Cab trucks. Learn which fits your model year and budget, and the trade-offs of each.
Quick answer
For 2009–2018 Ram 1500 and 2010–2018 Ram 2500/3500 Crew Cab trucks, the Desert Series side steps offer a rugged, clearance-priced option. For 2019–2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab (new body style), the Ambush side steps provide a sleek fit with a strong warranty.
Model year fit matters most
The Desert Series side steps are designed for 2009–2018 Dodge Ram 1500 and 2010–2018 Ram 2500/3500 Crew Cab models. The Ambush side steps fit 2019–2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab (new body style). Your truck's generation determines which option is available.
If you own a 2019 or newer Ram 1500, the Desert Series will not fit. Conversely, if you have an older Ram 2500 or 3500, the Ambush steps are not an option.
Price and warranty trade-off
The Desert Series steps are a clearance item at USD 362.40 (down from USD 604.00), but they are sold as-is with no returns or warranty. The Ambush steps cost USD 305.00 and come with a 3-year finish warranty and limited lifetime warranty.
If you are on a tight budget and can accept the risk of no warranty, the Desert Series saves you money upfront. If you want long-term protection, the Ambush steps are the safer investment despite the lower list price.
Desert Series vs Ambush: trade-offs at a glance
- Fitment: Desert Series fits 2009–2018 Ram 1500 and 2010–2018 Ram 2500/3500 Crew Cab. Ambush fits 2019–2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab (new body style).
- Warranty: Desert Series has no warranty. Ambush has a 3-year finish / limited lifetime warranty. Choose Ambush if warranty coverage is a priority.
- Price: Desert Series is USD 362.40 (clearance). Ambush is USD 305.00 (standard price). Ambush costs less upfront and includes a warranty.
Product facts
- 2009-2018 DODGE RAM 1500 & 2010-2018 RAM 2500/3500 CREW CAB DESERT SERIES SIDE STEPS: Clearance item sold as-is with no returns or warranty. You save on the initial cost but assume full responsibility for any defects or damage.
2009-2018 DODGE RAM 1500 & 2010-2018 RAM 2500/3500 CREW CAB DESERT SERIES SIDE STEPS - 2019-2026 DODGE RAM 1500 CREW CAB (NEW BODY STYLE) AMBUSH SIDE STEPS: Comes with a 3-year finish warranty and limited lifetime warranty. Long-term coverage gives peace of mind, especially if your truck sees harsh weather or off-road use.
2019-2026 DODGE RAM 1500 CREW CAB (NEW BODY STYLE) AMBUSH SIDE STEPS
Which steps fit your build?
Best for
- Owners of 2009–2018 Ram 1500 or 2010–2018 Ram 2500/3500 Crew Cab who want a rugged, discounted step and can accept no warranty.
- Owners of 2019–2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab who want a sleek, warrantied step at a competitive price.
Not for
- 2019–2026 Ram 1500 Crew Cab owners needing Desert Series steps (they won't fit).
- Owners of older Ram 2500/3500 trucks who need Ambush steps (not available for those models).
