My fiance's 07 Auto TSX over the last few days have developed a very annoying rattle. It only happens when the car is in either Reverse or Drive. The rattle is I believe on the outside, almost something to do with the catalytic converter, perhaps engine, or something else.
The funny thing is the car just fell of the CPO warranty (powertrain is still good for almost two years), so I am not sure whatever it is, if it would be covered by the powertrain or I have to get ready for out of pocket expense.

Below are the two quick youtube clips with the rattles. Does anyone have any ideas, suggestions? I am still waiting to make a dealer appointment, as I would like to learn a bit more about the issue. I appreciate any input.

 

Heat shield?

 

Unlikely, I had to replace the heat shield (s)(it's two piece) on my 05 and the noise it made was nothing like the noise recorded here. Sounds more like something inside the transmission to me.

 

Went to a dealer today, and they told me it is a catalyst converter cover (heat shield) that makes that noise. Apparently I need both and they quoted me $450. I believe this is nuts considering that both parts are about $50 so that leaves $400 for labor to unbolt and bolt 4 screws or am I missing something else there?

 

I've done this job and it's pretty basic. I jacked up the front of the car (both sides) enough so I could comfortably slide under and remove the old shield. I had the tools to remove (and save) the fasteners, even though they're most likely pretty well rusted in there. If you do decide to do it yourself, you may want to order new fasteners too (they're bolts w/ washers)(I believe there are 4). I ordered it on line and I think it was like $45.

 

I took care of the problem by going to a local muffler shop and asking them to remove the heat shield. I no longer hear any rattle or noises, so this was the culprit.
I read some opinions and it looks like lack of the heat shield does not cause any long term problems, but I am wondering if that was really the case, why the extra weight from the get go? Does anyone have any other opinion if putting a new heat shield makes sense? At this point, if $50 buys me piece of mind, I will do it and get OEM parts and install it myself, but I am wondering if I would be throwing away that money for nothing.

 

the heat shield reduce the change the exhaust lite up grass fire when park in an unpaved area.

 

Yeah. Should probably find another heat shield. Didn't have one on my old Prelude. Garbage bag flew under my car and before you knew it, my cat was smoking up everytime I drove. Had to get a new cat...

 

The cat gets very hot...anything touching it might melt to it...replace it.

 

Agreed, get it replaced. I think the OEM parts are around $60-$70 so plus the labor. Might save some money by getting the OEM parts and taking it somewhere to have it installed. I would strongly suggest buying stainless steel bolts if you plan on keeping the car for a while. While the bolts will still rust, they will be able to be removed without having to drill them out next time you need to replace it.

The last one I replaced in my dad's 95 Accord only lasted 3-4 years where as the original lasted a good 6-7 years and this is in PA.