Genesis GV80 Soft Close Doors Review — Added Convenience

Upgrade Your Genesis GV80 with OEM Soft-Close Doors

Many Genesis GV80 owners find themselves wishing for the convenience of soft-close doors, a feature that wasn't standard on all models. If you've experienced the minor annoyance of not quite closing the door firmly enough, only to have to open and re-close it, this OEM option retrofit is for you. This review details the process and benefits of adding the factory upgrade for soft-close functionality to a Genesis GV80, ensuring a seamless and premium experience.

The primary benefit of this factory option retrofit is the enhanced convenience. No more pushing doors shut; a gentle pull is all it takes for the system to automatically draw the door fully closed. Beyond mere comfort, this feature contributes to the longevity of your vehicle. By preventing the need to slam doors, it reduces wear and tear on the door seals (weatherstripping) and the door mechanisms themselves. This means fewer potential issues down the line and a quieter cabin experience, as the seals maintain their integrity better.

Why Add Soft-Close Doors to Your GV80?

For a luxury SUV like the Genesis GV80, every detail matters. The absence of soft-close doors can feel like a noticeable omission, especially for those accustomed to this feature in other premium vehicles. The 'soft-close' or 'ghost door' system gently pulls the door shut once it's within a certain range, eliminating the need for a forceful push. This not only feels more refined but also prevents the common issue of doors not latching properly on the first try, which can be particularly frustrating.

Furthermore, the impact on the vehicle's physical components is significant. Constantly pushing doors shut can lead to premature wear on the rubber seals around the door frame, potentially causing leaks or increased road noise over time. The soft-close mechanism ensures a consistent, gentle closing action, preserving these seals and contributing to the overall durability of the vehicle. The system also incorporates safety logic, stopping and retracting if it encounters an obstruction, preventing accidental pinching.

OEM Soft-Close Door Installation Process

The installation of the OEM soft-close doors option on a Genesis GV80 is a precise process that utilizes genuine factory parts to ensure a seamless integration, just as if the vehicle had been equipped from the factory. The work described here was performed at a specialist tuning shop in Ansan, South Korea, using original components. The estimated cost for this service in Korea was approximately ₩75,000–₩115,000 (roughly $55-$85 USD at the time of reporting, though exchange rates fluctuate).

Installation process:

1. Door Panel Removal: The interior door panels on all four doors are carefully removed. This is done with meticulous attention to detail to prevent any scratches or damage to the new vehicle's trim.
2. Component Replacement and Wiring: Existing door latches and related components are removed. New actuators and necessary wiring harnesses specific to the soft-close function are installed. The wiring is meticulously matched to factory specifications in terms of gauge and color for reliability.
3. System Integration and Testing: The new components are connected to the vehicle's electrical system. The system is then tested to ensure the two-stage closing logic functions correctly, including the safety feature that stops and retracts the door if resistance is met.
4. Reassembly and Final Check: The door panels are reinstalled, and a final inspection is performed to confirm all functions operate smoothly and as intended.

The entire process typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete for all four doors. The result is a fully integrated soft-close system that operates identically to the factory-installed option, enhancing both the user experience and the long-term preservation of the vehicle.