What is an Under Car Shield?
An Under Car Shield, also known as a splash guard or skid plate, is a plastic or metal cover that protects the underside of a vehicle from debris and damage. This shield is usually located underneath the front end of the car and extends towards the rear. Its primary function is to protect the engine, transmission, and other vital components from road hazards such as rocks, mud, and water. It also helps to improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics and fuel efficiency by reducing drag and turbulence.
Under car shields come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Some shields are small and cover only a portion of the underside, while others are large and cover the entire underside. Regardless of its size and shape, the shield is attached to the bottom of the car by screws or bolts and is designed to withstand impact and harsh weather conditions.
Despite its importance, the under car shield is not always given the attention it deserves. Most car owners tend to neglect the shield until it becomes damaged or falls off altogether. This can be detrimental to the safety and performance of the vehicle. In this article, we will discuss how to fix an under car shield and prevent further damage.
Signs that Your Under Car Shield is Damaged
Many vehicles come with an undercarriage shield designed to keep dirt and debris from littering the underside of your car. This shield is necessary to help protect your car’s vital components such as power steering, antilock brakes, and engine parts, from damage. This shield is usually made of plastic, and most of the time, you won’t even know it’s there. When it does get damaged, it’s important to address the issue right away. Here are the signs that your undercar shield is damaged:
1. You Hear Unusual Noises
If you hear a loud grinding noise, it could be a sign that your undercarriage shield has detached or has come loose. When the shield drops, it can hit the road surface and cause some serious noise. This sound could be the plastic scraping the pavement as you drive down the road. It’s important to get the shield fixed right away to avoid more severe damage to your car.
2. You Smell Burning or Burning Plastic
If you smell something burning, you might assume that it’s coming from the engine. But if you notice a burning smell, there’s a high chance that your undercarriage shield has come into contact with the exhaust system. The exhaust system parts get very hot and can melt the plastic of your shield, causing a toxic smell in your car. If the smell persists, you could have serious problems with your car’s exhaust system. It’s best to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to avoid any safety issues.
3. Your Car Seems Louder Than Usual
If you notice that your car is getting louder as you drive down the road, it could be because the undercarriage shield has come loose and hit the road surface. The plastic shield can hit the pavement, causing loud vibrations that can be heard throughout your car. If this noise persists, it’s crucial to fix the shield right away to avoid damage to your car’s undercarriage components.
4. Your Shield is Visibly Damaged
If you notice any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, missing pieces, or holes, it’s essential to address the issue immediately. Even small damages can escalate into something more severe, especially if the issue isn’t taken care of promptly. Dirt, debris, and water can enter the space where the parts of your vehicle connect, causing severe harm to your car’s internal mechanics. If you see any visible signs of damage, take your car to a professional mechanic right away.
5. You Smell a Gas Odor
If you notice a gas smell while driving, it could be a sign that your undercarriage shield is damaged. The gas tank is located near the undercarriage shield, and when the shield falls or is damaged, gas can leak out and cause an unpleasant smell. A leaking gas tank can be hazardous for you and others, so it’s essential to get your car checked by a mechanic right away.
In conclusion, if you notice any of these signs, it’s important to get your undercar shield fixed right away. If you don’t address the issue, you could end up with more significant problems in the future.
Steps to Fix an Under Car Shield
Having an under car shield is essential for protecting the crucial components of your vehicle from any debris or other hazards it may encounter while driving on the road. However, the shield may get damaged or loosened over time because of the different factors and wear and tear. Therefore, it is essential to fix an under car shield and keep your car running smoothly and safely. Here are some steps to do so:
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Step 1: Remove the Damaged Shield
To fix your under car shield, you need first to examine the damage and determine whether it needs to be repaired or entirely replaced. Then, you may also need to check with your car manufacturer’s manual to determine how to remove the shield properly. Generally, it involves finding the shield’s bolts that hold it in place and using a wrench or a socket to unscrew them.
Step 2: Inspect for Damages
After removing the under car shield, inspect it carefully for any damages, such as holes, cracks, or deformities, that may have caused it to loosen or fall off. Check also the mounting brackets, bolts, screws or any hardware that may have been damaged or missing. In some cases, you may be able to fix the shield by patching up small holes or re-attaching screws, but if the damage is severe, then you may need to replace it entirely.
Step 3: Fix the Damaged Parts
Once you have identified the damage, you may need to fix it before re-installing the under car shield. Some common tools and materials you may need for repairing the shield includes duct tape, zip ties, sheet metal, metal screws, or bolts. For example, if you noticed that the undercarriage has small holes, you can use sheet metal or duct tape to patch them up temporarily. If there are any loose screws or bolts, replace them with new ones by following the manufacturer’s recommended size and type. Another common problem is torn or missing mounting brackets. You can use metal strips and bolts to fabricate new brackets and reattach the shield securely.
