| mdxcoop |
| Is there a reason to choose running boards over side steps? Is there somewhere on the internet to see a full photo of side steps on an MDX? I've only seen MDX's with running boards, but side steps seem nicer. The only picture I've been able to find is on Tim's site, but it is hard to make a decision based on that picture. |
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| DaleB |
Browse through the 'Gallery'..they are not
as prevalent as steps, but I know I've seen pictures of them on here. |
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| huckfeen |
Keep in mind that this is only my opinion, and others will jump in after reading this with their extreme criticism of my opinion.
I would suggest that before you decide, go to a dealer and get in and out of both the front and back seat of several of them, with and without running boards and side steps. I found that first of all, unless you are a midget, you don't really need them to get in and out of the vehicle. And, I found in trying them out, that the location of them is really only about a half step and so when you get out of the car you have to step further out to get over them because they are in the way - so my opinion is that they serve no purpose and are more of a hindrance then a help. And, they also cost money that is wasted.
My opinion also is that the running board is old fashioned looking and makes the MDX look like a different vehicle - like for someone in their 70's that can't get in or out of it without help. The side steps look halfway decent, but the MDX looks fine without them - and they are also in the way when you get in and out.
I don't visit this website very often, but I am quite opinionated, and amazed that so many MDX owners keep trying to find so many accessories that change the look of the vehicle - when it looks great by itself.
Oh, and I also think that the big black bra or nose mask or whatever it is called for the front looks stupid. Why not just cover the whole front end - or maybe even the whole vehicle with a big leather girdle so you can't see the paint? |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by huckfeen
Keep in mind that this is only my opinion, and others will jump in after reading this with their extreme criticism of my opinion.
I would suggest that before you decide, go to a dealer and get in and out of both the front and back seat of several of them, with and without running boards and side steps. I found that first of all, unless you are a midget, you don't really need them to get in and out of the vehicle. And, I found in trying them out, that the location of them is really only about a half step and so when you get out of the car you have to step further out to get over them because they are in the way - so my opinion is that they serve no purpose and are more of a hindrance then a help. And, they also cost money that is wasted.
My opinion also is that the running board is old fashioned looking and makes the MDX look like a different vehicle - like for someone in their 70's that can't get in or out of it without help. The side steps look halfway decent, but the MDX looks fine without them - and they are also in the way when you get in and out.
I don't visit this website very often, but I am quite opinionated, and amazed that so many MDX owners keep trying to find so many accessories that change the look of the vehicle - when it looks great by itself.
Oh, and I also think that the big black bra or nose mask or whatever it is called for the front looks stupid. Why not just cover the whole front end - or maybe even the whole vehicle with a big leather girdle so you can't see the paint?
I think I speak for everyone when I say all opinions are most welcome. Especially when they are backed by rational thought, such as yours! Criticisms just for the sake of argument are a waste of time. But we even tolerate those (. ..you should read some of the things that are tolerated!....) I call opinions like yours a fresh prespective! And if you ride in my MDX I will not require you to use my steps! :D |
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| AcuraMDX2002 |
| I was lucky enough to see both side steps and running boards at the dealer before I made my decision. I don't think I'd be able to make the decision based on photos only. |
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| Will4271 |
IMO, I like the Side Steps more for looks. But my kid feet can catch on the gap (or it seems) so I will go with the Running Board.
I wonder the Running boards will protect the vehicle against some of those aggressive car door dingers.
:2: ;) |
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| BaldEagle |
quote:
Originally posted by Will4271
I wonder the Running boards will protect the vehicle against some of those aggressive car door dingers.
:2: ;)
Probably not. I don't have them but from looking at pictures and reading other posts I believe they are too low and don't stick out far enough to help much with dings.
Running boards, unlike side steps, do offer some protection from chips to the bottom panels from rocks that were picked up by the front tires.
I like the side steps looks much better than the running boards, especially the Manik SS. |
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| JTM |
quote:
Originally posted by Will4271
IMO, I like the Side Steps more for looks. But my kid feet can catch on the gap (or it seems) so I will go with the Running Board.
I wonder the Running boards will protect the vehicle against some of those aggressive car door dingers.
:2: ;)
To answer your question, NO. I got a ding on my rear passenger side door. :mad: |
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| Ms. Mdx |
I also went with side steps. They do help my son to get in/out of the 'X. It is also a good spot to stand on when I have to reach in to buckle my son into his booster seat.
There is NO danger of feet getting caught in the side steps.
