Why is my car making knocking / rattling noises?

2004 HONDA CIVIC
90,000 MILES
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LENKA03
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Hello. My car started making strange noises from under the hood. Its not constant and also stops when I accelerate. The noise sounds like a rattle/knocking sound. Sometimes there is a bit of vibration. What could be wrong?
Oct 2, 2012 at 4:15 PM
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KHLOW2008
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You need to locate the source of the noise and let us know where it is coming from.
If the noise changes or is affected by turn A/C on and off, that is usually caused by the serpentine belt and its tensioner.
Oct 2, 2012 at 4:24 PM
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LENKA03
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It's coming from the drivers side. No it's not affected by the a/c.
Oct 2, 2012 at 4:41 PM
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KHLOW2008
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That is most likely belt related components. You need a visual inspection to locate the source of the noise. Could be a bad crank pulley, idler bearings or the alternator.

Btw which engine do you have?
Oct 2, 2012 at 4:56 PM
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LENKA03
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Thank you. It's a 4 cylinder 1.7L
Oct 2, 2012 at 11:54 PM
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KHLOW2008
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That should be right because if it is a 2.0, the engine is at opposite end of vehicle.
Oct 3, 2012 at 1:28 AM