Hyundai Grandeur IG Factory Option Retrofit Review

Revitalize Your Hyundai Grandeur IG: The OEM Options Solution

Many Hyundai Grandeur IG models previously used as taxis present a unique challenge after their service life: a conspicuous, often unsightly, meter housing in the center console. This leftover equipment not only detracts from the vehicle's aesthetics but can also pose safety risks due to exposed wiring. Fortunately, a specialized OEM options retrofit service, often referred to as 'taxi resurrection' or 'meter removal and restoration,' offers a clean and professional solution. This process aims to return the center console to a factory-like appearance, enhancing both the look and functionality of your Grandeur IG's interior. The goal is to seamlessly integrate the space, making it indistinguishable from a vehicle that never served as a taxi.

Before and After: A Dramatic Interior Transformation

The visual impact of this OEM options installation is significant. Before the retrofit, the exposed meter and its surrounding trim create a cluttered and unprofessional look. Exposed wires can be a hazard, and the overall impression is one of a repurposed commercial vehicle rather than a refined personal sedan. After the factory option retrofit, the difference is striking. The meter is completely removed, and the vacant space is filled with a genuine OEM console part. This results in a clean, seamless finish that restores the original aesthetic of the Grandeur IG's interior. Crucially, this process often reveals or creates a functional storage compartment beneath the console, adding practical utility that was previously missing. The USB and charging ports, if present, are retained and fully functional, ensuring convenience is not sacrificed. This upgrade is available for both touch and standard climate control panels, demonstrating the versatility of the OEM options approach.

Installation Process and Durability

The OEM options installation on a Hyundai Grandeur IG is a meticulous process performed by trained technicians. It involves carefully dismantling the existing center console section that housed the taxi meter. The old components are removed, and the wiring is safely managed and tidied. Then, a specific OEM console part designed for non-taxi models is fitted into place. This ensures a perfect match in terms of color, texture, and fit, maintaining the factory look and feel. The entire process typically takes about 2 to 3 hours and is often completed within a single day. Because genuine OEM parts are used, the durability and longevity are equivalent to the original factory components. Maintenance is straightforward: simply clean and care for the new console section as you would any other part of your car's interior. The materials used are designed to withstand daily use, ensuring the upgraded appearance lasts for years to come.

Installation Process:

1. Careful removal of the existing taxi meter and associated trim from the center console.
2. Safe management and tidying of any exposed wiring.
3. Installation of a genuine OEM console replacement part.
4. Final inspection to ensure a seamless fit and full functionality of integrated features like USB ports.

This factory upgrade is a worthwhile investment for ex-taxi Grandeur IG owners looking to enhance their vehicle's interior appeal and functionality. The cost, typically starting in the 300,000 KRW range (approximately under $400 USD), is reasonable for the significant improvement in aesthetics and the added storage space. While this specific service is widely available in South Korea, its availability in the US or UK would depend on specialized import or customization shops.