Have you tried on another X5 without the running board? Even the base model with no running board still sticks out a bit. So, I am not sure if this will help much. Before going thru all this time & expense, I would really make sure it's worth it.

That's funny that you ask that. I don't really like the look of the aluminum running boards AND I don't like the standard running boards on my X5 (as they still make pants dirty and the running boards are always dirty).

I would like to have no running board at all! I actually want something like the older MB which has just a one inch rounded painted running board...

I've owned other SUV's before with running boards. I've always stepped on them when entering and exiting the car. That's the whole point of having them! With my other SUV's, if you didn't step on them, you would get your pants dirty too. So, this issue isn't solely inherent with the X5's running boards.

FWIW, one more opinion, I too have always had boards on all of my trucks. I have always liked them. However, on ALL others, the boards are not so close to the base of the door sill; they are always lower. This creates a better height distance for stepping into and out of the vehicle on the step. The BMW boards look awesome but they are a bit too high to use comfortably and easily (both in and out). Also, I am tall so when I do step on the boards getting in, my head is way high for the top of the door frame and I have to bend way down to avoid hitting my head as I enter the vehicle.

I would like to see an option to get the original edge (no boards) with the aluminum w/black buttons trim as it looks really nice. Another clever option, I saw as an after-market add-on on a lifted Ford P.U. was an automatic retractable board. Open the door and the board extends out from under the truck for use (at a very usable height) and when you close the door the board retracts. The X5 is an unusual height, lower than most SUVs but higher than most crossovers.

I think these boards, to be more functional, need to be about 2 inches lower. The design is thick enough, the top surface could be lower without changing the bottom line (bottom edge alignment with other body lines).

RedRockin, you nailed it. I've always had running boards on other SUV's and they've all worked out great (for everyone). These that come with the X5 are good for some people and not others. But I still love their look.

As far as kimg9582 suggestion, yeah. The ladies that are getting their foot stuck on the running boards, have actually tried the X5 with no running boards. No problems getting in that way.

How much further out are the running boards than the 'non-running board, running-board-like' trim pieces??

I have no running boards and the trim seems 3" wide ....

A

I want running boards for my 01...any donations and we'll swap parts? :)

4.5" - wide enough that a woman in a light colored dress would NOT be happy getting in or out on a rainy day!!! :chair:

i have my original side skirts FS, anybody want it?

Mine will be free...as long as someone wants to get rid of their running boards.

The pre and post facelift boards are interchangeable, correct?