Is It Necessary to Install an Underbody Armor for a Car?
4 Answers
It is necessary to install an underbody armor for a car. The advantages and disadvantages of installing an engine underbody cover are introduced as follows: Advantages of installing an engine underbody cover: During normal driving, encountering stones or curbs can damage the underbody. Therefore, installing an underbody armor can effectively prevent this issue. It also helps keep mud out of the engine and prevents underbody scraping. When driving on uneven roads or encountering debris that could hit the engine, it provides significant protection. Disadvantages of installing an engine underbody cover: If a metal engine underbody cover is installed, it may interfere with the engine's ability to drop in the event of a collision. Additionally, installing an underbody cover creates a relatively enclosed space around the engine, which can affect the vehicle's heat dissipation.
Having driven in big cities for over a decade, I don't consider underbody armor a necessity. Unless you frequently drive on rural roads or near construction sites where gravel might scratch the car's underside, installing it is just a waste of money. Urban roads are generally clean and mostly paved, posing minimal scraping risks. The few hundred yuan cost is better spent maintaining other components. However, if you live in northern regions with heavy rain or snow, where de-icing agents are highly corrosive, underbody armor can prevent rust and extend the chassis's lifespan. Overall, most drivers don't need to install it specifically; it's better to wait until the car is older or shows obvious damage. Even if installed, regular checks for loose bolts are necessary to avoid noise issues.
I love road trips and often go off-road, so installing underbody armor is a must! It protects the engine and critical components from being damaged by rocks or tree stumps, saving you money in just one adventure. When driving on mountain roads or through water, the armor acts like a shield, absorbing impacts and reducing the risk of breakdowns. It's not expensive—just 300 to 800 RMB—much cheaper than major repairs. I prefer steel or aluminum alloy for the material, as they're lightweight, durable, and rust-resistant. If you drive an SUV or frequently tackle rough terrain, I highly recommend getting one; for daily city driving, it’s unnecessary. Also, don’t forget to maintain the underbody with rust-proof coating for extra protection.
From an economic perspective, I believe installing underbody armor requires weighing the pros and cons. The installation cost is around 500 yuan, which can prevent small stones from puncturing the oil pan or causing rust issues, thereby reducing repair expenses. However, if you don't drive on harsh road conditions, this level of protection may not justify the cost; it might also slightly increase fuel consumption or wind noise. I've been driving in the city for ten years without installing it, and my car remains in good condition. I would only consider adding it when the car gets older. First, inspect the current condition of the underbody before deciding: if there are many scratches or damages, it might be worth it; otherwise, it's more cost-effective to save the money for other maintenance tasks.
