Mercedes-Benz GLS Body Kit Review — Enhanced Access

The Challenge of Accessing the Mercedes-Benz GLS

The Mercedes-Benz GLS, a large luxury SUV, boasts an imposing presence. However, its substantial height can make getting in and out a challenge, particularly for families with young children or elderly members. While Mercedes-Benz offers a factory-installed fixed side step, it often falls short in providing sufficient convenience due to regulatory constraints and structural limitations. This review explores an upgrade that fundamentally addresses these access issues.

This article will cover:

• Limitations of fixed steps vs. advantages of power side steps.
• A detailed look at the power side step installation process.
• Information on cost, time, and maintenance.
• Real-world usability improvements after installation.

Why Fixed Side Steps Are Often Insufficient

Many large SUVs, including the GLS, come equipped with fixed side steps from the factory. However, these are designed to meet legal requirements for ground clearance, often resulting in a step height and distance from the vehicle's body that remains inadequate for comfortable entry and exit. This gap becomes more pronounced on larger vehicles.

For a family vehicle, ease of access is crucial for all passengers, not just the driver. Safety is paramount when transporting children or seniors, and fixed steps alone may not fully alleviate concerns about stability and ease of use.

The Advantage of Power Side Steps

Power side steps automatically deploy when a door is opened, providing a stable platform for stepping, and retract flush with the vehicle's undercarriage when the doors are closed. The key difference from fixed steps lies in their deployment position and angle. Designed to align with Maybach styling principles, power steps deploy significantly lower than fixed ones, creating ample space between the vehicle body and the step. This effectively lowers the entry point, making it feel like stepping down one less height.

Furthermore, for a large vehicle like the GLS, different step specifications are often used for the first and second rows. The second-row steps are typically slightly thicker, ensuring a more stable and secure boarding experience for rear-seat passengers.

Installation Process: Power Side Steps for the GLS

1. Removal of Existing Components: The process begins with the careful removal of the factory-fixed side steps and any associated underbody covers to create a clear workspace. This is done meticulously to prevent any damage to the vehicle's chassis.
2. Installation of New Trim: The area where the fixed steps were located is fitted with a sleek, silver-colored side cover that seamlessly integrates with the vehicle's original aesthetic. This cover is designed with subtle curves to blend naturally with the body lines, enhancing the vehicle's side profile. Its genuine part integration ensures superior color matching and build quality compared to aftermarket alternatives.
3. Mounting the Power Mechanism: Articulated motors and actuators are securely attached to the vehicle's undercarriage. These components are the core of the system, detecting door signals to deploy and retract the steps. Wiring is precisely integrated into the vehicle's electrical system for flawless operation.
4. Attaching the Steps and Final Inspection: The deployable steps for the first and second rows are then installed. A thorough operational test follows, checking for smooth deployment, responsive retraction, and accurate door signal detection. The entire installation typically takes about 4-6 hours, with an additional day recommended for full system stabilization.

The Transformation: Before and After

The most significant change after installing power side steps is the dramatically improved ease of entry and exit. Passengers no longer need to lift their legs as high, reducing strain and increasing safety, especially for children and the elderly. The automatic deployment and retraction add a touch of modern convenience and a premium feel to the GLS. The aesthetic integration of the new side covers also contributes to a more refined and complete look for the vehicle's lower body.