Rep Power: 0

This is a new-to-me 2003 Civic DX coupe with manual. It has 95K mi. on it.

When first taking off from a stop, or when disengaging from 1st, I hear and feel a slight "knock". It sounds and feels like a suspension issue (no mods on this car).

This happens in slow-speed situations, say when just taking off from a stop, or when shifting from 1st to neutral in a stop and go situation. It happens when first using the gas, even in a mild acceleration, or when taking my foot of the gas.

I figure it's happening at other times, but I'm not hearing or feeling it as much, if at all (1st to 2nd, etc.).

It sounds like something in the suspension - a bushing maybe. Feels more like something in the rear, rather than front, but I really haven't been able to zero in on a location.

Does this sound familiar to any of you?

This is my first post (my first Civic). Thanks!

Ian
SF Bay Area

 
Rep Power: 245

I would start removing wheels and checking for worn components. I would check your motor and trans mounts also, those could be worn.

Does it knock once then stop? Or is it a rotational sounding knock that is dependent on speed?

 
Rep Power: 211

my guess is lower ball joint,

whatever it is, get it fixed asap

 
Rep Power: 0

It only knocks the once on change of direction forward or backward, that is, on slight acceleration or deceleration. No rotational noises.

I did go around the car giving each wheel a good rocking, but didn't notice anything unusual, though, it would be best to do this while on a lift, I'm sure.

I've never got into suspension issues, so your suggestion to check the lower ball-joint, mikey1, is helpful, too. I have first to educate myself on just what's under there and what it all does.

I was hoping it would be a simple matter of tightening something.

Only 95K on this, and no hard miles, I don't think. But the car has has a few knocks - a bit more than the shopping cart kind.

I'll start Googling components to better understand the suspension. Then I'll have to crawl under there and give it all a thorough inspection. Thanks guys!

Ian
SF Bay Area