I have a 2000 Honda Accord 2.3l 4cyl, 5 speed MT, with 120,000 miles that has been surging under load for a few months now. The car had some worn out suspension parts as well as a bad catalytic converter. I also assumed that the surging was due to a bad inner cv joint or bent axle.

Yesterday I replaced the catalytic converter, both O2 sensors, both cv axles, both tie-rod ends, both ball joint lowers, all four brake rotors and pads, all four spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, and verified that the wheel bearings were still good. Some of these parts were due to be replaced, others were visibly worn, and the cv axles were because I thought they were the problem...

Unfortunately the car is still surging. It is especially noticeable on the freeway where it surges at 3,000 RPMs regularly while holding speed. It also surges in other gears and all speeds while accelerating at other RPM ranges besides 3,000.

Any idea what the problem is here?

. Replace the Ignition Contol Module and coil:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563-4.html#post265896

. Clean the Idle Air Control Valve:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563-7.html#post1054149

Thanks for the quick response =) I'll test the ICM right now.

Do you observe erratic rpm fluctuations on your tachometer? If so, reading this link may give you some insight:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563-3.html#post260436

I'm not a real fan of testing ICMs and coils. Yesterday, again, I helped a guy who had his ICM tested at AutoZone--it tested fine but ended up being bad. The mechanic replaced the ICM and the problem was solved. My advice is replace the ICM and coil every 120,000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first. These are very problematic components.

My advice is replace the ICM and coil every 120,000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first. These are very problematic components.

Sounds reasonable, I got both the ICM and coil ordered and in the mail now. Thanks again.

A well maintained Accord should last 300,000 miles. Below are some maintenance tips that may help you:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563.html#post219991

Just wanted to say thanks txgreasemonkey. Around $100 in parts (ICM and coil) and my car is running like new. Great advice!