Hi everyone. I have a 2002 Honda Civic LX Automatic. Over the past few weeks, I've noticed a humming/whining noise and recently pinpointed that the noise only occurs at certain speeds. I can hear the noise between about 35-45mph, which seems to be around when the transmission is shifting from 3rd to 4th gear. Once I feel it shift to 4th gear, the noise goes away. Also, it doesn't seem to shift as smoothly from 3rd to 4th as it does in the other gears. The noise comes back at around 70mph and goes away at around 80mph (not that I really want to drive faster than 80!).

I had my transmission fluid replaced a few weeks ago, and I checked the fluid level 2 days ago just to be sure. The fluid is definitely new and at the proper level. Also, I'm not sure if the noise was present before I had my fluid replaced or if it started after, because I had a noisy wheel bearing replaced at the same time, so it's possible the wheel bearing noise may have masked the noise I'm hearing now. I'm really not sure. It would make sense to me that SOMETHING is very possibly wrong with the transmission, but I'm really hoping it's something that can be fixed without a complete overhaul. I do have an appointment with a mechanic, but I'm wondering, is there anything else I should check prior to my appointment? I usually feel pretty comfortable holding my own with mechanics, but I'm a little phobic about transmission repairs since they tend to be expensive. I'm afraid of being told I need a complete overhaul even if I don't.

Does anyone know if this sounds like a transmission issue or if it might be something else that just seems like it? And does anyone have any advice on things I can do prior to taking it in or things I might want to discuss with the mechanic? Thank you so much!

 

What was the fluid replaced with? A lot of people have reported trouble after putting generic ATF into a Honda automatic. Use the Honda fluid from the dealer.

 

He replaced it with Honda ATF-Z1. I didn't have the fluid replaced at the dealer, but I made sure to ask what kind of fluid was going to be used and it was the Honda ATF-Z1.

 

I also wanted to add- I hear the noise in those speed ranges regardless of whether I'm accelerating, decelerating, or holding steady (like if I'm driving at a constant speed of 37, the noise will be present). The noise is also present if I'm coasting within those ranges. Not sure if this is pertinent information, but I thought I'd add it just in case. Thanks again!

 

Hi jennyJen,
I have a 2012 Honda Civic doing exactly the same thing you reported in 2008. i.e., as the engine speed approaches 1600 rpm it starts to vibrate and then ceases afte passing through 1600rpm, going up or down, The transmission shifts and drives normally, but it is scary.
I am wondering if you ever had a definitive resolution to your problem. Would appreciate knowing.
thanks
Plasticbus