There is a vibration (rattle, buzzing) noise coming from inside the plastic cowling behind the steering wheel. It's prevalent at 1100 rpm and certain road surfaces, only when the steering wheel is in the 12 oclock position. Turn it 90 degrees either direction and the noise stops. My guess is something is just barely touching the plastic.

How do I remove the cowling without breaking anything (or setting off the airbags )? I find two screws from the bottom. Is that all there is to removal?

 

My shop manual shows three screws on lower half of shroud; two at rear (nearest driver) and one at front. After screw removal, there are some alignment clips that should release, but you may have to deflect the shroud to release them.

Some double-side tape and foam may cure the rattle.

good luck

 

You should remove the steerin wheel before so you don't risk damagin the air bags. . Look under your dash, sticker says so =]

 

My thought was as TexasHonda suggests. I have some adhesive sided felt I was going to line it with. Does it say what kind of screws? Are they torx or something special, or simple philips?

Not sure I want to remove the steering wheel though. One would think the cowling comes off before even getting at the steering wheel?

 

They may be torx screws. Get a flashlight and look. You will need a regular screwdriver to reach into the deep well and reach the screw. An insert type screwdriver will not fit the well.

I've removed this shell on 94 Accord w/o removing steering wheel. I haven't removed these on TSX.

good luck

 

I've found two philips head screws, but not the third. As suggested, my thought was to line the plastic with adhesive felt. I don't see where this involves the air bag. Don't want it damaged in the process either.

 

I found the third screw, thank you. (I have a metal plate on my spinal column, so I am not as agile as I once was.)