7 Best RV Steps For Motorhomes For Easier Entry
Upgrade your RV entry with our top 7 steps. Learn how to improve safety and accessibility for your motorhome with these durable, easy-to-install solutions.
There is nothing quite as frustrating as a wobbly, undersized factory step that makes you feel like you are scaling a cliff just to get into your rig. Upgrading your RV steps is one of the most impactful modifications you can make to improve both your daily comfort and your long-term safety. A solid, reliable entry system turns your motorhome into a true home base rather than a temporary campsite.
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Why Upgrading Your RV Steps Matters
Most factory-installed steps are designed for cost-efficiency rather than long-term stability, often resulting in that dreaded "springy" feeling underfoot. When you live on the road, these steps are the most frequently used piece of equipment on your vehicle. A secure entry system prevents accidental slips, provides peace of mind for older travelers or pets, and significantly reduces the wear and tear on your RV’s door frame.
Beyond safety, a high-quality step system levels the playing field on uneven terrain. Many standard steps struggle to maintain contact with the ground, leading to instability that can even damage your RV’s mounting points over time. Investing in an upgrade isn’t just about luxury; it’s about ensuring your entry point remains a stable, reliable platform regardless of where you park.
Lippert Solid Step: Best Stability Choice
If your top priority is a rock-solid foundation that feels like a permanent staircase, the Lippert Solid Step is the gold standard. These steps fold up into the doorway, meaning they are supported directly by the ground rather than hanging off the side of your RV. This design eliminates the bounce entirely, making them perfect for families or those who want a platform that doesn’t budge.
However, keep in mind that you need enough clearance to swing the steps inside your rig, and you must ensure the exterior ground is relatively clear of debris before deploying them. If you frequently park in tight storage lots or deal with heavy mud, these might require a bit more maintenance. For the traveler who values a sturdy, no-nonsense entry, this is your best bet.
MORryde StepAbove: Best For Easy Storage
The MORryde StepAbove is a fantastic middle ground for those who want stability without sacrificing too much interior space. These steps are engineered with a focus on smooth deployment and compact folding, making them a favorite for motorhome owners who value efficiency. The adjustable feet allow you to level the steps on uneven ground quickly, which is a major win during boondocking sessions.
Because they store inside the door frame, they stay cleaner than traditional under-mount steps, which is a huge benefit if you travel through dusty or wet climates. The gas-strut assist makes them incredibly easy to lift, even if you have mobility concerns. If you want a balance of high-end stability and user-friendly storage, the StepAbove is an excellent choice.
Torklift GlowStep Revolution: Best Versatility
The Torklift GlowStep Revolution is the ultimate problem solver for tricky terrain. Unlike the "solid" style steps that require a flat drop, these utilize a unique scissor-action design that allows them to be deployed in extremely tight spaces. They are incredibly versatile, featuring adjustable legs that can reach the ground even on steep inclines or uneven rocky surfaces.
These steps are also known for their "glow-in-the-dark" strips, which are a lifesaver during late-night returns to the rig. They are lightweight yet durable, making them ideal for owners who don’t want to add excessive weight to their RV’s entry point. If you find yourself parking in diverse locations, from paved campgrounds to wild forest clearings, this is the most adaptable step on the market.
Stromberg Carlson Flexco: Best Budget Option
If you aren’t ready to commit to a full interior-folding system, the Stromberg Carlson Flexco is a reliable, cost-effective upgrade. These are traditional fold-out steps, but they are built with far better materials and wider treads than the cheap stock steps that come standard on many entry-level RVs. They are straightforward to install and require no modification to your interior doorway.
While they don’t offer the same "ground-supported" stability as the premium options, they are a massive improvement over rusted or bent factory steps. They are perfect for budget-conscious DIYers who want a quick, functional fix. If you want to improve your safety without breaking the bank or overhauling your door frame, this is a solid, practical choice.
E-Z Fold Steps: Best For Compact Spaces
When every inch of your doorway matters, the E-Z Fold series provides a sleek, low-profile solution. These steps are designed to tuck away neatly beneath the RV, making them perfect for smaller motorhomes or van conversions where interior storage space is at a premium. They are lightweight, durable, and designed to withstand the elements without complicated moving parts.
They are essentially a "set it and forget it" piece of hardware. While they lack the adjustable feet found in higher-end models, their simplicity is their greatest strength. If you have a compact rig and want a clean, unobtrusive look that doesn’t interfere with your interior floor plan, the E-Z Fold is the way to go.
Choosing The Right Step Material And Size
When selecting your steps, look for aluminum construction to prevent rust and keep weight down. Aluminum is the industry standard for a reason—it’s lightweight, weather-resistant, and holds up well under constant use. Avoid cheap painted steel if you live in a coastal area, as the salt air will cause corrosion much faster than you’d expect.
Focus on the tread width and the "rise" between steps. A wider tread is always safer, especially if you have mobility issues or pets, as it provides more surface area for your feet. Measure the distance from the ground to your door frame carefully; if the rise between steps is too high, it becomes physically taxing to enter and exit your home on wheels.
