Underbelly panels

Vhm1 said:

My 2022 Hybrid has two long panels on each side of the car. Does anyone know the purpose of the panels, ie: what is under the panels? I'm concerned with salt and sand getting trapped.

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Aerodynamics

Vhm1 said:

My 2022 Hybrid has two long panels on each side of the car. Does anyone know the purpose of the panels, ie: what is under the panels? I'm concerned with salt and sand getting trapped.

Click to expand...

I can't say if that will happen or not. But if I was concerned I would simply check after winter and see. If so hose it out. I was under there to tighten a couple of the plastic nuts as described in other threads and to me it is there for some protection also.
But when they are a little loose they make a slight sound of the air passing by so aerodynamics would seem to be a reason they are there.

One panel covers and protects evaporative emissions components. I forget what the other covers. Exhaust heat recovery system?

Ask your dealer. They know EXACTLY what's up under there.

garyahouse said:

Ask your dealer. They know EXACTLY what's up under there.

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I'd love to agree, but alas in some cases you may be overly optimistic.

Ha... looks like my mileage computer is wearing off on me...