Jim Grant's Tech Tips

92 Honda Accord EX, Drift
Q: I have a '92 Honda Accord EX Sedan. I recently had new tires, rotors, and front calipers replaced and now I am experiencing a drifting problem. The vehicle has been back to the tire installer 4 times to check the alignment and possible bad tire(s) that are causing the car to drift to the passenger side when coasting. Under acceleration, the car tracks true. The car has also never been in an accident. I have visually inspected the undercarriage for CV joint boot cracks or any other visual problems, but I'm at a loss for where to turn.... Vincent

A: I would be suspicious of a loose suspension bushing and would not rule out a rear wheel alignment problem. The rubber bushings that support the suspension of a vehicle become flimsy/worn with age. The additional movement allowed by the worn bushings causes a unique instability problem while the vehicle is being driven, much in the manner you describe. Identifying the problem bushing can be challenging, but may very well provide the answer to your problem.