QuestionWhen I was driving on a freeway, I heard an usual noise so i pulled over and discovered that a bottom part of my car had been dragged. It was plastic, and bolted on both sides but seemed like it was broken in the middle and was dragging. I called one of my friends and he told me it was "rock guard" and to rip it out, so i did. It looks like a plastic cover but I don't know anything about cars. What is this part really called and is it important? can i still drive my car around? how much will it cost me to replace it? Thank you.
AnswerHi Jennifer;
Sorry it took so long to respond. My computer has been broken, and I just got it back, and setup again.
The parts, are called left, center, and right, "Engine Splash Shield"..s... They are fairly important to the direction of air flow through the engine bay and to keep crud off of the road from getting embedded in your engine, transmission, or accessory drive(s). The biggest benefit to them is that they keep the multi-ribbed serpentine belt drive clear of any debris, or damaging material that might cut, or damage the belt, because if it lets go there is no more power steering, which would make an emergency situation even worse. They are expensive parts, but if they are not completely obliterated, maybe some of the parts could be re-used until you can afford to replace them.
I think the sides are about $45 to 50.00, and the center is about $35 to 40.00...but I'm not certain, I work in service, not in parts, but I see them all of the time. These parts are a common issue for many owners, especially those who live in apartment complexes where there are speed, bumps/humps.
I hope this helps Jennifer, and I'm truly sorry to take so long to respond to your question. Hopefully my computer will hang in there a little while longer this time.
