dpayne7571

I know this subject has been discussed, but I'm coming from an Escalade where I use my running boards all the time when getting in and out. I'm not sure what the height difference is between the ML and Escalade, but I'm just wondering if people really use these running boards or are the mainly for looks...... We do have a newborn on the way if that makes any difference. Thanks for advice!

shortspark

I do not like the running boards. They are not wide enough for me to get a good step on and I find myself "reaching" over them to get in and out. My ML came with them and I had no choice but I would not get them again. I do not believe they add a thing to the looks either. The only way to be certain is test drive an ML with the running boards and get in and out several times. You will find out very quickly if they will be a convenience or a hindrance.

jtorrebl

Convenience for me and my wife and kids

gplank

Ditto to what's been said already...I had them on my MY07 ML and they were just a worthless pain. I'm having the dealer remove them from my MY13 ML550 that is on order (swap on the 'twist bars' from another ML), and they'll have to do it after it arrives, since they are now standard on the ML550...which is totally idiotic.

Maybe when that newborn gets older he/she might find running boards helpful for climbing in...but you'll likely be in the market for a new ML at that point. And you might find aftermarket 'bars' better than the standard ML running boards.

rexgold

I am ordering mine without them... I have so far tested them and found them hitting the back of my leg every time I get in or out of the car...

RJR

I do not use the running boards but I prefer the way they look. It contrasts well with the trim below the windows. They also make it easier when washing the roof.

dpayne7571

Thanks! I have already made my decision and I am taking them off the order! I think they look better on vehicle, but I do not need my pants getting dirty every time it rains, etc!

Morro

Ordered without.

We have the AMG package here in Canada and by adding the boards you have black plastic all along the bottom of the doors, front to back. I like the look of the truck with one uniform colour back to front so no boards.

iankayem

Ordered with. Why? Because they will not sell it without here.

Now I have to source the bits to replace them.

rexgold

Here in the UK, if you select the Sport Option, it is already included but you can deselect it and it will reduce the cost by £500.. so I am doing it..

dougiebear

Yep to me it means when you fall or slip from the running boards(you will) then u will fall with a newborn. Congrats :-) you and your sweetie will figure a way to do everything without the boards. Just my thoughts I see no real purpose for them. I'm not exactly tall at 5-8 I get in and out fine unless boards are there. Truck still gets dirty too.

Sean76NYC

I like them, I use them, and I like the look of them on my 2012 ML!

Different strokes for different folks!

DNB

This is my first post on these forums, so HI to all

My ML is coming with them standard, but I would still get them anyways, as they will always come in handy when washing the roof or loading anything on the roof.

300DTurbo

good for loading/cleaning the roof, bad for getting your slacks dirty when stepping in/out of your vehicle.

i would go WITHOUT

annoyance greater % of the time than help.

slamx5

I ordered without it. Sounds great the Amg side kit is standard in Canada .

dougiebear

Boards are not wide enough to have any value for cleaning roof or loading in my opinion. Seems best to have a step available