(a) The FF antenna comes on the rear left fender aligned along the boot area beneath carpet and boot light. I installed Toyota's power antenna as the kabli antenna's for Cielo are usually faulty.
(b) As suggested by the mechanic, get the timing retard.
(c) The tick tick sound comes from injectors. The cabin noise you are referring seems like problem with the gear lever rod touching any body/engine part(as you mentioned in (g))
(d) Kabli compressor usually works for a season or two depending on the condition. Better go for a new one.(Japanese/Chinese)
(e) Give a reset to the ECM by removing the negative terminal of battery for 10 minutes and then check again. If still the problem exist, get the VSS checked.
(f) One sheet fits on the left side beneath gear box and one on the right side beneath engine.
(g) The gear lever's central rubber ring might be worn out and need replacement.