Is this thing necessary?? Everytime I change my oil, I brake some of those cheap little anoying plug/clip things. I think I have one left! So I left it off this time. I can't imagine how it would hurt since most cars don't have them, and don't seem to have problems...Is there something I'm missing here?

 

If you're talking about the plastic cover under the engine compartment, I'm not sure what its true purpose is.

I thought it was simply an aerodynamic aid, to reduce turbulence under the car. But it may have some value in keeping rain water away from the electric motor.

Either way, I'd buy some more plugs from the dealer, and leave the guard in place.
.

 

^What he said. If your talking about the plastic cover under the engine, I think it's only for aerodynamic purposes. It also keeps the engine compartment much cleaner.

The clips are very cheap. They can range from about $0.33 to $1.50 or so, depending on which one you need. I would try to pick some up, so you can get slightly higher MPG () and keep your engine clean. Be sure you get the right clips. I have heard of people putting this on incorrectly and having it come off on the highway :O.

 

Ok, you guys convinced me to put it on. Next time I do an oil change I'll throw it back on there ~grumble grumble~

 

How often (in miles) are you changing your oil? (to have broken all the clips, already).

And, yes it's an aerodynamic aid, helps keep the engine compartment MUCH cleaner, and may be helpful in protecting the electric motor and its wiring, etc under the hood. I suspect, though, that the electric motor protection is pretty well handled anyway (even without the undercover).

 

Be careful if you take that thing off. I forgot all about it on my oil change and left it off. During the big upper midwest snows I got snow buildup under the rear guard (covers the brake lines) until it literally ripped off the bottom of the car. Imagine my shock.

And I'd love to know where you guys get those clips for $0.33 clips. My one and only local honda dealer had them for $2.83 EACH! Granted they're a better design with a notch for the screwdriver to get in under the release without breaking it, but geez....

 

Actually, they may be $2.83. The ones i bought were 33 cents (just the regular clip, no screw or anything), and then about $1 or so for the ones without the notch for the screwdriver. I would check out some online honda parts stores though.

 

That was my 3rd oil change and only one has survived! The last few I took off this time were brittle and as soon as I pulled them out just fell apart.
I think I'll be ok without it for a while. I'm in AZ and we don't get snow down here where I'm at. With Summer on the way the conditions should be optimal for having it off.

 

In the mean time, I'll track down some cheap clips!

 

Try College Hills Honda, honda parts deals, or autopartswarehouse.com. How many clips are down there anyways?