[Antenna Man]

I have a 2017 GLE350 and am basically pleased with the vehicle. I almost dumped it two days after purchase because of the "GLE Moan", but figured out how to fix that with $5 of materials. Now I get constant complaints from my better half about the narrow (4") running boards. She has slipped a couple of times. I have searched the after market for wider running boards but have had no luck yet. My Lincoln Navigator has 6" automatic running boards, so she insists on using the Lincoln rather than the Mercedes.The GLE just sits in the garage.
Does anyone know of an extender for the factory running boards ... adding an inch or two would be awesome.

 

[SevenofNine]

I don't know of any extender for running boards, sorry. I am surprised to hear that either of you actually "use" them though. They certainly served a practical (stepladder) purpose in the early days of the automobile, but as presently designed, I consider running boards to be merely cosmetic. When I was still shopping the GLE, I tested the running board: I stepped on it repeatedly... but my full weight (225#) on it and bounced up and down to see how rugged it was. It passed with flying colors with never a hint of a creak or strain, but as a tall guy (6'2") I never feel the need for a stepladder as I enter the GLE; I simply walk up and enter. My illuminated running boards provide a nice aesthetic but that is all. I suppose for a much shorter person, the running boards would find utility, but if I were short enough to need to use the running board, I would probably be buying a different (smaller) vehicle like the GLC, or the Audi Q5.

 

[Benzinator]

If slipping is a problem, maybe some aftermarket grip pads would help before shopping for a new running board? There are universal ones out there but I'm not sure if there are GLE350 specific running boards.