Engine Splash Shield Removal Question

[wellowlbe]

The lower engine shield in my 2012 Mazda 5 is damaged. What are downside problems of removing it and driving the vehicle without the shield?

 

[MarioT]

Probably not much will happen, but I can think that:
-Oil filter & pan will be more exposed to road debris.
-Water splashing on the belt could make it squeal.
-If up north enough, snow & ice build up in weird places.

I wouldn't pay for a brand new one... but if you can get your hands on a scrap yard one I'd replace it when it's convenient.

 

[negusm]

On a 2.3L, it helps keep crap out of the AC Compressor which is on the bottom of the engine. I replaced both on the 2008 Mazda 3 and 2010 Mazda 5 2.3L. They were missing from the used car dealer.

 

[wellowlbe]

On a 2.3m, it helps keep crap out of the AC Compressor which is on the bottom of the engine. I replaced both on the 2008 Mazda 3 and 2010 Mazda 5 2.3L. They were missing from the used car dealer.

Thanks for the input.

 

[wellowlbe]

Thanks for the input.

Thanks for the input.

 

[dlarkin_dc]

I see @negusm beat me to it, the AC compressor and belt is down low. The splash shield also line up to protect the oil filter carrier, help with aerodynamics and a little bit with road noise.

 

[kpoon]

I got the following for much cheaper than OEM, & it fits perfectly, & I haven't had any issues with it. It even has the oil filter hole in the same, inconvenient position.

https://amzn.to/40cSNBO

 

[MarkVII88]

The lower engine shield in my 2012 Mazda 5 is damaged. What are downside problems of removing it and driving the vehicle without the shield?

You can get a new, replacement lower under cover here.

https://www.quirkparts.com/oem-parts/mazda-under-cover-cg1556110a?c=bD0yJm49U2VhcmNoIFJlc3VsdHMmYT1tYXpkYSZvPTUmeT0yMDEyJnQ9c3BvcnQmZT0yLTVsLWw0LWdhcw%3D%3D

Quirkparts.com is my go-to for replacement OEM parts.

 

[dlarkin_dc]

Thankfs for sharing. Always good to have another parts source.

Quirk looks a lot like CARiD. It's not uncommon to see different storefronts with same webpages and backend database and stock... but the prices can be different