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Hi All,

I have a 2000 Honda Civic EX with approximately 170,000 miles on it and recently, it has started making a very strange "brushing" sound that correlates with my acceleration in the car. It normally starts around 2,000 RPMs and continues as long as my RPMs climb but the second I let off the gas, the sound goes away (I have included links to recording of the sound at the end of the email). Along with this, my shifts have become a bit harder. When I took it to my dealership, they told me it was the transaxle and that it would be about $2000 to fix. I should add that my my check engine light is not on, my transmission fluid was flushed at 110,000 miles and still pink (and doesn't smell burnt), and my transmission fluid is at a good level. I was wondering if you had any other ideas about what this sound could be, if the transaxle even made sense, and how much I should expect to pay to replace this. Is this a job I can do myself? Just for reference, I replaced my timing belt so I may be able to do it my self.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/46194/rec00001.wav
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/46194/rec00002.wav

Also, and on the same car, ever since I bought the car, my headlights have burnt out ever 6 months, whether they're installed by the dealership or me. Should I unhook the eyes and clean them?

Best Regards,

Thomas

 
Rep Power: 0

The first thing I thought when I heard your sounds was exhaust leak, so I would get that checked first.

If your handy with a wrench, replacing the transmission isn't a huge deal, as long as you have the equipment. If I remember correctly, you need to be able to get above and below to get it all out.

But make sure to remember where everything went.

 
Rep Power: 0

for the headlight maybe your collecting water in your headlights or something?

they maybe right about the transaxle but remember its always cheaper to get the used part yourself then have them install it if you dont feel confident enough to pull it off. the only reason i dont agree with muffler is you said it was clearly harder to shift. i would have multiple dealers and other shops look at it if you can afford it