Today I noticed something hanging under my (2003) 350Z. I jacked the car up and found that a black plastic shield was damaged and broken on the passenger side. I removed the remaining screws and took this thing off, but I have no idea what it is. Can anybody identify the black plastic shield that is fairly flat and about 26 inches long. There is a matching one on the driver's side of the exhaust manifold. I would appreciate any input, and would like to know if this "shield" is necessary, or is it Ok to not replace it.

 

It was UNDER your car? Was it part of the wheel well? Was it near the fenders or the front bumper? Pix maybe? Sounds somewhat like a heat shield.

 

Yes, the black plastic thing is under the car about mid-way back. It is not near the wheels. There are actually two of them - one on either side of the exhaust manifold. When I took the damaged one off, I could not see where it protected anything. I really don't know if it is a splash shield, a sound shield, or something else?? You can see the two black covers in my attached picture. Thanks for any help.

 

Jack it up and take a picture. That or call up Nissan. I personally have no idea what you're talking about because I'd need a little bit more description.

 

It's the spaslh guard and you will be fine without it. I took mine off after installing my kit. What part of Philly are you from?

 

I didn't have any when I got the car anyways so I wouldn't know.

 

I believe I know what you are referring to. It has an angular shape . It is a rock guard for the suspension. Do you HAVE to have it.....??? Probably not but it was designed to protect the undercarrige, so I would replace it especially as it should not be that expensive.

 

I too lost this protective cover but on the drivers side, $45.00 for a piece of plastic from my local stealership. NO problems soo far & it's been about 5 months, actually I believe the gas mileage has gotten better. You will be fine

 

Thanks, guys - - I appreciate the information. Since it is just a "splash cover", I guess that I won't worry about it.

 

I had to replace one also. I would just check to see if its protecting anything important from getting wet, like wires.

 

Wires are rubber coated. I'm assuming they'd all be good. If it's flimsy plastic, don't even sweat it. It's not that huge of an issue. Just don't go puddle diving.

 

true, but I would be more worried about water getting into the connection, not the wire. Sometimes when it rains, all puddles aren't avoidable... Shouldnt be a big deal though, I just wouldnt want to risk shorting something out.

 

That's what she said.

 

Lol, i say that all the time