Tim Long

The cover on our engines seems to be a bit of fluff. I can think of an number of reasons why they're there:<p>- It makes the engine compartment look 'sleek'<br>- It helps muffle engine noise<br>- It keeps dirt out of wires, etc<br>- It smooths airflow (!)<p>I can also think of a couple reasons why a cover might not be a good idea:<p>- Holds heat in, causing future electrical problems with wiring<br>- Adds weight and cost<p>What are everybody's thoughts on why we have these engine covers?

Rodentia

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HermanH

The first time I saw "covers" on an engine was on a Mercedes a few years back. I guess it was to give the luxury cars a "clean and simple" look to it. Then BMW started doing the same thing soon after and nowadays, I guess to get that "luxury" look, engine covers are standard. I agree with some of your points about the dirt. Don't think it has anything to do with airflow though. Personally, I would have like something more compact, functional and in aluminum with a matte finish.<p>HemanH<br>98.5 Passat 1.8tm

Jon C

..which are under the engine, hence not really "covers"?<p>Based on most tech advice I've seen on MBs and Porsches, they do assist air flow for engine compartment cooling, and they keep road muck out of the engine bay (which now, remember, has more computing power stored in there than some people have in their old PCs -- and dirt, wet, etc., are not good for those electronics).

Andrew C.

I think he meant the black plastic number on TOP of the engine. Purely cosmetic, IMHO.