how can I tell if my Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017) struts are worn out?

Honda Accord Eleventh Generation (2023-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

595 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and replace worn struts on your Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and diagnostic steps.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Disconnect the battery if working near electrical components.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes
•Uneven tire wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges
•Vehicle swaying or leaning during turns
•A noticeable decrease in ride comfort or harshness over bumps
•Oil leakage from the strut assembly
•A knocking or clunking noise when driving over irregular surfaces

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the strut assemblies for any signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing the number of bounces before settling.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns on all four tires.
4
Drive the vehicle over rough surfaces and listen for any unusual noises coming from the suspension.
5
Inspect the strut mounts for signs of wear or damage.
6
Measure the ride height at all four corners and compare it to manufacturer specifications.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench

Parts Required

•New strut assemblies
•New sway bar links (if necessary)

Related Faults

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Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes

•Uneven tire wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges

•Vehicle swaying or leaning during turns

•A noticeable decrease in ride comfort or harshness over bumps

•Oil leakage from the strut assembly

•A knocking or clunking noise when driving over irregular surfaces

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the strut assemblies for any signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing the number of bounces before settling.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns on all four tires.
4
Drive the vehicle over rough surfaces and listen for any unusual noises coming from the suspension.
5
Inspect the strut mounts for signs of wear or damage.
6
Measure the ride height at all four corners and compare it to manufacturer specifications.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake.
Wear safety gloves and goggles for protection.

2. Remove the Wheel

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. Loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the vehicle.
2. Use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
3. Completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the strut assembly.

3. Remove the Strut Assembly

Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut using the socket set.
2. Remove the lower strut bolt using the appropriate socket size.
3. Open the hood and remove the strut mount nuts from the top of the strut using the socket set.
4. Carefully pull the strut assembly out from the wheel well.

4. Inspect and Replace

Tools Required: None additional.
Sub-steps:
1. Inspect the strut for signs of wear, leaks, or damage.
2. If worn, replace the strut with a new unit. Make sure to replace both struts on the same axle to maintain balance.
3. Reinstall the new strut by reversing the removal steps.

5. Reinstall the Wheel

Tools Required: Torque wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle and use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

6. Final Checks

Tools Required: None additional.
Sub-steps:
1. Test drive the vehicle to ensure proper handling and comfort.
2. Recheck the tightness of all connections after the test drive.