1999 Honda Accord Suspension Noise

145,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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SCOVOL
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  • 7 POSTS
I bought this car used and it has had been in a couple fender-benders. I don't know the full extent of it but have owned it for about four years. I believe the first two owners drove it around Florida then Louisiana. Anyway, the suspension makes the car sound and feel like a bucket of rattling bolts - it isn't horrible but I had a 1995 Accord that had more miles and rode like a dream and took potholes in stride. I'd like to go through this complex suspension and replace all the bushings. If I do, I will have to buy all the parts from Honda - I've had no luck using aftermarket parts on my Honda - now I am committed to using only their parts. I know it doesn't need struts/shocks. So, is this job a major hassle and extremely time consuming? Will I be able to keep the expense low? Suggestions?
Nov 21, 2009 at 12:23 AM
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MHPAUTOS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 31,937 POSTS
Hi there,

Thank you for the donation,

Firstly there are great quality after market suspension bushes available, look for norlathaine bushes, you will have no problem with these. Don't discount struts as they can have noisy valving that can make a noise as well, there are no real problems doing all the bushes, but it is very time consuming, you will need a wheel alignment when completed , so if you only do one wheel at a time, you will run the risk of tyre wear until the alignment is done.

mark (mhpautos)
Nov 21, 2009 at 10:40 AM
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SCOVOL
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Hi,

I'm kinda guessing you didn't consider vehicle make, year, model, location, etc. I've looked all over the net and couldn't find a single place selling nolathane (sp.) bushings for my vehicle. Energy Suspensions doesn't make anything for 1999 Accords yet either. I question whether the bushings from the local parts store in my city are any good and they don't say what they are (not a good thing). I bought a (rubber) front motor mount from them that is very likely the wrong durometer rubber for the job and the engine shook like mad at the specified torque. I don't want a repeat - I end up doing the job 2-3 times just to get it right.
Nov 22, 2009 at 1:20 AM
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