JKMan

Do you have to lift the car to install running boards?

lilboi

You don't need to lift the car although it does help a bit to get leverage since the rivnut tool is a bit hard to maneuver.

I ended up buying the Astro rivnut. The rivnuts that go against the side of the car were easy to install. The ones that are below the car was a bit difficult, mainly because of leverage. It may be a bit more helpful if the car was lifted a tad. I started with the passenger side with all OEM rivnuts that came with the running boards. On the driver side I used the rivnuts that came with the tool. Those are pre-crushed and worked 10x better. I would recommend NOT using the rivnuts that came in the packaging for under the car. You'll need to bore the hole slightly with a drill bit but the install was easier and studier on the second side with the rivnuts with the tool.

Don't skimp on the tool. It's not worth it.

kvtram

Just did the install past Friday. Had the new updated instructions sent with running boards, giving the correct riv nuts number of riv nuts per side. Took 4hrs as I did it alone with the car on ramps and the Astro rivet tool. 1st side took about 3hrs to fit and figure. Other side was just a repeat with learned experience. Hardest part was learning how to make clean riv nuts that wont spin. Due to the location there is one rivnut that was impossible with the astro tool to get a good crimp (location rear door 1st rivet hole). The rear doors does not open as wide to get a good leverage to crimp. Other that that make sure mud guards are install correctly with the running boards.

vhoang2

Hi - I did not see anyone post/describe how to measure/drill the holes required before installing the rivets. Can you explain? I do not want to misdrill them. Thanks

mspearl95

kvtram

There are pre-drilled holes from the factory and no drilling is required.

vhoang2

Thanks! Not sure why the service consultant at my dearlership told me had to drill holes.... I feel much better now to order and self-install.

kvtram

Sounded like they are unaware of the install process or wanted to make it sounded more complicated to get your business.

abgs350

Stevens Creek Lexus quoted me $745 to install the running boards ... any bay area people in california have any luck at other dealerships?

maybe i'll just get the mud guards and self-install for now..

DaytonaV

try LEXUS OF PLEASANTON . when i inquired, it was ~ $500. i just opted to install myself.

vhoang2

Just installed earlier - took me approx 3 hr - used the Amazon tool and its pretty straight forward. I have the newer instruction if anyone's interested.

espieric

I just bought a RX350L and very much interested in installing a running boards by myself hopefully, can I have your instructions pls.

vhoang2

Here it is.

cp2012

Does this void the factory warranty if you DIY? I assume you guys are installing it after the 4 years?

ravenuer

I can't imagine installing running boards would have any effect on the warranty.