So my girlfriend just bought a 1994 Honda accord. I'm trying to do all the maintenance for her and I'm trying to figure out a few problems.

First of all there is a ticking noise coming from the engine. Can really only be heard at a stop light or when parked or whatever.

Another thing is, the is a grinding noise coming from the back of the car when the brakes are applied. Doesn't do it all the time. We are replacing the pads tomorrow and I'm hoping this will fix it. I'm new to this whole Honda thing. I myself own a 95 tsi but I'm really considering a Honda accord for my next car.
Thanks in advance for the help.

 

Ticking noise is likely a slightly loose valve. If noise disappears on full warmup, I would leave alone. If persistent, you can adjust the valves. Get a shop manual (check Online Manuals links for emanaul).

Grinding noise is likely brake pads worn out and damagin the rotor. You may need a new rear brake rotor. Easy replacement. Most have reported acceptable performance from Chinese aftermarket rotors.

good luck

 

The sound stays all the time.

And ya I'm going to do the brakes and get the rotors turned. Thanks much for your help. I appreciate it.

 

Most rotors can't be turned correctly anymore so go for the new ones...

 

Oh and about the valves, is it a major problem if I dont get them adjusted?

 

I've never heard of any consequences of loose valves other than some loss of engine efficiency.

good luck

 

Excess wear on the system, sometimes emissons can be impacted....but as stated, nothing major.

 

And now that I really listen to the noise I can't tell if it's coming from the engine or the belts. The sound can only be heard at low rpms.

 

You can sequentially disable the PS and AC/Alternator accessory belts and see if noise stops.

W/ accessory belts removed it should be possible to use a stethoscope or listening tube to isolate if sound is coming from under timing belt cover. Problems here could be a worn idler, loose or worn timing belt, or water pump bearing.

good luck