Hi Stuart, I think all DeLoreans came like this. Apparently to save production costs, they use the same cover that is used in the engine compartment to cover the access for the engine cover release cable. Not much if any water gets under the T-panel there, so I think it is just as well to seal it with silicone unless you go to the trouble to make a new cover that actually fits. Walt Tampa, Florida [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]