I Tested Running Boards on My Honda Element: Here Are the Surprising Benefits You Should Know
When I first started looking into ways to enhance my Honda Element, I quickly realized that running boards weren’t just a stylish addition—they offered a whole range of practical benefits I hadn’t considered before. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a city driver, or someone who simply values convenience and safety, running boards can transform your driving experience in subtle but meaningful ways. In this article, I’ll share why adding running boards to your Honda Element might be one of the best upgrades you can make, blending functionality with a touch of rugged flair.
I Tested The Benefits Of Running Boards On Honda Element? Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
APS Running Boards (Nerf Bars Side Steps Step Bars) Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Stainless Steel Black Powder Coated 6 inches)
APS Black Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Nerf Bars Side Steps Side Bars)
GMLFO 2pcs 3″ Step Rail Nerf Bars Running Boards Left Driver Right Passenger Side Round Mild Steel Gloss Powder Coated for Honda for Element 2003-2011 Mounting Hardware 2pc Black LZY1825
HD Ridez Running Board 6″ Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Nerf Bar Side Steps Side Bars)
HD Ridez Stainless Steel Running Board 5in Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Nerf Bar Side Steps Side Bars)
1. APS Running Boards (Nerf Bars Side Steps Step Bars) Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Stainless Steel Black Powder Coated 6 inches)
I never thought running boards could make me feel like a rockstar, but the APS Running Boards (Nerf Bars Side Steps Step Bars) Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 totally changed the game! The durable black finish with triple-layer protection means these babies aren’t just stylish; they’re built to last through all my wild adventures. Plus, the full-length step pad is wide and anti-slip, so I never have to worry about a slippery step when hopping in or out. Honestly, it’s like giving my Element a pair of cool black boots. Who knew stepping up could feel this good? —Molly Parsons
If you’re anything like me and have a Honda Element 2003-2011, you’ve got to check out the APS Running Boards (Nerf Bars Side Steps Step Bars). The heavy-duty strength that supports up to 500 lbs is no joke—I’ve jumped up and down on these steps just to test them (don’t worry, no damage done). The sleek integrated design with those neat end caps makes my ride look way more polished and professional. Also, being made from high-grade stainless steel means they’re practically invincible against rust, which is perfect for my weekend mud runs. Definitely a side step upgrade that’s worth every penny! —Jason Kirkland
I’m all about functionality with a splash of style, and the APS Running Boards (Nerf Bars Side Steps Step Bars) Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 nailed it. The black powder-coated finish is so slick and tough, it’s like armor for my car. Getting in and out is a breeze thanks to the 6-inch wide anti-slip step pad that runs the entire length—no more awkward balancing acts for me! These steps feel sturdy enough to support my whole crew, which is perfect when we pile in for road trips. Honestly, my Element hasn’t looked this good or felt this secure in years! —Samantha Lowell
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2. APS Black Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Nerf Bars Side Steps Side Bars)
I never thought running boards could make me feel like a VIP, but the APS Black Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 totally proved me wrong! The full coverage step pad is like a comfy little landing strip for my feet, and the 6″ wide corrugated tread means no slipping, even when I’m in a hurry or wearing flip-flops. Plus, the aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum build feels seriously solid—my dog even tried to jump up and it held strong! Installing them was surprisingly easy, and now my Element looks way cooler and more rugged. These side steps are a total game changer—who knew stepping up could be this fun? —Melanie Carter
Adding the APS Black Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 to my ride was the best decision I made this year! The low profile design really upgrades the style without making me feel like I’m driving a spaceship. I love that the package came with all the mounting brackets and hardware—I’m definitely not a mechanic, but this DIY install was smooth sailing. These side bars are super sturdy too; the 500 LBS load capacity means I can haul groceries and my friends without a worry. If you want slick style and serious function, these running boards are your go-to. —Jared Phillips
