2024 Bronco Sport Outer Banks - Passenger side underbody splash shield collects dirt and debris quite frequently

[RicardoCorazondeLeon]

I live on a limerock base unpaved road, so I travel about a mile down this road each way five times per week. I noticed the passenger side dust shield rattling after owning the vehicle approximately six weeks after purchasing it. While checking the rattling, I noticed a buildup of roadbase on top of the dust shield. I cleaned it out and it amounted to about a pound of debris. The dust shield should protect against this, but the design seems to encourage the accumulation of dust and debris on top of the shield. Has anyone else had this problem? Is there a factory or aftermarket fix for this?

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[thomasm23]

What is this “dust shield” that you have issues with? Please explain this further.

 

[RicardoCorazondeLeon]

The dust shield I’m having an issue with is located under the vehicle’s passenger side, just behind the metal skid plate. It is a shaped plastic shield that apparently is to keep dust and dirt from accumulating beneath the vehicle. However, it’s design promotes the accumulation of dust and dirt instead of preventing it.

 

[thomasm23]

You do not have a metal skid plate.

Photo please.

 

[jkernitzki]

The dust shield I’m having an issue with is located under the vehicle’s passenger side, just behind the metal skid plate. It is a shaped plastic shield that apparently is to keep dust and dirt from accumulating beneath the vehicle. However, it’s design promotes the accumulation of dust and dirt instead of preventing it.

Are you sure it’s a dust shield? It could be secondary underbody protection where it’s impractical or unnecessary to put steel. It could also just be a fairing of sorts for airflow under the ca

I’m just guessing here, but regardless, it does seem to be a poor design.

I’d head to a Ford service department (or a detailed parts manual) and get an explanation. You may be able to safely remove it altogether.

 

[jkernitzki]

You do not have a metal skid plate.

Photo please.

Skid plates are on the Outer Banks with the Black Diamond package.

 

[Jake25]

I live on a limerock base unpaved road.

Why?

 

[RicardoCorazondeLeon]

You do not have a metal skid plate.

Photo please.

My Bronco Sport has the black diamond off road package, so it came with metal skid plates under the engine and the gas tank.

 

[Mwittke5857]

I recall when I installed my side skids, a little trimming on the trailing end of the inner plastic fender was required. I was shocked at all the dirt, leaves and trash that was trapped in that area. It's almost like Ford engineered the rig to rust out there. I coated the fender and make sure to blow through that area whenever I wash it.

 

[Glamdring70]

I added Flextapetm to the front of mine not long after owning it. It just seems like the lead edge will catch water, sand and wind. I tried some backer rod around the fender wells too, but that didn't work out as great. I have no strong evidence that I solved anything, but I do subjectively feel it stays cleaner in the engine bay and in those panels.

 

[RicardoCorazondeLeon]

That's a great idea. I'll try it! Thank you!

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