We just got an 09 MDX (Elite, we're Canadian). We have two young children (ages 4-1/2 and 3) and they have a little difficulty climbing in or out of the vehicle.

Would running boards or the side steps help little ones significantly ? Are they strong enough to support an adult ? Is one option better than another ? Judging from some pictures, it looks like the side steps extend farther out, but it's hard to tell.

I've heard that either can be a pain in getting the back of one's pants dirty, but if it makes it easier for my kids, I could live with it. I'm not overly concerned with cosmetics.

Also - is this end-user-installable or do I need to have a mechanic/dealer do it ? We're a little tapped out so I'd love to save some money by ordering online.

thanks !

 

From what I have seen thus far on the 07+ models. The sport running boards looks better then the side steps. The steps do stick out a little further and lower then the boards. I go with boards for the 07+. Does what it suppose to and looks great. I have a 06 with steps and it does get your pants dirty if you rub them going in and out without using steps which I do frequently. They are for my passengers as I do not really need them to get in and out. I went with steps as I think it looks better then the boards on a 06. Hope this helps. As for holding weight. It is fine. It is designed to hold quite a bit of a few pounds. I actually stood and jumped on mine to make sure it doesn't break off when I first put them on. Install is easy but time consuming. Helps if you have help. My arms were on fire cause of all the bolts I had to tighten.

 

I'd go with the Sport Running Boards...by the way, where in Canada did you find an Elite '09 model left?

 

Can you still use jack stands on the jack points with the sport running boards in place?

 

I am only 5'11" but I don't need any type of step to get into my "09 MDX. My '07Super Duty pickup I use the running boards. The body is up to my nose so climbing in is better with a step. I drove a test vehicle that had $800 aprox option combo board and steps. It left a mark on my pants leg when I forgot the step was there...

 

Thanks everybody for the replies.

HenryNYC - thanks for the reply. I agree the running boards do like nice, but I just want to get whatever would make life for my little guys easiest.

CraigMacDTA: I got a demo from Acura East in Ajax, just before the end of the year.

Would self-installation or other post-purchase installation of running boards or side steps void any rust protection provisions in the warranty ? How about the rust protection program my dealer sold me ? A few people have told me installation of either running boards or steps makes the car more rust prone....

thanks everyone !