1500

Make
Ram
Segment
Sports Car

Truck tailgates are getting far more complicated than a piece of metal that drops down to open up the bed. Many modern trucks offer high-tech tailgates that open in different ways or, in the case of the GMC Sierra, even have speakers built into them. Ram's Multifunction Tailgate may be less configurable than GMC's, but it still functions well. This optional tailgate costs just $995 and opens from the middle in a 60-40 split.

Opening up just the 60% side of the tailgate lets you grab small items from the bed without straining to drop the whole tailgate or getting closer access to lift up large objects. But without the tailgate flipped down, it becomes more difficult to lift yourself into the bed. Ram's Mopar parts division thought of this scenario, and now offers a bed step for owners of the Ram 1500.

The Mopar Bed Step (Part # 82216265AB) is designed specifically for the Multifunction Tailgate, deploying from underneath the rear bumper with a quick push of the foot. When it's time to get back on the road, a simple kick puts the step back into position. Mopar says the step is made from high-strength aluminum with a black e-coat finish, meaning it can hold up to 350 pounds.

"Mopar offers more than 600 quality-tested, factory-backed parts and accessories across the entire Ram lineup," says Mark Bosanac, Head of Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, FCA North America. "Our retractable bed step further enhances the convenience and utility of Ram's industry-leading cargo management and storage system."

Mopar priced the bed step at only $395, making it an affordable addition to any new Ram truck. Even if you don't purchase the Multifunction Tailgate, the step is mounted far enough to the edge of the truck so it functions properly with the normally-opening tailgate. With a normal tailgate, the bed step costs only $365. Owners of the Ram 1500 Classic can opt for a similar step at $304, which is rated to hold 305 pounds. As with all Mopar parts, the bed step is backed by a two-year/unlimited-mile warranty or the balance of the truck's three-year/36,000-mile warranty.