Running Boards Retrofit
 

I tried to search for this on here and couldn't find any results.

Still unsure what model it came from, I'm assuming that it is from the 4.6is since it has all the "quirky" features.

Those metal-studded running boards that I am referring to, can you put them on a 3.0 without significant modifications? I'm not even sure that it isn't a factory option. If it is where can I source them from? RealOEM says that they're $1000+ which is you know, not going to happen.

You can retrofit them. There's a thread or two on here. Requires running boards, side plastics cover the running boards, and front/rear wheel arches. You see OE ones on ebay every so often.

Easiest way to accomplish this and make sure you have everything is to buy another X5. Then perform the swap and sell the other X5 again. You'll end up close to even (or better) if you buy it right. At least that's how I would go about it.

Other option is aftermarket running boards on Ebay. Also a thread about those somewhere. Fitment is ~95% if memory serves. They used to be much cheaper but haven't looked in a long time.

Why not get them at a scrap yard?
I'm also thinking about doing it, $40 for both.
It looks way better.
But I'm having second thoughts cuz lots of people complained about getting their pants first because of these running boards. In fact I read that many people actually removed them for that reason

^that's an option too if you can find em. They usually get stripped quickly. You do have to be more careful getting out of the vehicle as they can get your pants dirty.

Definitely will get pants dirty. You either need to take a wide step out of vehicle OR actually step on the running board to get out. Just remember if you take a wider step to get out, it WILL add more stress to your heated seat lumbar wiring and break down that even faster.

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It hasn't affected my heated seats at all...[emoji1787]

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What scrap yard did you find running boards in for $40? I sourced some last year on line from a scrap yard and they were well north of $500 if I recall correctly.

Can anyone comment on the quality of the aftermarket ebay ones? Here's one listed for $145 with free shipping ... too good to be true, considering the BMW-branded version is over $500?

https://www.ebay.com/itm/RUNNING-BOA...oAAOSwnxdeYDRo

EDIT: Sorry, didn't realize I was in the E53 forum and not E70 ... anyway, the concept of the question stands I suppose ...