"Rattling" sound in '97 Honda Civic...

Hello, I just had the pipe directly connected to my muffler (I think it
is sometimes referred to as either the "B" pipe or "C" pipe) replaced
on my '97 Honda Civic DX due to rusting. It was suggested I have my
muffler replaced also, but I didn't see a problem with the muffler so I
just had the pipe replaced instead. After having the car fixed, I
noticed a rattling sound coming from under my car... I usually only
hear it when I drive at very low speeds or apply the brakes (mostly
when I'm at a stop sign or red traffic light). When I am driving at a
"regular" speed I don't hear the rattling sound at all. I've read that
this may possibly be some heatshield problem or maybe even at problem
with the cat converter?? I only noticed this after getting my exhaust
pipe replaced at Midas last week (never heard the sound before) so I am
wondering if I would have to perhaps get a new heatshield? Does anyone
have an estimate as to how much it costs to get that replaced??
Thanks!!!

Julie

 

wrote in

Probably the "C" pipe. The "B" pipe is attached directly to the rear of the
catalytic converter.

You'll be back next year, when (not IF) something else goes.

It's actually cheaper in the long run to use dealer parts. They last seven
years, as opposed to Midas's one or two years.

The cat has two heat shields. A large hose clamp will secure them if the're
noisy.

Just get Midas to rip the old one off (or do it yourself). They may do it
no-charge.

If you want to replace it, most of them are between $20 and $50, and maybe
a half-hour's labor to install.

 

Rattling heat shield is common to 96 to 00 Civics. My wife's 00 Civic had
the problem twice and it has been a reoccurring problem for my 98 Civic. The
Honda dealership was able to fix it for about $70.00 but then the problem
would re-occur. Finally, I got my local backyard mechanic to cut the dam
thing out (on both car). It took the mechanic about 10 minutes to remove it,
with a blow torch and he didn't charge me for the job.

Since my catalytic converter is in the engine bay, for my 98 Hatch, I don't
see the point of a heat shield, especially one that's prone to come loose.

Pars