It covers the tow hook attach point. The tow hook (loop, actually) is under the jack with the other supplied tools.
The cover opens by pushing in at the bottom where there's a dimple, but it still takes a bit of effort to snap the upper edge open. I just used mine a week ago as the front tie-down for my sea kayak on a Thule rack.
I use it all the time. There is a tow loop in with your spare tire/jack. I leave it in all winter, and go around helping people who are stuck in the snow. Gotta love Michigan.
mine was pushed in at the bottom at the dealer and I did not notice it till a few days latter and they refused to fix it....
is there a way to pull in back in to place