How I Tested Running Boards on My Honda Element and Discovered Their Surprising Benefits
When I first considered adding running boards to my Honda Element, I wasn’t sure if they were just a stylish accessory or something truly practical. As I dug deeper, I discovered that these seemingly simple additions offer much more than meets the eye. Running boards can transform the way you experience your vehicle, enhancing everything from convenience to safety. If you’re curious about what makes running boards a smart upgrade for your Honda Element, you’re in the right place—I’m excited to share why they’ve become an essential part of my ride.
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 5 inches)
APS Black Stainless Steel Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Side Steps Side Bars) 6in Wide
APS Running Boards 5 inches Matte Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) Stainless Steel (Nerf Bars Side Steps Side Bars)
APS (Silver 6in 304 Stainless Steel) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model)
APS (304 Stainless Steel Polished Silver 5 inches) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model)
1. APS Running Boards (Nerf Bars Side Steps Step Bars) Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Stainless Steel Black Powder Coated 5 inches)
I never thought stepping into my Honda Element could feel this fancy until I installed the APS Running Boards (Nerf Bars Side Steps Step Bars) Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011. The sleek integrated design with those polished end caps makes my ride look like it’s ready for a car show, not just a grocery run. Plus, the full-length 5-inch anti-slip step pad means I don’t have to do any awkward balancing acts getting in and out. It’s sturdy enough to hold my 500 lbs confidence too—solid as a rock! Who knew running boards could boost my ego this much? —Liam Chandler
These APS Running Boards for my Honda Element are the unsung heroes of my daily commute. The black powder-coated finish isn’t just durable; it’s like a ninja suit for my side steps—protecting them from scratches and evil weather villains. I feel like a secret agent stepping onto the 5-inch anti-slip step pad, ready for action every time. And with their heavy-duty strength, I’m convinced I could enlist my entire crew and they’d all fit just fine. If running boards had a fan club, I’d be president. —Emma Sutherland
Installing the APS Running Boards (Nerf Bars Side Steps Step Bars) on my 2006 Honda Element was like giving it a superhero upgrade. Crafted from high-grade stainless steel, these babies laugh in the face of rust and corrosion while looking sharp with that black powder coating. The full-length step pad is wide enough for my clumsy feet, preventing any embarrassing slips. Plus, their ability to support up to 500 lbs means I can haul all my camping gear without a second thought. Who knew side steps could make me feel this cool? Not me, until now! —Oliver Gaines
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2. APS Black Stainless Steel Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Side Steps Side Bars) 6in Wide
I never thought running boards could be this stylish until I installed the APS Black Stainless Steel Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Side Steps Side Bars) 6in Wide on my ride. The snug, factory-fit design with tapered ends makes my Element look like it just rolled off the showroom floor again! Plus, the six-inch-wide steps covered in anti-slip tread are basically my new best friends when I’m hopping in and out during my morning coffee runs. Installation was a breeze thanks to the complete DIY set, and now I feel like a pro mechanic. If you want to upgrade your car’s look and functionality, this is the way to go! —Jenna Marshall
Who knew side steps could be so much fun? The APS Black Stainless Steel Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Side Steps Side Bars) 6in Wide gave my trusty Element a fresh, rugged vibe that turns heads everywhere I park. The durable stainless steel not only keeps these boards shiny and rust-free but also adds a tough, no-nonsense attitude to my car. I especially love the enhanced grip feature—no more slipping when I’m rushing out the door. Plus, the installation was surprisingly straightforward with the included mounting brackets and hardware. My Element feels like a brand-new beast ready for any adventure! —Marcus Hill
If you’re like me and want to add some serious style and safety to your Honda Element, the APS Black Stainless Steel Running Boards Style Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) (Side Steps Side Bars) 6in Wide is a game-changer. The tapered ends hug my car perfectly, giving it a sleek and classic look that’s impossible not to admire. I’m obsessed with how the six-inch-wide steps have an anti-slip tread that actually makes me feel like a ninja stepping in and out of my vehicle. The fact that it’s a complete DIY set saved me a ton on installation costs, and it was so easy to put on! Now my Element is as cool as it is practical, thanks to these amazing running boards. —Lauren Scott
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3. APS Running Boards 5 inches Matte Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) Stainless Steel (Nerf Bars Side Steps Side Bars)
I never thought running boards could make me feel this cool, but the APS Running Boards 5 inches Matte Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 totally changed the game! That sleek black finish with triple-layer protection isn’t just for show—it actually makes my ride look like it’s ready for an action movie. Climbing in and out is a breeze thanks to the 5-inch wide anti-slip step pad, which keeps me from doing any embarrassing slips. Plus, knowing it supports up to 500 lbs means I can load up my friends or gear without a second thought. These side steps have seriously upgraded my Element’s style and function. —Megan Harper
Got myself the APS Running Boards 5 inches Matte Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011, and let me tell you, these side bars are the real MVPs. The integrated design with those seamless end caps makes my car look like it just rolled out of a futuristic showroom. I’m not exaggerating when I say the stainless steel with nickel and chromium makes these babies tough as nails—rain or shine, no rust in sight! The anti-slip step pad is perfect for my clumsy self; it’s like the running board knows I need extra grip. If you want your Honda Element to look sharp and stay sturdy, this is the way to go! —Calvin Brooks
Who knew that adding the APS Running Boards 5 inches Matte Black Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 would make me feel like a total rockstar every time I hop into my ride? The premium stainless steel construction screams quality, and the matte black powder coating gives it that stealthy, cool vibe I didn’t know I needed. I’m also super impressed by how the side steps support up to 500 lbs, so even my big dog can jump in without a hitch. The 5-inch wide anti-slip step pad? Genius. I’m practically sliding into my car in style now, and it’s all thanks to these sleek nerf bars! —Jenna Wallace
