mis3

This morning, I went over something, maybe ice, and the rear under engine panel came off partially. I went to an indie and they simply removed it. This is a very reputable MB specialist shop who did an excellent job on my engine mounts last week.

I know there are 2 underbody panels to my car (2004 CLK320). It is the one in the back and I think oediscountparts calls it the rear cover: Item 4 in their parts diagram: [ 4 ] BODY HARDWARE / RADIATOR SUPPORT / SPLASH SHIELDS / Rear cover. Part no is 209-524-2630.

I talked to the shop owner and he said the panel was shredded into pieces but there is no need to replace it. The one in the front is suffice in protecting the engine. Is this true?

beejAMG

possibly, but Mercedes Benz wouldnt put it there if you don't need it. if the part wont cost as much, id suggest you get another one.

Glyn M Ruck

The covers under the car are there for aerodynamic reasons. Replace it.

mis3

I think the other reason would be to protect the car components underneath against water, rocks. road debris,etc.

Like Beejay said, MB puts it there for a reason. I was surprised that this shop told me that there was no need to replace it.

You guys are right. I should replace it.

beejAMG

^ +1

xsever

Yeah you wouldn't want salt from the roads in the winter getting in there neither. The plate protects against that too.

mis3

I dropped my another indie (closer to my house) today to check the exact parts I needed.
He told me that there should be 2 brackets in the back to hold the splash shield. I will also need a few bolts.

Are you guys aware of these 2 brackets? Do I need them?

Glyn M Ruck

Yes you do if they got damaged or ripped off.

mis3

I called MB dealership to order the parts; panel and brackets. Their diagram did not show the brackets. So, I look a picture of the parts diagram from oediscounrparts and MMS to him. He told me they were out of stock in Canada and had to order from Germany.

This morning I called the 1st indie, maybe they still have the brackets. He told me there was no bracket and they still have the panel. He asked me to bring the new panel and he would install for me. He also asked me not to get the bolts, they have some in the shop

Glyn M Ruck

Then the attachment points must still be in place. Let us know how it goes.

mis3

Just went to pick up the panel and went back to the 1st indie to install. All done now. The 2 brackets in question were intact and no need to replace.

The other indie looked at the wrong place.

I am glad I did install the shield. Whatever I hit on the highway, the old shield panel might have saved my car.

mis3

Just went to pick up the panel and went back to the 1st indie to install. All done now. The 2 brackets in question were intact and no need to replace.

The other indie looked at the wrong place.

I am glad I did install the shield. Whatever I hit on the highway, the old shield panel might have saved my car.