Mostly I like the look of the side steps. You can click on my signature below to see pics of my 'X with steps and other accessories. |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by huckfeen
I found that first of all, unless you are a midget, you don't really need them to get in and out of the vehicle. And, I found in trying them out, that the location of them is really only about a half step and so when you get out of the car you have to step further out to get over them because they are in the way - so my opinion is that they serve no purpose and are more of a hindrance then a help. And, they also cost money that is wasted.
My opinion also is that the running board is old fashioned looking and makes the MDX look like a different vehicle - like for someone in their 70's that can't get in or out of it without help. The side steps look halfway decent, but the MDX looks fine without them - and they are also in the way when you get in and out.
huckfeen is correct in stating that steps will make you reach further to exit the vehicle. He is incorrect in saying they serve no purpose. My wife is short and at first saw no need for steps. After owning the car for 14 months she decided that steps would be nice for the occasions that she wears mini-skirts! As I LIKE her to wear mini-skirts:D I quicky added the steps to the car.:10:
I also agree with huckfeen that running boards give a very different look to the car, one that I do not care for.:1: |
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| mdxcoop |
| What are the advantages/disadvantages of Manik side steps over OEM side steps (other than the chrome vs. black difference)? |
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| Will4271 |
That's funny...
If it doesn't prevent any dings from other vehicles (even one parallel parked), and the MDX is so close to the ground, I don't see a need to buy it.
:confused: |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by Will4271
That's funny...
If it doesn't prevent any dings from other vehicles (even one parallel parked), and the MDX is so close to the ground, I don't see a need to buy it.
:confused:
The purpose of any side step is not to provide side protection but to provide a way to step in and out of the vehicle.
In my experience, the fact the Maniks stick out further does seem to make some people a little more leary when parking beside me. The effect is still pyschological because they could ding my doors very easily.
I like the looks of the Maniks, the price, and ease of installation. That's why I bought them. It's strictly a personal choice. |
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| msu79gt82 |
Tough one; Maniks owners will swear theirs are better, OEM owners will say theirs are better. Unless one owns both I do not see how an unbiased opinion is possible. I'll try however.
Bear in mind that steps serve a functional purpose of helping one enter into the vehicle (NOT provide ding protection!). If one does not need such assiatance entering the vehicle then the function becomes one of looks alone. That said lets look at some pluses and minuses.
Maniks are far cheaper (especially for chrome). There are subtle differences in looks/style, but for the most part are minor. There has been problems with the Manik foot pads in the past, but from what others have said the company stood by the product and fixed the problem. The Maniks have only two mounting brackets and are not as sturdy as the OEM. Some have reported a noticable flexing when stepping on them. The Maniks are often in short supply and one has to wait for them
The OEM are sturdier with three mounting brackets on each side. There has been no quality issues that I am aware of. They tend to be available from Tim without a wait. They are only available in black, but powdercoating to chrome has been done by several of us. They are more expensive, especially if you powdercoat them. They do not stick out quite as far as the Maniks.
Why did I go with the powdercoated OEM? Several reasons mainly due to looks and quality. Although the style differences are subtle, I preferred the looks/style of the OEM to the Maniks. I am an old-timer here and remember well the threads dealing with the Manik footpad problems. I preferred the three bracket sturdiness of the OEMs. I got a good price on powdercoating the steps ($90 for the rails, $30 for the mounting brackets, $5 'haz" fee; $125 total). |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by msu79gt82
Tough one; Maniks owners will swear theirs are better, OEM owners will say theirs are better. Unless one owns both I do not see how an unbiased opinion is possible. I'll try however.
Bear in mind that steps serve a functional purpose of helping one enter into the vehicle (NOT provide ding protection!). If one does not need such assiatance entering the vehicle then the function becomes one of looks alone. That said lets look at some pluses and minuses.
Maniks are far cheaper (especially for chrome). There are subtle differences in looks/style, but for the most part are minor. There has been problems with the Manik foot pads in the past, but from what others have said the company stood by the product and fixed the problem. The Maniks have only two mounting brackets and are not as sturdy as the OEM. Some have reported a noticable flexing when stepping on them. The Maniks are often in short supply and one has to wait for them
The OEM are sturdier with three mounting brackets on each side. There has been no quality issues that I am aware of. They tend to be available from Tim without a wait. They are only available in black, but powdercoating to chrome has been done by several of us. They are more expensive, especially if you powdercoat them. They do not stick out quite as far as the Maniks.
