skid plate
{{Short description|Protective shield under a vehicle}}
{{Distinguish|Skid block}}
File:Fiat Panda 4x4 20090301 rear.jpg
A skid plate is an abrasion-resistant material affixed to the underside of a vehicle or boat{{cite web|title=Skid plates|url=http://www.skidplatekit.com/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150507012451/http://skidplatekit.com:80/|archivedate=2015-05-07|publisher=Northwest Canoe|accessdate=29 September 2012}} to prevent damage to the underside when contact is made with the ground.
Skid plates may be used on off-road vehicles, motorcycles and lowered vehicles to prevent damage to the underside. Fake skid plates are also added to vehicles for an off-road look.{{cite web|title=Fiat Panda 4x4|url=http://www.motortrend.com/auto_shows/paris/2012/1209_fiat_panda_4x4/|publisher=Motor Trend|accessdate=29 September 2012}}
Steel skid plate for the protection of the engine and the gearbox.
The advantages:
- Increased resistance against any impact or debris found on the road.
- It covers the front compartment of the car, so the engine is more protected against dust and dirt.
- Longer lifespan compared to skid plates made of plastic or fibre glass.
- It protects the frame, motor and linkage on an off-road motorcycle.{{cite web|title=Skid plates for off-road motorcycles|url=https://dirtbikesam.com/best-dirt-bike-skid-plates|publisher=Dirtbike Sam|accessdate=8 May 2020}}