Plastic cover under engine
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 14
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w210 E320
Plastic cover under engine
Does the plastic cover under the engine do anything other than help keep the engine clean? A corner broke off mine, have some road rash from hitting the pavements when going over bumps. Easy enough to repair with some sheet aluminium, just curious if I should take the time.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 1,564
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From: SoCal
98 Brilliant Silver E320 Wagon
You should have two. One from the bumper to the front engine crossmember and a second smaller one covering the back of the engine. According the MB they are primarily for noise suppression. All though some posters have suggested that there is an aerodynamic effect. That is if the front one is not in place air flow thru the radiator will be impeded and the engine will run hotter. I had mine off for a while and didn't notice any difference in engine temp.
However, there are some electronics up under the bumper area that you might want to keep dry.
However, there are some electronics up under the bumper area that you might want to keep dry.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 14
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w210 E320
re
Thanks! The front one is still in great shape. It's the back one that covers the oil pan that is broken. Got a couple of trips this week, will check the noise change.
I haven't had the car that long, not all that familiar with the equipment layout. Is the alternator high enough that it won't get splashed without the back cover?
I haven't had the car that long, not all that familiar with the equipment layout. Is the alternator high enough that it won't get splashed without the back cover?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2008
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From: Pittsburgh,PA, Cambridge, Ontario, CN
2003 S210 3.8L Brabus wagon
The front one is about 108$ from the dealer and the rear one is around $40. I have a new front cover should oiu need one for the facelifted model as they are different. Is is a cheap fix. Keeps out road contamination from the engine compartment and aids in airflow around the motor pulling through the radiator.
