Hi guys,
I just noticed that my recently acquired 4.4 tdv8 has some tape under the cup holder. When checking it turns out there is a piece missing and I see something strange underneath. I have a 3.6 tdv8 2007 and the cup holder there does not have that. Is that some maintenance latch on purpose there? Not sure why it is like this?
I know the vehicle had minor incident before I bought it, could it be related?
Thanks

Click image to enlarge

It's the emergency gearbox release, so perhaps someone needed to unlock the gearbox in the past. Looks like they've lost the blank and just used a bit of tape to cover the hole.

A. Fuji White / Jet 2012 4.4 TDV8 Westminster

Thanks, Andy

Probably it was towed after the accident, that makes sense, I didn't know about this emergency gearbox release but I am adding something I found about it to the thread now.

Emergency Park Release System 4.4L diesel vehicles only:

The Range Rover Drive Selector is now incorporated with the automatic transmission.

In the event of a vehicle transmission failure a mechanical means of selecting neutral is now available, an Emergency Park Release (EPR) provides this functionality
In an emergency, the EPR hand lever can be operated to release the park pawl within the transmission. The park pawl will not be allowed to re-engage until the hand lever is locked down in the closed position.
Actuation of the EPR requires the operator to be seated in the drivers’ seat with the foot brake applied. Turn the locking device 90 degrees anti-clockwise and lift using the pull strap.