Where should heat shields be inspected?

• A. Around the exhaust/catalytic area; they must be present, intact, and securely fastened.
• B. Under the vehicle only
• C. Inside the vehicle cabin
• D. On the wheels only

Answer: (A)

Heat shields are meant to protect surrounding parts from the extreme heat of the exhaust system, especially around the exhaust and catalytic converter. In a visual inspection, focus on the shields around that area to ensure they’re present, intact, and securely fastened. If a shield is missing, damaged, or loose, hot exhaust can damage wiring, fuel lines, nearby hoses, or even the vehicle floor, and could pose a fire risk. That makes inspecting the exhaust/catalytic area the correct and most comprehensive check for heat shields. Other locations described don’t apply because heat shields aren’t only under the vehicle, inside the cabin, or on the wheels.