Is there really a need for the engine cover? I feel like the engine will cool better without the aesthetic plastic MIVEC cover.

Enlighten me

 

It could just be me, but it seems to quiet the injectors from the cabin.

 

I don't have mine on I just have the valve cover on and nothing has gone wrong

 

Do you not run those little covers over the plug wires?

 

After driving the car a while - take the cover off and feel the valve cover. I expect it to be 'warm' (not hot). So no, there is no measurable advantage for engine cooling to remove the cover.

 

Less weight = Faster!

 

mines resting in the basement...

 

Your exhaust isn't loud enough if you can hear your injectors from the cabin

 

I wish they'd just kept the same style cover as the previous gens.

 

Mines been in the shed for nearly a year now and I haven't had any issues. The only thing i would say is that the cover keeps that area free from dirt so i would think if your lazy and don't clean your engine bay it will get mucky!

 

i can totally see the engine getting dirty aspect of it but i really feel like it insulates heat...

 

^not as much as you might think...

It fits loosely and as soon as you move forward the air in the engine bay is replaced with ambient air (including using the NACA-style cool air inlet and the radiator and fender heat vents).

Best thing to do is measure the valve cover top surface with a thermometer with/without cover after back-to-back runs if you really think there something to be gained.