I have a lost a few items in the cup holder that is right behind the stick shift. There is a little flip door there and I have a had a few items fall behind it in the little open space under the flip door. How do I remove this and recover my items?

 

You need to remove the whole center console trim. This isn't hard, it just snaps on with a few clips. Have a look at the directions for installing a console cover or replacement shift boot if you get stuck but it really only involves gently pulling up starting at the back and working your way forward. Once you pull it off, pay attention to the wiring for the hazards and top switch as you don't want to yank those off without disconnecting the connectors. You shouldn't have to though, just move the console out of the way enough to get to the missing stuff