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Mercedes-Benz E-Class, C-Class and AMG: How to Remove Splash Shields

This how-to provides information on the process for engine splash shield removal for three different generations of Mercedes-Benz. Continue reading to learn how to do that on the E-Class, C-Class w204, and C-Class w205.

By Weston Chadwick - May 7, 2015
Contributors: 2CARPROS, Wayne R. Dempsey, Kerry Jonsson

This article applies the Mercedes-Benz E-Class w211 (2002-2009), C-Class w204 and w205 (2007-Present).

In an effort to reduce under-chassis drag and increase the aerodynamic properties on your Mercedes-Benz, the majority of the under side of the vehicle is "protected" by splash shielding. These plastic shields guide air under the car and out of the back; versus being "trapped" in between the engine and transmission, increasing aerodynamic drag as well as reducing fuel economy and performance. However, if you plan on doing just about any mechanical work to your Mercedes-Benz, then you will need to know how to remove and re-install these shields.

Materials Needed

  • Jack, and jack stands (depending on what you're accessing)
  • 8mm socket
  • Ratcheting wrench
  • Scrub brush
  • Degreaser

Removing the Engine Splash Shields on E-Class W211

Loosen the 8mm fasteners in the order shown in Figures 1-7. The fasteners are indicated by green arrows.

  • Figure 1. These fasteners are located on the bottom of the front bumper.
  • Figure 2. Remove the three fasteners located by the right lower control arm.
  • Figure 3. Remove the three fasteners located by the left lower control arm.
  • Figure 4. Lower the splash shield, while pulling it towards the rear of the car.
  • Figure 5. Remove the two fasteners located by the left exhaust pipe.
  • Figure 6. Remove the two fasteners located by the right exhaust pipe.
  • Figure 7. Remove the two fasteners located below the transmission fluid pan.

Pro Tip

Now is the time to clean the engine/transmission, and inspect for fluid leaks. Use a scrub brush with an engine degreaser and water to clean it.

Removing the Engine Splash Shields on C-Class W205

There are twelve total bolts securing two splash shields to the vehicle. Remove the front shield first. The rear of the front cover overlaps the front of the rear cover.

  • Figure 8. The front splash shield is held on by six bolts, indicated by the red circles.
  • Figure 9. The rear cover uses six bolts.

Removing the Engine Splash Shields on C-Class W204

The removal for the w204 is similar to the w205. There will be some differences among models. For example, the rear engine splash shields on models with duel exhaust will have two openings for the exhaust pipes to travel instead of one.

The image in Figure 10 is for a C63 AMG.

Figure 10. Inside the red circle is the front and rear splash shields.

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