I have a 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid. The plastic cover under the front end and engine is falling off. One large piece is off, another is dragging. Is this something I need to replace? Is it just for aerodynamics (i.e. for better milage), or is it essential?

I would say it is essential for aerodynamics. These engineers worked to the last detail to allow this car to get the mileage that it does. It is not “mission critical” if you are prepered to lose a bit of mpg. Just how much I have no idea.

Is he talking about the splash guard?

It is the plastic undercovering; below the engine. It seems to be there for airflow, but it would also help prevent water from splashing up from under the car. I do not know if that is a splash guard. My car knowledge could fit into a thimble. Other older cars I have had did not have such a cove…

Yes, Peacefrog, I believe he is. I’d replace it. It protects your engine from water splashing up into the engine compartment when you hit a puddle, and in some vehicles loss of theta plastic guard has been known to reduce the ability of the cooling system. Think of it as a version of a cooling fan …

It will help protect the engine (mostly from dirt) and likely improve your mileage, (a little) and reduce noise. I would (and have) replaced it on my car.

The part itself rarely fails, it the clips that hold it. I bought a small assortment of these clips from an auto parts store for $2.19 and was able to put everything back together on my Camry. Granted mine came off because I ripped them out to have access to the transmission pan.

I have the same problem, but can’t find the name of the part in order to search for a replacement. I called several auto parts stores, but they did not know what I was talking about…maybe I need to just visit one. If anyone know what this part is technically called, I would really like to know bef…

You probably don’t need to replace it. But don’t drive around without it. Just figure out how to get it reattached. Rigging will be necessary. If you drive around without it you will create many more problems for yourself. In a couple of weeks, for instance you’ll probably be here asking how a …

I would recomend inspecting the underside of your car and temporarily removing anything that is dragging/“falling off”. Those covers are held on with little plastic retainers, you put a flat head screwdriver in the slot on the side and gently pull down on it. The retainer is two pieces. If the cover…

Plastic cover under engine and front end

Maintenance/Repairs

meaneyedcatz February 13, 2011, 12:26am 10

Depending on the maker it can be called a lower deflector, lower schroud, undercover, etc. Not super important but it could help in wind noise, aerodynamics and in a stretch it could keep rocks from hitting the oil filter (depending on the filter location). If it is not broken then some cheap push in retainers will secure it.

Topic		Replies	Views
Toyota Splash Guard Maintenance/Repairs	5	948	June 14, 2011
Protective Covering Under Car Maintenance/Repairs honda	4	800	December 2, 2007
Is the plastic engine cover really needed? Maintenance/Repairs	31	59172	April 7, 2020
Toyota Corolla Under Engine Splash Cover/Shield/Guard/Shroud Maintenance/Repairs	13	6093	September 24, 2014
VW Jetta Under Engine Cover Function Maintenance/Repairs engines	4	3968	March 27, 2009

Plastic cover under engine and front end

Related topics