What is the black plastic panel under the front bumper?

[FelicityLee]

The black plastic panel under the front bumper is a deflector, which is fixed with screws or clips and can be removed by yourself. The main function of the deflector is to reduce the lift generated when the car is driving at high speed, thereby preventing the rear wheels from floating outward. If the car lacks a deflector, the difference in airflow pressure on the upper and lower surfaces during high-speed driving will naturally generate an upward lifting force, which not only consumes the car's power but also affects driving safety. The deflector adopts a blanking and punching scheme, which can improve production efficiency and quality. Due to the small hole spacing, the sheet material is prone to bending and deformation during punching. To ensure the strength of the mold working parts and produce qualified parts, the process adopts a staggered punching method. Because there are many holes, to reduce the punching force, the process mold uses high and low cutting edges.

[DylanLee]

I've driven quite a few cars and often discuss this in car clubs. That black plastic panel below the front bumper is usually called an air deflector. Its main purpose is to improve aerodynamics, making the car more stable and fuel-efficient at high speeds, while also preventing road debris or mud from splashing up and damaging underbody components. It's made of ABS plastic because it's inexpensive and durable, with black being the common color scheme to help dissipate heat and avoid glare interference while driving. If it becomes loose or damaged, wind resistance increases, potentially raising fuel consumption by 5-10%. I recommend checking it regularly, especially after driving on rough roads. Mechanics say this panel is cleverly designed with specific angle requirements during installation—otherwise its effectiveness diminishes. During maintenance, gently tap it to listen for solidity; minor scratches don't require immediate replacement.

[CarsonRose]

Last time I scraped the black plastic under the front bumper of my car. When I took it to the repair shop, I learned it's called an air deflector guard. It helps block small stones on the road from hitting the engine compartment and protects some components. A friend who runs a modification shop said it also improves airflow, reducing floating sensations at high speeds, making it quite practical. After driving for several years, I've realized that although inconspicuous, it's important—especially in rainy weather as it reduces water splash. The plastic material is easy to clean; just rinse it with a high-pressure water gun during car washes, but it tends to wear out easily. I replaced it once, costing only a few hundred bucks, but it's best not to install it crookedly by yourself. Before driving on rough roads, it's good to squat down and check to avoid cracks that could affect safety. The simple design of this panel is meant to save costs. Big brands offer better quality, while domestic cars might develop squeaks after long-term use.

[OLogan]

As a new car owner, I was also curious about what this thing was at first. Simply put, that black plastic panel is called an air deflector, which helps reduce wind resistance, keeps the car running more steadily, and protects the undercarriage from debris. It's black because it hides dirt better. Installed under the front bumper, it's not high-tech, but without it, the car tends to shake. As a beginner, check for cracks first during inspection—minor issues won't affect driving.