Collection: Side Steps & Side Bars

Side Bars That Improve Access and Side Styling

Side steps and side bars can change how your vehicle looks and feels in daily use. A side step usually gives you a more practical step surface. A side bar can also improve access, but it often adds more value through side styling, trim detail and light side protection.

For vans, side bars can help create a cleaner lower body line. They can also match other exterior upgrades, such as wheel upgrades, grilles, bodykits, flares and lighting. Some drivers choose matte black for a subtle modern look, gloss black for sharper contrast or chrome for a more classic van finish.

Before you buy, check the product notes to confirm the bar style, fitment, finish and installation requirements.

Choose the Right Fit, Length and Finish

The right side steps or side bars must suit your exact vehicle. Fitment can depend on the make, model, year and wheelbase. A short wheelbase van and long wheelbase van may need different bars, even when they share the same model name.

Leighton Vans Parts stocks side bar options for supported vehicles, including VW Transporter T5, T6, T6.1 and T7 models, along with selected Ford Transit Custom options. Products may also vary by style. Tubular side bars offer a more traditional van upgrade look, while trapezoid side bars create a sharper lower profile.

Finish also matters. Matte black, gloss black and chrome each create a different look. Check the listing before you order, or contact our team if you need help matching the right side bars to your vehicle.

Contact Our Experienced Team

How to Check Side Bar Fitment Before You Buy

Side bars need to match your vehicle, wheelbase and fitting points. Use these checks before you order.

1. Check the make and model

Start with the vehicle make and model. A side bar made for a VW Transporter will not suit a Ford Transit Custom. Even vehicles with a similar shape can use different mounting points.

2. Match the model generation

Check the generation or model code before you buy. For example, VW Transporter T5, T6, T6.1 and T7 models can require different side bars. The same applies to different Ford Transit Custom year ranges.

3. Confirm the wheelbase

Check whether your vehicle is short wheelbase or long wheelbase. SWB and LWB vans often need different side bars because the bar length and bracket positions can change. You can usually confirm this from your vehicle manual.

4. Review the mounting points

Side bars need to line up with the correct fixing points on the vehicle. Check the product listing for fitting notes, bracket details and vehicle compatibility before you order.

5. Ask before you buy

If you are unsure, contact Leighton Vans Parts with your vehicle make, model, year and wheelbase. Our team can help you check the listing and choose the right side bars for your vehicle.

Need Help Choosing Side Steps or Side Bars?

Side step and side bar fitment can vary between vehicles. Some products suit specific wheelbases. Some suit selected model years only. Some include complete fitting kits, while others may need extra fitting checks before installation.

Leighton Vans Parts ships selected parts Australia-wide and offers fitment advice from a team that works with van and 4x4 upgrades every day. 

If you are unsure which side steps or side bars suit your vehicle, contact our team before you order.

FAQs

Are side steps and side bars the same thing?

People often use these terms in a similar way, but they can mean different products. Side steps usually focus on access. Side bars often run along the lower side of the vehicle and can support access, styling and light side protection.

How do I know which side bars fit my van?

Check your vehicle make, model, year and wheelbase before you order. SWB and LWB vehicles often need different products. Contact Leighton Vans Parts if you need help confirming fitment.

Do side bars come with fitting kits?

Some side bars include fitting kits, brackets or hardware. Check the product listing before you buy. If the listing is unclear, contact our team and we can help you confirm what is included.

What finish should I choose?

Matte black suits a clean, subtle upgrade. Gloss black gives stronger contrast and can match black wheels or trim. Chrome can suit a more classic van style.

Can I install side steps or side bars myself?

Some kits may suit DIY fitting, while others may need more care during alignment and installation. Check the product notes before you order, or ask our team if you are unsure.