The Honda Accord has long been a staple in the automotive world, known for its reliability, practicality, and overall driving comfort. However, even a car as revered as the Honda Accord is not immune to mechanical and operational quirks. One such issue that has been reported by owners of the 9th-generation Accord (2013-2017) is a noticeable drone or vibration when the car is idling. This drone can be frustrating, especially in a car renowned for its smoothness. In this article, we’ll explore what causes this drone, how to address it, and some tips to prevent it from happening.
1. Introduction to the 9th Generation Honda Accord
The 9th-generation Honda Accord, produced from 2013 to 2017, was a milestone for the brand. It featured improved fuel efficiency, advanced safety technologies, and a blend of luxury and practicality. Available with either a 2.4L inline-four engine or a 3.5L V6 engine, the Accord remained a popular choice for both daily commuting and family transportation. Despite these strengths, many Accord owners began reporting an issue known as “drone at idle,” where an unsettling vibration or low-pitched hum would be heard or felt when the vehicle was idling.
This idle drone isn’t a serious mechanical failure but rather an annoying issue that can impact the driving experience. Before we delve into the solutions, let’s first understand the causes.
2. What Is “Drone” at Idle?
When we refer to “drone” at idle, we’re talking about a distinct sound or vibration that occurs when the engine is running but the car is stationary, usually with the transmission in “Drive” or “Neutral.” The drone is often described as a low-frequency hum that can be felt through the steering wheel, seats, or even the floorboards. It can also sometimes be accompanied by a slight vibration in the cabin, making the driving experience less pleasant.
While this issue is not limited to the 9th-generation Accord, it appears to be more pronounced in this model, especially in certain trim levels and configurations. The drone can stem from various factors, such as engine mount wear, exhaust system design, or transmission behavior.
3. Common Causes of Drone at Idle in the 9th-Gen Accord
There are multiple potential causes for the drone at idle, ranging from minor issues to more complicated problems. Below are the most common reasons owners of the 9th-generation Honda Accord experience this issue:
a. Engine Mounts
One of the most common causes of a drone or vibration at idle is worn or damaged engine mounts. Engine mounts are designed to hold the engine securely in place and absorb vibrations caused by engine movement. Over time, engine mounts can deteriorate due to heat, pressure, and general wear and tear. When this happens, the engine is less stable, leading to excessive vibration that can cause the droning sound.
Symptoms of Bad Engine Mounts:
- Increased vibrations in the cabin at idle.
- Excessive engine movement, noticeable when shifting from “Park” to “Drive” or “Reverse.”
- A clunking noise during acceleration or deceleration.
Solution: If the engine mounts are identified as the source of the problem, replacing them is the best course of action. Engine mount replacement can range from $200 to $600 depending on labor costs and parts quality. Ensure you opt for high-quality OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts for the best long-term results.
b. Exhaust System Resonance
Another culprit behind the idle drone could be the design of the exhaust system in the 9th-generation Accord. Over time, components of the exhaust system, such as the muffler or resonator, may become misaligned, damaged, or worn out. This can lead to changes in exhaust tone and an increase in low-frequency droning sounds at idle.
The V6 model of the 9th-generation Accord, in particular, is known for having a more pronounced exhaust note, which can sometimes contribute to the droning sound when the car is stationary.
Symptoms of Exhaust Issues:
- Low-pitched droning sound at idle or low RPMs.
- Louder-than-usual exhaust noise.
- Rattling or buzzing noises from underneath the car.
Solution: An exhaust inspection should be conducted by a professional mechanic. If there are signs of wear or damage to the muffler, resonator, or exhaust pipes, repairs or replacements may be necessary. Aftermarket exhaust systems can sometimes exacerbate the problem, so it’s worth considering OEM exhaust components for a quieter idle experience.
c. Active Noise Control System
The Honda Accord, especially in the higher trim levels, features an Active Noise Control (ANC) system, which is designed to cancel out engine noise and provide a quieter cabin experience. However, in some cases, the ANC system itself can malfunction or fail to work correctly, leading to unwanted cabin noise, including drone at idle.
Some drivers have reported that disconnecting the ANC system resolves the drone issue, but this comes at the cost of potentially allowing more road and engine noise into the cabin.
