How do I prevent damage to the AC Condenser

Did an oil change today on my '06 Sonata, and noticed lots of minor damage
to the AC condenser from pebbles, etc. At this point, it's just bent fins,
and no real damage to the actual horizontal refrigerant carrying tubes, but
there are a few small dents there too. The part behind the opening that's
about a foot above the road shows the worst of it. This car is driven on
real roads, not dirt or gravel roads. Is there something ready made out
there (screen, etc.) that would go behind the openings in the from of the
car to stop or reduce the velocity of the pebbles? I'd rather put something
in that's designed for it, than making something out of screen, etc.

 

Try a google search - or just go ahead and put a screen in there. Why would
you be reluctant to do so?

 

I'm not.... It's just that the mounting issues would have already been
figured out.

 

A/C condenser damage has been a common problem with Elantras. The simple
fix is to install "Gutter Guard" plastic screen, which is inexpensive
and available at Home Depot, Lowes, etc. I'm not sure how well it will
fit the openings in the Sonata grill, but there are DIYs for installing
it on the Elantra Club site (http://elantragtclub.tripod.com/elantra/).
I found that using wire ties and stick-on mounts to attach them to works
best.

 

That certainly reasonable enough. I'd bet that for this particular fix
you'd probably find yourself fixed quicker just by fabbing what you need.
Could be wrong but I do like to be the guy that stands back in the wings
sometimes and keeps encouraging that ya just do it.