Does a cracked belly pan on a 2001 Audi A4 Quattro 2.8 need to be replaced?

I have the exact car, 2001 Audi A4 Quattro 2.8, and removed the belly pan several years ago when it cracked (bottoming out on a steep driveway). I haven't found a compelling reason to put it back on, and I find it much easier to change the oil now - in fact you don't have to lift the car at all because on the A4 the oil filter and drain bolt are right out front and easy to access, if the belly pan is off.

If you read Audiworld forums etc. they say the belly pan is necessary to protect against splashes, rocks, etc. but I have not found that to be the case, and there is no apparent damage or wear. I suppose there might be accelerated wear and tear that is not visible to the eye. They also say it improves mileage, which may be the case. But changing oil without having to get ramps or lift the car is awesome.