How an Engine Shield Provides Lasting Protection for Your Vehicle’s Most Important Parts and Components

ONe of the most important components of your vehicle is its engine. That’s why it is critical that your engine - and its parts - are properly protected. That’s why every vehicle should have a high-quality splash guard. This underappreciated part of your vehicle helps protect your vehicle from various hazards and ensures smooth operation. Today, we will take a look at the benefits of a splash shield and explain why aluminum is the best material for this essential component.

What is an Engine Splash Shield?

An engine splash guard is also known as a skid plate or an engine under cover. This part is a protective panel which is mounted underneath your vehicle’s engine. The main purpose of a splash guard is to protect the engine from road debris, mud, water, gravel and other common road and off-road hazards. By protecting the components of your engine, you ensure smooth operation and less repair costs throughout the life of the vehicle.

Benefits of an Engine Splash Shield


There are a number of reasons why you will want to add a splash guard to your vehicle. Here are the four most common benefits:

1. Protection from Road Debris

The most important reason why you want to add a splash guard to your vehicle is to protect your engine from road debris. Whether you are traveling on the road or off-road, your engine is vulnerable to everything from small rocks to mud, water and other contaminants. The splash guard acts as a protective shield to keep those potential invaders out.

2. Shielding Against Water and Mud

One of the most common issues that can face an engine is flooding or exposure to mud. This is especially true if you live in an area with lots of precipitation or if you take your vehicle off-road in wet or muddy environments. The damage that can be caused by water or mud exposure can be extensive. The splash guard acts as a shield to most or all of the water or mud away from your engine.

3. Improved Aerodynamics

One of the less appreciated benefits of a splash guard is the fact that it can improve the overall aerodynamics of your vehicle. With a splash guard, you reduce drag which can help make your vehicle perform better and enjoy improved fuel efficiency.

4. Noise Reduction

Finally, a splash guard can reduce the overall noise from your vehicle. That’s because the splash guard can help muffle the sound coming from the engine. This will result in a more comfortable and pleasant driving experience.

Why Aluminum is the Best Material for an Engine Splash Shield

While splash guards can be made from a number of different materials, we find that aluminum is the best material available. Here are the four major reasons why we recommend aluminum splash guards for your vehicle:

1. Durability and Strength

Aluminum has one of the best durability and straight-to-weight ratios of any material available for splash guards. Supposed to be a plastic material, aluminum can handle significant force without breaking or cracking. This allows aluminum splash guards to last long and provide you with better peace of mind during rough driving conditions.

2. Corrosion Resistance

One of my favorite reasons to choose aluminum splash guards is that they have a natural corrosion resistance. That means you don’t have to worry about aluminum splash guards when they are exposed. When encountering water or mud, aluminum will form a protective oxide layer that prevents rusting which can be found on other materials such as steel.

3. Lightweight

Another big advantage of aluminum is that it is lightweight compared to other materials such as steel. This will not only make your vehicle perform better, but you will also prevent added weight which can burden your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Aluminum is an ideal choice for performance vehicles or those who enjoy a more spirited driving experience.

4. Heat Dissipation

Finally, aluminum materials are ideal when it comes to handling the high amount of heat that comes from your vehicle’s engine. Aluminum is excellent for dissipating heat which can help prevent your vehicle from overheating during hot weather conditions. Also, the ability to dissipate heat makes aluminum an ideal choice for long-distance driving.

Installing an Engine Splash Shield

It is pretty easy to install a splash guard if you have any experience working on your vehicle. Usually, the task should be completed in under 60 minutes. Here’s a step-by-step look at how you can install your own splash shield.

1. Preparation: Be sure to have your vehicle on a level surface and that the vehicle is securely lifted with a jack and a jack stand. After that, make sure you have the other tools that you will need including a wrench, screwdriver, and any mounting hardware that came with the splash guard.

2. Removal of Old Shield: If your vehicle already has an old splash guard, remove it by loosening the mounting bolts and clips. Afterward, lower the old splash guard and set it to the side.

3. Positioning the New Shield: Take your new splash guard and align it to the mounting points under your vehicle.

4. Securing the Shield: Secure the new shield with the mounting bolts and the clips.

5. Final Check: Once you have finished installing your new splash guard, double-check to make sure that the shield is securely in place. Afterward, lower your vehicle and remove the jack and the jack stand.


Installing an Engine Splash Shield:


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    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    You may have some additional questions about splash shields. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

    How often should I inspect my engine splash shield?

    Be sure to inspect your vehicle’s splash shield each time you get an oil change. That should be about every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 8,000 to 12,000 km.

    Can I drive without an engine splash shield?

    While you can drive your vehicle without a splash guard, it is not recommended. Even if you do not drive your vehicle off-road, there are a number of road hazards and debris that can damage critical engine parts. Also, if you live in an area that gets a high level of rain or snow, your engine could be vulnerable to moisture contamination.

    How much does it cost to replace an engine splash shield?

    The cost of replacing a splash shield can vary by make and model. Typically, an aluminum splash shield will cost anywhere between $100 to $450 plus the cost of any labor if you decide to have the part professionally installed.