I was troubleshooting a LAF sensor code, when I noticed the heat shield around the CAT was rusted badly and when I tapped it, it broke! (there was 1 bolt holding strong, but the rest was held by <1mm of rust).

The question is- is it worth $70 to replace it?

WWBBD?

 

Short answer is no.

 

Had the same problem on my 2006 TSX bolts rusted through and would rattle so what I did was buy 2 adjustable metal straps (clamps) that you tighten with a screw works great!

 

This is relatively common across most manufacturers. Most shops and mechanics will simply remove when investigating rattling noises. You could certainly try Braz's idea.

 

Most dealerships use the clamps instead of replacing the shield. The clamps will hold the shield better and most likely for a longer period of time. I have gone through 3 replacements of the heat shields on our 99 Accord before starting to use the clamps.

 

New shields (it's 2 piece) or clamps? Is your car a semi-premium sport luxury sedan (though older), or a Chevy Cavalier? You decide. Let your answer to the second question guide you to an answer for the first.