On the second pic.
There is a line(cut) to the bottom left - this is actually on top of the cross brace.
There is another running forwards from this down the slope of the cross brace.
Then another parallel to the cross brace on the floor.

The post fixes to the top of the cross brace, has an angled plate to run down the cross brace and then a flat plate with the actual post on it.

If you have a MY02 onwards you might have additional cuts for a second post further along the cross brace towards the centre of the car.


At least this is how it is for UK cars

 

the carpet is cut there from the factory. its so that the owner can install the floor mat holders if they want to.

 

[QUOTE=jmc1971,Aug 10 2004, 02:23 PM]Yup. I have the same cut in my carpet. The dealer claims it there to provide access to a bolt or something. I wouldn't care, but the edges are curling up on the cut despite the fact it's in a location I don't put my feet. I kept complaining to my dealer and they've ordered me new carpet that has arrived and hopefully will be installed soon.

I