Are engine splash guards necessary?
Yes, an engine splash shield is necessary and can save you hundreds of dollars in repairs. When you drive without one, you’re putting the most important parts of your vehicle at risk—road debris such as rocks, leaves, and twigs can get inside the engine compartment and cause damage.
Is it bad to drive without engine splash shield?
It is probably okay to drive your car without a splash shield for a short period of time. You should just avoid going off of the main roads. However, your car will be much quieter if you have a shield and they do keep mud off the engine. If you drive without a shield for a long time, your engine may get debris in it.
How much does it cost to replace a splash guard on a car?
An engine splash shield replacement costs around $10 to $75 on parts alone. Depending on the rates in your area, you may spend $125 to $200 on professional installation.
Can I wash my car without a splash guard?
Senior Member. You’ll be fine. The underbody tray is mainly for aerodynamics. Cars used to not come with them before, and they stood up to water just fine.
Is there a splash shield under the engine?
Modern cars and SUVs have at least one splash shield under the engine. An engine splash shield is loose in this car. It may consist of several parts, see this photo. Some vehicles have more shields protecting other parts of the undercarriage, see this photo.
What happens to a car with a missing splash guard?
You’ll notice that your alternator or drive belt will wear out faster with a missing splash guard. Electrical connections that run underneath the vehicle could also get damaged and require repair. In the winter, road salt corrode electrical and steel components if left unprotected.
When do I need to replace my splash guard?
Most engine splash shields get replaced once they make noises underneath the vehicle as they hang and drag on the road. Extreme temperatures, rust and corrosion, and other road chemicals can cause damage to the engine splash guard.
What happens if your splash shield is missing?
If it’s missing, splashing water and sand can cause some parts in the engine bay, such as an alternator or drive belt, to wear sooner. We have also seen some electrical problems caused by a missing splash shield.