[bmwsinceday1]

I removed the big black plastic shield , the one that is under the engine, to do some car work under there. Im hesitating putting it back on. Whats the real need/use/function of that big black clumsy hunk of plastic, people?

(for that mattter, same question for the one on TOP of the engine......)

Thanks

[Meeni]

The one at the bottom protects the engine from water etc. it also improves aero and thus mpg, and protects suspension components from damage should you hit something protruding while driving. Useful

The one at the top is cosmetic and useless.

[Transport3r]

-Aerodynamics
-keeps engine bay clean
-protects from debris
-insulates noise
-keeps bottom of the bumper rigid

All these far outweigh the hassles for me!

[bmwsinceday1]

Wow, good info, guys. Youre right, it is worth the extra hassle. I will put it back on!! (the lower one/under engine)

[bmwsinceday1]

Originally Posted by Meeni

The one at the top is cosmetic and useless.

OK, are you 100% sure about this meen? Cuz if so, I WILL yank it.......(you sure it contributes nothing to say, reduce engine noise?)

[Meeni]

Maybe it does reduce noise, that's possible. Couldn't tell the difference with or without. I put it back since it just pops in and out in 2 seconds.

[sna66]

Keeps the engine bay a whole lot cleaner

[bmwsinceday1]

ok, sna and meen, I'll pop it back in there. No big deal. a clean engine is a good thing.

[mrvedit]

Does anyone have an opinion (or even data) whether removing the lower plastic engine shield will reduce engine temps at the track? It seems that removing it would allow more airflow over the engine.
Thank you.