i just bought a 2002 honda civic ex. when i am in first gear (sometimes second) i hear this high pitched humming sound coming from the engine. i wouldnt call it grinding, but sort of a fast ticking sound. this doesnt happpon when i am in neutral. it doesnt happon when i rev the engine in neutral. and it doesnt happon when i am in 3rd gear.. and also the car shifts from neutral to first to second etc. very nicely. any advice would help alot. thanks.

 

You might want to check whether an exhaust heat shield is a little loose.

 

Also check the level of transmission fluid and consider changing it. Manual transmissions require fluid too.