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Is this cover really required?

It's a bit fiddly to re-fit and I've been told it's not that necessary and is just for giving the engine a better look and doesn't lessen the engine noise in the cabin?

Anyone took it off and left it off?

I ran mine with the front, pull off section removed for a few weeks while tracking down an obstinate fuel leak. It does no harm leaving it off, but I think it definitely reduces noise level a little.

Doesn't seem that fiddly to fit / remove - is there something wrong with yours?

Its a bit fiddly to remove and replace the back half if you have a strut-brace fitted, otherwise it is straight forward enough.
Just be careful of the clips on the front half as they can snap off if you are a bit heavy handed..