Side Steps vs Power Board Steps for Silverado
By Body Armor 4x4 | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Comparisons
Compare the 2019-2026 Silverado AMBUSH side steps with the 2007-2018 E-Power Board steps. Learn which step system fits your truck and use case.
Quick answer
Choose AMBUSH side steps for a simple, affordable, fixed step on 2019-2026 Silverado crew cabs. Choose E-Power Board steps for automatic power deployment and maximum ground clearance on 2007-2018 models.
Installation and power requirements
The E-Power Board steps require wiring for the dual-motor system and LED lights. The AMBUSH side steps bolt on with no electrical work. If you prefer a quick weekend install, the AMBUSH is the simpler route.
Ground clearance and protection
The E-Power Board’s low-profile design tucks up under the rocker panel, improving clearance over fixed steps. The AMBUSH main bar sits high and tight, but its drop step hangs lower. For off-road or deep snow, the E-Power Board is the better choice.
Automation and convenience
E-Power Board steps deploy and retract automatically when the door opens or closes. The AMBUSH steps are always in place. If you want hands‑free operation and integrated cab‑length coverage, the E-Power Board delivers. If you prefer a simple, always‑ready step, the AMBUSH works fine.
Side steps vs power board steps trade-offs
- E-Power Board steps: Automatic power deployment, low-profile clearance, integrated LED lights, and obstruction detection. Requires wiring and a higher upfront investment.
- AMBUSH side steps: Fixed steel step, no wiring, lower cost, and a limited lifetime warranty. The drop step reduces ground clearance slightly compared to the power board.
- Vehicle compatibility: E-Power Board fits 2007-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500-3500. AMBUSH fits 2019-2026 Silverado 1500 crew cab and 2020-2024 2500/3500 crew cab. Verify your exact cab configuration before ordering. Check your truck’s model year and cab size; the two options cover different generations.
Product facts
- 2007-2018 CHEVROLET SILVERADO/GMC SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 E-POWER BOARD STEPS: Low profile E-Step provides improved ground clearance while protecting the vital rocker panel. Dual-motor functionality. Auto safe-stop engages if an obstruction is detected. You get automatic deployment and retraction plus obstacle detection, ideal for daily drivers and off-road use.
2007-2018 CHEVROLET SILVERADO/GMC SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 E-POWER BOARD STEPS - 2019-2026 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 CREW CAB/2020-2024 SILVERADO 2500/3500 CREW CAB AMBUSH SIDE STEPS: Sleek fitting main bar sits high and tight to the vehicle body. 2" ergonomic drop step. Steel construction. 3 year finish / limited lifetime warranty. The fixed steel step is durable, requires no wiring, and carries a strong warranty for long-term use.
2019-2026 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 CREW CAB/2020-2024 SILVERADO 2500/3500 CREW CAB AMBUSH SIDE STEPS
Which step system fits your build?
Best for
- Drivers of 2007-2018 Silverado or Sierra who want automatic steps and better ground clearance for off-road or snow
- Drivers of 2019-2026 Silverado crew cabs who want a simple, durable, no-wire step at a lower price
Not for
- Owners of 2019-2026 Silverado who need automatic deployment or a low-profile design (choose E-Power Board if compatible)
- Owners of 2007-2018 Silverado who want a fixed step and prefer a lower cost option (AMBUSH does not fit these years)