Symptoms of ANC Failure:
- No change in cabin noise levels when ANC is toggled on or off.
- The cabin is noisier than expected for the Accord’s class.
- Persistent drone at idle despite fixing other mechanical issues.
Solution: If the ANC system is suspected of being the cause of the drone, it can be disabled or recalibrated. Disabling the system is relatively simple but should only be done if other potential causes have been ruled out. For a more permanent solution, the ANC system can be checked and repaired at a Honda dealership or by a qualified audio technician.
d. Transmission Torque Converter
Another possible cause of the drone at idle in the 9th-generation Accord could be related to the transmission, specifically the torque converter. The torque converter helps transmit power from the engine to the transmission, and when it becomes faulty, it can cause vibrations and noise at low RPMs or idle.
Torque converter issues are less common but can still contribute to the droning sound.
Symptoms of a Faulty Torque Converter:
- Drone or vibrations at idle or low RPMs.
- Transmission slippage or delayed shifting.
- Shuddering during acceleration.
Solution: If the torque converter is determined to be the cause, repairing or replacing it can be costly, typically ranging between $600 to $1,500. It’s important to have the issue properly diagnosed by a transmission specialist before committing to such an expensive repair.
e. Air Intake System
In some cases, the drone at idle can be linked to the air intake system. Aftermarket air intake systems, or even factory airboxes that are not properly secured, can cause a droning noise due to the vibrations of the engine and airflow.
Symptoms of Air Intake Issues:
- Audible drone coming from the engine bay.
- Poor fuel efficiency or reduced engine performance.
- Rattling noises during acceleration or idle.
Solution: If the air intake system is identified as the problem, checking the air filter, securing the airbox, or replacing faulty intake components can solve the issue. It’s also important to avoid using aftermarket cold air intakes unless they are specifically designed for your Accord model, as these can sometimes exacerbate the droning sound.
4. How to Diagnose the Drone at Idle
Diagnosing the source of the drone at idle can be challenging due to the multiple potential causes. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help identify the root cause of the problem:
- Listen for the Sound: Pay attention to when and where the drone occurs. Does it happen only at idle, or does it persist through acceleration? Where in the car is the sound most prominent?
- Check Engine Mounts: If you notice excessive vibrations, especially when shifting gears, inspect the engine mounts. Look for cracks, wear, or signs of fluid leakage.
- Inspect the Exhaust System: A quick visual inspection of the exhaust system can help identify loose components or rusted parts. If the muffler or resonator looks damaged, this could be the cause of the drone.
- Disable the ANC System: Temporarily disabling the Active Noise Control system can help rule out this component as the source of the problem.
- Consult a Mechanic: If you’re unable to pinpoint the cause, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic who can conduct a more thorough diagnosis using specialized tools.
5. Preventive Measures and Maintenance Tips
While some issues, such as engine mounts and exhaust wear, are inevitable over time, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of experiencing drone at idle in your 9th-generation Honda Accord.
a. Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance, including oil changes, transmission fluid checks, and air filter replacements, will help keep your Accord running smoothly. Properly maintained components are less likely to cause vibrations or noises.
b. Inspect Engine Mounts Periodically
As engine mounts are a common cause of drone at idle, it’s important to inspect them regularly for signs of wear. Early detection of failing mounts can prevent more significant issues down the line.
c. Avoid Aftermarket Modifications
Aftermarket exhaust systems and air intakes can sometimes introduce new problems. Stick with OEM parts when possible, as they are designed to work seamlessly with your vehicle and are less likely to cause unexpected issues such as drone at idle.
d. Keep the Exhaust System Clean
Rust and debris can accumulate in the exhaust system over time, leading to increased noise and vibration. Cleaning the exhaust system periodically can help prevent corrosion and keep the system operating quietly.
6. Conclusion
The 9th-generation Honda Accord remains a highly regarded vehicle, but like any car, it has its quirks, including the potential for a drone at idle. Whether it’s caused by worn engine mounts, exhaust resonance, or even the ANC system, the drone can often be addressed with proper diagnosis and maintenance.
By understanding the causes and solutions outlined in this article, 9th-gen Accord owners can take proactive steps to resolve the drone issue and ensure a smooth, quiet ride for years to come.
