Just ready to pick up a new X5. My wife doesn't like the looks of the running boards (it is basically going to be her car). The trouble is that most of the ones on the lot that are equipped like we like have running boards. She doesn't like the poka dot look that the aluminum tread creates.

So here is my question. Does anyone know if the aluminum tread can be removed easily? I am thinking that maybe I could take it off and leave it that way or have it powder coated in black then put back on.

__________________
2008 X5 4.8i, Premium Pkg, Sport Pkg, Climate Pkg, Technology Pkg, Auto Liftgate, Sat Radio, Heated Seats, Ipod Adapter.

2004 525i, Prem. Pkg, xenons, bluetooth.

Retired: 2006 X5 4.4i, Premium Pkg, Sport Pkg, Cold Weather Pkg, Climate Pkg, Upgraded Sound Pkg, Navigation, 19" Star Wheels