Hey all, on my 2005 2.0TDI Octavia the plastic engine cover on the bottom of the car came undone. Its been handing off for a while so I wasnt suprised.

Took to the gargage who doe my servicing who took it off for me and suggested there is ne need to replace it because they are a pain in the arse...do you agree, what benefit does the engine guard have??

It's not really an engine guard as such. It's there more for aero dynamics but obviously it does offer some protection for light debris.

A for the benefits of it being there I guess it aids fuel economy slightly.

thanks for the reply, I'll check out my MPG!!

Its benefits are:-

1. Keeps the engine bay much cleaner, particularly the longer diesel version.
   
2. Diesel version affords a fair bit of spray protection to the downpipe and cat, so they last longer
   
3. Sound deadening, but mostly to people outside the car, so you might not care too much.
   
4. Aero as CFB says.
   

One major benefit is it keeps the snow out form the engine compartment. That is, in case you ever drive in snow of course. I'm having my car fitted with an aftermarket composite bottom cover. Very durable and can handle rocks, ice etc. Will be more confident going "offroad" with the vRS.

You have a few answers already but one that has been missed is that it houses an absorbent blanket to soak up any leaking/spilled oil from the power pack, engine/gearbox. It's a very German, green thing, in that it was brought in to keep the environment clean and not have your car dribbling oil everywhere. We Brits don't seem to care too much, though baring in mind if the car isn't making a mess with leaks then certainly no use for it anyway!

Personally I doubt it would effect aerodynamics if at all but no harm in checking your MPG for a couple of tanks full.

One major benefit is it keeps the snow out form the engine compartment. That is, in case you ever drive in snow of course. I'm having my car fitted with an aftermarket composite bottom cover. Very durable and can handle rocks, ice etc. Will be more confident going "offroad" with the vRS.

Im interested in this cover you mention could you point me in the right direction???

Only a pain in the arse to the mechanics. To you, it's a good thing.

Or maybe not a pain to the mechanic if he can clean it up and sell it on to some one else!