Kia Seltos Lighting Upgrade Review — Before & After
Service Price
$under approx. $400
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Kia Seltos LED lighting upgrade: Approx. $180 USD. Improved visibility and modern look.
Upgrading Your Kia Seltos Lighting
Enhancing your Kia Seltos's lighting system can significantly improve visibility and aesthetics. This review focuses on a specific LED headlight upgrade, the Excelite (legally certified tuning) for the Seltos, installed by Auto Motos in Seoul, South Korea. We'll cover the installation process, the tangible before and after results, the overall lighting upgrade cost, and whether this modification is a worthwhile investment for Seltos owners.
Before and After: A Brighter Drive
The most striking improvement from this lighting upgrade is the dramatic increase in light output and clarity. Stock headlights often provide adequate, but not exceptional, illumination. Upgrading to high-quality LEDs, like the Excelite system, transforms nighttime driving. The beam pattern becomes sharper, reaching further down the road with a brighter, whiter light. This not only enhances safety by making obstacles and road signs more visible but also gives the Seltos a more modern and premium look. The before and after difference is substantial, moving from a yellowish, diffused light to a crisp, focused beam that cuts through darkness more effectively.
Installation, Cost, and Durability
The installation of an LED lighting upgrade on a Kia Seltos is typically a straightforward process, often completed within a few hours. Auto Motos in Seoul performed this upgrade, highlighting the importance of professional installation to ensure proper alignment and electrical connection. The lighting upgrade cost for this specific Excelite LED system in Korea was approximately 250,000 KRW (around $180 USD, subject to exchange rates). While the exact durability can vary by brand and usage, reputable LED bulbs are designed for longevity, often lasting 10,000 to 30,000 hours, significantly longer than traditional halogen bulbs. Maintenance is minimal, usually involving occasional cleaning of the headlight lenses. The key is choosing certified products to ensure legality and performance.
Installation Process:
- Disconnecting the vehicle's battery for safety.
- Carefully removing the original headlight assemblies or bulbs.
- Connecting the new LED bulbs and any necessary wiring harnesses.
- Reinstalling the headlight assemblies and ensuring a secure fit.
- Testing the new lights and adjusting aim if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does an LED lighting upgrade cost for a Kia Seltos?
The Excelite LED upgrade for the Kia Seltos reviewed here cost approximately 250,000 KRW (around $180 USD). In the US, similar quality LED headlight upgrades can range from $100 to $300 depending on the brand and vehicle specifics.
Q. How long do aftermarket LED headlights last on a Kia Seltos?
Reputable LED headlight bulbs are designed for longevity, typically lasting between 10,000 to 30,000 hours of use. To maximize their lifespan, ensure they are installed correctly and keep the headlight lenses clean.
Q. Is an LED lighting upgrade worth it for a Kia Seltos?
An LED lighting upgrade is highly recommended for Seltos owners who frequently drive at night or in adverse weather conditions, as it significantly enhances safety and driving comfort. The improved visibility and modern aesthetic offer a strong value proposition.
Q. How is an LED lighting upgrade installed on a Kia Seltos?
Installation typically involves disconnecting the battery, removing the old bulbs or headlight assemblies, connecting the new LED components and wiring, and then reinstalling everything securely. Finally, the new lights are tested and aimed.
Q. What is the difference between HID and LED headlights for a Kia Seltos?
LEDs offer instant on/off, longer lifespan, and better energy efficiency compared to HIDs, which require a warm-up period. For most modern upgrades, LEDs are generally recommended for their superior performance and convenience.
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