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Removing factory installed side steps

13125 Views 94 Replies 29 Participants Last post by  JohnJoseph
Bought a Santa Cruz Limited that came with factory side steps. Didn't want them but the vehicle was available. Sure miss going onto a new car lot and looking at a dozen vehicles or so!

When I pull the side steps off will there be anything missing that needs to be put on? I was hoping once they were taken off everything would be just like from the factory. But after looking at the install instructions I found online there is a seam sealer on the rocker panel that needs to be peeled off for the install. That and a couple of other steps outlined in the instructions about adding or removing items have me wondering just what I am going to find. Has anyone taken a set of these factory installed running boards off? Will there be anything that needs to be added to get it back to a factory condition for a Santa Cruz Limited without side steps?
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Some impressions about removing the steps… I did not need to add any seam sealer. It seemed that Hyundai did the full sealing and then scraped some away. However there was plenty remaining. I left the anti rattle tape in place and just installed the covers over them.
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If anyone needs the panels I've got a set I pulled off when I installed my side steps. I think I cracked a couple clip holders but they still hold clips.
$400 bucks picked up, SF Bay Area.
These are the white clips for the underside of the panels. I was unable to find the grey side clips (I was only missing 1 each side so I wasn’t too worried about it). They were a little bit more brittle than the factory clips. A little tip from the radio control world, if you boil nylon parts for about 5 minutes, they will remain more flexible. I do not know if these clips are plastic or nylon so I would do a test with 1 clip first. YMMV

OAUTOO 20PCS Wheel Opening Rocker Molding Lower Clip for Hyundai & Kia 87758G2000 Amazon.com: OAUTOO 20PCS Wheel Opening Rocker Molding Lower Clip for Hyundai & Kia 87758G2000 : Automotive
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I did not sell my steps. I expect that I will put in a lift kit in the spring and I want to keep them in case I think they will look better then. With stock height, they remind me of a 90s suburban with the running boards that just look so low that they may as well be a handicap ramp. Some may have use for them, but at 6’2”, I can reach the roof for cleaning without the steps.
I just took the running boards (steps) off my 2023 SC and will be happy to sell them for $400. You will need to buy the plastic trim and the bolt and nut package. I'm in the Denver area.
Did you (or anyone) get a reply on the rocker panel covers? Still want to remove mine...
I just drilled out the 2 rivets on each panel and reused them.
I just drilled out the 2 rivets on each panel and reused them.
I used the covers that came with the steps. They are attached with 2 rivets each to the step, that I drilled out. The total time for removal and replace was maybe 2hours.
Then your steps are not worth $400 seeing as you removed half of them and the plastic parts are not replaceable separately!
Then your steps are not worth $400 seeing as you removed half of them and the plastic parts are not replaceable separately!
OK, you are probably right. Thanks for the input.
If anyone needs the panels I've got a set I pulled off when I installed my side steps. I think I cracked a couple clip holders but they still hold clips.
$400 bucks picked up, SF Bay Area.
Hey, this might be a long shot but do you still have the rocker panel covers?? East Bay.. thanks
Hey, this might be a long shot but do you still have the rocker panel covers?? East Bay.. thanks
Sorry, I removed them from the steps and used them instead of buying the other ones. I believe that if a person were to get the nut serts and 6mm bolts, the steps could be installed and the plain panels could be reinstalled with the 3 plastic snaps. Just my thought, after seeing how they work. I'm sure someone will know more about it.
Hey, this might be a long shot but do you still have the rocker panel covers?? East Bay.. thanks
Yes I've got them still. I'm PM you.
Typical dealer response that to keep your warranty, they have to do the install. That is 100% untrue.

Read the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act.

The manufacturer would have to prove that a part or the improper installation of the part caused the failure of a covered part.

That is why I do not use tuners, intakes or any other part that changes the factory parameters of a vehicle that is under warranty. It is too easy for a dealer to claim the part caused the failure. If you disagree, you have to file a breach of warranty complaint with the FTC or in some cases go to court.

As far as installing factory parts, no reason not to do it yourself if you have the ability.
I used the covers that came with the steps. They are attached with 2 rivets each to the step, that I drilled out. The total time for removal and replace was maybe 2hours.
Hey BobH, if I’m understanding correctly, you separated the panels covers that were part of the side step assembly and used them instead of buying new panel covers. Did those covers install clean? Correctly? No issues?. I thought I had a line on a set of panel cover near me but something happened I guess. Thanks.
Hey BobH, if I’m understanding correctly, you separated the panels covers that were part of the side step assembly and used them instead of buying new panel covers. Did those covers install clean? Correctly? No issues?. I thought I had a line on a set of panel cover near me but something happened I guess. Thanks.
Yes, they went back on and look good. I put all of the side bolts, covers and the three snap clips back and can't tell the steps were ever there. When you have the steps off it is obvious how to separate it.
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That’s terrific Bob. Thank you for getting back so quickly…
I would be interested in buying the side steps off you and trading you the panels
Did you make a deal on the steps? I have a set I had to take off because they interfered with our wheelchair. Looking to find them a new home.
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Did you make a deal on the steps? I have a set I had to take off because they interfered with our wheelchair. Looking to find them a new home.
No, I was told that they were not worth what I asked. I put them away for safe keeping.
Did you make a deal on the steps? I have a set I had to take off because they interfered with our wheelchair. Looking to find them a new home.
Hi! Where are you located?
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