Over the weekend I saw two different RX330's with the chrome side step tubes (the one available from Lexus and not the WAAG version). One of them appeared to be very far away from the body and the other one was actually very close to the body. Is the side step adjustable? I really liked the one that was close to the body of the car just like the highlander. Since the highlander is literally the same car, will the highlander version fit on the rx330?

 

I've never seen Lexus factory sidesteps; got pics?

 

MsilverIS - the link to the RX330 accesories and the Tube Steps / Running Boards is in the link below:

http://www.lexus.com/models/rx/accessories.html

I always believe that the RX330 would look better with running board, but then everyone told me that it would take away from the sleek lines of the RX330 and there is no need for them. I guess I have not seen any RX330's with the Tube Steps, so really can't make a decision or form my own opinion on this.

Although the Higlander is the sister of the RX330, it's still very different on the exterior, but on the other hand this is all aftermarket accesories offerred by Toyota, so there maybe a chance that they can fit both vehicles and if they do, hopefully you can get the Toyota pricing as compared to the premium Lexus always charges.

 

I had "running boards" on one of my Suburbans to accommodate the ladies and a few short-legged friends who had difficulty climbing up into the 3/4-ton, 4X4. The appearance was fine, but there were problems.

Those tubes or bars look nice on the RX too, but again there is a downside . . .two downsides, actually that you should be aware of:

• Reduced ground or "breakover" clearance - if you ever get off pavement that can be a concern - not that you'll get hung up, but that you can do a lot of damage to the bars without realizing it, especially if they are slung fairly low.
  
• Placement - usually these devices are not placed for practicality. For example, the driver has to place his left foot on the bar, then swivel his right foot up and over his left to enter the cab. Now, if you're tall, that can be a problem, because the bar is only a couple of inches below the door sill, meaning you have to squat pretty low to get your rear end into the seat without slamming your head on the door frame. It takes practice to do this gracefully. In time you'll learn to just step in from the ground, as you do now.
  
  A similar issue appears especially when exiting the vehicle - if you elect not to step on the bar, you and your passengers may have a bit longer reach to the ground. This isn't bad when entering, but when exiting, you will need to step well over the bar - otherwise get a dirty streak on your pants where they contact the bar as you step to the ground. Owners of side-piped Vipers or 'Vettes know the drill - except their mis-steps result in scars.

None of these are serious problems, but something you should consider before installing tubes on your RX. Your personal geometry may vary.

 

Thanks guys, for the info.

The factory tubes aren't impressive ; maybe if the ends didn't curl downward...

 

Those side steps are a waste of money IMO. They'll just make it harder to get in/out of the RX. Possibly soil the pants in the process.

 

My RX300 came with a set of side steps. They are painted. The shape is flat with a plastic black slip step piece. You can get them lighted or nonlighted. My Daughter and Mom use them. And I only use them when I am washing the car.