Looks like the cover for the positive battery connection

 

Yep, noticed the + in the middle.

 

As what the others said. Remove the battery compartment cover but turning the three "locking" pins 90 degrees and lifting. The red cover illustrated has two legs that fit unto two holes on the positive terminal area of the car battery. Might as well check for any corrosion at the terminals and treat them accordingly.

One may consider doing a galvanized steel mesh modification to protect leaf and other debris from going into the cabin air intake opening and causing noise.

 

Ding Ding Ding! Johnny, tell him what he has won!!

A new car!!!!

 

thanks guys!!

 

Ok I will ask the obvious.............. Where on/in the car did you find it?

W