Damn this snow... we got hammered the past few days and while reversing to park, the shield that covers the engine filter / plug / etc got messed up.

It's all bent out of shape on one side and it's currently being dragged everywhere I drive.

Until the snow melts I won't have a chance to take a look at that thing, so i'm contemplating my options now.

How important is that shield, really? I know it deflects debris... does it serve any other purpose?

 

If it's just that small flap that's held on by a single screw, you should be okay until you get a replacement. The bottom engine cover protects the oil pan from debris.

 

It's the big aluminum (?) cover.

Should I be overly concerned?

 

I think I know what you are talking about. It's the bottom engine cover which is held in place by six bolts. You remove that when you change the engine oil and filter.

Yes, I think you should replace that in a covered garage or friend's car port, and inspect the surrounding area to see if there's any further damage.

See below item 9 list price $168 / discount price around $127:

http://www.acuraoemparts.com/delray/...All&vinsrch=no

 

I wouldn't be overly concerned. The other cars I've had never had this fancy undershield. Makes doing DIY oil changes a PITA anyways.

 

Yeah, you don't need that gravel guard, just look at the lack of evidence supporting underbody damage to the Concorde from runway flotsam and jetsam.

http://www.urbanreflex.com/concorde.html

 

I did the same thing...some snow a little ice and the aluminum on that panel bent on the corner...I just bent it back and left it at that. Don't see a reason to replace it when the new one will likely do the same thing.

 

I don't want to sound overly alarmist, or like "a company shill" But I have heard that the various fairings, under dams, and diverters all play a part in proper undercar air flow management. Some are designed to channel cooling year to the battery, and some designed to help extract hot air from the engine bay. I think it's up to you to make a judgment call, but my gut feeling is to replace it when it's convenient.