TDCI plastic underbody panels

science · 21-09-2009, 03:42 PM

Hi there, I've just bought an 07 TDCI. Seems great so far. However, something I didn't really notice at the dealer was the fact that one of the black plastic panels under the bonnet is missing!

It's the panel that goes right at the front between the bumper and the bottom of the intercooler/radiator.

I'm not sure how vital this panel is, does anyone here have any thoughts on whether I should try and get one fitted? And if so, I guess a Ford dealer would be the only place to try?

I'm also not sure what the purpose of this panel actually is, maybe it improves airflow into the itercooler and radiator, or it might be just a small aerodynamic issue???

Turbodiesel · 21-09-2009, 05:10 PM

If it's supposed to be there, that's reason enough for me.

I think it's main purposes are aerodynamics and protection, might get dirt and stuff up there without it also.

Ford could probably get them, but I bet they aren't cheap.

science · 21-09-2009, 06:45 PM

Hmmm thanks.. Guess I better ask how much it's going to be, not looking forward to the answer!

I only just discovered the global open/close thing that closes the windows as you lock the car - cool!

Loris · 21-09-2009, 06:52 PM

there are a couple of other little cool things i figured out while driving a focus eg.

if you just tap the indicator stalk it will indicate automatically 3 times then stop.. good for quick lane changes

and if you have your front wipers on engage reverse your reverse wiper automatically starts going

Tj-zetec · 21-09-2009, 10:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Loris

there are a couple of other little cool things i figured out while driving a focus eg.

if you just tap the indicator stalk it will indicate automatically 3 times then stop.. good for quick lane changes

and if you have your front wipers on engage reverse your reverse wiper automatically starts going

It's cool when you discover little things like that huh? When they're on the 1st speed, and you stop say at a set of lights, they automatically go back to intermittent. sweet huh?

When i had my LR it took me 18 months to find the ashtray. And even then it was by accident

I also the under body trays are there to prevent snow packing in under the front of the car. I spose it's a problem in Europe, not much of a hassle out here.

mohit · 21-09-2009, 10:39 PM

So it looks like only the TD has an under engine plastic panel
Both our LS and LT petrol Focus don't have that panel

Loris · 22-09-2009, 06:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tj-zetec

It's cool when you discover little things like that huh? When they're on the 1st speed, and you stop say at a set of lights, they automatically go back to intermittent. sweet huh?

I didnt know that!! Will check it out next time it rains :P

science · 23-09-2009, 09:35 AM

Cool, interesting about the snow, and that the underbody panels are only on the TDCI?

I searched and searched on the internet and couldn't find much information about what they were for or how much they might cost.

I guess you have to take them off to change the oil/filter etc too?

mohit · 23-09-2009, 12:35 PM

As you can see no plastic panel under the engine of a 2.0L petrol Focus by default

marg99 · 23-09-2009, 01:13 PM

You learn some thing new about the car everyday! I thought the TDCI underbelly plastic was designed to stop you jacking the car up in the centre cause you could not see where to put the trolley jack!

science · 23-09-2009, 05:45 PM

Yeah, it's totally smooth under the 07 TDCI! Well, black plastic with a few lumps and bumps. Looks pretty tricky to take off for oil changing etc... Pretty much have to take it to the garage.