7up

I was wanting to do a bit of "engine dusting" (wipe down a few parts), but needed to remove this whole front PITA panel just to get at the items. When you can barely make it under your vehicle (sans jack), it's useless because they block everything anyway. (I don't live in a particularly friendly DIY car dwelling -- which pisses me to all hell -- especially with a new car I want to explore.)

• Curious, what's the purpose of the two underside, PVC-like material panels? Are they purely for underside protection from the elements while cruising the roads? (And I'm asking because none of my previous cars had them.)

For reference as to what I'm talking about: There's one bolted to the front bumper and extends back a couple feet, and then one directly behind it. They're all held in with 7/32" headed screws. And one of the panels has a molded statement stating the torque value of the screws (1.9 N•m)


('05-'09 models may very well have these panels also, but I haven't been under one to see if so.)


I did search the forum -- and found references to them -- but not for their purpose.

Adam

Detailing the underside of the car - I'm impressed!

I'd assume the panels are there for protection and aerodynamics. If wind is getting caught up into the underside of the engine that would cause a heck of a drag.

7up

I didn't want to let this engine slide into the grease/gunk coating phase, as has happened all too often with previously neglected cars I've owned.

Really wish I had the space to own a hydraulic lift like in pro shops. Someday.

Good assumption -- the drag factor is something I hadn't thought of. With this vehicle riding so low to the ground, makes sense. An easy/cheap way to streamline the aerodynamics.

T.Y.

Adam

I hear ya. Simple Green is a very good engine degreaser, and I use 303 Aerospace Protecant on all the rubber / plastic components.

chronos

The 05-09 cars do not have those. I read some place that those panels were added because of wind turbulence.

itsokimapilot

+1 A lot of european cars have these panels. My VW had them from front to rear of the engine compartment. Made oil changes a pain. But they reduce drag.