Questions and Answers

Honda Accord Speed Sensitive Noise Q. Hi, I have just bought a 1999 Honda Accord vti-l and have noticed when I increase my speed there is a loud whirring sound and when I decrease my speed the sound is less noticeable. In December 2003 the crown wheel and pinion and the front wheel bearings were replaced. Do you have any ideas on what could be wrong? Thanks, Amy

A. Without hearing the noise, it would be difficult for me to be accurate Amy. There are a couple of things to look for. One is it could be tire noise. Some tires have an aggressive tread pattern and make noise while driving. This sound sometimes changes depending on the type of road surface you're on.

There was a TSB issued for a problem very similar to what you describe. It could very well be applicable to your vehicle.

TSB No.: 99-040
Date: August 3, 1999
Applies To: 1998-99 Accord - See VEHICLES AFFECTED
Title: Wheel Bearings, Rear - Noise

SYMPTOM:
A growling or whining noise from the rear wheel bearings. The pitch changes with vehicle speed and is not affected by road surface conditions.

PROBABLE CAUSE:
Water contamination in the rear hub bearing assemblies.

VEHICLES AFFECTED:

1998 Accord	ALL
1999 Accord - thru VINs:	1HGCG1...XA022784
	1HGCG2...XA014794
	1HGCG3...XA012097
	1HGCG5...XA082697
	1HGCG6...XA086054
	1HGCF8...XA088455

CORRECTIVE ACTION:
Replace both rear hub bearing assemblies and spindle nuts.

PARTS INFORMATION:

Rear Hub Bearing Assembly	All V6 models:	42200-S87-C51, H/C 6037394
Rear Hub Bearing Assembly	L4 EX models:	42200-S84-C51, H/C 6037386
Rear Hub Bearing Assembly	L4 LX models w/ABS:	42200-S84-C31, H/C 6037378
Rear Hub Bearing Assembly	L4 DX/LX models w/o ABS:	42200-S84-C01, H/C 6037352
Spindle Nut:		90305-S30-003, H/C 5210000

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION:

In warranty: The normal warranty applies.

Failed part:	P/N 42200-S87-A51 H/C 5436852
Detect code:	042
Contention code:	B07
Skill level:	Repair Technician

Out Of Warranty: Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Service Manager or your Zone Office. You must request consideration, and get a decision, before starting work.

I don't know how many miles you have on it, but if it is relatively low, there is a chance Honda will pay for the repairs. It's worth taking it to a Honda Dealer to find out.