Lower engine cover?

[Cjcinkc]

Went to do my first oil change and noticed additional mounts for a center “skid plate” below the engine/transmission, similar to and in addition to the smaller plastic plate that covers the oil filter. Two questions:

• Was a skid plate ever installed from the factory?
• Is a plastic or metal skid plate available?

Used to have Mazda 6 with a similar cover and it kept the engine bay clean in winter (protect from salty roads in the midwest).

Thanks!

 

[GeorgeCostanza]

The skid plate is an option that could have been added at the time the order was placed by the dealer from Kia. You should be able to call your dealers parts department to have them order it for you. Or check Google for any aftermarket options that may be cheaper.

 

[anotherlostmonkey]

The OEM aluminum skid plate covers the same area as the plastic plate that cover the oil filter/housing. I recently installed the aluminum skid plate and it just uses the plastic covers screw holes.

 

[S-Vibes]

Went to do my first oil change and noticed additional mounts for a center “skid plate” below the engine/transmission, similar to and in addition to the smaller plastic plate that covers the oil filter. Two questions:

• Was a skid plate ever installed from the factory?
• Is a plastic or metal skid plate available?

Used to have Mazda 6 with a similar cover and it kept the engine bay clean in winter (protect from salty roads in the midwest).

Thanks!

I’ve been looking for a metal version too as the plastic splash guard cannot be relied on for protection if you go up a rocky road.
Let me know if you find anything. Thx