Its looking like i need to remove the strut tower brace to remove the engine cover, can anyone confirm this?

 

No need to remove the brace. Use socket for the 2 front nuts, and an open end or box wrench for the 2 back nuts under the brace.

 

Removing the brace makes it 1000x easier. I never actually attempted to remove the cover with the brace on, it just seemed mind boggling. Remember to loosen the tension on the strut bar before removing it, or else you can strip a few bolts

 

just remove the brace, it takes 2 minutes and makes reinstalling your nice new cover much easier

 

+1

don't be lazy.