So I've gotten from advice from Red08X3 on the running boards already but I wanted to get some overall perspective from the X3 board. I'm debating on whether to get the Sports Activity Package or not because of the Running Boards. I love the 18" wheels of the package but if I get my pants dirty with the standard side moldings I know the Running Boards will get really annoying. Does anyone have any insight into this? Perhaps someone here has some advice on how to void this? I'm a short guy and my other half is even shorter. I stopped by the dealership today to get a feel for it and it was really awkward but I don't see how BMW would sell something as an upgrade that is so awkward. Is this something that I can eventually get used to and live with? Any advice is welcome. Thanks!
The X3 I bought has it and it is damn annoying! Like u I have short legs (5'8"). It will be a pain in the winter...ask them to not install them...it does look nice though..
This is my wife's only complaint about her X3. She is only 5'0" tall and when the car is dirty (esp in winter) she complains about getting her pants dirty on the sport pkg running boards. She has just gotten used to being extra careful when exiting the car. Definately not taking them off either.
One simple solution is actually step on the running board each time you get in and out...we learned this from our 5 year old daughter sitting in the back. If you are short, that the solution....use it and step on it.
I tried to do that. Maybe there is another way to do it but I couldn't figure out a comfortable way to do that. I'm 5'3" so it's going to be tough but I hate sacrificing so much on the car because of this. Ugh...
^^Agree. It is very awkward to step on the sport running boards as they are made mostly for appearance. I haven't tried it since I have no problem getting in and out, but can they actually hold weight? lol.
The running boards for the X3 and X5 are for looks only. They truly lack any functionality. They're too short to be useful, but long enough so they get your pant legs dirty. I told my friend not to get it on his X5 but they got it anyways.......for the looks.
What do you think the chances are that the dealer will replace my existing X3 standard side moldings with the running boards? In other words, order the SAV package and when it comes in have the dealer put them on the X3 I'm turning in? I'll eventually ask the dealer but perhaps someone here has some solid information on whether it's even possible or not.
Rob, why not get the sports package? That set up has nice 18" rims, no running boards, and better suspension, plus the cool steering wheel and sport seats. What's not to like about that?!
It's crossed my mind by I actually don't like the look of the fully colored sport bumbers. I think the side mouldings are the best option in regards to my gripe in the first place but that's the only thing I like about it. I think the standard suspension is about as stiff as I would want it and anything beyond that would be a bit much. Plus...I gotta say that I really don't care for the 18" rims on the sport package. To my eyes they look like big flower petals! Sorry to anyone who that might offend. I think the SAV 18" rims are more aggressive looking.
So this is what I have decided to do...get the damn SAV pacakge and live with it!!! If I find that it becomes too much of a pain in the @ss then I'll find someone to swap with. I placed my order last night a for Monetego Blue with the SAV Package. You can bet I'll be posting some pics in a few months once it arrives.
Congrats, Rob! I know we have gone back and forth about this, but I don't regret getting the running boards at all. And, as an added plus, I am stimulating the economy by sending all the extra dry cleaning to a local cleaners for my suit pants
Are you for real? What the hell! After all that time trying to figure this out. Damnit, I placed my order already. If I can find that link I'm going to send it to the sales rep and see what he has to say.
Running boards are pretty much an issue with most vehicles- when it is sloppy, and if you don't use them to step down, then you will get dirty pants.
In only moderately tall vehicles, they don't serve much of a purpose, except to get you a little better access to the roof.
However, in uber-size vehicles, shorter people may have difficulty getting up into the seat, and will use a large running board as a step and a step down. That is when they come in handy, without getting you dirty.
Rob, just starting wearing some really tall shoes. In addition to solving the running board issue, you'd get to create a whole new self image . Seriously, give it a few weeks when you get it and you really won't think about it much after that.
You probably don't want to bounce on them but I don't think they would put a metal stepping plate on them if they didn't think people would be standing on them. I'm sure they'll hold the weight of an average man/woman with no problems.
Ok to dredge this up again. Do the 08's come standard with the new running boards or they part of an upgrade package?
I know someone somewhere has covered this, but I am short on time, and have to make some decisions today.
I like the running boards, and my little girl would benefit from them since she is at the "I do it, Daddy" stage. Meaning she likes getting in the vehicle her self and it will be nice having her drive in my car again.
Ok to dredge this up again. Do the 08's come standard with the new running boards or they part of an upgrade package?
I know someone somewhere has covered this, but I am short on time, and have to make some decisions today.
I like the running boards, and my little girl would benefit from them since she is at the "I do it, Daddy" stage. Meaning she likes getting in the vehicle her self and it will be nice having her drive in my car again.
Darn--and if I recall they come with BMW price tag too when ordered as an accessory.
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