1997 Honda Accord Front Vibration

1997 HONDA ACCORD
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ANGELE82000
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I have a problem with my Honda. Last month when I was driving, the fron end started to vibrate badlly, I thouhg I was going to lose control of the car. I had it checked by three different repair shops, two of which were Honda shops. I had them check and balance the tires, change the CV boot, to no avail. It still shakes, especially when I step on the gas. It is fine for a little while and than starts up again. It is also fine when I am not stepping on the gas and am just letting it coast. I am at a loss as to what is is. No one can seem to find the problem. Any ideas? Thanks!
Feb 20, 2007 at 8:47 AM
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BRUCE HUNT
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Have the tires been rotated? What kind of driving environment are you in? ie driving gravel roads, snowy conditions. Look at motor mounts, whether they are loose or worn.
Feb 20, 2007 at 8:59 AM
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ANGELE82000
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Yes, I had the mechanic check the motor mounts and they are fine. The tires have also been rotated. I am driving the car in Colorado, so we have had lots of snow and more gravel on the roads then usual.
Feb 20, 2007 at 9:03 AM
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BRUCE HUNT
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i mention the environment because snow, dirt, mud, etc can be on the wheel rim and throw the tires out of balance. Then it falls off and everything is normal. Is this a possibility for you?
Feb 20, 2007 at 9:06 AM
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ANGELE82000
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I don't know, I have had this problem for about a month now. I had someone tell me it might be my axles? Thanks for your help!
Feb 20, 2007 at 9:08 AM
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BRUCE HUNT
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It could be the axles but they would be constant and not variable in causing the problems. Wash the tires and rims on both sides and see how it drives.
Feb 20, 2007 at 9:11 AM
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ANGELE82000
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ok, I will try this. Thanks again.
Feb 20, 2007 at 10:54 AM

Suggested Repair

Wash the tires and rims on both sides to remove snow, dirt, or gravel that can throw the wheels out of balance, then road-test. Motor mounts and tire rotation were already checked and found fine. Axles are less likely because the shake is intermittent and mainly under acceleration, not constant.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1997 Honda Accord reported severe front-end vibration, especially when accelerating, that eased when coasting. Tire balance, a CV boot replacement, motor-mount inspection, and tire rotation did not fix it. Driving in Colorado snow and gravel was noted. The expert said packed snow, dirt, or mud on the rims can temporarily unbalance the tires and recommended washing the tires and rims on both sides. Axles were considered less likely because they would usually cause a constant problem.

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