sleeptime

In the past couple of months I have noticed that my 05 Accord LX 2.4L is making a quick click noise, like tapping two pieces of aluminum together softly (not a loud sound), just before a gear change while driving. I also notice it just as I let off the gas and begin to coast at almost all speeds. I know that there are a couple of tranny noises that do naturally occur, however, this started a month or two ago.

Trans fluid level is very slightly high, crests just above full line on dipstick, but all fluids show no sign of discoloration, bubbles, etc. I maintain this thing by the book with no exceptions using mostly Genuine Honda service, fluids, and parts. The car is operating fine, no jerky, harsh, or clunky shifts, but the noise is rather persistent and getting annoying.

Any Ideas? Internal clutch or solenoid? I have not dug into or tested anything yet because I can't even imagine where to start. Still young, only 125K on the clock.

tkh974

What did this turn out to be? I am having a similar issue with my 2006 Accord.

BLKFLSH

Could be just an exhaust heat shield rattling. Hard to diagnose a noise you can't hear over the internet. Could you get this sound in a recording/video?

sleeptime

So... I needed to replace my upper ball joint, and because I am neurotic, I replace both uppers, lowers, wheel bearings, and tierods. While trying to disassemble, my driver side, the spindle nut was insanely tight. Broke two pro 1/2 ratchets by attaching a 5ft cheater bar with no luck (it was late and I did not want to make a lot of noise with my impact). Finally, after hitting it for like 15 minutes with my impact, it came off. Once everything was reassembled I went for the standard test drive. NO CLICK!!!

I remember reading somewhere that someone suggested to tighten the spindle nut. Also, that there was tooth missing on one of the gears. I truly believe these notions to be wrong. I actually think the overly tight spindle nut was the cause.

While talking to the shop owner that I had press the bearing and ball joint, he said overly tight spindle nuts (axle nut) are not uncommon. He said that hitting big pots holes and hard impacts while driving is usually the cause. It is usually the driver side because of the rotation of the nut is "righty righty." Thinking back my passenger side spindle nut zipped right off. Don't know if this was really the cause of the noise, but I am convinced it is.

Sorry BLKFLSH I was not able to record the noise, but if your car is making it, you know what it sounds like.

Moral of the story. Don't hit potholes and replace the spindle/axle nut every so often.

sleeptime

Updated post.

BLKFLSH

Thanks for posting the conclusion.