What running boards are you using?
 

Hi,

My wife is pregnant and she is having a lot of trouble getting in and out of our ML.

I'm in the market to purchase running boards or the metal step bars (not sure of the proper name). I'm wondering which brand or model people are using? And how much and where they are getting them installed?

Any comments, suggestions, and shared experiences will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

03ML350

My '02 doesn't have them, but a relative's '01 ML320 has the OEM running boards (lighted) - they're nice. IMO they give a much more sophisticated and sleek look than the step bars. However, if you're going for a more rugged look, go with the step bars.

Pricing now depends on whether or not you want the lighted ones and other factors, plus it's not just one part number - it's made up of something like three different 'kits' - just a way for MB to make more money off of accessories.

Check out online pricing for the runnings boards / step bars - I haven't checked it recently. If you are able to decently work with installing things, the boards are not extremely complicated to install. Basically you have to attach two curved brackets on each side of the car and take off the ends of the rocker panels and install the board that way (although it is a bit more complicated than I have just described it). Also if you get the lighted ones, which light up for ease of entry and exit, you might have to get the dealer to program the computer for it - sometimes this is not necessary however.

My wife has short legs too-- she likes having the step bars.
These are the factory ones from the dealer. The design is pretty stout, the brackets, bolts, etc., all fit well and are high quality.

how much did you pay for yours?

They were part of the deal when I bought the car, something like $550.00, but I don't think you could walk into the parts dept and get them to sell them for that amount. Hard to say.

http://www.fototime.com/893757890A280D8/standard.jpg

very nice, is your ML Black Opal? I have a 2003 ML350 in black opal with tan leather.

yes, black opal with tan interior. Very happy with it !
I had a 2000 ML320 before, liked it so much I bought another !