ausbun

My 2003 SC430 has 159K miles logged on it, but the black plastic shield under the engine is trying to disconnect itself from the front of the car. (I searched the SC430 forums for similar questions but have found none.)

Is this part necessary, or could I remove the plastic tabs and pop it off? I'm sure a replacement would cost several hundreds of dollars at a dealership. I drive about 12,000 miles a year, split almost evenly between city and highway.

Anyone's input would be appreciated.

Bgw70

Agree with mademedoit! Mine were missing when I purchased the car and I ordered new ones! I do not remember the exact price but it was around $160 and $75 from the dealer. There are two covers held in place by several bolts.

Look it up online, find your best price then call your local dealer and ask them to match that price, most will match!

tromly

excellent advice, when it comes to Lexus parts this one is relatively cheap.

mandyfig

I work for a plant (Injection Molding-Plastics) that supplies parts for Honda-Acura. When we sell parts for service, the price is quite high. We are obligated to sell service parts 10 years after model end. The price that Honda-Acura sells them are 20 times what they pay us.

Hence the proliferation of aftermarket service parts. They actually justify making tools that cost a huge investment. This is how you see parts made in Taiwan and China are common. See how you can get an aftermarket bumper for 1/3 the cost? For our Lexus cars, I would not suggest aftermarket components.

mandyfig

And yes the under body cladding if for aerodynamics for drag and also thermal control. They are important. It is all about MPG nowadays.

SPT

I removed mine about 5-years ago when sagging caused it to make noise. The has been no difference in braking, noise or gas mileage. Leaks as they sometimes spring up have been noticed quicker. I'm sure having one is more advantages for brake cooling and aerodynamics but it would have to be a bit less expensive in order for me to get another one.

Jabberwock

You can search 3rd party like rockauto for replacement plastic panels. We got the main under engine panel for a mazda 3 for one of the kids and the cost of the panel shipped was about $25.

Bgw70

it also protects the components under the car

texsexlex

iTrader: (3)

...it also helps keep the engine cleaner, from dirt being thrown under the car

Lesly1

The plastic shield is still on my Wifes SC, but, our Mercedes's was removed to do some work on it & the Mechanic advised to leave it off. We live in South Australia & it gets pretty hot in Summer. He said that it's better without the shield so that the Engine Bay would get better Air circulation. We don't see snow either. The only difference is, now I see an oil drop or two on the ground where as before I couldn't because it would land on the shield.

Chris......From OZ.