Engine Noise problems of the 2003 Honda Accord

I was traveling at 60 mph on us 30 when my Honda Accord suddenly jerked and slipped into low gear. I was nearly rearended and was definitely in shock. I continued homeward and it did the same thing 3 more times. I had slowed my speed to 40 mph but the engine sounded like I was going too fast for the gear I was in so slowed down even more. . . . Put my flashers on and crept home. Since it is after hours I must wait until tomorrow to contact the dealership. However I have found that many people have had the same problem with Honda Accords.

Honda Accord ex-v6, 2003, purchased new. Developed engine noise at just over 60,000 kilometers that has increased in volume over the winter. Honda dealer has diagnosed piston slap. Honda canada states that piston slap is acceptable in a cold Honda engine for up to 5 minutes and ". . . That although piston slap is present, there are no operational issues with your vehicle. . . . ". The desk man at the Honda dealer states that his Honda also has piston slap.

I purchased a 2003 Honda Accord in October 2002 - I have had the brakes/rotors replaced twice. I'm concerned over safety. What recourse is available once the car is no longer under warranty and I am going through brakes and rotors approximately every 8000 miles? in addition, I noticed very soon after purchase that at initial start up, and until car had been driven for awhile there is a "chatter" noise. I thought at first it was my imagination, as this was something had heard in older cars - such as a lifter chatter. It has become increasingly noticeable and at some start up times sounds like a diesel. At apprx 23,000 I requested the dealer to check for the noise, but by the time the car gets to the dealer there is no longer the cold start, and it no longer makes the noise.