Is It Necessary to Install an Engine Guard for a New Car?
4 Answers
It is advisable to install an engine guard for a new car. After installation, the engine guard helps maintain the cleanliness of the engine compartment by preventing water or dust from entering, especially when driving through muddy or dusty conditions. During rainy weather, it also protects the car's chassis from corrosion. The engine guard provides better protection for both the engine and the guard itself. The functions of an engine guard include: 1. Preventing mud from covering the engine, which could lead to poor heat dissipation; 2. Protecting the engine from impacts caused by uneven road surfaces during driving, thereby avoiding engine damage; 3. Extending the engine's lifespan by preventing damage from external factors during travel, which could otherwise cause the car to break down; 4. Keeping the engine compartment clean by preventing road water and dust from entering.
I installed an engine guard right after buying my new car, and I think it's totally worth it. As a parent who frequently shuttles kids to and from school, safety protection is the top priority. City driving is generally fine, but if I ever drive to rural areas or encounter slippery roads during rain or snow, flying gravel or water splashes could damage the engine. Repairing it would cost thousands, while installing a guard only costs a few hundred—small investment, big return. I chose an aluminum alloy material for its lightweight and durability. After installation, the car runs quieter, and the chassis feels more complete. Now I don’t worry about minor mishaps when driving to parks or mountain roads. Don’t underestimate it—this small guard prevents rust and impacts, extending the car’s lifespan. Protecting my new car gives me peace of mind, and my family feels safer too.
As a budget-conscious young person, I'm a bit hesitant about adding an engine guard to my new car. I mainly drive in the city with smooth commutes and rarely encounter gravel or rough road conditions, making the guard seem unnecessary. Saving those few hundred bucks for tire maintenance or interior upgrades would be wiser. Of course, if you enjoy off-road trips to mountainous or construction areas, that's a different story. But the extra cost, added weight, and slight increase in fuel consumption don't seem worth it. New cars already come with protective layers, and the guard makes cleaning harder while installation is time-consuming. Saving up for a better sound system seems more practical.
For frequent off-road self-driving trips, installing an engine guard plate is a must. Mountainous dirt roads are full of rocks and branches, and driving fast can easily damage the chassis. Without a guard plate, the oil pan can deform after just a few trips. I installed a steel one—strong collision protection, simple installation, and low cost. It might be optional for city driving on flat roads, but it's better to be safe than sorry. The guard plate also prevents rain, mud, and grime buildup. It's an extra layer of protection—small investment, big benefits.
