Hyundai Santa Fe MX5 OEM Options Review: Cost & Results

Is the Hyundai Santa Fe MX5 Memory Seat Upgrade Worth It?

Are you tired of readjusting your Hyundai Santa Fe MX5's driver's seat every time you get behind the wheel? If you frequently share your vehicle with family or colleagues, or simply want to find your optimal driving position faster, a genuine factory memory seat option can be a game-changer. This review delves into a real-world installation of the genuine memory seat and Easy Access function for the Diolnyu Santa Fe MX5, detailing how it enhances convenience and what you can expect. This type of upgrade is a prime example of how automotive tuning can significantly boost driver comfort.

Understanding the OEM Memory Seat and Easy Access Features

The need for a memory seat upgrade becomes apparent when multiple people regularly drive the same vehicle. Each driver has a unique ideal seating position, and manually adjusting the seat every time can be tedious. The genuine memory seat option solves this by allowing you to save up to two distinct seat positions. With a simple button press, the seat automatically adjusts to your preferred settings, reducing driver fatigue and improving focus. This is particularly beneficial for larger SUVs like the Santa Fe MX5, which are often used by several passengers. Some packages, like the Seat Plus option, may also integrate with the Ergo Motion Seat for enhanced comfort, and this can be fully realized using genuine parts.

How OEM Factory Options Work: Installation and Functionality

Installing genuine memory seats is typically possible on vehicles already equipped with power seats. For manual seats, an upgrade to power seats would be a prerequisite. In this Diolnyu Santa Fe MX5 installation, the process was completed cleanly by integrating the genuine memory seat buttons without needing to replace the entire door trim. The procedure involves carefully removing the driver's seat and door trim. Inside the seat, four IMS (Intelligent Memory System) memory motors are replaced. As this is a genuine factory option, the wiring is meticulously and precisely integrated into the vehicle's existing electrical system.

Key Term Explained: IMS (Intelligent Memory System)
This system automatically stores and recalls your vehicle's seat position, angle, and height. It's a feature designed to maximize driver convenience.

The door trim is updated with the genuine Santa Fe MX5 memory seat switch, seamlessly filling the previously blank space. When linked with the Seat Plus option, the setup includes the Ergo Motion Seat button and two memory preset buttons (Memory 1, Memory 2), totaling three buttons for intuitive control. The Ergo Motion button can be repurposed as the seat 'SET' button, making the operation even more straightforward without relying on blank buttons.

Installation Process:

1. Careful removal of the driver's seat and door trim panels.
2. Replacement of existing seat motors with IMS memory motors within the seat assembly.
3. Precise integration of wiring harnesses following the original factory circuits.
4. Installation of the genuine memory seat switch into the door trim.
5. Testing of all functions to ensure proper operation and saving of presets.

The installation is performed by experienced technicians to minimize any risk of damage to the vehicle. The new IMS motors precisely control various seat movements, adjusting the seat accurately according to the saved positions. The wiring is connected meticulously, adhering to the original factory specifications to prevent any functional errors or safety issues.

Key Term Explained: Powder Coating
A finishing technique where powdered paint is electrostatically applied to metal parts and then heated to form a durable, uniform coating.

The entire process, when performed by professionals experienced with genuine factory option retrofits, ensures a clean, factory-like finish and fully functional memory seat system. The estimated cost for this type of retrofit in South Korea can range from approximately ₩250,000 to ₩350,000 (roughly $185-$260 USD, subject to exchange rates and specific shop pricing), with installation typically taking around 2-3 hours.