Does anyone know if it’s possible to install illuminated running boards (OEM) on the 2020 GLE 450?

 

My 350 has them. It's the same car so you should be able to get them.

 

Hello,

just want to be clear - I’d like to install them after I purchase the car (does not come with them originally)

 

Several months ago they were not available for purchase so you might first want to check with your dealer. DIY is always a question of ones skill vs the project and tools, instructions. Dealer kit might have instructions.
Last summer I bought some on Amazon that appeared to be actual Mercedes RB so probably an illegal set form the Chinese Co supplying them. They were for the AMG body and had bolts but no instructions and no lights. About that time I had a loaner with RB’s and decided they were useless. That plus the fact that they were very likely a “type of theft” & I returned them. The Co contact was definitely in China and didn’t deny that they were actual Mercedes vs knock offs. Amazon wouldn’t post my review so....
There were no instructions and none available. It would be possible to install without instructions but might take a lot longer DIY.

 

I believe there may also be a coding issue to get the lights to turn on/off in conjunction with other approach lights on the car.

 

Please understand that for V167 - MB running boards are factory installed only - and dealers are not allowed to do after purchase install - and in the case of Collision Damage replacement running boards are only available if that VIN# shows that they were factory installed.

You will need to search for after-market options - and frankly I have not checked for that - as a dealer cannot install after-market running boards (if available) either.

 

My understanding is that the illuminated running boards cannot be retrofitted to the GLE.
As of right now there aren't many aftermarket options but I did find these that may suit your needs, of course they aren't illuminated.

Black Horse Running Boards

 

Here’s another for less money...It shows a pic of AMG body. The non AMG may be different.

 

I don't have a GLE but a Ml and took mine off and sold them. They are a pain , always having to step out away from the car when getting out. Personal preference.

 

I don't see the one you are referencing to. Please repost.
Thanks

 

That post is almost two years old and Amazon booted the vendor. Probably counterfeit or knockoff's. I have new set that I never installed if someone is interested.

 

Is your set OEM or the Amazon knockoff that got removed?

 

Sorry I should’ve said AMG mud flaps…on my phone so confused this with another thread.
I returned the running boards and can’t say for certain that they were counterfeit. That’s just my assumption. I think a lot of accessories that are made in China show up aftermarket with a remarkable OEM resemblance.

 

I tried to find the OEM part numbers to no avail. It seems like they may consist of two or four different part numbers. The guy who answered at the dealer only knew how to lookup part numbers and didn't know all the parts required..

Update -- The actual number of parts ended being 10

 

I got it narrowed down to 167-698-21-01-9999 and 167-698-23-01-9999. Non Illuminated. My only doubt is whether an interior sub panel is required first.
UPDATE -- It takes 10 different parts to put the OEM's together. Even the parts listed above are no longer available.

 

Personally, I think the factory running boards are more a nuisance than they help. They are too narrow. Too bad no one makes a retractable running board like they do for Chevy, Ford, etc. Those work very nice!

 

We tried them out on a friends GLE-350 and found them adequate. That is what has me pursuing the option.

 

They DO have the advantage of marking their height on your trousers, every time you get in or out after rain or snow. Part of the Mercedes "Brother-Sisterhood," like a Secret Handshake. "Oh, I see you drove your Mercedes today!" - elbow bump.
I can't say that they are useful at all for entering the vehicle.

 

you people are insurfferable. You can add anything from any GLE even the maybach interior. Most of it is just plug and play. there is no special coding

 

Your spellchecker needs a tune up!

 

I agree; too narrow to be functional.

 

What about.....
- HUD;
- AR Nav;
- OEM Dash Cam
- 3d Sound system
- ILS
- Massage Seats
- all the other electronic options.
and can probably name a dozen other items that are not "plug and play"; certainly not "anything".

However, I do agree that mud flaps do not require any special coding .