Valve Covers & Dress-Up Kits

Does your oil cap need replacing, or should the engine bay look just as polished as the rest of your build? In this category we bring together oil filler caps, valve covers and dress-up kits for you who want to give your engine a sharper look while getting parts that fit your engine precisely.

What the parts do in the engine bay

An oil filler cap closes the opening where you add oil and must seal tightly so that no oil seeps out and no dirt gets in. The valve cover covers the valvetrain at the top of the engine and seals against the cylinder head with a gasket. Dress-up parts put a strong emphasis on appearance, e.g. Wehrli 10-23 Cummins Fabricated Aluminum Engine Cover. The actual mechanics under the cover are found in camshafts and valvetrain. The category also includes parts from brands such as Moroso, Turbosmart, GReddy, HKS and Cobb.

How to choose the right oil cap

Start with thread and fitment: Skunk2 Honda Billet Oil Cap, for example, is listed as M33 x 2.8, while other oil caps are made for specific engines such as Subaru or GM LS. So check the part number against your engine, then choose the type:

• Sealed cap – available in several colours, e.g. red, blue, gold and pink from Mishimoto and Torque Solution.
• Vented cap – such as Torque Solution Billet Breather Oil Cap, where the benefit depends on the engine's other ventilation.
• Baffled cap – e.g. Radium Engineering GM LS Baffled Oil Cap, where a plate under the cap can reduce oil splash at the opening.

Installation and maintenance

An oil cap is tightened by hand; tools can damage the seal and the thread. Check the seal at every oil change and replace it if it is hard or cracked. Installation of valve covers depends on the engine – use a new gasket and tighten the bolts evenly according to the manufacturer's instructions. If oil collects at the breather, it may be caused by high crankcase pressure, and then it is worth looking at the oiling system as a whole. More engine parts can be found under engines and components.

Frequently asked questions

Does an oil cap fit all engines from the same car brand?

Not necessarily. Thread and diameter can vary, and some caps are listed with a specific size, e.g. M33 x 2.8. Always compare the specifications for the part number with your engine so the cap seals tightly.

What is the difference between a vented cap and a sealed cap?

A vented cap lets air pass from the engine, while a sealed cap seals completely. Whether venting makes sense depends on the engine's other ventilation system, and an open solution can cause oil vapour in the engine bay.

Can a new valve cover cause problems at the vehicle inspection?

It depends on the product and the car. A cover that leaks oil can lead to a remark, so check the gasket and sealing after installation. If in doubt, ask your inspection centre about your specific part number.

How do I keep a billet cap looking good?

Clean it with mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid strong degreasers and abrasive sponges, as they can scratch the surface or make the colour dull over time.