Honda Odyssey has the same issue with the Rear AC lines (the shield covers the line trapping salt).

I wonder if the fat-ass cover should be removed and stored in the basement. My 2005 Volvo XC90 has no fat-ass cover.

Also, every Spring, people should get a garden hose and find the holes in the fat-ass cover and shoot water inside to get rid of salt.

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1998 E39 528i 5sp MT
2006 E53 X5 3.0 6sp MT