What to Do When the Plastic Underbody Shield of a Car is Damaged?
3 Answers
If the plastic underbody shield of a car is damaged, it should be promptly replaced or repaired. The plastic underbody shield protects the engine from impacts during driving, preventing damage and keeping the engine free from mud and dirt. If the shield is damaged, it is advisable to visit a 4S shop for repair or replacement. The original underbody shields are typically made of plastic or resin, effectively safeguarding the engine and the safety of occupants in the cabin. There are also metal underbody shields available, which generally do not pose significant issues under normal circumstances. However, in the event of a collision, the engine may impact the metal plate, potentially causing severe harm to the occupants. Besides protecting the engine from damage, the underbody shield also helps maintain cleanliness in the engine compartment by preventing road dust and muddy water from entering.
Yesterday, the plastic underbody cover of my car got damaged when I drove over a pothole. I immediately pulled over to check and found a large crack. The plastic cover mainly protects the fuel lines and underbody components. If it's broken, water and debris can easily get in, which is quite dangerous. Since I usually fix minor issues myself, I came up with a temporary solution: sealing the crack with waterproof tape and securing it with heavy-duty plastic zip ties to ensure I can drive to the repair shop. Avoid driving at high speeds for too long, as it might damage other parts. Before heading to the repair shop, I’ll buy an OEM part online or find a suitable aftermarket alternative—it’s half the price of what a dealership charges. I already have the tools to replace it myself, saving both time and money. If you’re good at DIY, you can try removing the screws and installing the new cover, but always prioritize safety first.
A couple of days ago, the underbody guard of my old car was damaged. Since our family relies on it to take the kids to school, I got really nervous when I saw it. The broken plastic panel exposed critical components, and if debris gets sucked in or it gets soaked by rain, it could affect driving safety. So I parked the car and avoided driving fast, first taking photos of the damage with my phone and sending them to a nearby mechanic for advice. They said small cracks could be temporarily fixed with glue, but it's best to replace it as soon as possible—a regular shop can handle it for just over 100 yuan. Don't wait too long; delaying could lead to rust or other hidden issues with the chassis. I always recommend going to a shop recommended by someone you know—it's reliable and efficient, saving you the hassle of going back and forth. This incident reminded me to always check the underbody guard during regular maintenance, especially since older cars are more prone to problems.
