Hyundai Santa Fe TM Body Kit Installation Review

Hyundai Santa Fe TM Body Kit Installation and Review

When considering an upgrade for your Hyundai Santa Fe TM, a body kit can significantly alter its aesthetic appeal. This review delves into the process, potential costs, and the overall value of installing a body kit, specifically focusing on enhancements like front lips and side skirts. While the term 'body kit' often implies a comprehensive set of exterior modifications, it's important to understand what specific components are being considered and their impact on the vehicle's look and functionality.

Understanding Body Kit Components and Their Purpose

Body kits can range from subtle additions like a front lip spoiler or side skirt extensions to more aggressive designs that alter the vehicle's lines. For the Hyundai Santa Fe TM, owners might opt for these enhancements to achieve a sportier or more customized appearance. The Korean context for this particular service involved removing existing side steps and restoring the vehicle to its original side sill configuration. This process, while not a typical 'body kit installation' in the sense of adding aggressive aero parts, highlights a common desire among car owners to refine their vehicle's exterior. The original side steps, while functional for easier ingress and egress, can sometimes be perceived as bulky or obtrusive, especially if the owner prefers a cleaner, sleeker profile. Restoring to the original side sill provides a smoother, more integrated look along the vehicle's lower body line.

The Restoration Process: From Side Steps to Stock Sills

The process detailed in the Korean context involved a specific type of exterior modification: the removal of aftermarket side steps and the installation of genuine Hyundai side sills. This is a crucial distinction from adding a typical body kit. The steps involved were:

1. Safe Removal of Existing Side Steps: The aftermarket side steps, along with any associated mudguards, were carefully detached from the Santa Fe TM's undercarriage.
2. Thorough Cleaning of the Mounting Area: After removal, any adhesive residue or debris left behind was meticulously cleaned using alcohol to ensure a pristine surface for the new components.
3. Installation of Genuine Side Sills: The original Hyundai side sill moldings were then fitted precisely into the space where the side steps were previously located. Using genuine parts ensures a seamless fit and a factory-original appearance.

This restoration resulted in a cleaner, more streamlined profile for the Santa Fe TM's lower body. The absence of the protruding side steps gave the vehicle a more refined and integrated look, aligning with the owner's preference for the stock design. While this specific service focused on removal and restoration, the principles of careful disassembly, surface preparation, and precise fitting are fundamental to any exterior body modification, including the installation of a true body kit.

Cost, Durability, and Decision Making

The cost for this type of side sill restoration in Korea was approximately in the 300,000 KRW range, which translates to roughly $220 USD, though actual US pricing can vary significantly based on the specific body kit chosen, parts, and labor rates. Full body kit installations can range from a few hundred dollars for basic lip kits to several thousand for more complex, multi-piece kits. Durability depends heavily on the material – polyurethane is generally more flexible and impact-resistant than fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), which can be prone to cracking. Maintenance typically involves regular washing and waxing, with specific attention needed for any exposed edges or seams. Deciding if a body kit is 'worth it' depends on individual priorities. If the goal is a unique aesthetic and you're willing to invest in quality parts and professional installation, it can be a rewarding upgrade. However, consider potential impacts on ground clearance, parking, and the overall driving experience.