i noticed a plastic thing affixed to the underside of my hood...just about the same width and height as my air intake, which completely blocks it. this is an 01 legacy L. why would subaru put this thing on? is there any reason not to remove it? sorry if this has been covered, but a search for air intake and plastic thingies didn't produce a whole lot...

 

thanks,

mjb

Well, it does stop the air filter getting clogged by things like leaves, bugs, and other debris.

 

I am certain someone here will chime in with the old "to stop water ingestion" reason. This is an overexposed and very rare problem.

 

Besides, no matter where you put an air intake, it will ingest rain water.

 

The best place to suck air from, is the fender cavity.

I asked a related question a week ago or so with no replies.

I was curious if anyone removed the piece and saw any improvements in HP or MPG.

That thing deflects larger solid particles from entering the intake. It works quite well, with a slight decrease in ram air during high speed driving. So if you remove it, the only thing you may experience is a slight gain in power during highway driving.

thanks guys...i think i'll leave it on. not like i bought an auto legacy l wagon for it's mind-blowing performance anyway

 

mjb

I removed the piece and havent noticed any difference in power or mpg. I also havent noticed any water or large particles in the intake housing or filter. i too questioned the function of the piece, because there is no direct path to the grill opening and the intake mouth...