Is it necessary to install an engine guard when buying a new car?
3 Answers
It is necessary to install an engine guard when buying a new car. The functions of an engine guard include: 1. Preventing mud from covering the engine, which could lead to poor engine cooling; 2. Protecting the engine from impacts caused by uneven road surfaces during driving, thereby preventing engine damage; 3. Extending the engine's service life by avoiding damage caused by external factors during travel, which could result in car breakdowns; 4. Keeping the engine compartment clean and preventing road water and dust from entering the engine compartment. The function of the engine is to convert the thermal energy of gasoline into mechanical energy by burning and expanding gas within a sealed cylinder, thereby pushing the piston to perform work.
As a veteran truck driver who frequently operates in mountainous areas, I believe engine skid plates are absolutely crucial. My SUV came with a factory-installed plastic skid plate, but it cracked last year when hitting rocks while driving in Tibet. After upgrading to an aluminum alloy skid plate, I feel significantly more at ease - no more heart-pounding moments when traversing rough terrain. For fellow off-road enthusiasts, a skid plate is essentially armor for your engine. Three key selection tips: choose thick enough material (3mm+ aluminum-magnesium alloy recommended), avoid designs that protrude beyond the chassis to prevent snagging, and ensure mounting holes don't interfere with factory sensors. I perform monthly checks for loose bolts and clean out accumulated mud - these small maintenance habits can save your engine from unnecessary wear.
For city commuting, the original factory design is actually sufficient. Both of my family's cars have been driven for five or six years without installing underbody panels, and there have been no issues. The key is to pay attention to road conditions and slow down when encountering construction zones. If you really want to install one, I recommend choosing original factory parts or branded plastic-steel materials, which are lightweight and won’t affect fuel consumption. I’ve seen cases where car owners bought low-quality steel plates online that ended up deforming the chassis, doing more harm than good. Just remember to have the mechanic check the underbody during each maintenance service. If minor scratches are found, it’s not too late to consider adding protection.
