2002-Accent heat protector plate falling off.

It sounds like you're describing the manifold heat shield. If it comes off, the heat could damage nearby components (but obviously not the oxygen sensor because it's already screwed into the manifold).

Thanks for the reply. Yes, it is the heat shield. Any suggestions as to how to get this off myself or would I be better off letting the dealer do it. I have heard that some penetrating oil that is allowed to work for a while may help loosen things up so that I can at least get the bolts of to replace the shield. Thoughts?

You can try penetrating oil, but it's unlikely it'll be able to get under the bolts far enough to help lubricate the threads. It can't hurt, though.

The bolts are usually pretty tight after the rust sets in. You can try to remove them with a ratchet, reasonably long extension, and a *6-point* 12mm socket. If they break loose, they'll probably unscrew easily after that. If they just plain break, that's a problem. It'll make it pretty near impossible to install a new heat shield (or keep it from rattling if not all of them break).

Thanks for the input, I guess I will have to pay the piper ..errr uhmmm .. the dealer.

John.

Just to be clear, if you're fairly experienced with automotive work, the chances of broken bolts will be about the same with you as they are with a professional.

I'm not sure if it'll work, but you can try getting some Kroil or PB blast and see if that helps. Make sure you soak it every 15 minutes for about an hr or two and let it sit overnight (without going anywhere in that car obviously). If this doesn't work, then depending on what the shop will do (if there is room), is that they'll use a acetylene torch to get the bolt to expand and contract a few times and that should get the bolt off.

Also check to see if this may still be covered under warranty. On my sister's 99 Elantra the exhaust manifold was cracked and the part as well as the shield was covered for free.

Nick