Hyundai Santa Fe MX5 Body Kit Installation Review

Enhancing Your Hyundai Santa Fe MX5 with an Aero Kit

The Hyundai Santa Fe MX5, a popular SUV, can be further personalized and improved with the addition of an aero kit, often referred to as a body kit. While the term 'body kit' might conjure images of aggressive, aftermarket styling, modern kits for vehicles like the Santa Fe MX5 often focus on subtle enhancements that improve both aesthetics and functionality. This review delves into the process, benefits, and considerations of installing a body kit on your Santa Fe MX5, drawing insights from a recent installation in Korea.

The Benefits of a Body Kit for the Santa Fe MX5

Modern SUVs, including the Santa Fe MX5, are often designed with higher ground clearance, which can present challenges for some passengers, particularly children, the elderly, or those with mobility issues. An 'aero kit' or body kit, specifically in the form of powered side steps, addresses this directly. Unlike traditional fixed side steps, which can be restrictive in size due to regulations and may pose a risk of interference with external objects during driving, powered side steps offer a superior solution. When the doors are closed, these steps retract neatly under the vehicle, maintaining the Santa Fe MX5's clean lines and original design. Upon opening the door, they automatically deploy, providing a wider, more stable platform for easier and safer entry and exit. This not only enhances practicality but also adds a touch of sophistication to the vehicle's appearance, especially when equipped with subtle lighting.

Hyundai Santa Fe MX5 Powered Side Step Installation: A Detailed Look

A recent installation on a Hyundai Santa Fe MX5 at 'Today's Car' in Daejeon, Korea, provides a clear example of the process and outcome. The owner, having researched options beforehand, opted for a powered side step system (specifically, the B-Step product). The installation is a detailed process requiring skilled technicians.

Installation Process:

1. The vehicle is safely raised on a lift to allow access to the undercarriage.
2. Wiring harnesses are carefully routed and connected to the vehicle's electrical system to control the powered deployment and retraction.
3. Custom brackets are securely attached to the Santa Fe MX5's frame to support the side step mechanism.
4. The powered side step units are mounted onto the brackets, ensuring proper alignment and smooth operation.
5. Final checks are performed to confirm the steps deploy and retract correctly with door operation and that all electrical connections are secure.

The entire process typically takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. The result is a seamless integration where the steps deploy smoothly when the doors are opened, offering a generous and stable step. When the doors are closed, they retract flush with the underbody, preserving the vehicle's original aesthetic and minimizing the risk of damage from road debris or during parking maneuvers. The subtle LED lighting integrated into some designs further enhances visibility and safety during nighttime or low-light conditions.

While this specific installation was performed in Korea, the principles and benefits of installing such an aero kit are universal for Santa Fe MX5 owners seeking improved functionality and a refined look. The cost in Korea for this type of installation can range significantly, but similar systems in the US might typically fall between $800 to $2,000, depending on the brand and complexity.