I think his argument is unfounded and speculatory. Ive seen batteries last just as long with or without it. Its really just a trim piece anyway. It doesnt fit tightly enough or insulate enough to do any damage. Now those little colored pads around the pole I always toss in the trash because too many people fail to fully seat the terminal ends with them there creating more problems than good.


The only reason I can think of to discard the trim panel is if they sold you the wrong battery and it didnt fit the new one.