I finally installed them. other than a few hiccups, mostly simple.
It takes some time to find out how to install the counternuts that go in the body. Basically, enter one end, press it in, and tap it with a hammer and driver a few times until the end slides in. Take cautious to only give them gentle taps. If you tap them too firmly, they may fall inside and be difficult to remove. Two of them I was able to force inside. Using a magnet from the outside and my fingers to push through the body’s closed holes, I managed to remove one. One I was unable to remove. The particular one that fits in the farthest back hole, which I was also unable to remove, experienced the same issue. Alternately, you can slightly bend the tabs with pliers so they slide in more easily.
The front and back mounts need not be changed because they are not structurally important. They only help to straighten everything out.
As the side step frame is not perfectly straight, make sure the screws are snug as well. I first tightened the screws, then I retightened them, then I stood on them.
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Has the Kia Sorento WiFi?
The Kia Connect Call Center is open seven days a week from 5 am to 6 pm PST at (844) 886-9411.
After an airbag is deployed, 911 Connect, which must be configured on the head unit, becomes active. cellphone coverage is necessary.
Vehicle diagnostics are not a replacement for routine maintenance. The initial activation of the vehicle diagnostics is necessary to check the air bag, chassis, and powertrain systems. For a maintenance schedule, consult the Owner’s Manual or the Kia Connect Maintenance section.
shown is a simulated screen. if capable. A suitable smartphone, a wireless connection with strong coverage, and an eligible Kia Connect subscription are necessary for remote features to operate. Rates for cellular service may be standard. If the vehicle is in an enclosed space (such as a closed garage) or a partially enclosed space without ventilation, neither remote climate control nor remote starting should be used. Before initiating a remote climate control or remote start command, close any doors leading from neighboring living areas to the vehicle area. Model, model year, and trim-specific support for remote features varies; for example, 2019 Optima LX, 2020 Telluride LX and S, 2021 Telluride LX and S, and other vehicles without fully automatic climate control are not supported for remote climate control.
shown is a simulated screen. if capable. Cellular service and a compatible smartphone running the Kia Access software are required for Find My Car to function. There are cellular service fees.
shown is a simulated screen. if capable. An appropriate Kia Connect subscription, a compatible smartphone, and a strong wireless signal are necessary for the operation of rear occupant alert alerts. Rates for cellular service may be standard. This device may not pick up on every movement within the car and is not a replacement for paying attention. When getting out of the car, always examine the inside.
My Trips: The driver’s primary duty is to operate a vehicle safely and legally. Any vehicle systems that divert the driver’s eyes, attention, or focus from operating the car safely or that are not permitted by law should never be used while the vehicle is being operated. It is the driver’s responsibility to drive safely as required by the circumstances of the road, the surrounding area, and the flow of traffic.
if capable. Both the vehicle alarm alert and the curfew alert require cellphone coverage. There are cellular service fees.
Kia America, Inc. offers a service plan called 24-hour Roadside Assistance. There are constraints. For details, refer to the Kia Warranty and Consumer Information Manual. cellphone coverage is necessary.
Model, model year, and trim compatibility all affect vehicles differently. Google products must have a Wi-Fi internet connection and are sold separately. All associated logos, including Google, Google Assistant, and Google Home, are trademarks of Google LLC.
Cellular service and a smartphone with the Kia Access app must be used with My POIs. There are cellular service fees.
if capable. Kia Connect, a compatible smartphone, and a strong wireless signal are necessary for the operation of remote features. Rates for cellular service may be standard. If the vehicle is in an enclosed space (such as a closed garage) or a partially enclosed space without ventilation, neither remote climate control nor remote starting should be used. Before initiating a remote climate control or remote start command, close any doors leading from neighboring living areas to the vehicle area. Model, model year, and trim-specific support for remote features varies; for example, 2019 Optima LX, 2020 Telluride LX and S, 2021 Telluride LX and S, and other vehicles without fully automatic temperature management do not offer remote climate control.
Cellular service, a USB-connected compatible smartphone, and the Kia eServices app are required for Parking Minder. There are cellular service fees.
Cellular service and a compatible smartphone running the Kia Access software are required for Find My Car to function. There are cellular service fees.
if capable. Kia Connect membership, compatible smartphone, and strong wireless signal are required for the rear occupant alert messages to work. Rates for cellular service may be standard. This device may not pick up on every movement within the car and is not a replacement for paying attention. When getting out of the car, always examine the inside.
Model, model year, and trim compatibility affect vehicles differently. Google products must have a Wi-Fi internet connection and are sold separately. All associated logos, including Google, Google Assistant, and Google Home, are trademarks of Google, Inc.
