Hyundai Palisade Oem Options Installation Review — Cost

Enhancing Your Hyundai Palisade with Soft-Closing Doors

Many drivers seek to add convenience and a touch of luxury to their vehicles after purchase. For the Hyundai Palisade, one such popular upgrade is the soft-closing door feature, often referred to as 'ghost doors' or auto-closing doors. This OEM option, originally available on higher trims or in specific markets, can be retrofitted to enhance the user experience. This review explores the installation, results, and overall value of adding this factory option retrofit to your Palisade.

Understanding OEM Options and Factory Upgrades

OEM options, or Original Equipment Manufacturer options, refer to parts and features that are designed and produced by the vehicle's manufacturer. When these are not originally equipped on a specific trim level, they can sometimes be retrofitted as a dealer option retrofit or through specialized installers. The soft-closing door system for the Hyundai Palisade is a prime example. It replaces or augments the existing door latches with motorized mechanisms that gently pull the door shut once it's within a certain range, ensuring a secure and quiet closure every time. This is distinct from aftermarket upgrades, which are produced by third-party companies and may not always integrate as seamlessly with the vehicle's existing systems.

Installation, Results, and Durability

The installation process for soft-closing doors involves replacing the standard door latches with the OEM soft-close units. This typically requires removing interior door panels to access the necessary components. Wiring is also integrated into the vehicle's electrical system to power the motors and control the mechanism. While this guide is based on installations performed in Korea, the process is generally consistent for this type of factory upgrade.

Installation process:

1. Removal of interior door panels to gain access to the door latch mechanism.
2. Replacement of the standard door latches with the OEM soft-closing actuators.
3. Integration of wiring harnesses to connect the new actuators to the vehicle's power and control systems.
4. Testing of all doors to ensure smooth and proper soft-closing operation.
5. Reassembly of interior door panels.

The before and after results are immediately noticeable. Before the retrofit, doors might require a firm push to close completely, sometimes leading to them being left slightly ajar or slamming shut. After installation, a gentle push is all that's needed; the system takes over, smoothly and quietly pulling the door to its final locked position. This provides a premium feel and added convenience, especially when carrying items or dealing with passengers. In terms of durability, these OEM systems are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Maintenance is minimal, typically involving ensuring the door seals are clean and lubricated to prevent any sticking that could interfere with the mechanism's operation.

Is the Soft-Closing Door OEM Option Worth It?

The decision to invest in a factory option retrofit like soft-closing doors for your Hyundai Palisade depends on your priorities. For those who value convenience, a premium feel, and the assurance of a properly closed door every time, the upgrade is highly beneficial. It eliminates the common annoyance of doors not closing fully and adds a sophisticated touch to the vehicle. While the initial OEM options cost might be a consideration, the long-term satisfaction and enhanced user experience often justify the investment for many owners. The cost in Korea for this retrofit can range from approximately ₩700,000 to ₩1,000,000 (roughly $500-$750 USD), depending on the specific installer and the number of doors being upgraded.