2001 Honda Civic LX idle vibration?

Question

I recently bought an '01 Civic LX with 63k miles. Runs well for a little car, however I started noticing a weird vibration in the car when at idle. It sometimes does rythmic tiny revs in the engine. I can't really see them on the tachometer but I can hear it. Also I can feel it a lot in the brake pedal at red lights. The body of the car (seats, doors, etc) all seem to vibrate. Any ideas if this is an adjustment in the idle or maybe an engine mount that needs changing?

Also can anyone who drives an 01 civic tell me if their suspension is really stiff? it's a bumpy ride compared to other cars I've had an was wondering if that was normal or if they need to be lubed up.

Thanks!

Answer 1

the first thing you want to do is to have the motor mounts (engine mounts) inspected. Over time oil eats through the rubber of the front mounts and causes the rubber to break. When that happens the vibrations from the engine that are normally absorbed by the rubber mount can be transferred to the vehcile's body. It is not uncommon to have to replace the front mount after 5 years.

If the mount is good, check the alignment of the heat shields for the exhaust system. if they are grounding out on the chassis they could cause the same type of vibration. Its less likely than the engine mount but common none-the-less.

One charactoristic of the Civics is a "harder" ride than many cars. I don't know what you drove before but the suspension is stiffer than many other cars in the class. I have 3 Civics that all have a sportier feel. Of course, you do want to make sure the tires are properly inflated--if you have too much air the ride will be much harder.

hope that answers your questions

Answer 2

You may want to check for recalls. I seem to recall one when I had my 01 Civic for something like that.

Suspension is stiff. I also know there was a recall for the front right suspension if I am not mistaken.