Front Guard\Air Dam\whatever it is called

[Kburns]

This weekend I was on the highway when out of nowhere I started hearing a grinding noise. I immediately pulled over to check it out. Turns out the black plastic guard thing, which is under the front bumper had become unsecured in the front, and was dragging\folded back under my car.

Since I was on the side of the highway and almost to my house, I just rigged it back up in place with some duct tape figuring I'd sort it all out and fix it right once I got home.

I guess I didn't use enough tape, because it broke completely free like a mile later and trashed under my rear wheel.

Anyone know what exactly the purpose of this thing is, what is it called, and what risks do I run by not having it in place?

[Nemesis]

Its just a splash guard,

Most aftermarket front bumpers dont utilize this anyways, so its no big deal. If you have an aftermarket cold air intake, then the filter will get dirtier quicker.

[bensenvill]

well its a bit more important than nemesis implies, but it is correct that if you have an aftermarket bumper, you likely dont have one.

it improves the areodynamics of the car, and improves cooling.

So look at it this way, is it worth 200 dollars to pick up a new one at the dealer... no. Would I keep an open eye out for one at the junkyard or in the classifieds for one on cheap, yes.