Inner fenders on 2012 X-3

We own a 2009 128i convert, and had a 2009 X-3. In both cars the engine compartment is always very clean. We just traded the 2009 X-3 on a special ordered 2012 X-3 which we picked up at the Plant. To my surprise, the engine compartment is filthy. It appears the the plastic inner fender shields have louvers in them towards the front, and water and road dirt is splashed up into the engine compartment. Does anyone know if it would hurt something if I placed a rubber patch over these louvers so the water does not enter the engine compartment.