Why did I go with the powdercoated OEM? Several reasons mainly due to looks and quality. Although the style differences are subtle, I preferred the looks/style of the OEM to the Maniks. I am an old-timer here and remember well the threads dealing with the Manik footpad problems. I preferred the three bracket sturdiness of the OEMs. I got a good price on powdercoating the steps ($90 for the rails, $30 for the mounting brackets, $5 'haz" fee; $125 total).
I never thought mine were 'better', they just suit me more. By the way, the silver Maniks are stainless steel not chrome, that is a significant difference. |
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| socalJD |
| I concur with DaleB (it was his posts on the SS Maniks that got me hooked), I don't claim the Maniks are better than OEM, just preferred the 'look'. IMO the black OEM steps blend in seamlessly with the X, whereas the stainless Maniks have an aftermarket look that stands out. At first glance you tend to notice the Maniks whereas you may overlook the OEM steps. It was posted elsewhere that the Maniks give the X a more rugged truck-like appearance as opposed to a mini-van or wagon. And I also echo the sentiment that Maniks are intimidating to others who park next to them. Folks will be careful not to swing their car doors into the Maniks for fear of dinging their own door. |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
... By the way, the silver Maniks are stainless steel not chrome, that is a significant difference.
I would not call stainless vs. chrome a significant difference, I challenge anyone to tell the difference from a distance. I prefer the powdercoated chrome look to the stainless because it better matches the wheels (which are not stainless).
Again it is a matter of preference. |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by socalJD
IMO the black OEM steps blend in seamlessly with the X, whereas the stainless Maniks have an aftermarket look that stands out. At first glance you tend to notice the Maniks whereas you may overlook the OEM steps ... And I also echo the sentiment that Maniks are intimidating to others who park next to them. Folks will be careful not to swing their car doors into the Maniks for fear of dinging their own door.
Please don't confuse chrome powdercoated OEM with the black ones:rolleyes: Powdercoated OEMs are just as noticable as the SS Maniks (Maniks are available in black also) and would appear just as "intimidating" as Maniks would.
Acura is missing a major sales opportunity by not having the OEMs available in SS. In my opinion the only significant advantage Manik offers is cost. In terms of looks, SS Maniks and powdercoated OEM are at best a 60/40 (more likely 50/50) split. Few have ever (if any) had the opportunity to have SS Maniks and powdercoated OEMs side by side to compare! I suppose that would go for the black Maniks and OEM steps as well. |
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| socalJD |
quote:
Originally posted by msu79gt82
Please don't confuse chrome powdercoated OEM with the black ones:rolleyes: Powdercoated OEMs are just as noticable as the SS Maniks (Maniks are available in black also) and would appear just as "intimidating" as Maniks would.
Acura is missing a major sales opportunity by not having the OEMs available in SS. In my opinion the only significant advantage Manik offers is cost . . .
Let's try this again, no, would never confuse OEM black with powdercoated steps, I considered this route - however, powdercoating is an additional aftermarket step which will vary in cost and effort in each region. My comments are made as off-the-shelf or shrink-wrap terms, which is the situation that most people making these comparisons are in. Yes, like you, Rail & Worm have done, you can go thru the extra effort and expense to have the black OEM steps powdercoated silver and they would be just as appealing as stainless Maniks. I agree that Acura is missing out by not offering the steps in SS or chrome, but as of this moment these are the options.
And the intimidation factor is just an subjective observation, certainly not something that can be proven or verified, but keep in mind that the OEM steps are flush with the wheels, whereas the Maniks stick out apprx 1" beyond the wheels, giving the impression that swinging doors will hit the steps before the side of the X. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by msu79gt82
I would not call stainless vs. chrome a significant difference, I challenge anyone to tell the difference from a distance. I prefer the powdercoated chrome look to the stainless because it better matches the wheels (which are not stainless).
Again it is a matter of preference.
I am not talking about looks, Stainless is much more resistant to the effects of weather, and in general will have longer life. Chrome is a plating, and requires more maintenance. It can corrode without that care, and also peel in time if not of the highest grade.
I would say chrome requires even more than average care if you live near salt water or in an area with winter road salts.
The only downside with stainless, is a greater tendency to scratch (fine scratches) and not the ultimate shine you will get with a good chrome finish. But it does have a very long life. Also when there is a choice between stainless and chrome on the same trim, stainless is more expensive. All heavy duty bull bars, light bars, skid plates, etc. are stainless, not chrome. |
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| msu79gt82 |
| Chrome refers to the color of the powdercoat. Powdercoating itself is an extremly durable product. More so than a real chrome would be. In terms of durability powdercoating is superior to chrome, but I grant that SS is very good and probably better. |
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| Will4271 |
Anyone have a pic of the Maniks that they can share?
