OT: Running Boards on Minivans - Needed?

[713abc]

We are in the process of buying a Toyota Sienna XLE. I was wondering for those of you who have a minivan, do you recommend the running boards? Needed or not? Worth the money?

Pls let me know your opinions!

Thanks!
Mom to Max, 05/28/03

[KrisM]

I don't have a mini-van, so this isn't apples to apples, but I've been in SUVs with running boards. I don't like them because no matter how hard I try, I always end up with dirt on the back of my pant leg where I hit the running board getting out of the vehicle. I find that I don't need it to step down and it's just in my way. In the winter, it's especially bad with the dirty snow caked on.

[stillplayswithbarbies]

There is a lot of info about Siennas on the boards at http://www.siennaclub.org

I opted not to get the running boards because people said they got in the way when they tried to put kids into car seats. You can't stand close enough to the van to reach. Plus you can't have mudguards (splashguards) with the running boards and I'd rather have those.

...Karen
DS Jake Feb 91, DD Logan Mar 03
http://members.aol.com/khowe14494/superpower.gif http://members.aol.com/khowe14494/borntobebreastfed2.gif

[urquie]

i have the 2004 xle and running boards came with the package. personally, i hate them, so much that i would love to have them taken off (but doubt i'd make the effort)! i find it makes it harder to get in and out with them... for an adult. dd is to young to have any use for them, so i can't give a kids perspective. you'll love the van though!!

[daisymommy]

I'm so gald to hear this! We just bought a minivan (Toyota Sienna) about 3 weeks ago, and I was bummed that it didn't have runing boards. I thought they were supposed to be helpful. But now I feel relieved that I don't need to dish out more $$$ to get them added. Thanks gals!