What to Do If the Car Underbody Shield Falls Off?
4 Answers
It is recommended to repair and reinstall it immediately. Relevant information about the car underbody shield is as follows: 1. Introduction One: The shield under the engine chassis mainly prevents mud and water from splashing into the engine compartment when driving on muddy roads, keeping the engine compartment clean. 2. Introduction Two: If considering the potential damage to the engine chassis, an additional engine underbody shield can be installed. This is a steel plate designed to protect the engine oil pan from damage when driving on mountain roads or particularly rough terrains, while also serving to keep the engine compartment dust-free. 3. Introduction Three: Additionally, some car owners install steering wheel and seat covers. However, for those with leather seats or leather steering wheels, it is obvious that adding a leather steering wheel cover would be excessive.
I've been driving for 30 years, and a fallen skid plate is no small matter. Without protection for the undercarriage, stones at high speeds can damage the engine or fuel tank, posing a significant risk of oil leaks. The first step is to slow down and pull over to a safe spot, then turn on your hazard lights. Never continue driving on highways, and try not to exceed 40 mph on provincial roads. Call for a tow truck or roadside assistance to take your car to a professional repair shop, where they can check if the bolts are loose or the skid plate is damaged. I once had a case where the bolts were rusted and broken, and replacing them cost me 200 yuan. When driving over bumpy roads, always go slow. During maintenance, ask the mechanic to check the tightness of the undercarriage bolts and apply anti-rust spray. Prevention is the easiest way—safety first, don’t take it lightly.
I often fix my car for fun. If the underbody guard falls off, try a DIY solution. First, park in a safe spot and check underneath the car to find the cause. If the screws are loose, tighten them back with the tools you have on hand; if the screws are missing, use wire to temporarily secure it and drive slowly to a repair shop. Last time my underbody guard fell off, I fixed it with pliers to tighten the screws, saving on towing fees. But avoid driving far temporarily, as it may fall off again and damage the chassis. Underbody guards aren’t expensive and can be bought on Taobao—if you’re handy, you can replace it yourself to save money. Recommended tools: a socket wrench for backup. For prevention, clean the chassis of mud and rust during car washes to reduce loosening risks.
I’ve been driving for less than a year when the underbody guard fell off, and I panicked so much my hands were shaking—I immediately turned on the hazard lights and pulled over. I called the 4S store customer service for help, and they told me not to move the car and to call a tow truck for inspection. Later, it turned out the screws were worn out, so they were replaced with new parts at a small cost. As a new driver, when something like this happens, it’s best to seek professional help instead of toughing it out—driving with issues can make things worse. I recommend learning some basic car maintenance knowledge, like driving slowly over potholes to avoid impacts. If the underbody guard falls off, the exposed chassis poses significant risks, so address it promptly without delay.