QuestionI have a 1997 Honda Civic EX, it has a manual transmission and 139,000 miles. We just bought it today. When we had test drove it 2 days ago, it drove great. Today on the way back from buying it, it makes a grinding sound in 1st, 2nd,3rd,and 4th Gears. 3rd being the worst. 1, 2, 4 being very moderate. I'm hoping that it isn't the transmission. What do you think the problem is? Do you think the transmission fluid is low?
AnswerHi Greg,
Sorry to hear about your problem but there is a bad run of Civics a while back and I am not sure wether the 97 was included, the 98 definitely had transmissions go after 100k, something to do with a clogged screen inside the transmission filter.
As far as transmission fluid, it is easy to check, just make sure the car is on level ground when you check. Pull the dipstick out wipe it, set it back in and pull it out making sure it is not tilted. There is cold and warm line, as long as the fluid lands in between these two areas you are fine.
Sad to say, but hearing noises from a transmission is almost always bad, but would highly recommend you have a qualified mechanic take a look at it.