Step 4: Reinstall The Under Car Shield
Once you have fixed all the damages, it is time to reinstall the under car shield. Start by placing it back in place and aligning the mounting holes with those on the vehicle’s chassis. Then, screw the bolts to hold it in place securely but not too tight. Finally, do not forget to torque the screws to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications to avoid damaging the shield.
Step 5: Test the Shield
After reinstalling the under car shield, it is necessary to test it to ensure that it is correctly installed and that it does not rattle or vibrate excessively while driving. You can do this by tapping the shield lightly with a rubber mallet or by taking the vehicle for a short test drive to check for any unusual sounds or vibrations. If you notice any issues, inspect the shield again and re-tighten any loose screws or bolts that may have caused the problem.
By following these steps, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle’s crucial components are adequately protected. However, it is essential to check and maintain the under car shield regularly to avoid any significant problems that may occur while driving.
Tools Required to Fix an Under Car Shield
If you have been driving your vehicle for a while, you may have noticed that the under car shield is starting to wear out and no longer protecting the vehicle’s undercarriage. This shield protects the engine, transmission, and other vital components from water, dust, and other debris from the road. Failure to fix the under car shield can lead to more serious problems like rust corrosion, so it is essential to fix it as soon as possible.
If you are interested in repairing your under car shield yourself, you will have to invest in the right tools. Here are some of the tools you will need to fix an under car shield:
Jack Stands and a Floor Jack
Most modern cars don’t have enough space; thus, you might have to lift the vehicle off the ground to gain access. Each car comes with manufacturer specified locations for lifting vehicles when using a floor jack. To work safely, it is recommended to use jack stands. To fix the under car shield, after the car has been lifted, place the jack stands on the vehicle’s support points carefully.
Socket Wrench set
A socket wrench set is also an essential tool when fixing your shield under your vehicle. This tool will help you to loosen and tighten bolts and nuts that hold the under car shield in place. The socket wrench set comes in different sizes to cater to different sizes of nuts and bolts under the vehicle. Ensure you refer to a user manual to know which sizes you will need for your car model.
Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are useful tools to help loosen screws and hold the shield in place. The shield contains clips and bolts that hold it in place, and using a screwdriver would come in handy to unscrew or screw them when needed.
Cleaner and Spray Paint
Since the undercarriage is susceptible to dust, dirt, salt, and water, you may need to clean the interior and the undercarriage when installing the under car shield if such material already accumulates. A cleaner is essential to clean the undercarriage sections that need cleaning. Spray paint is useful when paint sections on the undercarriage are coming off and need retouching to protect the car from rust damage.
Protective Gear
Finally, it would be best to invest in protective gear when working on your under car shield; This includes gloves and goggles. Gloves will help protect your hands, and goggles will help keep debris and dust from irritating your eyes.
Repairing the undercarriage is a straightforward process if you have all the necessary equipment. By investing in these tools, you will be able to save costs by doing it yourself while ensuring your vehicle’s undercarriage is protected and in good condition.
Tips to Prevent Damage to Your Under Car Shield
If you want to avoid spending money on fixing your under car shield, there are some simple tips you can follow to prevent damage in the first place. Here are five tips that are easy to implement:
1. Avoid High Speed Bumps: High-speed bumps are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to damaging your under car shield. You should always look out for speed bumps and slow down when approaching them. This will reduce the impact on the under car shield and reduce the risk of damage.
2. Stay on Smooth Roads: Rough or uneven roads can cause the undercarriage of your car to scrape the ground. While it may not cause immediate damage, repeated exposure to rough roads can cause dents and scrapes to wear on the shield over time. Where possible, try to avoid driving on very rough terrain or uneven roads.
3. Keep an Eye Out for Potholes: Potholes are another common cause of damage to the undercarriage of your car. To avoid the problem, you should keep an eye out for potholes and drive around them if possible. If you can’t avoid a pothole, slow down as much as possible before hitting it to reduce the impact.
4. Clean Your Car Regularly: Cleaning your car regularly can help prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the bottom of the car. Dirt and debris can build up on the undercarriage and lead to corrosion and rust over time. Regular cleaning can help prevent this.
5. Use a Wax-Based Coating: One of the best ways to protect the undercarriage of your car is to use a wax-based coating like Tuff Coat or Fluid Film. These products are designed to protect the undercarriage from damage caused by salt, water, sand, and other debris. You should apply the coating every six months or as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure maximum protection.
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent damage to your under car shield and avoid costly repairs in the future. Remember to always take care when driving over bumps or uneven roads and keep your car clean to avoid debris build-up. Adding a wax-based coating can also provide an extra layer of protection for your undercarriage.