What Is An Under Engine Cover?
The
underside of the vehicle is very crucial, as that is where most of the problems
are prone to occur. The Under Engine
Cover ensures that
the engine is protected from rocks, debris, dust and especially water from
entering the engine bay. It is also called a Splash Shield or Belly Pan.
Where Is The Under Engine Cover located?
As
the name suggests, this cover can be found under the vehicle and stretches
across the front section of the floor of the car covering the axles and other
important components of the car.
Important Features Of Under Engine Cover
Under
Engine Cover are essential for every vehicle as they keep dust, rock, debris
and especially water away from the engine compartment. They are used as a
shield against uneven road surfaces that may bang up the engine and it’s
various other components. Water, once it gets into your engine compartment,
will not just cause your ride to stall, it can also introduce corrosion to your
metal components that could eventually have catastrophic results and may even
require an engine replacement. So to be sure, get the right Under Engine Cover
for your ride.
Frequent Problems With Under Engine Cover
It
takes constant abuse from the road and gets dinged and dented from uneven road
surfaces and rocks which can fracture the plastic. Water along with dust and
debris often stick to this cover which can deteriorate the cover overtime and
require a replacement. Fissures in the cover can allow water to enter the
engine bay which can have ruinous results on the engine components. In case of
collisions, the cover can get damaged and will require a replacement.
Symptoms Of Under Engine Cover
Here
are few signs to look for Under Engine Cover damage:
- Many
times the cover can get ripped off due to constant abuse that can loosen the
screws.
- You can observe cracks and fractures on the surface of the cover.
- There
may be visible sagging in the cover.
Tools Needed For Under Engine Cover
Are you thinking of repairing your Under Engine Cover on your
own? Then there is one thing which you must have, that is the right tools
needed for repairing your Under Engine Cover. It is essential to make sure that
you are outfitted with the right tools to get the work done properly. Have a look
at some tools which you might need to get started with your repair work:-
The under engine cover is held together firmly and will require these
special tools for proper removal:
Top Brands For Under Engine Cover
When it comes to vehicle owner’s choice, the brands really matter a lot. You might pay a premium for a specific car part brand, over time, as it has created a perception of quality, stability as well as trust. There are some leading car parts brands which are more than just products or services as they give rise to memories and emotions related with the quality. So have a look at some top brands for Under Engine Cover.
Related Parts Of Under Engine Cover
It
is very important to arm yourself with information before you shop any auto
part. We are here to help you dive deep into the names of the Under Engine
Cover related parts.
Other similar parts to the
under engine covers are:
Total Cost & Repair Times, Effort For Under Engine Cover
Plastic elements are usually made of that material as they are
expendable and replacements costs are low. One such element is the Under Engine
Cover. To avoid unnecessary damages to the cover make sure to remove and clean
it once in a while to get rid of all dirt and debris on and above it. In case
of severe damages it is recommended to get a replacement as this cover is what
protects engine components from the various elements. It is easy to remove and
refit this cover and may cost around 100 $.
How To Change the Under Engine Cover?
Follow
along these steps for proper removal and reinstallation of the under engine
cover:
- There
are a number of bolts (usually 10mm) that are holding down across the periphery
of the cover.
- Locate
all the bolts and undo them using a ratchet and the appropriate socket.
- There may also be push clips around the cover. To undo them use a flathead screwdriver or a pry tool and unclip it.
- To
reinstall the new under engine cover follow the above steps in the reverse
order.