Vehicle control might be lost when driving while distracted. Never utilize a handheld device or auto system that diverts your attention from driving safely. Kia disclaims all warranties regarding the correctness of the information provided by the Connecting Routing navigation feature.
Vehicle control might be lost when driving while distracted. Never utilize a handheld device or auto system that diverts your attention from driving safely.
if capable. The feature needs a Kia Connect subscription to work, as well as a compatible smartphone and a strong wireless signal. Rates for cellular service may be standard. Use not permitted when driving a car.
A suitable smartphone, a wireless connection with strong coverage, and an eligible Kia Connect subscription are necessary for remote features to operate. Rates for cellular service may be standard. If the vehicle is in an enclosed space (such as a closed garage) or a partially enclosed space without ventilation, neither remote climate control nor remote starting should be used. Before initiating a remote climate control or remote start command, close any doors leading from neighboring living areas to the vehicle area. Model, model year, and trim-specific support for remote features varies; for example, 2019 Optima LX, 2020 Telluride LX and S, 2021 Telluride LX and S, and other vehicles without fully automatic climate control are not supported for remote climate control.
Only five (5) years are allowed for the Kia Connect Lite to be purchased or leased as a new vehicle, starting from the dealer-recorded retail sale or lease date. The Kia Connect Lite for the vehicle will no longer be accessible after this fifth (5th) year date has passed. For instance, if a new car owner purchases it, immediately enrolls it in a Kia Connect ULTIMATE subscription for the first two (2) years of ownership, and then cancels the subscription, only the latter three (3) years of the five (5) year period would be covered by Kia Connect Lite.
A compatible smartwatch, a Kia Connect subscription, and an account are required for the Kia Connect smartwatch app. Without warning or incurring any further obligations, Kia America, Inc. maintains the right to modify or end Kia Connect at any time. Data and message rates can be charged. Use of the majority of functions requires cellular and GPS coverage. Model, model year, and trim level variations in Kia Connect features are possible. Features, requirements, and costs could vary. Possibly not accessible at the moment for Model Year 2022 and newer automobiles bought or sold in Massachusetts.
If the vehicle is in an enclosed space (such as a closed garage) or a partially enclosed space without ventilation, do not utilize remote climate controls or remote starting. Before initiating a remote climate control or remote start command, shut any doors leading from neighboring living areas to the vehicle.
Select 2022 and newer Kia automobiles provide Wi-Fi Hotspot, which requires signing up for Kia Connect. Required is a trial or paid subscription data plan. Wi-Fi Hotspot services need cellular connectivity in the car and a strong GPS signal; certain services may track your whereabouts.
Only in the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia is Wi-Fi Hotspot accessible. For vehicles manufactured after model year 2022 and sold or bought in Massachusetts, Wi-Fi Hotspot may not be available.
Always buckle up, keep your eyes on the road, and never drive while inattentive. When the car is securely parked, the driver should only utilize the Wi-Fi Hotspot.
Wi-Fi Hotspot cannot operate until the vehicle is running or in accessory mode. Never drive when inattentive. When the car is parked in a secure area, the driver should only utilize the Wi-Fi services.
Wi-Fi Hotspot needs a data plan or free trial, as well as a Kia Connect subscription, which not all vehicles may be qualified for.
Wi-Fi hotspot functionality is available on the Carnival EX, SX, and SX Prestige trim levels. Existing owners may need to upgrade the infotainment system’s firmware to enable the Wi-Fi hotspot functionality of the vehicle. Kia Connect enrollment is necessary for Wi-Fi hotspot, although not all vehicles may be qualified.
where possible. Kia Connect registration, a data plan, or a free trial are required for Wi-Fi Hotspot. For Model Year 2022 and newer vehicles sold or purchased in Massachusetts, Kia Connect may not currently be available; for updates on availability, please visit the Kia Owner’s Portal.
Can I put the running boards on my own?
Simply said, nerf bars and running boards make it simpler to enter and exit a high-up vehicle.
Even though full-size trucks and SUVs are taller than crossovers and compact trucks, shorter people or those with restricted mobility may still find it difficult to climb into these vehicles, therefore they may put running boards on these cars.
Additionally, many truck or SUV owners love the robust, rugged appearance that aftermarket running boards provide their vehicle. As a result, many running boards come in a variety of finishes, including chrome, black, and brushed metal, and are intended to improve a truck’s or SUV’s outside appeal.
What Types of Running Boards Are There?
The three forms of aftermarket stairs for cars are side steps, nerf bars, and running boards.
A running board is a totally flat step that attaches to a truck or SUV’s side, just inside the doors.
