167k miles.
At 25+ mph there is a vibration that seems only somewhat affected by speed and more by what RPM the engine is at and whether or not I'm coasting. I first suspected the lower left ball joint or the worn out rear right strut , as both have been making noise for about 3000 miles. Either of these seem like a likely cause for the vibration.
I do mostly city driving. In 3rd gear only, if I'm doing about 2500+ RPM and abruptly let off the throttle, there is a moderate jolt as if there is play in the power train. This really freaks me out.
My only guesses are:
-Transmission problem (although recently did a pan drop/filter change 1500 miles ago) The trans fluid level looks great I check it every day.
-Torque converter problem (I hear about these going bad on this car but I'm unsure what exactly might happen to cause a problem).
-Suspension problem: like I said I need possibly the rear right strut replaced and definitely the front left lower ball joint, but suspension can't explain the jolt I get upon de-celeration while in 3rd gear.
Can anyone help me with advice? Especially if you have experienced a transmission problem that started this way. Pleas and thanks in advance.
-Scott