Why Honda Accord Making Rattling Noise When Accelerating?

A rattling honda accord is not an uncommon complaint from owners, especially after the vehicle crosses the 100,000 miles landmark. The situation’s irritating and also a cause for concern. If your old honda accord rattles when you speed it up, get to the bottom of it as soon as possible. Your vehicle might be in danger.

However, common causes behind honda accord making rattling noise when accelerating include damaged or loose heat shields, engine, and exhaust mounts. Or, maybe the transmission system needs lubrication. Sometimes things are much simpler. For instance, loose coins, keys, etc., in the dashboard.

The following discussion shall cover all possible aspects of this problem. Give it a few minutes of your time and see how it helps you.  

Why does the Honda Accord make rattling noises when accelerating?

When you speed up your old Honda Accord, the rattling sound might come from various places. And the reason for the sound varies according to its location of origin. 

For instance, it may originate from under the vehicle, which is most common. Or, the sound might come from your car’s front end. 

Rattling Noise Under Honda Accord

When the rattling noise originates from under your honda accord, there are mainly three components to consider. The exhaust system, catalytic converter, and heat shield.

Old Exhaust components

If the rattling noise comes from under your car when accelerating, it usually has something to do with the components of the exhaust system. 

With time the hangers, clamps, and other parts deteriorate. As a result, they make rattling noises when your car runs at full speed.

Broken Catalytic Converter 

Another reason for noises under the vehicle is catalytic converter failure. These converters alter the consistency of emission products and make them less harmful to the environment.

Overheating and long-time use wears the converter down. Then a piece of the old converter can break away and stay within the system to cause a rattling sound. The sound almost resembles a can of marble.

Loose Heat Shield

Lastly, the rattling noise under your honda accord might be from a deteriorating heat shield. In old cars, the heat shield’s welded junctions might wear off and cause it to break away. The loose or broken heat shield clangs against the exhaust components and creates noise.

Rattling Noise From Honda Accords Front End

A rattling noise from your honda accord’s front end is cause for serious concern. Often they arise from damaged brake or steering components. And both of these put you at mortal risk on the highway.

Bad Brake Components

The brake components of your honda accord have to bear a lot of stress. Whenever you bring your car to a halt, these components work against a massive amount of force. 

As a result, they tend to shift or become loose from their respective positions. This results in rattling noises when you accelerate your car.

Steering Component Damage

The steering and suspension components undergo wear and tear in their lifetime. For instance, the bushings wear off, and shocks, struts, and linkages become loose and inefficient. As a result, you hear the noise when you speed up your car.

5 Solutions For honda accord making rattling noise when accelerating    

Why Honda Accord Making Rattling Noise When Accelerating? As you can see, there are several reasons for this occurrence. To fix them, you must first find the affected part and tend to it. 

In other words, you may have to repair or replace the damaged components of your honda accord.

1. Replace Exhaust Hangers & Clamps

Exhaust hangers securely hold various parts of the exhaust system in their respective positions. As a result, these parts don’t come in contact with the car’s frame, floor, or axles. 

Meanwhile, clamps tighten the connections among pipe sections and the components that work alongside, like the muffler.

Usually, exhaust hangers and clamps are made of steel. Hangers might also have a rubber insulation part to prevent vibration. 

Over time, rust and stress can wear off the parts. As a result, they vibrate against the nearby components of the exhaust system.

The solution here is to replace these parts. The price of hangers and clamps falls between 15-20 dollars. However, the labor cost might range from 100-150$ or more.

2. Get New Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is a part of your honda accord’s exhaust system that reduces the toxic properties of emission gasses. This component can wear off before its time due to faulty spark plugs, fuel injectors, and other causes of misfiring engines.

A damaged catalytic converter can manifest with a rattling sound under the car. You can also look for other signs to make a more definite diagnosis. 

For instance, there might be a repulsive sulfur-like odor alongside the noise. You will also notice that your car doesn’t gain much power during acceleration.

