I suspect that my driver-side upper ball joint is the culprit. There have been groaning noises when going over bumps, and a sort of clattering noise when hitting potholes. This has been going on for several years, and has gotten worse in the past month. I took it to four different mechanics, two for this specifically, and two for general inspection purposes (the most recent, non-specific inspection took place about 5 months ago.) None of the mechanics found anything they considered to be a real problem (i.e. hazardous to my/others' safety/the car's safe operation.) The noise has intensified in volume and frequency in the past week or so, along with (new) weird vibration when traveling at certain speeds (usually over 40 mph), but only sometimes, and it continues as I slow to a stop, slowing along with the car (but doesn't start showing up until I reach a higher speed.) Today I noticed that the boot on the upper ball joint is cracked and the grease is leaking out. The passenger side ball joint is similarly worn, but no grease is in evidence yet.
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posted by i. shishkin
on Apr 17, 2013 -
5 answers
Our car – a 2003 Honda Civic DX stick-shift – has started to make a rattling/ticking/whirring noise when it accelerates. Can we still safely drive it?
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posted by scruss
on Jun 19, 2012 -
13 answers
Can I repair this spot on my Honda Civic's bumper where the paint has started to peel away? More details inside.
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posted by circular
on Mar 6, 2012 -
6 answers
I gave my '07 Honda Civic to a mechanic who said it needed a replacement of the steering rack and/or pump, which he did. Problem: aftermarket XM radio was working perfectly before it went in, antenna had intermittent short which prevented radio from getting signal at least 50% of the time when I got it back.
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posted by randomkeystrike
on Oct 28, 2011 -
4 answers
The lock on the rear, passenger-side door on my 99 Honda Civic is broken. Can I fix it myself?
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posted by HeroZero
on Jul 5, 2011 -
5 answers
I would like to form a little group to improve my town's little beach. I know nothing about community organizing, and nothing about beach maintenance.
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posted by kmennie
on Jun 30, 2011 -
10 answers
our 2006 honda civic EX sedan (automatic) is having occasional problems shifting into reverse. we're taking it in to be fixed, but i want to try and read up on this beforehand.
fascinating details inside.
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posted by patricking
on Apr 16, 2011 -
5 answers
Whenever I release my gas pedal, I can hear a low pitched groan from the vehicle. The sound immediately stops immediately when I press the gas pedal again. The groan is louder if I release the gas at higher RPMs, even when I am in neutral. Any idea what this could be? The car is a 2002 Civic.
posted by ajackson
on Mar 16, 2011 -
8 answers
I am graduating university next semester. I would like to get involved in civic engagement at some capacity. Can I get recommendation of companies / foundations to apply to for jobs and internships. i.e. See Click Fix, Code for America. I have no programming experience (as of yet) but I am extremely sociable, have been selling all my life so I do have something to offer. I am intrigued by the idea of individual initiative to solve problems in the community
posted by happydude123
on Feb 25, 2011 -
2 answers
Which car should we drive to Mammoth? 2001 Honda Civic @ 109,000mi vs 2007 Honda Fit Sport @ 32,000mi? Everything is stock. What should we watch out for?
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posted by wuMeFi
on Dec 27, 2010 -
10 answers
Used hybrid cars and their batteries. I want to buy a used hybrid in the US, looking at '04-'07 Toyota Priuses and Honda Civic Hybrids. Looking for your experiences with these cars, things to look out for, driving in winter conditions, and especially any solid info about the service life (yrs/mileage) of the hybrid battery.
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posted by LobsterMitten
on Jan 22, 2010 -
18 answers
I am disappointed in my relationship with my 97 Honda Civic. Maybe you can give me some advice. YANMM.
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posted by bunny hugger
on Sep 14, 2009 -
5 answers
My car clicks when I drive over bumps or potholes. The noise is driving me crazy. How do I silence it?
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posted by valadil
on Nov 5, 2008 -
12 answers
How do I replace the driver’s side low-beam headlight on my 2004 Honda Civic LX?
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posted by vkxmai
on Sep 29, 2008 -
6 answers
1993 Honda Civic or 2002 Suzuki Aerio? I love my Honda, with 125K miles, and have taken very good care of it. The engine is great, but I'm at the point where it needs things that cost $500 to $1,000 a pop, plus the interior is really worn. My mom's Aerio, at 65,000 miles, is still under warranty. So I could drive it for a few years and not have to spend any money. I know the Honda is the better car, but does it make sense to keep it and sell the Aerio?
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posted by skuchinskas
on May 19, 2008 -
14 answers
2006 Honda Civic service schedule: Maintenance Minder or dealer service recommendation?
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posted by Asherah
on May 18, 2008 -
2 answers
Why is my Honda Civic dinging when I come down to go to work in the morning? And can I make it stop? Some backstory...
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posted by HeroZero
on Mar 11, 2008 -
6 answers
1995 Honda Civic, new to me, where can I find info online about maintenance and care for my new car?
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posted by efalk
on Jun 26, 2006 -
4 answers
I was out of town for three weeks and left my car in the open (almost) and due to the cold weather I had tough time getting it started yesterday. The AAA guy said it was very likely moisture in the gas, etc. But eventually after much cranking and screeching and some initial smoke it seems to working ok again. However, I also noticed I get a thumping noise coming from wheels or somewhere close by when I brake. I was wondering if somebody can tell me if it is related to cold weather also. I put the car in the garage yesterday. But the noise seems to be still there. I am not sure if it has lessened somewhat or not.
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posted by flyby22
on Jan 17, 2006 -
8 answers
I am considering purchasing an older 5-spd Honda Civic on order to save gas on my bi-weekly long commute.
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posted by fshgrl
on Oct 19, 2005 -
19 answers
I have a 1991 Honda Civic DX hatchback with ~125k miles on it. It runs like a champ, except when it doesn't start....
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posted by nitsuj
on Sep 28, 2005 -
16 answers
My 1996 Honda Civic LX (1.6L 4 Cylinders) has a problem in the bottom end of the engine. The mechanic says it's most likely going to need an engine replacement. I have 1000 miles left on my warranty that pays 50% labor and 50% parts. They said once all of the parts are compiled the labor can be done in about two days. What should I expect to be paying in this situation?
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posted by trey
on Aug 18, 2005 -
8 answers
ScaryCarNoiseFilter: I have a 99 Civic, 50K miles. I'm a new 2nd owner. Today it started making an odd noise as I was coming off the Interstate: a rattle from the front passenger wheel-area which increased in volume as I braked. And it increases in intensity when I brake while going around curves.
It is an intermittent sound; mostly when turning while braking, and or braking @ higher speeds (75+). Also, there is no steering vibration associated with the sound. Any suggestions? A friend suggested CV Boot or CV Joints.
Is that spendy to fix? (it seemed like a good buy at the time!)
posted by atlatl
on Nov 19, 2004 -
15 answers
I had a wild idea today. I'm pondering several career moves, mulling over various choices. Suddenly I thought: hey, what about politics/civic office?
Suggestions?
posted by scarabic
on Oct 9, 2004 -
12 answers