How to Replace an Engine Splash Shield

A vehicle’s engine splash shield is also called the skid plate, the engine splash guard, or the lower/under-engine cover. It’s a panel that’s designed to protect the underside of the vehicle’s engine and other important components from water, corrosive materials, and road debris. The shield also helps prevent wind turbulence within the engine compartment, providing some fuel economy benefits and a quieter ride.

Note that not all splash shields are metal, and not all of them can even be called “skid plates.” Some vehicles, like late model F150s, need the splash shield removed for an oil change.

Because of its location, the engine splash shield can take on quite a beating. Its plastic components turn fragile when cold, making them susceptible to damage when driving over road debris and packed snow, or even when parking over a high curb.

Meanwhile, worn out, broken, or missing fasteners can leave the engine splash shield partially hanging down and possibly even scraping the road. This problem is common among cars with splash shields that were designed to be removed for oil changes.

To avoid the consequences of these issues, replace your engine splash shield immediately.

Engine Splash Shield Replacement Guide

As with all vehicle DIY projects, you’ll need to wear appropriate protective equipment before you start. Since you’ll be working on the underside of your vehicle, it’s recommended that you wear goggles to shield your eyes from debris or engine drippings.

Also, wear closed shoes to protect your feet from injury.

Below are the steps you can follow if you plan on replacing the engine splash shield yourself:

What You’ll Need:

• Personal protective equipment like goggles, gloves, and/or closed shoes
• Flashlight
• A clean, dry rag (although, a mildly dirty and slightly damp rag will work just as well)Screwdriver or socket wrench
• Prying tool or flat head screwdriver
• Screws and washers/bolts, and clips (if needed)
• Engine splash shield replacement

Procedure:

1. Make sure that the engine has cooled to avoid heat-related injuries.
2. Park your car on a flat surface.
3. Jack up your vehicle and raise it high enough to give you access to the engine splash shield. Make sure to follow the right procedure when doing this to ensure your safety.
4. Using your flashlight, locate the engine splash shield.
5. Wipe down the surface with a clean rag to eliminate moisture or any loose dirt that may have accumulated on the area so you can clearly see all of the bolts or clips that are holding it in place.
6. Determine the mounting locations and remove the old bolts and/or clips using your screwdriver, socket wrench, or prying tool (whichever is applicable).
7. Remove the old or damaged splash shield.
8. Fit the new engine splash shield into place and secure it with the appropriate bolts, screws and washers, and clips. Make sure to follow the correct torque specifications.
9. Lower the vehicle and test drive it to make sure the splash shield is securely fastened onto the underside of the vehicle.

Do You Need a Splash Shield on Your Car?

First, let’s explain a bit more about this lesser-known part. Engine splash shields are usually made of abrasion-resistant materials like high-density plastics or fiberglass, which are lightweight but provide ample coverage and protection. They are often installed on off-road vehicles but are sometimes used to give vehicles an off-road look.

So, do you need this component? Yes, an engine splash shield is necessary and can save you hundreds of dollars in repairs. When you drive without one, you’re putting the most important parts of your vehicle at risk—road debris such as rocks, leaves, and twigs can get inside the engine compartment and cause damage.

These elements can also puncture underbody parts like the oil pan, which can cause major leaks that will require you to replace the part. Twigs and leaves can also get caught in the alternator or drive belt and cause these parts to wear down sooner.

The engine splash shield also keeps road salts, water, slush, ice, and snow from corroding metal components or affecting the wiring system under the vehicle.

While the primary function of this component is to help protect the underside of the vehicle, it also channels airflow to other underbody components to keep them from overheating and can help reduce drag for a smoother and quieter ride.

When Should You Replace Your Engine Splash Shield?

Engine splash shield repair or replacement is usually required once you spot damage, dragging, and other issues with the part.

Engine splash shields can also be considered as performance or aesthetic upgrades. People who own 4×4 vehicles or other off-road-type vehicles find splash shields helpful especially when driving on rough terrain.

Meanwhile, some people install “fake” replacement splash guards and skid plates to get that off-road look.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace the Engine Splash Shield?

You can get a replacement engine splash shield from around a few dollars up to $180, depending on where you purchase the part and the year, make, and model of your vehicle.

Remember to check the specifications of the replacement part to ensure that it will fit your vehicle. Also, most engine splash shield replacements do not come with the bolts, screws, or clips needed to attach to your vehicle, so if you require these as well, make sure to check the product information to see if these are included.

Products Mentioned in this Guide

Skid Plate Engine Splash Shield