I stuck my head under my IS200 to investigate a rattle and found that the heat shield(?) above the rear exhaust box was barely hanging on. Without dropping the exhaust down, I couldn't get to the bolts to remove them and fit repair washers so it was easier to pull it off for now.
Trouble is, I make a lot of long journeys on a regular basis and I'm not sure what effect the missing shield will have. With the fuel filler cap being on the passenger side, I'm ASSUMING the petrol tank is also on that side and therefore not directly above the exhaust so it's not to stop the fuel tank from getting too hot.... right??
If it simply stops heat from radiating into the boot then I'm not too bothered.
Hope someone can put my mind at ease so I don't drive up the M6 expecting my car to explode at any moment!
PS - the rattle is still there! :@