I Bought Running Boards For My 2024 Toyota Highlander, and the Dealer Said It Would Be $500 to Install Them, Now They Raised the Price To $1,200

How much do running boards cost for a 2024 Toyota Highlander, and how much is the labor to install them?

The total cost, including parts, should be about $499 for the running boards (MSRP from Toyota) and an additional $100-$300 for installation. 

Haley (@littlemachine89), on her TikTok clip, says she was willing to pay the Toyota dealer $500 to install her factory running boards that she purchased from their parts department. It was $200-$300 higher than the average install price, but she says she was willing to pay it. 

Haley says, 

"So, I dropped my Toyota Highlander off at the dealer where I bought the car to put running boards on. I paid $300 for the running boards at the dealer, and they would install them for less than $500."

However, the next day after they had her Highlander in the shop, the Toyota dealer switched the price and told her it would cost her $1,200 to install the new running boards. 

And it gets more interesting.

They told her it would take eight hours of labor when the job should only take two to three hours to install the parts. 

The Toyota dealer raises the price to install $700.

"I told them that's fine, I can afford that. So, the next day, the lady in the service department called me and said, it's going to cost $1,200 to install your running boards." 

"I asked her why; that's not what you told me before I dropped it off. She tells me it will take eight hours of labor to put the running boards on my Highlander."

"She told me it's because they will have to drill holes in my Highlander SUV to attach them, and it's an eight-hour job." 

"I said, Let me call you back."

The installation does not require holes to be drilled in the car.

"So, I looked up the instructions online on how to put the running boards that I bought at the Toyota dealer; they are not after-market; they are made for the Highlander. The instructions did not say anything about drilling holes in the car."

"So, I called her back and said, I'm looking at the instructions right now, and you do not have to drill holes in my car to put the running boards on." 

The installation should only take two or three hours of labor. 

The lady in the Toyota service department says, "Ok, let me go talk to the tech that's doing the install." She returns and says, "You are right. We don't have to drill any holes in your car, but installing them will still cost $1,200 and a full eight hours of labor."

"I told them to put the running boards back in my car, and I will pick it up. Please do not do anything to my Highlander."

"So, I found a shop that would put them on for me for $100. It only took two hours to install them, not eight hours, as the Toyota dealer told me." 

Here is What Toyota Highlander Owners Need To Know

Installing factory running boards on a Toyota Highlander typically costs $499 for the factory running boards purchased from Toyota (MSRP) and an additional $100-$300 for the service department to install them. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Running Board Cost: The Toyota OEM running boards (part number PT938-48200) have a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $499. 
• Installation Cost: Installation costs can vary depending on the dealership or shop, but expect to pay around $100-$300 for labor. Some shops may charge more for the work, especially if they are busy or have a higher hourly rate. 
• Total Cost: Therefore, the total cost for both the running boards and installation could range from around $599 to $799. 
• Alternative Options: You can find running boards from other manufacturers, like Romik, which may be a slightly cheaper option but require a slightly different installation process. 
• DIY Installation: While installing running boards yourself is possible, however, having some experience with the Toyota Highlander is recommended, and the installation process can take a few hours. 

What are the Advantages of the Toyota Highlander Running Boards?

Safety and Convenience:

1. Easier Entry and Exit: Running boards provide a wider, more accessible stepping surface, making it easier for children, seniors, or individuals with mobility issues to get in and out of the Highlander. 

2. Enhanced Safety: The wider surface area and non-slip design of running boards improve footing, especially in wet or slippery conditions, reducing the risk of slips and falls. 

3. Protection from Road Debris: Running boards can act as a shield, protecting the lower side of your Highlander from road debris, mud, and other elements. 

4. Convenience for Luggage and Roof Rack Access: They can also make it easier to reach the roof rack for loading and unloading luggage. 

Conclusion and Questions For Toyota Highlander Owners

The Toyota dealer where Haley went should have honored the price they gave her to install the running boards. The service department manager likely saw an opportunity to raise the labor time and make more money on the job. 

Not all Toyota dealers are dishonest, and they can charge whatever they want for labor. This is why Haley was wise to get a second opinion. She saved herself a significant amount of money by doing her homework. It was worth the time and effort, and it's a clear example of how being informed can lead to substantial cost savings.   

 How About You?

Have you had an experience like Haley's where the dealer charges more than they should? If so, we encourage you to share your story. Your experience can help others navigate similar situations, fostering a sense of community among Toyota Highlander owners.

Check out my Toyota Corolla story: I called Toyota to see how much it would cost to get a new key fob for my Corolla, and they told me $1,000. I Had My Dad Call, and the Price Was Suddenly $250

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl