Seeing this missing piece of insulation every time I open my hood bothers me. I would have bought a new one, but it appears this part is no longer available. What have others done when this happens? I am not overly optimistic of finding one locally in a salvage yard. Do people just eliminate it? Any harm in doing this? Is its purpose for heat or noise reduction into the passenger compartment?

 

mostly noise reduction.

you could replace it with some generic stuff like this cut to fit.

 

Good to know. I will search for something similar. I'd really like it in black. I'm afraid the silver would be too shiny compared to the rest of the engine compartment. Something a little more understated perhaps.