Heat Shields: Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus and 2005 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Heat shields are needed to protect both the vehicle and the environment from the high temperatures developed near the catalytic converter.
Avoid application of rust prevention compounds or undercoating materials to exhaust system floor pan heat shields on cars so equipped. Light over spray near the edges is permitted. Application of coating will greatly reduce the efficiency of the heat shields resulting in excessive floor pan temperatures and objectionable fumes.