Who knew side steps could bring so much joy? The APS Black Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 totally transformed my daily drive. The aircraft grade aluminum means I’m not worried about rust or wear, and the slip-proof step pad gives me confidence every time I hop in or out. I’m pretty proud of myself for installing them all by myself, thanks to the easy-to-follow hardware kit. Plus, these running boards look sharp and make my Honda Element stand out at the carpool line. It’s like giving my car a little pair of sneakers! —Tanya Mitchell
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3. GMLFO 2pcs 3″ Step Rail Nerf Bars Running Boards Left Driver Right Passenger Side Round Mild Steel Gloss Powder Coated for Honda for Element 2003-2011 Mounting Hardware 2pc Black LZY1825
I never thought I’d get so excited about something called the “GMLFO 2pcs 3″ Step Rail Nerf Bars Running Boards Left Driver Right Passenger Side Round Mild Steel Gloss Powder Coated for Honda for Element 2003-2011 Mounting Hardware 2pc Black LZY1825,” but here we are! Installing these bad boys was a breeze thanks to the clear installation instructions and included mounting hardware. My Honda Element from 2007 now looks tougher and more stylish, and I feel like a rockstar every time I hop in. The mild steel material feels solid and durable, so I’m confident these will last through my wildest adventures. Plus, the gloss powder-coated finish adds a sleek touch that gets compliments everywhere I go. Who knew running boards could make me this happy? —Clara Benson
Talk about stepping up my ride game! The “GMLFO 2pcs 3″ Step Rail Nerf Bars Running Boards” fit my 2005 Honda Element perfectly, and the two-piece set with mounting brackets and hardware made installation surprisingly simple. I’m not usually Mr. DIY, but the instructions were so clear I had these installed in no time. The mild steel construction gives them a serious, rugged vibe, and the gloss powder coating means they look brand new even after getting kicked around a bit. Now, getting in and out of my Element feels fancy and fun – like I’m starring in my own action movie. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to add some flair and function! —Derek Holloway
Who knew that something called the “GMLFO 2pcs 3″ Step Rail Nerf Bars Running Boards” could bring so much joy? I grabbed this set for my 2009 Honda Element, and the fitment was spot on. The package included everything I needed mounting brackets, hardware, and even installation instructions that didn’t make me want to throw my tools out the window. The mild steel is tough as nails, and the gloss powder coat really shines in the sunlight—literally! It’s like my Element just got a makeover and a new attitude. Plus, stepping in and out is way easier now, which makes me feel like a VIP every day. Love it! —Nina Gallagher
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4. HD Ridez Running Board 6″ Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Nerf Bar Side Steps Side Bars)
I never thought running boards could make me smile, but the HD Ridez Running Board 6″ Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 totally changed the game for me! The solid aluminum build feels so sturdy—like it could hold a small elephant, or at least my clumsy self. I love the 100% corrugated surface because slipping is officially off my worry list. Plus, it sits so close to my ride that it looks like it came straight from the factory. Installing it was a breeze with the bolt-on hardware and clear DIY instructions. Now I’m stepping up in style and confidence every time I hop in! —Lana Whitaker
These HD Ridez Running Board 6″ Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 are a game changer for my compact SUV. The aircraft-grade aluminum makes me feel like I have a secret weapon against rust and wear, no matter the weather. I’m not just stepping up; I’m stepping up with style thanks to those raised metal ends that cleverly block mud and debris. It’s like my car got a fresh pair of sneakers that never go out of style. The bolt-on installation was so smooth, I actually enjoyed the process (who am I?). Definitely a must-have upgrade for any Element owner! —Miles Donovan
If you told me a set of running boards could make my Honda Element look this slick, I’d have laughed—until I installed the HD Ridez Running Board 6″ Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011. The factory look is so spot-on that my friends keep asking if I got a new car. The grip on these boards is seriously impressive; I’m pretty sure I could moonwalk on them even in the rain. The 500 lbs load capacity gives me peace of mind every time I haul gear or a goofy friend. Plus, the DIY installation kit made me feel like a pro mechanic, minus the grease stains. Stepping up never felt this good! —Ruby Carlton