I wonder how it looks under the vehicle also?
Are there more screws than the OEM one?
:4: |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by socalJD
Yes, like you, Rail & Worm have done, you can go thru the extra effort and expense ... keep in mind that the OEM steps are flush with the wheels, whereas the Maniks stick out apprx 1" beyond the wheels, giving the impression that swinging doors will hit the steps before the side of the X.
Since this thread seeks to evaluate the pluses and minuses of Maniks vs. OEM, I'll continue the discussion for the sake of those undecided. From the time I ordered the steps from Tim until they were on the MDX was 8 days. Eight days for delivery from Tim, powdercoating and installation. I know for a fact that many have waited months for Maniks to come off backorder. I did NOT find the intermediate step of powdercoating an effort. One can NOT escape the fact however that going the route of powdercoating the OEMs adds extra expense.
The OEMs are sturdier than the Maniks. Are they worth the extra cost? Hard to say, how do you define worth? Many question the worth of the Touring package and/or the Navigation option. It is very subjective to assign worth.
PS: This is a freindly discussion (I hope). Other than the sturdiness issue I do not question Manik quality nor finish. And they are certainly cheaper. |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by Will4271
Anyone have a pic of the Maniks that they can share?
Are there more screws than the OEM one?
On the contrary there are far less screws in the Maniks. The OEMs require 48 bolts per side (I think; from memory - could be a few less, but at least 38). |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by msu79gt82
Chrome refers to the color of the powdercoat. Powdercoating itself is an extremly durable product. More so than a real chrome would be. In terms of durability powdercoating is superior to chrome, but I grant that SS is very good and probably better.
I agree with all that! I thought you were talking about the difference with regards to the Maniks being chromed, which they are not. I was not referring to powdercoating. |
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| mdxcoop |
| Does Tim do the powdercoating? Is one powdercoater better than another? Who does it in CA if Tim doesn't do it. Someone mentioned that the coating might peel over time. How can this be avoided? It seems that the powdercoated OEMs are a good choice, in light of the flush style and sturdiness, so long as maintenance is not a problem. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by mdxcoop
Does Tim do the powdercoating? Is one powdercoater better than another? Who does it in CA if Tim doesn't do it. Someone mentioned that the coating might peel over time. How can this be avoided? It seems that the powdercoated OEMs are a good choice, in light of the flush style and sturdiness, so long as maintenance is not a problem.
Who said the powder-coating will peel? I did say chrome might over time. Just trying to clairfy some things here, sorry if I made them more confusing! :20: |
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| MDXLNT |
quote:
Originally posted by Will4271
Anyone have a pic of the Maniks that they can share?
I wonder how it looks under the vehicle also?
Are there more screws than the OEM one?
:4:
Hi Will4271, I've posted a pic of the rear Manik bracket for your viewing pleasure.
http://www.acuramdx.org/forums/show...71632#post71632 |
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| Will4271 |
Thanks for the pics. I also checked out DaleB's pics.
Sounds that it will fit my needs more than the OEM one... unless they changed the OEM one to stick more out.
:cool: :29: |
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| AcuraMDX2002 |
| Please don't misunderstand me, but my opinion is this (1) OEM looks better - I like the black, sturdy look of the OEMs, they appear to me to be more substantial and less like an 'add-on', (2) Black, in my opinion, blends in better with the X. The powdercoated and SS ones stand out too much and draw too much attention to the side steps. e.g. I saw a MB one the other day with the Maniks, and the first thing I noticed was the side steps, (3) I believe that the ultimate resale value of the vehicle will be more with the OEMs unless you are lucky and find a buyer who wants some third-party parts bolted onto the vehicle. I know, you could take them off for resale, but I think you'd have a broader 'customer base' with only Acura parts on your X. I expect to be attacked for #3 especially, because (a) the resale value difference would actually be minimal, and (b) who the heck wants to sell their X anyway! |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by AcuraMDX2002
Please don't misunderstand me, but my opinion is this (1) OEM looks better - I like the black, sturdy look of the OEMs, they appear to me to be more substantial and less like an 'add-on', (2) Black, in my opinion, blends in better with the X. The powdercoated and SS ones stand out too much and draw too much attention to the side steps. e.g. I saw a MB one the other day with the Maniks, and the first thing I noticed was the side steps, (3) I believe that the ultimate resale value of the vehicle will be more with the OEMs unless you are lucky and find a buyer who wants some third-party parts bolted onto the vehicle. I know, you could take them off for resale, but I think you'd have a broader 'customer base' with only Acura parts on your X. I expect to be attacked for #3 especially, because (a) the resale value difference would actually be minimal, and (b) who the heck wants to sell their X anyway!
