I’m loving my new GV80, but my kids are struggling a bit with the entry height. I’m looking for sleek side steps that won't ruin the car's lines. Does anyone have experience with the OEM electric ones versus aftermarket fixed boards? I'm curious about the install difficulty and long-term durability. What brands do you guys recommend?
Quick question—are you mostly worried about the kids slipping in the rain or snow, or is it purely the height? I ask because I actually had a bad fall on some sleek ones that lacked grip. Before I suggest the Ionic 5" Black Railway Running Boards or the pricier AMP Research PowerStep Electric Running Boards, I gotta know if safety/traction is your #1 priority cuz some "sleek" boards are basically ice skates when wet!
sooo I actually tried some budget fixed boards first and honestly it was a huge mistake. watch out for the cheap aluminum ones from random sites cuz they oxidize like crazy after one winter and just look trashy on a luxury car like the GV80. for your situation, I would suggest:
- sticking with the OEM electric ones if you can swing the price... they're pricey but keep the lines clean.
- checking out some of the Korean aftermarket brands since they usually have better fitment for Genesis.
- keeping an eye on the motor salt-protection if you live somewhere snowy because those electric ones can seize up if you dont clean them regularly, right?
Oh man, I totally feel u on this! I was in the exact same boat when I first got my GV80. My kids were basically rock climbing just to get into the back seat lol. I spent forever researching this because I didnt want to mess up the lines of the car either since it looks so sleek.
In my experience, if you're worried about the look, the Genesis GV80 OEM Electric Power Side Steps are the way to go, but honestly they are sooo expensive. Like, I think the dealer quoted me over $2,500 plus labor?? That was a bit much for me tbh. Instead, I went with a more budget-friendly route and got the Broadfeet 5-Inch Oval Side Steps for Genesis GV80. They were way cheaper, like around $400-500, and they actually look really clean!
I guess the install difficulty depends on how handy you are? I'm kinda a beginner with car stuff, so it took me like three hours in my driveway. It's basically a bolt-on situation, so no drilling required which is AMAZING. If you want something even lower profile, check out the TAC Side Steps Running Boards for Genesis GV80. They're super slim and barely noticeable from the side profile.
Anyway, if you got the extra cash, the electric ones are highkey cool cuz they hide away, but for practical real-world usage, the fixed boards are just more reliable long-term... no motors to break! Hope that helps you decide!! peace
Yep been there done that. Can confirm everything said above is spot on.
Interested in this too
@Reply #5 - good point! Honestly though, I'm gonna go against the grain here and suggest skipping the electric motors. I've been super satisfied with a fixed set of Romik RAL-B Series Black Running Boards because they sit really tight to the rocker panel and don't ruin the profile at all. If you're doing a DIY install like I did, the fixed boards are way less of a headache. No tapping into the wiring harness or worrying about sensors failing in three years. Basically, these use existing factory holes so it's a simple bolt-on job. Technical specs are solid too—they use aircraft grade aluminum so they won't rust out like those cheap ones mentioned earlier. Plus the weight capacity is 450 lbs which is plenty for kids or adults. Works well for my family and the wife is happy with how they look. Just my two cents if you want something durable without the $2k price tag of the OEM units.