B Series peeling rocker covers.

[Kozy]

Are these anything to worry about? Seems to happen randomly and not necessarily as a reflection of mileage, so is it a point to be wary of when buying a car?

[Holst]

Not particually.

It might be an indication that the engine has been cleaned with a pressure washer which took the paint off the rocker cover.

You can repaint them pretty easily and make them look like new.

[Tinohead]

Yep, things like spilling a wee bit of oil as you top it up can cause it to peel. Very common but easily sorted.

If you're going to spray it though, get a can of crackle paint - it gives a finish much closer to the original.

Search on google for a guide as there's a few good ones kicking about.