Honda Car Forum

I have a 99 Accord 4-cylinder with a 5-speed transmission and clutch that
have performed flawlessly for 192,000 miles. Neither has ever been serviced
(beyond checking clutch fluid level) or maintained in any way. Now it
appears some problems are arising and I know I'll need to talk to a pro
mechanic about this. However, I would appreciate any comments from the
group before I go to the shop, to be sure I know what I'm getting into.

Problems: In recent months, the engine has become a lot louder, especially
when accelerating through third gear and above. A few weeks ago, I had to
slow down (I downshifted fropm fourth to third) then speed up again, all
while climbing a gentle hill. In third gear, the engine raced toward 4K rpm
or higher, seemingly with no additional power going to the wheels. I have
now started to notice this effect to a lesser degree on other hills and it
seems manageable if I just back off on the accelerator. Also, a few days
ago, I was going around a corner (in third gear, I believe) and I heard a
distinct grinding noise coming from the same area as the increased driving
noise comes from.

In terms of hours and parts, what kind of repair estimates can I expect to
get based on this set of symptoms? Anything specific to be on the lookout
for, or to avoid? Once again, thanks to the greatest newsgroup on Usenet
and the most helpful Honda people. This group is a real gem.

John Smith wrote:
> I have a 99 Accord 4-cylinder with a 5-speed transmission and clutch that
> have performed flawlessly for 192,000 miles. Neither has ever been serviced
> (beyond checking clutch fluid level) or maintained in any way. Now it
> appears some problems are arising and I know I'll need to talk to a pro
> mechanic about this. However, I would appreciate any comments from the
> group before I go to the shop, to be sure I know what I'm getting into.
>
> Problems: In recent months, the engine has become a lot louder, especially
> when accelerating through third gear and above. A few weeks ago, I had to
> slow down (I downshifted fropm fourth to third) then speed up again, all
> while climbing a gentle hill. In third gear, the engine raced toward 4K rpm
> or higher, seemingly with no additional power going to the wheels. I have
> now started to notice this effect to a lesser degree on other hills and it
> seems manageable if I just back off on the accelerator. Also, a few days
> ago, I was going around a corner (in third gear, I believe) and I heard a
> distinct grinding noise coming from the same area as the increased driving
> noise comes from.
>
> In terms of hours and parts, what kind of repair estimates can I expect to
> get based on this set of symptoms? Anything specific to be on the lookout
> for, or to avoid? Once again, thanks to the greatest newsgroup on Usenet
> and the most helpful Honda people. This group is a real gem.

It sounds like you need a new clutch. Probably around $500 to $1000. You
need to take it in as soon as possible, because soon the car won't be
drivable at all.

Jeff

Jeff4/15/08 19:18IIaNj.15980$vz2.2635@trndny05

> John Smith wrote:
>> I have a 99 Accord 4-cylinder with a 5-speed transmission and clutch that
>> have performed flawlessly for 192,000 miles. Neither has ever been serviced
>> (beyond checking clutch fluid level) or maintained in any way. Now it
>> appears some problems are arising and I know I'll need to talk to a pro
>> mechanic about this. However, I would appreciate any comments from the
>> group before I go to the shop, to be sure I know what I'm getting into.
>>
>> Problems: In recent months, the engine has become a lot louder, especially
>> when accelerating through third gear and above. A few weeks ago, I had to
>> slow down (I downshifted fropm fourth to third) then speed up again, all
>> while climbing a gentle hill. In third gear, the engine raced toward 4K rpm
>> or higher, seemingly with no additional power going to the wheels. I have
>> now started to notice this effect to a lesser degree on other hills and it
>> seems manageable if I just back off on the accelerator. Also, a few days
>> ago, I was going around a corner (in third gear, I believe) and I heard a
>> distinct grinding noise coming from the same area as the increased driving
>> noise comes from.
>>
>> In terms of hours and parts, what kind of repair estimates can I expect to
>> get based on this set of symptoms? Anything specific to be on the lookout
>> for, or to avoid? Once again, thanks to the greatest newsgroup on Usenet
>> and the most helpful Honda people. This group is a real gem.
>
> It sounds like you need a new clutch. Probably around $500 to $1000. You
> need to take it in as soon as possible, because soon the car won't be
> drivable at all.
>
> Jeff
I concur. The clutch is slipping but 192 K is a good life for it. The job
should be closer to $500 than a $1000. If not get a quote elsewhere.

If you can get a look at the flywheel when the transmission is out and if
there is any dark spots or burn marks (happens when the clutch slips and
builds up heat like yours was doing) on it either replace it or at least
have it resurfaced if you want your clutch to work like it did from the
factory. You should get a new clutch disk, pressure plate and throw out
bearing in the deal. Ask what parts get replaced. Insist that those parts be
all new, all OEM cause the labor to replace them later is high. You got it
out, do it all.
--
Pickleman
halfsour@roadyourpantsrunner.com
Please remove "yourpants" to reply
1998 Civic HX MT with 142K
2000 CRV EX MT with 98K