Mercedes-Benz GLS Body Kit Installation Review

Enhancing Your Mercedes-Benz GLS with a Body Kit

The Mercedes-Benz GLS, a symbol of luxury and capability, can be further personalized and enhanced with the addition of a body kit. While the GLS already boasts a commanding presence, specific aftermarket kits, particularly those focusing on electric side steps and wider skirts, can elevate both its aesthetics and functionality. This review delves into the specifics of installing a wide-type electric side step body kit on a Mercedes-Benz GLS, drawing from real-world applications and owner experiences. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the installation process, the tangible before-and-after results, the associated costs, and whether this upgrade is a worthwhile investment for GLS owners.

What is a Wide-Type Electric Side Step Body Kit?

This particular upgrade focuses on enhancing the ingress and egress experience for the Mercedes-Benz GLS, especially beneficial given its SUV stature. The wide-type electric side steps offer a broader platform compared to standard steps, providing a more stable and comfortable footing. When the doors are opened, these steps automatically extend, and retract discreetly when the doors are closed, maintaining the vehicle's sleek profile. The kit often includes not just the electric steps with motors and brackets, but also accompanying side skirts, typically finished in gloss black, sometimes with chrome accents, to create a cohesive and sporty look. The integration of LED lighting on the steps further enhances visibility and safety during nighttime use. It's crucial to understand that such installations require precise wiring and potential minor body modifications, underscoring the need for professional expertise.

Installation Process and Transformation

The installation of a wide-type electric side step body kit on a Mercedes-Benz GLS is a detailed process that typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Here’s a general overview:

1. Removal of Existing Components: The process begins with the careful removal of the factory side skirts or existing side steps to ensure no damage to the vehicle's original bodywork.
2. Mounting Brackets and Motors: The new electric side step system's mounting brackets and motors are securely attached to the GLS's chassis according to the manufacturer's specifications.
3. Wiring and Integration: Electrical connections are meticulously made, often routed cleanly through the vehicle's undercarriage and interior floor, with all external connections properly waterproofed for durability.
4. Attaching New Side Skirts: The new gloss black side skirts, often featuring a chrome trim, are then fitted to complete the body kit aesthetic.
5. Testing and Final Checks: The system is tested to ensure the steps deploy and retract smoothly, and all electrical components function correctly.

Post-installation, the transformation is noticeable. The GLS appears lower and more aggressive, with the wider side skirts visually enhancing its stance. The primary benefit, however, is the improved practicality. Stepping into and out of the elevated GLS becomes significantly easier and safer, particularly for children, the elderly, or anyone who finds the standard height challenging. The automatic deployment and retraction of the wide steps add a touch of modern convenience and luxury, while the integrated lighting provides an added safety feature in low-light conditions.

Cost and Considerations for Your GLS Body Kit

The cost for installing a wide-type electric side step body kit on a Mercedes-Benz GLS can vary. In the context of installations performed in Korea, prices generally start in the range of 3 million KRW (approximately $2,200 USD), with specialized or Maybach-specific versions potentially costing more. The final price depends on several factors: the specific model year and options of your GLS, the brand and quality of the chosen body kit, and the labor rates at the installation facility. It is highly recommended to get a precise quote after a physical inspection of your vehicle and a consultation to discuss your options. While the primary focus here is on electric side steps, it's worth noting that a full body kit, which might include front and rear bumper enhancements and spoilers, would incur additional costs and installation time.