However, nerf bars include cutout areas for the passengers’ feet and mount to the side of a truck or an SUV behind the doors instead. These areas typically include textured surfaces or rubber grips to provide the user with additional grip when getting in and out of the car.
A narrow, single step known as a side step accomplishes the same task as a running board. To make it simpler for the user to reach the bed, these can be mounted on the side of a truck or SUV behind the rear axle or underneath the passenger doors on a vehicle.
How Do I Install Running Boards?
The process of installing running boards is often straightforward, but if your running boards are particularly heavy, you might want to enlist the assistance of a buddy.
Many aftermarket side steps, nerf bars, and running boards will come with installation instructions. Running boards are typically pre-drilled with mounting holes in the frame, so all you have to do is install them and secure them with the hardware that came with your running boards.
You will need to drill the holes yourself if your car doesn’t already have them. However, if the holes aren’t pre-drilled, we’d advise hiring a professional to install them because you don’t want to jeopardize your car’s structure.
To install your running boards, simply adhere to the directions that came with them. You can also search online for instructional videos like the one on YouTube below.
How Much Weight Can Running Boards Hold?
Although they aren’t often specified, weight ratings range from 300 to 500 pounds. You can use two or three brackets on some side steps, which can assist tighten up a set if they are sagging. Weights are not standardized, and no manufacturer tests every single model. Though you probably won’t be able to, or need to, place triple brackets under a single cab truck or two-door Jeep, more brackets holding your step bars to the frame will generally hold more. A full-size crew cab pickup’s long run may bend despite additional brackets, especially if two large persons are loaded onto it at once. Although overloading rarely results in a break, doing so frequently increases the likelihood of developing tiny fractures or other wear that can result in rust.
What Are Running Boards Made From?
Step bars are typically composed of aluminum, coated mild steel, or stainless steel. Although there are a few knockoff carbon fiber running boards, we couldn’t locate any from well-known producers. They all have benefits and drawbacks.
The best goods are side steps made of stainless steel. They frequently carry lifetime warranties against material faults and weight ratings of up to 500 pounds. Because of stainless steel’s excellent strength, they may be made thinner and lighter, which makes installation simpler. Even though rust may eventually occur, stainless steel is particularly resistant to corrosion, which is why brackets and fasteners are typically constructed of another material. Stainless steel nerf bars are typically more expensive than an equivalent set of mild steel step bars since both the materials and production are more expensive. Because stainless steel is more difficult to weld than mild steel, simple designs like bends in tubes or rectangular bars are more common than complex ones.
Unhardened steel is referred to as mild steel. In comparison to hardened steel, which might be used to make mounting brackets with great strength, it has more flex and is less likely to shatter. It will corrode right away if it isn’t coated. The best steel running boards are galvanized, which electrically attaches a rust-resistant zinc coating to the steel. The galvanized finish is then protected with additional layers of coating. They must be completely coated. All of these coatings may chip off or lose their integrity where fasteners or stairways are located or are exposed to road debris. It is fairly easy to repair and weld mild steel. Look for running boards made of coated steel with a five year warranty.
Step bars made of aluminum won’t rust, but they will corrode with time. Aluminum is difficult to weld, just like stainless steel, hence these frequently come in straightforward extruded and bent configurations like ovals, tubes, and rectangular bars. They typically cost more when manufactured in more intricate shapes. Since aluminum weighs roughly the same as or even less than stainless steel and requires more thickness to produce the same strength, one person can install them more easily. Aluminum can be coated, brushed, or polished to a brilliant luster. Direct contact between aluminum and steel can cause galvanic corrosion, which weakens the metal and rusts the steel.
Will Installing Running Boards Void my Vehicle’s Warranty?
No. The Magnuson Moss Warranty-Federal Trade Commission Improvements Act is a Federal rule in the United States that mandates that a dealership or manufacturer must demonstrate that an aftermarket part is to blame for a failure. They have the burden of proof. This doesn’t mean that a dishonest dealership won’t treat you unfairly, and if your running boards inflict damage to your vehicle, the warranty won’t cover it. However, they are unable to assert, for example, that your step bars hurt the transmission.
As a result, it does make sense to exercise caution, especially in the areas where you connect to the frame. Ensure that every surface is spotless, and avoid scratching any coatings that serve as protection. After installation, we would spray any places that came into contact with rust preventive like Cosmoline or Fluid Film, wash it frequently, and touch up the spray coating a few times a year. It’s a good idea to check your bolts at the same time to make sure they haven’t loosened. You should also watch out for steel hardware coming into touch with an aluminum step bar or frame, or vice versa, since this can lead to galvanic corrosion.