What does this spring do?

[Jgkram]

Ok, in my ongoing project to refurbish the interior trim, I have gotten around to the seat trim. In taking off the seatback adjustment lever, this little spring pops out and flies to God knows where. I finally found it in the seat rail and I now wonder if it does anything other than help hold the lever off of the seat trim panel. Any ideas??? I assume it goes into the hole I've highlighted in the photo (spring end first).

My second question. I have been covering all of the trim pieces in black lambskin leather and I must say am really pleased with the result. I have thought of trimming out the seat lever panel in leather as well as it does not get a lot of abuse. However what do you guys recommend for the umbrella pocket threshold trim. Paint, Plasti-Dip, just remove the soft touch crap and leave???

Thanks as always...