Buy Honda Fit Engine Splash Shield

Below is a ready-to-publish, long-form guide about the Honda Fit engine splash shield (also called the engine under-cover, belly pan, skid plate, lower engine cover, or splash guard).

Summary

The engine splash shield is a thin panel mounted under the Honda Fit's engine. It keeps out water, mud, rocks, and road debris, trims wind drag for better mileage, and helps quiet engine noise. Common damage signs are rattling, scraping sounds, or a panel that hangs low. Replacing a cracked shield is inexpensive compared with the cost of fixing belts, wiring, or the oil pan that it protects. Plastic versions cost as little as $10-$150, while tougher aluminum or steel plates run $100-$450 plus moderate labor.

Overview

Honda equips most 2007-2020 Fit hatchbacks with a splash shield that bolts or clips to the front sub-frame just four to five inches above the pavement, matching the car's low ground-clearance figures. The shield blocks stones, salt, and standing water from striking the oil pan, serpentine belt, and wiring while the car moves. Engineers also designed it to smooth airflow under the vehicle, which can trim aerodynamic drag and slightly improve fuel economy.

What It Does

• Debris defense: A strong panel deflects rocks and sticks that could puncture the oil pan or tear wiring. (Bob Is The Oil Guy)
• Water barrier: It keeps puddle splash away from ignition coils and connectors that can misfire when wet. (SlashGear)
• Aerodynamic aid: A smoother belly pan lowers drag, which has been shown to boost mileage on small cars and trucks alike.
• Noise control: Foam-backed plastic and polyurethane panels soak up engine and road noise, lowering NVH inside the cabin.
• Wildlife blocker: It discourages animals from nesting near the warm engine bay. (Bob Is The Oil Guy)

Signs of Damage

• Scraping or fluttering sounds under the bumper, especially on rough roads.
• Visible cracks, missing push-clips, or sagging corners.
• New drips, mud streaks, or frayed wiring that were once shielded.
  Driving with a loose shield risks it tearing away and striking nearby traffic or wrapping under the wheels.

Compatibility

The main Honda part number for third-generation Fits (2015-2020) is 74110-T5R-A00 (sometimes superseded by -A10). Earlier first- and second-generation Fits use different mounting patterns, so match model year, trim, and transmission when ordering.

Materials & Build

• Thermoplastic polypropylene (PP-GF): Lightweight, reinforced with glass fibers to resist heat and road splash.
• ABS or recycled plastic: Cheapest, flexible, but cracks in extreme cold.
• Aluminum plates: Thicker and dent-resistant, popular with off-roaders.
• Powder-coated steel: Strongest but heaviest, slightly reducing fuel gains.
  Energy-absorbing foam or felt pads may be bonded to the panel's top side for extra sound damping.

Replacement & Installation

1. Park on level ground and let the engine cool.
2. Raise the Fit on jack stands for at least 14 in of clearance.
3. Remove 10 mm bolts and plastic push pins along the perimeter (have spares on hand; worn holes may need larger washers).
4. Drop the old panel forward and out.
5. Fit the new shield, aligning with the radiator support first; finger-start all fasteners.
6. Torque bolts snugly (about 9 ft-lb is typical for 6 mm hardware; always verify in a service manual).
7. Road-test over bumps to check for rattles.
   DIY time is 30-60 minutes, as shown in walk-through videos for the Honda Fit.

Maintenance Tips

• Inspect at every oil change. Replace missing clips immediately.
• After winter, rinse salt and mud that can corrode metal brackets.
• If the shield drags after hitting debris, zip-tie it temporarily until proper hardware is installed.
• Use anti-seize on bolts to ease future removal in rust-prone areas.

Safety & Legal

Road debris caused 895 U.S. traffic deaths and 17,200 injuries in 2022 alone. A secure splash shield reduces the odds of lost parts becoming debris themselves and shields brake lines and hoses from impact. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration lists under-vehicle inspections as a key part of routine maintenance.

Cost & Value

• Plastic panel: $10-$150 for parts; add $40-$160 labor.
• Aluminum/steel: $100-$450 parts; labor similar.
  Skipping replacement can expose the oil pan, belts, and wiring to damage that easily exceeds $500-$1,000. (Wrench)

Environmental Impact

Automakers now explore recyclable PP-GF mats and lightweight composites for under-covers to cut CO₂ and improve mileage. End-of-life vehicle programs separate plastics and metals for reuse, lowering landfill waste. Re-using intact panels or recycling cracked ones helps reduce total environmental footprint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What other names are used for the Honda Fit splash shield?
A: Common synonyms include engine under-cover, lower engine cover, belly pan, skid plate, and engine guard.

Q: Is it safe to drive without the shield?
A: You can drive short-term, but water can soak belts and electronics, and rocks can dent the oil pan, so replace it as soon as possible. (Reddit, SlashGear)

Q: Does the panel really help fuel economy?
A: Yes. Studies show smoother under-body airflow reduces drag and can raise mileage a small but measurable amount.

Q: How long does a plastic shield last?
A: Expect 5-8 years in normal driving; harsh gravel roads can shorten life. (Wrench)

Q: What tools do I need for replacement?
A: A 10 mm socket, flat and Phillips screwdrivers, push-pin pliers, and a floor jack with stands.

Q: Are metal skid plates worth the extra weight?
A: Off-road drivers value metal for impact protection, while city commuters may prefer lighter plastic for cost and weight savings.

Q: Can I upgrade earlier Fit models with a third-gen shield?
A: Mounting holes differ, so stick with the correct generation or be ready to drill custom brackets.

Q: What happens if clips rust away?
A: Replace them with new OE-style push rivets or use stainless bolts and large washers to spread the load.

Q: Does the panel reduce road noise?
A: Yes-foam-lined or polyurethane panels absorb road splash sounds and engine noise.

Q: How often should I check the shield?
A: Inspect every oil change or after any curb or debris strike.

Q: Are there torque specs for the bolts?
A: Honda service literature for the Fit lists roughly 9 ft-lb (12 N·m) for 6 mm under-cover bolts.

Related Terms

• Engine splash guard
• Front skid plate
• Under-tray
• Engine belly pan
• Lower engine cover
• Engine under-guard

Resources

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration vehicle-safety data
• Technical papers on under-body aerodynamics from SAE International
• Material advances in PP-GF and polyurethane composites for auto panels
• Statistics on debris-related crashes (AAA Foundation / Express-News report)