thanks it just concerned me as there are extra wires leading to both terminals which aren't present on a petrol car battery so didn't want to get myself in a tangle over something as simple as a flat battery next port of call is the garage to have other issues looked at but need to be able to get it there 1st lol
I assume the "scrappy plastic thing" is connected to the positive terminal. As I say you need to loosen both terminals and the bracket. 3 nuts only. When my alternator was shot, I removed the battery daily for 2 months. I have the JTD MW.
flat battery sorted now but whilst i was under the battery/fuse cover i noticed something that wasn't connected and i couldn't find where it should go.
Description: black plug with 2 wires (looked like a radio lead small 2 holed plug) the wires are connected to the main bunch so can't trace it back and can't see a place where it plugs in.
A picture would help us identify what it is, i also have a diesel Mw.
You might find the other problems you have might resolve themselves, its one thing a Stilo does not like, a half charge or nackard battery it will throw faults.
While your around that area, if you do not have a battery cover your fusebox just behind the battery are know being a bugger (dirt/damp/corrosion etc)
I had the exact same thing on my old 04 plate Jtd. As far as I remember it didn't do anything but might have had something to do with the old way Stilo's powered the Rad fans.
Can't remember for sure.