[wiselygang]

I have a 2005 Matrix XR 1.8L AWD with 195k miles. About two months ago, a slight vibration developed (felt mostly in the floorboard and seat) when slightly accelerating at highway speeds (60-70mph). I took it to the tire shop and they have tried balancing twice but the same issue has persisted. Then, this week the vibration has developed into a significant shake. Again, at highway speeds, only when accelerating, but subsides when letting off the gas.

Help - Motor mounts, torque converter, u-joint, bad tires? Any thoughts?

 

[ukrkoz]

Axles. Inner CV joint. Like 90%. Even 95.

 

[75aces]

When there's vibration at highway speed, it's usually going to be suspension related.

IME, tire wear is an indication of how the suspension parts are moving.

Does the car pull to either side? When you hit a pot hole, does the strut bottom out? Like a clunking sound?

Inspect struts, inner and outer tie rods, lower ball joint and CV axles.

Jack up the front end on stands and see if there's any play in the bushings.

How many miles are on the car? Any previous suspension work?

 

[wiselygang]

Axles. Inner CV joint. Like 90%. Even 95.

Took it to my mechanic, and sure enough, both axles need replacing. Not surprising, with the mileage on the car.

Question: Have you or anyone else done this job before? Looking at how-to's online and it doesn't seem to tough. Is the AWD (which I have) any more involved? If not, I think I can do this on my own.

 

[wiselygang]

When there's vibration at highway speed, it's usually going to be suspension related.

IME, tire wear is an indication of how the suspension parts are moving.

Does the car pull to either side? When you hit a pot hole, does the strut bottom out? Like a clunking sound?

Inspect struts, inner and outer tie rods, lower ball joint and CV axles.

Jack up the front end on stands and see if there's any play in the bushings.

How many miles are on the car? Any previous suspension work?

Looks like it's the front axels. Both boots are damaged and the mechanic says he's betting that's the where the vibration is coming from.

All struts/suspension/tires still seem to be solid.

 

[ukrkoz]

The key to my diagnostic was "when accelerating". That tips off on bad axles.
I'd not suggest to DIY this job. You have to be quite well set up with tools and safety equipment and have pretty decent know how to do it. At this mileage, I'd also suggest to replace both axle seals in differential. Cheap security from leaks.

Job like this can be done for reasonable $$ by mobile mechanic. I'd suggest that. If you are frequenting a particular parts store, and they sort of know you, ask them. they always have someone on file and will not recommend any joe shmo, not in their interest.

 

[kevcules46]

Tackle the job if you think you can do it. Worst case , put it back together and bring it to the garage or leave it half apart and call a mobile mechanic.

I changed my 06 corollas passenger side axle this past fall and it was pretty straight forward.

 

[wiselygang]

One more thought before doing this job, since this is the AWD model, could it be the driveshaft or joints?