STFA, didnt find it. Quick answer needed engine covers trap heat, yes or no.
 

I know a lot of people have them off just curious. Ive heard both sides.

i doubt it matters imho granted mine are off

why keep them it's just cosmetic, especially when you look under the hood a lot:)

engine covers aren't trapping heat, the bonnet traps heat, open the hood when parked and hot

I've wondered the same - it's possible they influence air flow through the engine bay while in
 

motion - though I don't know for certain. I removed my engine covers also, out of curiosity regarding radiant heat when parked. My temps have been fine (stage 3-).

From conversations I've had (in motion) engine cooling is very well engineered/executed on the B5 S4, particularly considering the cramped confines of the engine bay

The main reason(s) that I have mine off are....
 

So I can keep an eye on all the hoses and vacume lines. I can also see if I have any leaks from the valve covers and also the cam tensioner gaskets as well. When the engine is cold I once in a while run my fingers along the valve cover gasket area to see if I get any oil on my finger.

I always raise my hood when I get home. I also sniff around as the heat is rising from the engine to sense for any oil/coolant leaks.

I really doubt that having them off is going to make any difference as far as heat goes especially if you leave the hood down at all times. I like looking at the guts of the motor, but that is just me. A gut watching, engine sniffing paranoid S4 owner!

All S4 2.7T owners are paraniod, believe I am one

yeah any new noises send my gut wrenching "NOW WHAT"
 

actually my car has been pretty good so far

"I always raise my hood when I get home. I also sniff around as the heat is rising from the engine
 

to sense for any oil/coolant leaks." hahaha


I do the same! :-)

hehe same here !