Preparations (Mandatory)
1. Turn off the engine and let it cool down: Shut down the engine and wait for more than 30 minutes to prevent scalding by high temperature and avoid breaking clips due to thermal embrittlement of the plastic cover.
2. Pull the handle to open the engine compartment and firmly prop the hood with the hydraulic support rod.
3. Prepare tools: Plastic pry bar (preferred), flathead screwdriver, 8/10mm socket wrench, and a small box for storing screws and clips.
4. First check the back of the cover for exhaust hoses and wiring connectors. If any are found, gently unplug the connectors and loosen pipe clamps before removing the cover. Forcibly pulling the cover may easily tear the pipelines.
Disassembly of Two Main Fixing Methods
Method 1: Fixed Only by Rubber Stud Clips (Stamped Covers for Most Family Cars)
There are generally 4 rubber shock-absorbing clip studs under the cover, which are clamped onto the engine metal base without any screws.
1. Hook the rear left and right sides of the cover with both hands respectively, and pull it upward vertically with even force.
2. 1. After the two rear clips are unfastened, pull the front part of the cover and lift the whole cover straight up to remove it.
3. Avoid yanking hard at a single point or applying force only on one side, as this may crack the cover and snap the rubber clips.
✅Tips: Rubber clips tend to harden and become difficult to remove in cold weather. You can warm them up with your hands or spray a small amount of lubricant beforehand. Do not pry them forcibly.
Method 2: Fixed by a combination of screws and clips
1. Unscrew the visible plastic nuts and metal bolts on the surface of the cover (8mm and 10mm sockets are commonly used), remove all screws and keep them properly.
2. The remaining fixing positions are still rubber clips. Pull the cover straight upward vertically following the above clip removal method to take it off.
3.On some vehicle models, the oil filler cap presses against the cover. Unscrew the oil cap first before removing the cover.
Disassembly of Stamped Engine Lower Shield Under Chassis (Steel Stamped Shield)
1. Jack up the vehicle with a jack and secure it with safety stands. Never work relying solely on the jack.
2. Unscrew all the bolts around the perimeter of the shield (usually 6 to 10 pieces) counterclockwise with a socket wrench.
3. Lift the stamped shield, keep clear of the gearbox and oil pan to prevent bumping and scratching the oil pan.
Key Notes
1. Only use a plastic pry bar to pry the cover. Prying directly with a screwdriver will easily scratch the paint surface and crack the edges of the cover.
2. Broken clips are a common wearing part. Replacement rubber clips can be purchased separately at auto parts markets.
3. When reinstalling, align the cover with the four base studs, press the four corners of the cover evenly with both hands until a "click" sound is heard to confirm secure fastening. Do not press hard on a single corner.
4. If you have no idea how to start disassembly, please provide the vehicle model and production year, and I can offer targeted disassembly instructions for specific fastening positions.