You raise some good points, for sure. However, there is more at stake here than the obvious.
First of all, some of us want our X's to be unique, and not all look the same.
Secondly, Acura does not provide enough of the kind of accessories that many of us are willing to purchase for more body protection. Like bull bars, rear bumper protectors, hitch steps, etc. The BSMs are about the only thing 'protective' they make available. I suppose the fender flares also fall in that category.
So far we are only talking about exterior accessories here. Quite a few have gone to great lengths to install entertainment centers, and add speakers and amplifiers, etc. Talk about 3rd party accessories!
The exterior accessories are easily removed compared with many interior changes that have been made.
So don't be blinded by the glare off my side steps on this issue, not only are we showing more individuality in our choices, we are also telling Acura how they are not meeting our needs. |
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| socalJD |
As they say, a picture is worth a 1,000 words . . .
AcuraMDX2002, you need to post a profile (side view) picture of your X with the black OEM steps, then we can compare with a picture of My X with the SS Manik steps (same color X, although not exactly same model, but will work for this exercise) then everyone who is contemplating can judge and decide for themself !
If anyone else with a RR X will volunteer to have OEM powdercoated steps installed, we can have a true 3 way comparison . . . |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by mdxcoop
Does Tim do the powdercoating? Is one powdercoater better than another? Who does it in CA if Tim doesn't do it. Someone mentioned that the coating might peel over time. How can this be avoided? It seems that the powdercoated OEMs are a good choice, in light of the flush style and sturdiness, so long as maintenance is not a problem.
Tim can not do powdercoating. Powdercoating quality could vary I suppose, but any experienced reputable shop should be OK. Check with rail and TheWorm about a CA shop (mine was done in Houston). Powdercoating is an extremely durable finish and should not peel. Maintenace will not be a problem.
Powdercoated OEMs will be more sturdy than the Maniks but will cost more. Powdercoating prices vary widely, check around. |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
First of all, some of us want our X's to be unique, and not all look the same.
Mine is unique:cool:
Powdercoated OEM steps, Touring w/o Roof Rack, custom pinstripes (three), Tinted Front windows, and BSM:1: |
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| AcuraMDX2002 |
| Okay, here's a side view of my X with the OEM side steps |
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| DaleB |
That looks great! And to me, unique! Frankly I don't see many X's with steps, factory or not!
It looks snappy, clean, and cool! Nice pic! |
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| Will4271 |
| The side steps blends in with the tires pretty well. |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
Frankly I don't see many X's with steps, factory or not!
Most of the X's I see on the road do not have steps. And I have only seen one with Running Boards in 21 months (I saw my first X in 12/00), it seems to me steps are much more popular than the boards.
FYI to folks considering steps: Maniks are also available in black (at least they used to be). |
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| archimedes1 |
msu79gt82,
You said your wife was short and uses the side steps to get in with a mini skirt. What's your definition of short? I'm 5'5".
I agree with the group that the X isn't all that high, but to get in wearing a suit skirt (= a fitted skirt that comes to at least below the knee) might not be that easy without a side step.
I'd appreciate any opinions anyone has on this...
Thanks,
Ioana. |
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| archimedes1 |
I just found another thread where several of you talk about your wives and how tall/short they are. So I got my answer. :D
-i. |
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| msu79gt82 |
quote:
Originally posted by archimedes1
msu79gt82,
You said your wife was short and uses the side steps to get in with a mini skirt. What's your definition of short? I'm 5'5".
I agree with the group that the X isn't all that high, but to get in wearing a suit skirt (= a fitted skirt that comes to at least below the knee) might not be that easy without a side step.
My wife is 5' 1" and managed getting into and out of the car w/o steps for a while. She finds the steps useful with short and/or tight skirts. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
| I chose the sidesteps for my MDX over the running boards. They look sportier and do not make the MDX look like a van. I do not really need them for entry/exit. I chose them because when I stand on them, they give me enough of a lift to be able to clean the roof of the MDX easily from either side. I did not want to have to lug around a step stool whenever I needed to clean the MDX. The side steps provide this extra convenience I like. Just my take on the matter. |
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| msu79gt82 |
| ... I used to get a step ladder to wash the top:rolleyes: |
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