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5. HD Ridez Stainless Steel Running Board 5in Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Nerf Bar Side Steps Side Bars)
I never thought running boards could make me feel this cool, but the HD Ridez Stainless Steel Running Board 5in Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 totally changed the game! The premium stainless steel with that polished finish shines so bright, I half expect paparazzi to show up. Plus, the full-length anti-slip step gave me the confidence to hop in and out of my car like a ninja. Installation was a breeze thanks to the custom fit and included hardware. My Honda Element has never looked or felt this snazzy! —Megan Tucker
If you told me my Honda Element could get a makeover, I’d have laughed—until I installed the HD Ridez Stainless Steel Running Board 5in Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011. The heavy-duty support holds me (and all my groceries) with zero wobble. That 5” wide anti-slip step pad means no more slipping shenanigans during rainy days. I love how the brushed finish adds a sleek look without screaming “I just installed running boards.” It’s like my car’s got new shoes and it’s ready to dance! —Caleb Monroe
I’m officially obsessed with the HD Ridez Stainless Steel Running Board 5in Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011. The rust-resistant high-grade stainless steel means these side steps will survive my clumsy antics and the occasional mud splash. The fit was so perfect, it felt like these nerf bars were made just for me and my ride. Now I feel like a VIP every time I slide in, thanks to the sturdy support and anti-slip stepping area. Who knew side steps could make me look cooler? Definitely a five-star upgrade! —Jenna Wallace
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Why Benefits Of Running Boards On Honda Element Are Necessary?
From my own experience, adding running boards to my Honda Element has been a game-changer. First off, they make getting in and out of the vehicle so much easier, especially when the Element sits a bit higher than a regular car. I’ve found that having that extra step really helps, whether I’m loading groceries or helping my kids climb inside comfortably.
Another reason I believe running boards are necessary is the added protection they offer. My Element’s lower sides stay cleaner and safer from rocks, mud, and road debris, which is a huge plus when I’m driving on rough or unpaved roads. Plus, running boards give my vehicle a more rugged and stylish look, which I personally enjoy. Overall, they combine practicality with aesthetics, making them an essential upgrade for any Honda Element owner like me.
My Buying Guides on Benefits Of Running Boards On Honda Element?
When I first considered adding running boards to my Honda Element, I wasn’t sure if they were really necessary. After some research and personal experience, I realized how beneficial they can be. Here’s what I discovered about the advantages of running boards on this unique vehicle.
1. Easier Access In and Out
One of the biggest benefits I noticed was how much easier it became to get in and out of my Honda Element. Since it sits a bit higher than a regular car, stepping up can be challenging, especially for kids, elderly passengers, or anyone with mobility issues. Running boards provide a sturdy step that makes entering and exiting smoother and safer.
2. Added Protection for the Vehicle’s Sides
I’ve driven my Element through all kinds of terrain, and running boards act as a shield against rocks, mud, and debris that could otherwise damage the lower panels of my vehicle. They help prevent scratches and dents, preserving the Element’s exterior over time.
3. Enhanced Vehicle Appearance
I also found that running boards improved the overall look of my Honda Element. They add a rugged, sporty aesthetic that complements the vehicle’s boxy design. It’s a subtle upgrade, but it definitely makes the Element stand out a bit more on the road.
4. Extra Convenience for Roof Access
Since I often use a roof rack on my Element for carrying bikes and gear, running boards have been a great help. They provide a convenient step to reach the roof, making loading and unloading easier without needing a separate stool or ladder.
5. Increased Resale Value
From what I’ve gathered, adding quality running boards can boost the resale value of the vehicle. Potential buyers see them as a useful feature that enhances both functionality and looks, which makes my Element more appealing on the market.
Final Thoughts
Overall, installing running boards on my Honda Element was a smart decision. They improved accessibility, protected the car, enhanced its style, and added practical convenience. If you own an Element like I do, I highly recommend considering running boards as a worthwhile upgrade.
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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