Clean running boards

[FarmersFight]

I’ve had my black 2018 Raptor for about 6 weeks, and just washed it for the first time this last weekend. Any suggestions on how to make the running boards have a clean dark look? Mine seem to be a little more light black / gray’ish. It’s fine, because it actually matches the gray accents, but curious if there’s a product or cleaner that will give it a darker look. Never had running boards like this so not sure if soapy water and a scrub brush are the most common recommendation. Thanks in advance!

 

[JoeTSI]

Tire foam works great.

 

[FarmersFight]

Tire foam works great.

Seems like that would make it slippery???

 

[JoeTSI]

Nope, it’s what I use and then wipe excess off

 

[911 Crazy]

Seems like that would make it slippery???

Isn't the step tacky and not smooth Farmer Joe?

 

[FarmersFight]

It is 911 Crazy, but I’ve never used tire foam on a tacky running board, because I’ve never had a tacky running board, which is why I asked.

 

[911 Crazy]

It is 911 Crazy, but I’ve never used tire foam on a tacky running board, because I’ve never had a tacky running board, which is why I asked.

Hell, I don't even have a Raptor so I'm just guessing!

 

[GordoJay]

Oil will darken them. Used motor oil is free if you change your own oil so you get a twofer.

 

[NASSTY]

On my 2017 I just washed the running boards with car wash soap and water whenever I washed the truck. The running boards never really looked clean and as the OP described they looked greyish. I only used soap and water on my 2020 until last week when I decided to hit them lightly with tire foam and wipe them off. They look much better now, more like matte black and surprisingly they aren't really slippery. This pic was originally taken to show off my latest bling mod (overlays), but it also shows my nice clean matte black running boards.

 

[Trick.Raptor]

Shine Supply Classy Chassis works great. The running boards will be black and stay that way for a few months... even after washing them or them getting wet.

So far the only time I've noticed them lose the blackish color is from dust going off-road.