First it's been a while since I was here as we sold our Vibe but I know that someone here might have a good way to fix my dilemma.
!st. My son's car, 2007 Base 2wd approx 107K on odometer. There is a heat shield in the center of the car that is held on by three bolts. The rear bolt is rusted and the treaded portion is stuck in what seems to be a plastic connector that is between the shield and the bottom of the car. I want to help him but he has VERY limited mechanical ability and lives in an apartment 8 hours drive away from me. At home I could probably jack it up and fix it but He's in Cincinnati. would removing the shield be a horrible idea? it is rattling against the tailpipe, is noisy any I'm concerned it may damage the tailpipe wearing a hole in it. It insulates the plastic gas tank from the exhaust heat that is why IDK if taking it out is a good idea. A mechanic in a strange town that is trustworthy not too easily found either.
2nd. The car we sold but I work with the purchaser and I want to help him if possible: 2004 Base approx. 150K I maintained this vehicle for 3 years and about the last 35K of milage. I always used Mobile One synthetic and quality oil filters. They put about 6-7k and went to change the oil it only had 2 quarts in it and when we sold it to them I had just changed the oil I even checked it before they left. This car (1.8) has never used so much as a drop in 6-7k mile changes now nearly 2.5 quarts? No smoking exhaust what would be a good place to start with that type of oil loss/consumption? It totally puzzles me. These motors are nearly bulletproof.
Thank you all for any ideas.
Jerry