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Honda Accord: Why is There a Grinding Noise When I Accelerate?

Are you hearing grinding noises coming from your Honda Accord? This article will show you how to trace the source of the noise, and the different ways to address it.

By James Karuga - March 23, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Accord (1990-2002).

Those noises you hear while driving about in your Accord may be irritating, but they also indicate that your car may have a mechanical fault. Therefore, it's vital to trace the source of that grinding sound, and address the problem as quickly as possible because delays usually result in costly mechanical failures. At times, the solution could be as simple as replacing the transmission fluid or tightening a bolt. In other instances, it may involve complex repairs like replacing a bearing or a clutch. This article will identify the possible areas that you should check if your hear grinding noises on acceleration. This article will also provided some experiences that other Honda Accord owners have had, and their solutions to fix the problem.

Step 1 – Is the heat shield loose?

First, you need to eliminate the simplest possible cause of that grinding noise. Based on the claims from several Honda Accord owners, a loose heat shield covering the catalytic converter will cause a rattling or grinding noise as you accelerate. The viable and easiest solution is tightening the heat shield, or replacing it if it is worn. New OEM or aftermarket heat shields will cost you anywhere between $25 to $50, and installing it yourself is a simple DIY task.

Figure 1. Tighten or replace the heat shield.

Step 2 – Are the control arm bushings worn out?

The control arms connect the wheel hubs to the car's chassis. Control arm bushings connect the chassis to the pivoting control arm to help dampen vibrations between wheels and frames, so it ensures your car rides are not bumpy. They prevent metal parts in the wheel and suspension area from coming into contact or grinding with each other. Also, the bushings ensure that tires are aligned by keeping them square to the ground.

Bushings are made out of rubber, which means they can wear out due to road salt and heat. When they do, your Accord's alignment is compromised, and you'll notice the steering wheel vibrating or becoming harder to control at a higher acceleration. Your tires can also wear out unevenly.

If you hear clicking or grinding noise from the suspension, a simpler cause could just be loose bolts that need tightening. However, if the bushings are worn out, they will need to be replaced. New bushings for a Honda Accord costs anywhere from $17 to $70.

Figure 2. Control arm bushing gone bad.

Step 3 – Is the pilot bearing worn out?

The clutch pilot bearing connects the manual transmission input shaft to the engine crankshaft. The bearing allows the input shaft to rotate independently of the crankshaft, and when the pilot bearing wears out, a grinding noise can be heard when the clutch is disengaged and the car is accelerating.

The cost for a new pilot bearing alone is less than $30; however, the cost of labor to replace it can run upwards of $500. Honda enthusiasts recommend replacing the pilot bearing along with the entire clutch assembly.

Figure 3. Replace the pilot bearing if worn out.

Step 4 – Is the clutch worn out?

If you hear a grinding noise after engaging the clutch and shifting into gear, this is a likely indication that the clutch needs to be replaced or adjusted. A clutch adjustment is vital if it keeps slipping because this will hinder torque movement from the engine to the transmission. Many motoring experts also suggest replacing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. So make sure to keep the transmission system lubricated. If not, an urgent fluid flush is necessary, but if the grinding noise is still there, the clutch itself might need to be replaced.

Labor costs for an average clutch job can run upwards of $750. If you do it yourself, then the cost for parts will be $50 to $100.

Figure 4. Leaking clutch slave cylinder.

Pro Tip

Other (less likely) causes of grinding noises that you might want to inspect are the:

  • Constant velocity boots
  • Loose drive axles

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