I was cleaning and detailing my engine compartment today (yeah I know its a little compulsive), and again wondered why the painted areas didn't have the clear-coat finish the rest of the vehicle has on it. I've had other vehicles that had the clear-coat finish in the engine compartment...

 

My wife's Volvo definitely has no clearcoat in the engine compartment, neither
does my son's RSX.
Good question but like you I'm always under there cleaning so its not really an issue for me. Paint your engine cover yet? Nice, inexpensive way to dress up the engine and make it a little different.

Pat

 

Thanks for the reply. I just have been waxing the engine cover, paint might not be a bad idea...

 

The Crossfire underbonnet is not clear coated but is much better than our 2005 Citroen. It's underbonnet is in undercoat with some overspray from the exterior finish (red). That is the factory finish.
Regards.