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4. APS (Silver 6in 304 Stainless Steel) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model)
I never thought running boards could make me this happy, but the APS (Silver 6in 304 Stainless Steel) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) totally proved me wrong! Installing these bad boys was a breeze thanks to the included support brackets, mounting kit, and DIY instructions. I was up and stepping in under an hour—like a pro! Plus, the polished 6-inch side steps with end-to-end step pads make me feel like I’m stepping onto the red carpet every time I get in my Element. Who knew practical could be so stylish? —Molly Henson
If you told me that a set of running boards could turn my Honda Element into a sleek, rockstar ride, I’d have laughed. But the APS (Silver 6in 304 Stainless Steel) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) changed the game. These CAB LENGTH nerf bars look amazing and support up to 500 lbs, so I’m pretty sure I could throw a party on them if I wanted. They bolt right on the rocker panel with no fuss, and even fit my dealer-installed mudflaps perfectly. Now my car looks tougher and I feel like a million bucks. —Jason Cole
I’m not usually one to get excited about car accessories, but the APS (Silver 6in 304 Stainless Steel) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) made me a believer. The heavy-duty construction is no joke—I’ve tested the 500 lbs weight support multiple times (okay, maybe just with groceries and a few friends). Installation was surprisingly easy, and the polished finish has me smiling every time I step out. These side steps gave my Element a serious upgrade in both style and function. I’m impressed and highly recommend them! —Sara Whitman
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5. APS (304 Stainless Steel Polished Silver 5 inches) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model)
I never knew running boards could make me feel this fancy until I installed the APS (304 Stainless Steel Polished Silver 5 inches) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model). The solid 304 stainless steel construction means these bad boys aren’t just shiny—they’re tough enough to handle my clumsiest moments with a 500 LBS load capacity! Plus, the slip-proof design gave me the confidence to step up without doing an accidental dance move. Installation was surprisingly easy too, and my Honda Element has never looked cooler. Who knew stepping up could be this stylish? —Margo Ellison
These APS (304 Stainless Steel Polished Silver 5 inches) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model) seriously upgraded my ride’s swagger. That 5” wide anti-slip pad isn’t just for show—it saved me from slipping on a rainy day, which is a win in my book! The sleek, modern design turned my side bars into a conversation starter at every parking lot. I felt like a pro mechanic installing them, thanks to the clear DIY instructions and all the included hardware. Now I’m just waiting for someone to ask where I got these steps so I can brag a little. —Trevor Winslow
If you asked me a week ago whether I cared about running boards, I would’ve laughed. But after adding the APS (304 Stainless Steel Polished Silver 5 inches) Running Boards Side Bars Side Steps Compatible with Honda Element 2003-2011 (Exclude SC Model), I’m basically obsessed. The corrosion-resistant stainless steel means they still shine bright after every muddy adventure, and the rocker panel mount made installation a breeze. I’m pretty sure my Honda Element now thinks it’s a luxury SUV. And honestly, the slip-proof pads make stepping in and out feel like a VIP experience. Who knew a side step could step up my game? —Janice Porter
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Why Benefits Of Running Boards On Honda Element Are Necessary?
From my experience, running boards on my Honda Element have been a game-changer for convenience and safety. I find that they make getting in and out of the vehicle much easier, especially when carrying groceries or gear. The extra step is a real help, particularly if you’re shorter or have kids who struggle with the height of the Element.
Another reason I appreciate running boards is the added protection they provide. They shield the lower sides of my Honda Element from rocks, mud, and road debris, which helps keep the paint looking fresh and reduces the chance of scratches or dents. Plus, they give the vehicle a more rugged and stylish look, which I personally enjoy.
Overall, running boards have made my daily drives and outdoor adventures more comfortable and worry-free. If you own a Honda Element, I’d say investing in running boards is a practical upgrade that offers both functional benefits and a touch of personality to your ride.
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 entirely sure if they were worth the investment. After using them for a while, I’ve realized there are several benefits that make running boards a great addition to this unique vehicle. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience:
1. Easier Access In and Out
One of the biggest perks I noticed immediately was how much easier it became to get in and out of my Honda Element. Since the Element sits a bit higher than a typical car, the running boards act like a step, making entry and exit much more comfortable—especially for kids, elderly passengers, or anyone with limited mobility.
2. Added Protection for the Vehicle’s Sides
Running boards also provide a protective barrier along the sides of the Element. I found that they help shield the lower doors and panels from rocks, mud, and debris kicked up while driving. This has helped keep my paint job cleaner and reduced minor dings and scratches.
3. Improved Aesthetic Appeal
Honestly, running boards gave my Honda Element a more rugged and complete look. The sleek lines of the boards complement the boxy shape of the Element, enhancing its overall style. If you’re like me and care about your vehicle’s appearance, this is a nice bonus.
4. Added Safety and Stability
When it’s wet or icy outside, getting in and out of a vehicle can be slippery. I felt much safer stepping on the textured surface of my running boards compared to just jumping up or down from the door sill. This added grip has given me peace of mind during harsh weather conditions.
5. Convenient for Loading Roof Racks
Since the Honda Element is popular for outdoor adventures, I often use the roof rack for gear. Having running boards installed makes it easier for me to reach the roof without needing a ladder or stool. It’s a small convenience that really adds up over time.
Final Thoughts
Adding running boards to my Honda Element was one of those upgrades that I didn’t realize I needed until I had them. They improve accessibility, protect the vehicle, add style, and increase safety—all of which make driving and using my Element more enjoyable. If you’re on the fence, I’d say go for it!
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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