Running Boards vs. Side Steps

There are lots of threads about this and many great pictures of both. Do a search or browse the gallery and you'll find your answer!!

Thanks. I am aware of the search function and find it helpful but it pulls of a lot of useless information as well. Gallery is great too, but there a lot of pictures to sort through. It's a little frustrating since the pages load so slow off of this board's server.

Markedoc said:

Trying to decide. I think visually the MDX needs something there, just not sure which. I've heard the running board collect dirt and snow and the side steps aren't as bad. Someone also said they thought the side steps looked sportier.

Does anyone have clear pictures of both?

Thanks!

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Hello Markedoc-

You know...I was facing this dilemma a few weeks ago. Steps or running boards. I have a 2001 black on black and thinking that the running boards will look better... But after seeing some members in here with stainless steel side steps from MANIKS..I have decided to go with side step instead..Stainless steel..My God it really brings out he chrome door handles and wheels of the vehicle...NICE!

Fireblade,
If you have pictures, please post!!! I too, was debating between running boards and side steps. I've since concluded that the sportier side steps will be installed...

Now the great debate...powder coated Acura OEM side steps or Manik's stainless? Too many decisions...too much time to wait...

Zrelaxed said:

Fireblade,
If you have pictures, please post!!! I too, was debating between running boards and side steps. I've since concluded that the sportier side steps will be installed...

Now the great debate...powder coated Acura OEM side steps or Manik's stainless? Too many decisions...too much time to wait...

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Hello Zrelaxed-

Below is a URL link to the thread on the side steps.
http://www.acuramdx.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=4225

I will take some picture of my MDX when I get around to it. As for the OEM Acura steps and powder coating it..This is the IDEAL way to go..But I heard from other members that the powder coating can be QUITE expensive.

Other then the looks running boards will help keep your lower doors clean.

I went for the running boards from Tim. Easy to install and look great.

One thing to consider......

I have had running boards on 2 previous vehicles (a Ford Explorer & a Toyota Sienna van - both came with them) and found that although they do keep the dirt off the bottom of the door, they are a nuisance when they get dirty & rub dirt on your pants leg or bare leg(wearing shorts).

They also make it an uncomfortable "stretch" for me to enter & exit. I am 5'11" and stepping on the running board feels awkward, so I step over it and didn't like to have to "stretch" to get in or out. My wife (5'0") also didn't like them (and I thought she would because she could "step up" easier.)

So before you buy either one - please try them out by finding a neighbor or someone that will let you get in and out several times.

FWIW - I do like the way the running boards look on the Black MDX.

Fireblade6 said:

I will take some picture of my MDX when I get around to it. As for the OEM Acura steps and powder coating it..This is the IDEAL way to go..But I heard from other members that the powder coating can be QUITE expensive.

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Thanks for the thread. I forget who, but I read in a prior thread that powdercoating adds another $320. At this point, I think I'll go with the Maniks, and spend the money I save on more car audio equipment )

Click on the Manic link in my sig below to see pix of side step installation.

The powdercoating looks great but it's pricey. The Maniks do accumulate winter slush around the brackets, but I'd still go with them over the boards...