Rear view mirror-fuzzy view

[jorton]

In another post it is explained 4 cylinder engines run rough because a cylinder fires every 180 degrees of crank shaft rotation.

Today while driving to town I noted the usual fuzzy view in the rear view mirror and out of curiosity I touched the mirror to see if I could actually feel a vibration. The vibration was there so next I checked the windshield. I was surprised to feel such a strong buzz on the glass, it's a miracle the image in the mirror isn't a total blur!

Both my 4cyl cars have fuzzy rear view mirrors, and they're both Fords, A 99 and a 2005. Is this unique to Ford or is it just the price I have to pay for very good fuel economy?

 

[asiancivicmaniac]

I never had that problem in my Civic and my mom's Camry doesn't vibrate the glass and mirror either.

 

[mechanicx]

Ford 4-cylinders cars are generally consider to be a little rougher than some others. The vibration you feel from a 4cylinder is not really due to the 180 degree crankshaft rotation between firing per se, but that 4-cylinder have a 2nd order inbalance. Some cars are just designed to almost completely qwuell the vibration. GM does a good job with the Ecotech as well as does Honda and others. It doesn't necessarily mean your engine is less balanced internally or less durable than other 4-cyl engines. I had an older Ford and i know how annoying the vibrations can get.

 

[Falcon_LS]

Have you checked your engine mounts?

 

[cos]

Many 4 cyl engines are buzzy, especially noticeable at a redlight (in gear with the brake on). I used to drive a Honda CRX that would vibrate it's interior plastics and rattle it's heat shield -very annoying! You should see the posts on motorcycle (4 cyl) forums concerning vibration - it's a huge problem that results in numb hands and/or feet.

 

[river_rat]

My mom's 4 cyl Tempo was like that since new. I figure it's normal, but maybe the mirror mount is getting loose.
My current 4 cyl Tacoma is as smooth as about anything, but had dual counter balance shafts. I'm not sure the Tempo had that.

 

[jorton]

On the 99 I've replaced 3 motor mounts.

 

[mechtech2]

Do you have the 2.0 Zetec?
It is a rather large 4 that is unbalanced [ no balance shaft].
Your mirrors will clear up at certain RPMS/speeds.
STill, common tune up stuff is important. So are any vacuum or manifold leaks. ESp the PCV system.

 

[jorton]

Both are 2.0 duratek. The 99 is sohc, 2005 has 16 valves.

 

[jorton]

Originally Posted By: mechtech2
Do you have the 2.0 Zetec?
It is a rather large 4 that is unbalanced [ no balance shaft].
Your mirrors will clear up at certain RPMS/speeds.
STill, common tune up stuff is important. So are any vacuum or manifold leaks. ESp the PCV system.


I have not been able to check the pcv, pcv hoses on the 2005. I know where they're located but I can't see them. I'll have to wait until I get the upper plenum gasket set to check pvc.