Measuring Your RV For A Proper Step Fit
Before you buy, you must measure the "threshold" of your door. Most manufacturers provide specific dimensions for the width of the doorway and the depth of the storage area where the steps will sit. Even a half-inch difference can lead to a frustrating installation, so double-check your measurements against the manufacturer’s spec sheet before placing an order.
Also, consider the swing radius. If you choose an interior-folding step, ensure that your interior furniture, cabinets, or door latch won’t interfere with the steps when they are folded up. A quick mock-up with cardboard can save you hours of headache and a potential return shipping nightmare.
Installation Tips For Secure RV Entry
Always use stainless steel hardware when mounting your steps to prevent future rust at the connection points. It is also a good idea to apply a bead of high-quality exterior silicone sealant around the mounting brackets to keep moisture out of your RV’s subfloor. Water intrusion is the silent killer of RV floors, and your step mounting points are a primary entry path for leaks.
If you aren’t comfortable drilling into your RV’s frame, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. A poorly installed step can pull away from the mounting surface under load, creating a major safety hazard. Take your time, use the right tools, and ensure every bolt is tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
Maintaining Your RV Steps For Longevity
Routine maintenance is simple but vital. Every few months, clean your steps with a mild detergent and check the pivot points for debris or grit that could cause grinding. A light application of a dry silicone lubricant on the hinges and moving parts will keep them operating smoothly without attracting road dust.
Periodically check the mounting bolts to ensure they haven’t loosened due to road vibrations. If you notice any rust spots on steel components, sand them down and touch them up with rust-inhibitive paint immediately. Keeping your steps clean and lubricated is the best way to ensure they last as long as your RV does.
Upgrading your RV steps is a transformative change that turns a shaky entry into a solid, welcoming threshold. By choosing the system that best fits your travel style and rig layout, you are investing in both your safety and your daily comfort. Take the time to measure correctly, install with care, and enjoy the stability of a truly upgraded entryway.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are solid mount RV steps for motorhomes?
Solid mount RV steps for motorhomes are entry stairs that fold directly into the RV doorframe and touch the ground during use. Unlike traditional floating cantilever steps that hang from the chassis, ground-contact steps eliminate bounce and sway underfoot. Models like the Lippert SolidStep or MORryde StepAbove feature adjustable legs to level the stairs on uneven terrain, supporting up to 500 pounds safely.
What does step rise mean when measuring RV steps for motorhomes?
Step rise on RV steps refers to the vertical distance between the top surface of one tread and the top surface of the next tread. Most motorhome steps feature a rise between seven and nine inches. A consistent rise across all steps prevents tripping, especially in low-light conditions. If your first step to the ground exceeds ten inches, adding an extra folding step or ground platform creates safer clearance.
How do I measure a motorhome doorway for replacement RV steps?
Measuring a motorhome doorway for replacement RV steps requires checking the door opening width, interior depth, and total entry height from the threshold to the ground. Use a standard tape measure across the inner door frame at its narrowest point to find the clearance width. Next, measure the vertical ground clearance while parked on flat ground to determine whether you need a two, three, or four-step assembly. Check for door latch interference before ordering.
How do you install manual folding RV steps on a motorhome?
To install manual folding RV steps, secure the steel mounting outriggers underneath the motorhome chassis using heavy-duty carriage bolts and locking nuts. Align the mounting brackets with your existing chassis holes, using a floor jack to hold the assembly in place. Tighten four to eight grade-5 or grade-8 bolts to roughly 30 foot-pounds of torque with a socket wrench. Test the folding mechanism several times to ensure the steps clear the door perimeter smoothly.
Are electric RV steps better than manual RV steps for older campers?
Electric RV steps are generally better for older campers because they deploy automatically when the entry door opens, removing the need for heavy lifting or bending. Motorized units like Kwikee steps activate via a magnetic door switch, reducing physical strain. Manual steps require bending down to unlatch and pull a 20- to 40-pound metal assembly out from underneath the frame. However, manual steps have fewer electronic parts that can jam or burn out at camp.
How much do replacement RV steps for motorhomes usually cost?
Replacement RV steps for motorhomes typically cost between $100 and $700 depending on the mechanism, step count, and construction material. Basic manual steel folding steps generally range from $100 to $250. Heavy-duty ground-contact stairs cost between $250 and $450, while fully automatic motorized step assemblies run from $400 to $700. Professional installation at an RV service center adds approximately $100 to $250 for one to two hours of labor.
Why won’t my electric RV steps extend when opening the door?
A motorhome electric step fails to extend most commonly due to a blown 12-volt fuse, a faulty magnetic door switch, or an obstructed linkage arm. Check your RV fuse panel for a tripped 20-amp or 25-amp fuse first. If the electrical circuit is intact, test the magnetic sensor located on the screen door frame with a hand magnet to see if the motor engages. Road debris and dried grease can also bind the motor gears, requiring a quick spray of silicone lubricant.
Are RV step stabilizers worth it for reducing motorhome bounce?
RV step stabilizers are worth purchasing if you want to eliminate the springy, floating sensation found in cantilevered factory motorhome stairs. These adjustable metal support legs mount directly under the lowest bottom step and brace firmly against the ground. They take downward pressure off the RV chassis mounting bolts and support an extra 300 to 500 pounds. Campers sensitive to movement or traveling with large dogs notice an immediate difference in stability.
