Mercedes-Benz GLC Body Kit Review — Enhanced Exterior
Mercedes-Benz GLC X253 side skirt upgrade: Starts from ₩1,500,000. Replaces fixed steps for a cleaner look and improved practicality.
Mercedes-Benz GLC X253: Refining the Side Profile with a Body Kit
The Mercedes-Benz GLC X253 is a stylish SUV, but many owners feel its side profile lacks definition. For those looking to enhance its aesthetics, a body kit, specifically a side skirt upgrade, offers a subtle yet impactful modification. This review details a case of replacing the factory-installed fixed side steps with genuine Mercedes-Benz side skirts on a 2018 GLC, focusing on how this upgrade refines the exterior without compromising the vehicle's inherent elegance.
This procedure is ideal for GLC owners who find the standard fixed side steps cumbersome or aesthetically unappealing. The goal is to achieve a cleaner, more integrated look that complements the vehicle's design language.
Addressing the Practicality of Fixed Side Steps
While the fixed side steps on the Mercedes-Benz GLC are functional, they often receive feedback for being less practical than expected. Their design can lead to water or mud splashing onto clothing, especially during inclement weather. Furthermore, for a vehicle that isn't exceptionally high off the ground, their utility is sometimes questioned.
Replacing these fixed steps with sleek, genuine side skirts offers a dual benefit: an improved visual line and enhanced practicality. This modification streamlines the vehicle's appearance and eliminates the issue of splash-back, contributing to a cleaner overall look and a more comfortable experience for occupants.
Installation Process: Replacing Fixed Steps with Genuine Side Skirts
The core of this upgrade involves the careful removal of the existing fixed side steps and the precise installation of genuine Mercedes-Benz side skirts. These new skirts are designed to match the GLC's fender flares and are made from materials that ensure a seamless integration with the vehicle's body.
- Removal of Existing Steps: The factory-installed fixed side steps are meticulously detached. Technicians identify all mounting points and carefully release clips and fasteners to prevent damage to the surrounding bodywork.
- Preparation for New Skirts: The mounting areas are cleaned and inspected to ensure a smooth surface for the new components.
- Installation of Genuine Side Skirts: The new side skirts are aligned with the vehicle's body lines, ensuring a perfect fit with the fender covers. As these are genuine Mercedes-Benz parts, the fitment is typically exact, requiring minimal adjustments.
- Final Inspection and Finishing: After the skirts are securely attached, a thorough check is performed, including the interior trim around the door sills, to ensure a clean and flush finish. All seams and edges are verified for uniformity.
The Result: A Refined and Practical Exterior
The transformation is immediately noticeable. The removal of the bulky fixed steps and the installation of the smooth, integrated side skirts create a significantly cleaner and more streamlined side profile for the Mercedes-Benz GLC. This not only enhances the vehicle's aesthetic appeal but also simplifies exterior maintenance, as the lower surfaces are less prone to accumulating dirt and grime.
The practical benefits are particularly evident in wet conditions. The new side skirts effectively prevent water and mud from being thrown upwards, keeping clothing clean when entering or exiting the vehicle. The use of genuine Mercedes-Benz parts ensures a high-quality finish and a factory-perfect integration that elevates the overall look and feel of the GLC.
Cost and Timeframe for Side Skirt Upgrade
The primary factor influencing the cost is the price of the genuine Mercedes-Benz side skirt parts. Once the parts are procured, the installation process typically takes around 2 hours, allowing for same-day completion. The overall cost is comparable to upgrading to aftermarket aero parts on domestic vehicles, with prices varying based on location and specific parts chosen. It is advisable to obtain quotes from multiple service centers to compare pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a Body Kit cost for a Mercedes-Benz GLC X253?
The genuine side skirt upgrade for the Mercedes-Benz GLC X253 starts from approximately ₩1,500,000 in Korea. In the US, similar genuine body kit components can range from $800 to $2,500 depending on the specific parts and vehicle year.
Q. How long does a Body Kit last on a Mercedes-Benz GLC X253?
Genuine Mercedes-Benz body kits, like the side skirts, are designed for long-term durability and can last for many years with proper care. Regular washing and occasional waxing will help maintain their finish and protect the material.
Q. Is a Body Kit worth it for a Mercedes-Benz GLC X253?
A body kit, particularly a genuine side skirt upgrade, is worth it for Mercedes-Benz GLC X253 owners seeking a cleaner aesthetic and improved practicality over fixed side steps. It offers a subtle enhancement that maintains the vehicle's luxury appeal while resolving common functional drawbacks.
Q. How is a Body Kit done on a Mercedes-Benz GLC X253?
The process involves carefully removing the existing fixed side steps, ensuring no damage to the vehicle's body. Genuine side skirts are then precisely fitted and secured to the designated mounting points, aligning perfectly with the GLC's body lines for a seamless factory finish.
Q. What is the best Body Kit option for a Mercedes-Benz GLC X253?
For the Mercedes-Benz GLC X253, opting for genuine Mercedes-Benz side skirts is recommended for owners prioritizing a clean, integrated look and factory-quality fitment. This approach enhances the vehicle's side profile and practicality without the potential fitment issues of aftermarket alternatives.
OhCar Partner Shop
