A car consists of 30,000 parts, and a splash shield is the most neglected car part among them. A splash sheet, also known as a skid plate, lower engine cover, or engine splash guard, prevents the entry of small nails and particles.No matter how harsh the external conditions are, keeping the vehicle safe from external influences is the responsibility of the splash shield. It also safeguards parts like the engine and other parts that deteriorate quite often. The more protected these parts are, the less replacement they would need, the smoothly the car works. Since it is located beneath the vehicle and handles all the beatings, splash shield replacement becomes necessary.
Types of Splash Shield Material
If you are thinking of installing a splash shield in your car, you will come across two types of splash shield material: plastic and metal. It is vital to determine the pros and cons of each one of them to choose the best one for your car. Investing in a plastic splash shield is an affordable option, but these aren’t robust. Plastic is soft and comes off easier than metal. This means that replacing the shield becomes a regular task for you, and those looking for inexpensive options can install it.
Metal Splash shields are costly and have a longer lifespan than plastic ones. If you regularly take your vehicle on harsh and gravel roads, then metal shields will be ideal.
When It’s Time to Replace Engine Splash Shield?
Engine Splash Shields are more susceptible to damage. This is because it comes in contact with external elements. In winter, you would experience most of the engine splash shield issues as there are snow and window puddles on the road, and driving over them would greatly damage the shield. Aging is another reason why someone should plan for a splash shield replacement. If you aren’t paying enough attention to these aspects, you’ll find them hanging and scrapping the bumps on the road. In certain vehicles, the splash shield is replaced when someone goes for an oil change. This degrades the fasteners promptly and makes them loose.
If you possess sound mechanical knowledge, you can fix the shield by yourself. You need to buy a quality part from a trusted store, ‘The Auto Parts Shop.’ The Auto Parts Shop brings optimum quality and durable car parts to you. Otherwise, it is better to hand it over to the mechanic, who would determine the underlying cause and fix the shield.
How Much Does Splash Shield Replacement Cost?
The average cost of a splash shield falls between $45 to $190.Aftermarket car parts are inexpensive compared to the OEM models. Certain car models take separate front shields and side guards. The cost of side guards and front shields lie between $15 to $150.Additional accessories, including bolts and clips, are also needed to perform the process. The labor costs are separate and depend on the complexity of the job. It is between $35 to $160.Separate charges will be levied on Fender line replacement $45-$120 along with $20 for clips and bolts.
If individual repairs are burning a hole in your pocket, then it’s time to save money by comparing the Splash shield price and specifications of the model. Install the one that matches the requirements of the car and fits within your budget.
Engine Splash Shield Replacement Process
Splash shield car replacement isn’t as complicated a process as it seems to be. We have made the process simple as follows:
Tools and Parts Required
- New Splash Shield
- Screwdriver or a socket wrench.
- Bolts, screws, and washer clips.
- A dry and clean rag
- Car Jack
- Flathead screwdriver.
- Flashlight and other light sources.
- Protective gear, including gloves and Goggles.
#Step 1:If the engine is working for a while, try cooling it down to save yourself from burns or any other incidents. Look for a flat surface and park your vehicle. This would prevent the car from leaning or rolling while it’s jacked up.
#Step 2:The car is to be raised using jack stands. Ensure that the car is secured with jack stands on both sides.
#Step 3:Find the worn-out splash shield which lies below the engine. Inspect the shield to identify leaks or damages. Unscrew or unclip the fasteners to eliminate old, damaged, and worn-out splash shields.
#Step 4:Have a look at the splash shield mount and look for signs of wear and tear, if any. In case of issues, it is better to install a new engine splash shield. A poorly placed shield will come out sooner, so perform every step properly.
#Step 5:Lower the car and test it.
The Bottom Line
The Splash shield is a significant component of the vehicle. Plan splash shield car replacement instead of working with a problematic one to prevent the engine and other components from degrading. Also, you are taking an extra step by saving yourself from costly repairs in the future.