For lifted trucks and high-clearance vehicles, standard running boards often don’t provide the step height needed for comfortable entry. The AMP Research PowerStep XL solves that problem with an advanced automatic retracting running board system designed specifically for taller trucks, Jeeps®, and SUVs. These premium truck accessories automatically deploy when the door opens and retract discreetly beneath the vehicle after closing, delivering the convenience of a step without sacrificing ground clearance or a clean vehicle appearance.
What sets the PowerStep XL apart is its extra-low step position, dropping an additional 4 inches lower than the original PowerStep design. This creates a much easier step into lifted vehicles while maintaining excellent ground clearance when retracted. With rugged aluminum construction, integrated LED lighting, and a wide slip-resistant step surface, the PowerStep XL is a smart upgrade that combines vehicle accessibility, durability, and sleek styling.
Key Features
- Extra-Low Automatic Step Deployment – Extends 4 inches lower than standard PowerStep boards, making entry into lifted trucks and SUVs significantly easier
- Automatic Retracting Design – Steps deploy when doors open and retract after closing, preserving vehicle styling and maximizing ground clearance
- Heavy-Duty 600 lb Load Capacity – Reinforced cast aluminum construction and durable mounting brackets provide exceptional strength and stability
- Integrated LED Courtesy Lighting – Built-in LED lights illuminate the step surface and surrounding ground for safer nighttime entry and exit
Features & Benefits
Designed Specifically for Lifted Trucks and High-Clearance Vehicles
The PowerStep XL takes the proven design of AMP Research’s original PowerStep system and enhances it for lifted trucks and oversized builds. The XL model extends 4 inches lower than the standard PowerStep, creating a significantly more accessible stepping height for vehicles with lift kits, oversized tires, or additional suspension height.
This added drop makes daily entry and exit far more comfortable for drivers and passengers while still maintaining the clean look that retractable steps are known for.
Automatic Deploying Running Boards for Everyday Convenience
Like all AMP Research retractable steps, the PowerStep XL automatically deploys when the vehicle door opens and retracts after a short delay when the door closes. This intelligent design ensures the step is always available when needed while staying hidden during driving.
When retracted, the boards tuck neatly into a rugged rock rail-style housing that blends with the vehicle’s body lines while also offering light rocker panel protection against road debris.
The result is the perfect balance of functionality, style, and vehicle protection.
Wide, Stable 6" Step Surface
Each PowerStep XL running board features a 6-inch wide cab-length stepping area designed for maximum comfort and traction. The textured, slip-resistant step surface provides reliable footing in rain, snow, mud, and other challenging conditions.
Whether you're wearing work boots, trail shoes, or everyday footwear, the wide platform makes stepping in and out of your vehicle safer and more comfortable.
Built with Premium Materials for Long-Term Durability
AMP Research engineers the PowerStep XL using high-quality die-cast aluminum, delivering exceptional strength while keeping overall weight low. All aluminum components undergo an anodizing process before being finished with a military-grade PTFE (Teflon) coating, which helps prevent corrosion and surface wear.
Key durability highlights include:
- Corrosion-resistant cast aluminum construction
- Anodized aluminum components for added protection
- Military-grade PTFE protective coating
- Heavy-duty mounting brackets and hardware
This robust construction allows the PowerStep XL to support up to 600 pounds, making it significantly stronger than many traditional running boards.
Integrated LED Lighting for Added Safety
Every PowerStep XL system includes two pairs of integrated LED lights that illuminate the running board and ground beneath it when the steps deploy. This added visibility helps passengers safely enter and exit the vehicle in low-light conditions such as nighttime parking areas, garages, or trail environments.
Once the door closes and the step retracts, the lighting automatically turns off—providing convenient, hands-free operation.
Advanced Electronics and Smart Engineering
The PowerStep XL uses a premium single-motor design to power the step system, ensuring smooth, reliable deployment. For modern vehicles, the system connects through a patented plug-and-play OBDII module, simplifying electrical integration and eliminating complex wiring.
An optional override switch is also available, allowing drivers to manually control step deployment when desired.
Installation Information
The AMP Research PowerStep XL is designed for vehicle-specific fitment, ensuring a secure installation and proper system operation.
Installation highlights include:
- Bolt-on installation using existing holes in the rocker panels
- Mounts directly to the vehicle’s rocker panel
- Includes vehicle-specific installation guide
- Complete mounting brackets, wiring, and hardware included
- Connects to the vehicle using a plug-and-play OBDII module
Basic hand tools are typically required for installation. While experienced DIY installers may complete the installation at home, professional installation is recommended due to the electrical components and vehicle-specific wiring.
Installation time will vary depending on the vehicle application.
What’s Included
Each AMP Research PowerStep XL kit includes all necessary components for installation:
- (2) PowerStep XL running boards
- Electric step motors
- Vehicle-specific mounting brackets
- Complete hardware kit
- Wiring harness and electrical components
- Integrated LED courtesy lights (two pairs)
- Vehicle-specific installation guide
Care & Maintenance
Routine cleaning helps maintain smooth step operation and long-term reliability.
Cleaning the Running Board Mechanism
- Open the vehicle door to deploy the steps.
- Hold the step down with your foot while closing the door to keep the boards deployed.
- Use a pressure washer to clean debris from the front and rear linkage hinge points.
- Avoid spraying water directly onto the step motors.
Lubrication
After cleaning:
- Apply dry-film silicone spray lubricant to all linkage arms and pivot pins.
- Cycle the door to distribute the lubricant through the hinge points.
Important Maintenance Tips
- Do NOT apply wax, silicone protectants, or dressing products to the running boards.
- Do NOT use grease, oils, WD-40, or penetrating lubricants.
- Clean and lubricate periodically, especially after exposure to mud, road salt, or debris.
Regular maintenance helps prevent noise, binding, and premature wear.
Warranty Details
The AMP Research PowerStep XL is backed by an industry-leading 5-Year Limited Warranty.
Coverage Includes
- Defects in materials and workmanship
- Products properly installed according to manufacturer instructions
Warranty Duration
- Valid for five years from the date of purchase
Warranty Limitations
The warranty does not cover:
- Damage caused by misuse, abuse, or accidents
- Improper installation or modifications
- Inadequate maintenance
- Damage from road hazards or off-road use
Labor costs related to product removal or reinstallation are not covered. The warranty applies only to the original purchaser and is non-transferable.
Terms to Know
- PTFE Coating (Teflon): A high-performance protective coating used to resist corrosion, abrasion, and environmental damage.
- Anodized Aluminum: A treatment process that strengthens aluminum surfaces and increases corrosion resistance.
- Plug-and-Play OBDII Module: An electronic module that connects directly to the vehicle’s diagnostic port, simplifying electrical installation without complicated wiring.
- Retractable Running Boards: Vehicle steps that automatically extend for entry and retract when not in use, improving ground clearance and maintaining a clean appearance.
- Rocker Panel Mounting: A structural mounting location along the lower side of the vehicle body used to securely install running boards.
Specifications
- Step Type: Automatic Single-Motor Retracting Step
- Step Material: Cast Aluminum
- Finish: Anodized with Military-Grade PTFE Coating
- Step Width: 6"
- Load Capacity: 600 lbs
- Mounting Location: Rocker Panel
- Warranty: 5-Year Limited Warranty
For lifted trucks and high-clearance builds, the AMP Research PowerStep XL delivers unmatched accessibility, strength, and convenience. With its extra-low step height, automatic operation, and durable aluminum construction, it stands out as one of the most advanced running board upgrades and truck accessories available for drivers who demand both performance and premium functionality.