Engine undertray - keep it or bin it??

[dj_adam]

Good morning all. I suppose this relates to all modern cars but for the sake of choosing where to post, I have a 20vT golf.
Both of the side panels that support the lower engine cover are damaged in some way and so i have simply removed the job lot! Has anyone had trouble running without these or should i pay the man at VW for some shiny new ones?!

[burkey1]

Well I suppose, you run the risk of exposing pipes, hoses, switches etc to the elements.
With the covers in place, you reduce the risk of big puddles and stones getting fired up into the engine bay, causing damage.

If it was me I would get them replaced.

[Jasonz]

Mine came loose, and my garage gave me an option of having it replaced or using zip ties to hold it in place. I said zip ties...

[dj_adam]

Zip ties can save the world (along with gaffer tape), but saddly one of my side panels has the mounting points smashed off so not an option. I don't think they're that expensive tbh but i'd rather spend my hard earned on something nicer!!

[wid77]

How about 2nd hand from a breaker?

[herby0001]

Yeah, getting the plastic bits from a breakers would be my choice. The under tray protects the sump (to a point) and also the engine bay from salty road muck and stones. Reduces drag too from having less turbulent air on the underside.

[dj_adam]

Probably will get it sorted. On closer inspection there is only one of the three panels that actually need replacing. The other two just need new clips inserting. The frustrating thing is the complete lack of decent breakers in the Redditch area.