2021-2023 Hyundai Clouded Paint Corrective Procedure TSB

Hyundai has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 23-BD-007H, superseding previous bulletin 07-99-001, to address instances of Hyundai clouded paint appearing under the Paint Protection Film (PPF) on various models from 2021 to 2023. This issue arises when moisture becomes trapped between the PPF and the vehicle's paint, leading to a cloudy appearance. The TSB provides a detailed corrective procedure for dealerships to resolve this cosmetic concern before vehicle delivery.

Symptoms

Owners may observe areas of clouded paint on their new Hyundai vehicles. These spots typically appear under the factory-applied Paint Protection Film (PPF), which is designed to shield the paint from environmental contaminants like rail dust, acid rain, and industrial fallout. The cloudiness is a direct result of moisture being trapped beneath the film.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The presence of Hyundai clouded paint is usually identified during the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) process at the dealership. Technicians will visually inspect the vehicle's paint surface after removing the Paint Protection Film (PPF). The issue is confirmed by the visible cloudy spots on the paint where moisture has been trapped.

Repair Procedure Summary

The corrective procedure for Hyundai clouded paint involves several steps to safely remove the trapped moisture, as detailed in TSB 23-BD-007H.

1. PPF Removal and Cleaning: The first step requires the complete removal of all Paint Protection Film (PPF) from the vehicle. Following removal, the vehicle must be thoroughly washed and dried.
2. Hot Water Application: For initial treatment, boiling hot water is poured directly onto the affected areas. This can be sourced from a coffee maker, electric kettle, or a hot water spigot. The heat from the water helps to release the excessive moisture from beneath the paint surface.
3. Infrared Light Treatment: If the clouded spots remain visible after the hot water treatment, an infrared light, similar to those used in body shops, is employed. The light is positioned approximately two feet from the paint surface to achieve a hot surface temperature, without exceeding 180°F. Care must be taken to avoid overheating nearby trim components. The infrared light is applied for a minimum of 15 minutes and up to a maximum of three hours, with technicians checking the vehicle every 15 minutes to ensure the temperature remains safe but uncomfortably hot to the touch.
4. Heat Gun for Small Spots: For smaller, localized clouded paint spots, a heat gun can be used as an alternative. The heat gun should be held 12-18 inches from the spot and kept moving to prevent localized overheating. Similar to the infrared light, the paint temperature must not exceed 180°F. Heat gun application typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. If the spot persists, the infrared light procedure should be used.
5. Optional Alcohol Application: To accelerate the drying process, technicians may optionally wipe the spot with undiluted alcohol before applying heat. It is crucial to allow the alcohol to completely evaporate before applying any heat, and alcohol should never be applied to a panel that is already heated or while heat is being applied.

Important Warnings

Hyundai's TSB 23-BD-007H includes critical warnings to ensure safety and prevent further damage during the corrective procedure:

• Alcohol Precautions: When using alcohol near a heat source, proper safety precautions are mandatory due to flammability risks.
• Wax Liquefaction: During the heating process, anti-corrosive wax applied to the back side of metal panels may liquefy and drain out of the vehicle's drain holes. Technicians should be aware of this potential occurrence.
• Temperature Limits: It is crucial not to let the paint temperature exceed 180°F during any heating step, whether using an infrared light or a heat gun. Overheating can damage the paint finish or surrounding components.
• Trim Overheating: Special care must be taken to avoid overheating nearby trim components when applying heat to the paint surface.

Warranty Information

The removal of Paint Protection Film (PPF) is a standard part of the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) process. If Hyundai clouded paint spots are identified during this inspection, dealerships are instructed to submit an appropriate paint warranty claim. This claim should include the relevant paint nature and cause codes to ensure proper documentation and coverage.

This information is based on Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 23-BD-007H, NHTSA ID 10235566.