Cover under my car at the main front is missing I just realize it today. What is it there for?

Question

I drive a nissan altima 06 and I think the cover is to block debri.What else is it there for?Would this need to be removed to change the oil? And if any one could provide a guestimate for How much it might be or the name of this part that would be great!!!

Answer 1

partial belly pan to protect engine form debris.......however cars today will and do have full belly pans to increase gas mileage such as the prius and insight to name a few models.

Belly pans cause the car to become more aerodynamic thus accounting for increased gas mileage. douubt me? check out ecomodders, people that want the best mileage possible at the least cost.................

Answer 2

It is called an engine splash shield! It helps to protect the engine bay from water,mud and road debris, could increase the aerodynamics some. It is possible that it may need to be removed to get to the oil filter from under the car, but it depends on the model.

here is some  examples of some on ebay! If you email or call them, they may have the one that you need!

Good luck!

http://search.stores.ebay.com/Car-Parts-...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ENGINE-SP...

"So should I look into buying the piece because I can't repair ?"

Yes, I would recommed getting it replaced. If you run into water pooled in the road, it could cause your engine to die out.

Answer 3

"Splash Shield/Guard" Yeah-Better Air Flow, Stops Road Debris, Water from Splashing up and Stalling the Engine or Cracking the Block. Depending on the car they may have to remove it for an Oil Change, Check where you had it Changed! Carbon Fiber or Heavy Plastic, $30 to $100 and 15 min. install.

Answer 4

It is there to improve airflow to the radiator and under the car.

Older vehicles do not have them.

They are surprisingly expensive, well over $100-.  I broke mine on a Ford Ranger, and ended up repairing it, instead of replacing it because of the cost.

One name is front belly pan.

Answer 5

You've got it right. That piece of cover, called the mud guard is only there to block the debris from getting the underneath of the car dirty. No, you do not have to remove to change the oil. If my mind tells me correctly, the oil filter for the Nissan is at about that location. It is installed horizonatlly.