I think you guys are right. I pulled off the heat shield and noticed.. theres a stud missing. Closet to the alternator.... The exhaust gasket feels flimsy... If you were to push down on it... it would pop back. Similar sound the the juice bottle lids... YOu know... When you have broken the seal.. Is this a serious issue? Can I drive around like this and cause no ill effects? sorry for the noob question. I am here to learn.