Your car has a lot of parts, and it can be hard to keep up with the maintenance schedule for all of them. That’s why it’s important to make sure you don’t forget to replace your shield motor protective cover before it gets damaged by debris on the road. The engine splash shield (also known as a skid plate) is an important part of your vehicle’s undercarriage that protects sensitive engine components and improves ride comfort.
A car’s lower engine splash shield is a plastic cover that sits between the engine and the ground underneath the vehicle. It’s a critical part of your undercarriage, as it keeps the engine, oil pan, and other underbody components from getting wet, corroded, or scratched. It also helps to channel airflow through underbody components, which can help reduce drag for better fuel economy and a quieter drive.
The engine splash shield also protects sensitive undercarriage components from being punctured by twigs and leaves that can snag in the exhaust or alternator belts, which could require a costly replacement. It can also protect the wiring and other underbody components from water, road salts, and slush that can cause corrosion and impact performance. The shield also prevents dirt, grit, and sand from damaging undercarriage components by redirecting it to the wheel wells, where it can be more easily swept away.
Depending on your driving habits, the shield can take quite a beating from road debris and harsh weather. Over time, it may need to be replaced, especially if you drive in rough conditions with gravel or road salts. Replacing the engine splash shield before it becomes damaged is a cost-effective way to avoid the higher cost of replacing underbody components like the engine, transmission, or oil pan.
A motor splash shield can be a good investment for any business that uses heavy equipment or vehicles, including construction and agriculture. It can help reduce downtime caused by clogged cooling fins, which are a common cause of early motor failure. Clogged cooling fins block airflow and essentially act as an insulating blanket, raising internal motor temperatures. According to IEEE reports, motor covers can increase surface airflow by 140% and help push heat off the motor.
You can buy your own motor shield or have it installed by a professional at your local mechanic shop. If you prefer to install it yourself, make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat, safe, and dry surface before starting the process. You’ll need to jack up the vehicle high enough to access the bolts, screws, and washers holding the cover in place. Be careful not to accidentally damage the motor, and use a flashlight to locate the engine splash shield when working on your vehicle. It’s best to book an appointment with Wrench if you have questions about installing or repairing your engine splash shield. We can walk you through the process and find a new one that works with your vehicle’s make and model.