Is a plastic engine cover really necessary?

[AustinPower]

Is a plastic engine cover really necessary or is it just for looks? Will removing the cover help the engine "breath" better?

These are the things I ponder about when I sit in traffic.

[workerant]

no.

I find it's easier to clean the cover than clean the engine itself. And I guess it help keep the engine stay warm longer.

[molson.david]

my guess cover not interfering much with heat exchange.
99% of the heat should be consumed by coolant.
And it sure easier to clean cover than engine.

AustinPower, do you feel power and MPG decrease at air temp above 90?
I feel like I’m losing 20HP and by my calculations about 3MPG average, 70-80% city driving.
Or it just me?
I’ve searched on enet and everyone say that engine run liner –more economical when air is hot.
Maybe it right till certain temperature. I’m getting highest MPG at 60-80, at 90-100+ MPG goes south.

[Donald E. George]

A decorative piece that serves no real purpose.

[AustinPower]

Hi David,
I haven't had the car long enough yet. I just got it 2 weeks ago and it's been over 90 degrees here in Austin for the past month. I've only filled up the tank one time, and I can tell you, I'm not getting that great of gas mileage. Check back with me in a few months, I'll be able to better tell you what my gas mileage is during hot and not-so-hot temps. We don't get cold weather here in Austin.

[nortondlcl]

Yes you will get better performance without cover,Just ask these guys.
http://www.outlawengineering.com/index.html

[Joe B]

Probably just there to keep the engine cleaner and lessen engine noise.
Our CR-V didn't have a plastic trim piece on our '11 like the '09 back due to cost cutting but I bought the piece for the look and keep the area cleaner.

[aznlunatic206]

better performance? i really dont think so, maybe keep the engine cooler by a few degrees be definitely not enough to really make any real difference unless you always have your foot to the floor all the time. Its mainly for looks, to keep everything looking clean. Leave it on or take it off it doesnt matter.

[workerant]

It do more good than bad.

[AustinPower]

Cool, I should do that on my Camry.

[09YotaLE]

i dont think it matters, +1 on keeping it clean but just make sure you check your temp gage if your concern is overhearing

[workerant]

^ that's what the radiator and coolant is for, keep the cool part cool and the hot part hot. If your car over heat, well one or both of those 2 things r not working properly.

[workerant]

does look much cleaner with the covers...

http://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-t...vers-pics.html

[nitronate33]

It's just for looks. However, a good-looking engine needs no cover. It's like a truly naturally beautiful woman who needs no make-up .