I don't mean to sound like gloom and doom, but my e4od acted very similar before it failed. I suggest pulling the pan and checking for metal. If it's starting to come apart and you continue to drive, you could possibly damage the case. It's not cheap to repair one right, and not just any shop can do it well. If you go for a reman unit avoid Phoenix. If you can afford it you should check out some of the premium units that are available.