Really enjoying my Santa Fe, but I’m a bit concerned about the open sections in the front grille, especially since it exposes the radiator when the flaps are open. Feels like it could be vulnerable to debris and bugs. Has anyone found a good mesh or screen that fits well and isn’t just zip-tied? Found this one on Amazon, but not thrilled with the zip-tie look. Hoping someone here has a better solution!
Kind of surprised Hyundai didn’t consider this. Are you sure those vents stay open when you’re at higher speeds? With the airflow at highway speeds, they might close up more often.
Taylor said:
Kind of surprised Hyundai didn’t consider this. Are you sure those vents stay open when you’re at higher speeds? With the airflow at highway speeds, they might close up more often.
I can confirm those vents stay open when I’m using the cabin temperature control features, especially with the windows down or sunroof open. I haven’t had anything major fly in yet, thankfully. I drive mine daily in Mississippi since July, and so far, no issues!
@Oakley
How were you able to check if they’re open at speed?
Taylor said:
@Oakley
How were you able to check if they’re open at speed?
I usually keep the AC off since my wife isn’t a fan of the windows being down. Compromise is the sunroof open with vent mode on, and I notice the external vents opening consistently around 70-75 mph. Under 45 mph in the city, they don’t open as much. It might be my specific settings, though.
@Oakley
I’m a bit lost—how does the AC recirculation setting connect to the radiator vents? Am I missing something?
Taylor said:
@Oakley
I’m a bit lost—how does the AC recirculation setting connect to the radiator vents? Am I missing something?
It’s in the cabin temp settings, something about controlling airflow. I didn’t really pay attention to it until I started using the sunroof open with the vent option. I was hoping someone could explain it better because I’m sure others have noticed too!
Over $100 for some mesh sheets seems steep. I’d look for an alternative on AliExpress or Temu. For that price, it should come with a mounting system, not just zip ties!
You’d be surprised how common this is on cars. I’ve seen branches go right through some grilles and mess up radiators. Bugs covering the radiator are also pretty standard on non-electric cars!
Honestly, unless something massive hits it, it’s not too different from other cars. Most radiators are always partially exposed anyway.
Slightly off topic, but you’re lucky not to have a front plate! My dealer put the bracket on mine, and now I’m stuck with it.
Wade said:
Slightly off topic, but you’re lucky not to have a front plate! My dealer put the bracket on mine, and now I’m stuck with it.
I made sure to tell the dealer not to install the front bracket during prep! Once they screw it on, you’re left with holes if you remove it.
@Zorion
Ours already had it installed. Apparently, they put it on right after the car arrives. Now we’re just leaving the bracket on and not using the plate—front plates are such an eyesore.
Wade said:
@Zorion
Ours already had it installed. Apparently, they put it on right after the car arrives. Now we’re just leaving the bracket on and not using the plate—front plates are such an eyesore.
Strange! My state requires a front plate, but my dealer didn’t add a bracket.
Wade said:
Slightly off topic, but you’re lucky not to have a front plate! My dealer put the bracket on mine, and now I’m stuck with it.
Lucky you! My dealer just handed me the front plate bracket separately when I picked up the car.
Curious how those vents will hold up in a rough winter. I could see them having some issues with ice or snow.
No need for a screen on mine. The vents close up at highway speeds for me.