Which Type of Car Engine Guard is Better?
2 Answers
Engine guards made of aluminum alloy are considered superior. Different material types of guards have fundamentally distinct characteristics. Engine guards are typically made of hard plastic, resin, iron, or aluminum alloy. Engine guards can be categorized into the following types: Aluminum alloy guards: Offer the best cost-performance ratio, being lightweight, high-strength, and affordable, making them one of the top choices for consumers. Plastic guards: Have low manufacturing costs and are the lightest in weight. Plastic-steel and iron guards: Mostly used on high-intensity off-road vehicles. Installing these types of guards on ordinary sedans and urban SUVs may instead increase fuel consumption.
As someone with 20 years of auto repair experience, I often see car owners asking which engine guard is best. My advice is that material choice is most critical. Plastic guards are lightweight and affordable, suitable for city driving—they protect against small stones but crack easily upon hard impacts. Metal guards like steel are extremely durable with strong off-road protection, though heavier (may increase fuel consumption) and prone to rust, requiring regular maintenance. Composite materials like fiberglass offer moderate weight, corrosion resistance, and shock absorption at mid-range prices with easy upkeep. For installation, beginners should visit professional shops—DIY errors may affect heat dissipation. Overall, metal is more reliable for rough roads; plastic suffices for urban commutes. Remember to inspect regularly—replace if cracked or loose.
