Mercedes-Benz GLS X167 Body Kit Review — Cost & Installation

Elevating the Mercedes-Benz GLS X167 with a Body Kit

The Mercedes-Benz GLS X167 is already a statement of luxury and presence. For owners seeking to push the aesthetic boundaries further, a body kit offers a transformative upgrade. While many focus on the larger components like bumpers and spoilers, a crucial detail often overlooked is the door sill, or door scuff. This review delves into the specifics of enhancing your GLS, particularly focusing on how a Maybach-style door sill upgrade complements a full body kit, offering a refined interior and exterior finish. The Korean context for this upgrade highlights its significance in achieving a cohesive, high-end look, especially when aiming for a Maybach aesthetic.

The Importance of Door Sills in a Body Kit Upgrade

When completing a full body kit for a vehicle like the Mercedes-Benz GLS, especially when aiming for a Maybach-inspired look, the door sills (also known as door scuffs) are a key finishing touch. These are the decorative trims found on the door frame, visible the moment you open the door. While standard GLS models feature Mercedes-Benz logos, upgrading to Maybach-style sills ensures a unified design language. This detail might seem minor, but it significantly elevates the perceived luxury and completeness of the vehicle's customization. The Korean context emphasizes that the true essence of a luxury sedan is revealed in its details, and the door sill is a prime example. Replacing all four door sills (driver, passenger, and two rear) with a matching design creates a seamless transition from the exterior body kit to the interior ambiance.

Body Kit Installation Process and Cost Considerations

The installation of these Maybach-style door sills is remarkably straightforward, often requiring no special tools or welding. The process involves carefully removing the existing door sills and then securing the new ones with clips. This low-difficulty task means minimal additional labor costs, making it an accessible upgrade. The cost for the door sills themselves, based on Korean pricing, ranges from approximately 50,000 to 80,000 KRW per piece. For all four sills, the total cost is around 200,000 to 300,000 KRW (roughly $150-$220 USD, subject to exchange rates). This is considered a reasonable price for genuine Mercedes-Benz parts, especially when factoring in the significant visual impact. The entire replacement process for all four sills typically takes about an hour and can be completed the same day, with no drying or curing time required before driving.

Installation Process:

1. Carefully open the door and inspect the existing door sill's attachment points.
2. Gently apply even pressure to detach the original sill, avoiding excessive force to prevent damage.
3. Clean the mounting surface thoroughly with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust or adhesive residue, ensuring optimal adhesion for the new part.
4. Align the new Maybach-style door sill in its correct position and secure it by pressing the clips firmly until they engage properly.

While this review focuses on door sills as a complement to a body kit, the general installation of a full body kit on a Mercedes-Benz GLS X167 involves more complex procedures. This can include fitting new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and potentially spoilers. The cost for a full body kit installation can vary significantly depending on the kit's complexity and the materials used (e.g., ABS plastic, polyurethane, or carbon fiber), but typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 USD or more, including parts and labor. The time required can range from a full day to several days, depending on the extent of the modifications and any necessary paintwork.

Durability is a key consideration for any body kit. High-quality materials like polyurethane and ABS plastic generally offer good impact resistance and flexibility, helping them withstand minor bumps and scrapes. Carbon fiber offers a lightweight, high-strength option but can be more brittle and expensive. Proper installation is crucial for long-term durability, ensuring all components are securely fastened and aligned. Regular cleaning and waxing will help maintain the finish and protect the material from environmental damage. For the door sills, being a less exposed part, durability is generally excellent, essentially matching the lifespan of other interior trim pieces.

Deciding whether a body kit is worth it for your Mercedes-Benz GLS X167 depends on your personal aesthetic goals and budget. For those seeking a more aggressive or customized look, a well-chosen and professionally installed body kit can significantly enhance the vehicle's appeal. However, it's important to weigh the cost against the perceived benefits. The door sill upgrade, as detailed in the Korean context, offers a high return on investment in terms of perceived luxury and detail completion, especially when paired with a larger body kit. It's a relatively low-cost way to add a significant touch of exclusivity.