To replace the part, first, locate it properly. In most honda accord models, you will find the catalytic converter bolted or welded to the exhaust pipe. 

Usually, you can detach it within minutes if you use a metal cutter, which is why catalytic converters are a favorite target of robbers.

If you are comfortable or have experience with doing repair work, you can replace the part on your own. Just ensure you have proper precautions. Or you may take the help of an auto repair shop. The labor costs are around 100$.

Catalytic converters themselves are very expensive components. Honda accord specific catalytic converters cost around 2000$ or more. So, your best option is to prevent engine misfires and preserve the health of your catalytic converter.

3. Fix Your Heat Shield

The heat shield protects your car’s internal components from thermal damage. As a result, the shield is exposed to a lot of heat, vibration, and corrosion. 

These eventually wear off the welds and attachment of the shield, rendering it loose and banging against your car.

If the rust and corrosion are minimal, you can easily weld the heat shield back into place. But if rust has eaten away a greater portion of the shield, it’s best to replace it. 

The price range has much variety. Although, it’s safe to say that you can get a decent heat shield for 150$. That, along with labor costs, can end up in 250-300$.

4. Resolve Engine Issues

A rattling noise from under a vehicle’s hood immediately makes you think of engine issues. The nature of this issue can be either external or internal. 

In the case of an external cause, old engine mounts and serpentine belts are the main reason. If these components are alright, then they consider internal causes. 

For instance, your engine’s rods might be knocking against each other. The noise can also result from piston slap or lifter issues.

The best course of action is to discontinue using worn-out engine parts. Otherwise, they can give rise to more costly repairs in the future. 

You can get new engine mounts for 200-250$. And a new serpentine belt usually costs 90-200$. Also, don’t forget the labor costs if you take the car to professionals.

5. Inspect The Inside Of the Honda Accord’s Cabin

If the rattling noise originates inside your Honda Accord’s cabin, the reason might be a lot less serious than the ones mentioned above. Although these noises feel closer and louder, they aren’t the cause of much concern.

For instance, weary or loose glove compartment doors, console lids, and window regulators can all make rattling noises. You should also look for loose coins, keys, and similar items inside your car.

Is it safe to drive a honda accord with a rattling noise?

Whether or not it’s’ safe to drive with a rattling honda accord depends on the reason for the noise.

For instance, if the rattling noise originates from a loose door, window, or items (coin, key) in the compartment, you can keep driving without concern. 

On the other hand, if the noise is due to failing steering and brake components, there is a definite cause for concern. In this case, you should discontinue driving.

Suppose the reason for the noise is a damaged heat shield. It’s best not to drive and fix the issue first. Otherwise, the internal components will suffer heat damage and soon shut down your car. 

In case of a bad catalytic converter, driving isn’t necessarily unsafe. Although, you will experience diminished performance.

Is the Noise When Starting the Engine Related to the Rattling Noise When Accelerating in a Honda Accord?

Is the noise when starting the engine related to the rattling noise when accelerating in a Honda Accord? Many Honda Accord owners have experienced the honda accord starting noise, which can sometimes be accompanied by a rattling noise when accelerating. While the two noises may appear related, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic to accurately diagnose and resolve the issue.

FAQs

By now you should have got your answer. Now, let’s have a look at some common queries that honda accord users seek answers in different forums and discussion groups. 

Conclusion

Rattling sounds in a honda accord are something you should take seriously. Seek a solution to the problem as soon as possible. Otherwise, you run the risk of future damage to your car components. 

However, before taking your car to the auto repair shop, inspect it in light of the knowledge you gained from this discussion. When inspecting or repairing your car, prioritize personal safety and wear safety goggles and gloves. 

You should also use competent jacks to lift your car. Don’t forget to turn off the engine when reaching for internal components. And if you have adequate experience, never hesitate to seek professional help.