Should You Install an Underbody Shield for Your Car?
3 Answers
An underbody shield should be installed for your car, as its primary function is to protect the engine oil pan and transmission from damage caused by impacts with hard objects. The engine compartment with an underbody shield installed remains relatively cleaner, with less dust accumulation, making it easier to clean. Additionally, some vehicles may experience engine stalling when driving through deep water during rainy conditions. The underbody shield is mounted beneath the car's engine, serving as a protective cover for the engine. This shield can be made from materials such as hard plastic, resin, iron, or aluminum alloy, and is typically designed in 3D rather than as a flat panel. Many car models do not come with an underbody shield installed from the factory, leaving the engine exposed. As a result, many car owners choose to have an underbody shield installed at an auto repair shop after purchasing their vehicle.
As a regular commuter who drives to work, I think installing an engine underguard depends on your driving environment. My car is a city vehicle that only runs on paved roads, so I didn't install one because it would add some weight, potentially increasing fuel consumption, and would need to be removed during repairs. However, last year when I went on a countryside road trip with friends, we encountered potholes and gravel, and my car's undercarriage got scraped, costing over 500 yuan to repair. I really regretted not installing an underguard beforehand. From that experience, if you occasionally drive on rough roads or in mountainous areas, an underguard can indeed protect the engine and oil pan from unexpected damage. When buying one, a plastic underguard is sufficient—lightweight and affordable—while metal ones are heavier but more durable. In short, for smooth city driving, it's not necessary to spend the money, but if you frequently go off-road, it's safer to install one.
I've always enjoyed DIY car repairs and modifications, and when it comes to underbody protection plates, I find them both practical and cost-effective. Last year, I bought a plastic one online for just over a hundred bucks and installed it myself with basic tools like wrenches—simple and saved on installation fees. After installation, it's shielded the undercarriage from flying stones on highways and rural roads. The downside is the added weight, affecting fuel consumption by roughly 0.2L per 100km. In city driving, it tends to accumulate dust, impacting cooling, so I clean it occasionally. Lightweight plastic is my material recommendation for its value; metal’s too heavy for daily use. Overall, if your routes often include unpaved roads, it’s worth the investment to save on repairs. For pure city commuting, though, you might as well skip it and allocate funds elsewhere in maintenance.
