how to tell if my Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017) struts are bad

Honda Accord Eleventh Generation (2023-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

514 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

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

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
•Allow struts to cool down before handling if they've been exposed to heat.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying during driving
•Uneven tire wear
•Difficulty maintaining control on rough roads
•Noticeable noise when driving over bumps (clunking or rattling)
•Vehicle dips forward during braking
•Increased stopping distance

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts for signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how it responds.
3
Check the tire tread for uneven wear patterns indicative of strut issues.
4
Listen for unusual noises while driving over bumps or rough surfaces.
5
Inspect the vehicle’s alignment to see if it is out of specification.

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

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

Parts Required

•New struts (front or rear as needed)
•Strut mounting hardware (if necessary)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts for signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how it responds.
3
Check the tire tread for uneven wear patterns indicative of strut issues.
4
Listen for unusual noises while driving over bumps or rough surfaces.
5
Inspect the vehicle’s alignment to see if it is out of specification.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts needed.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Wear safety gloves and eye protection.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Tools Required: Floor jack, jack stands
Using a floor jack, lift the front or rear of the vehicle as needed.
Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure stability.

3. Remove the Wheel

Tools Required: Lug wrench
Use a lug wrench to remove the wheel nuts and take off the wheel to access the strut assembly.

4. Remove the Strut

Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench
Disconnect any brake lines or sensors attached to the strut.
Remove the lower strut bolts securing the strut to the knuckle.
Remove the upper strut mounting nuts located in the engine bay or trunk.
Carefully pull out the strut assembly from the vehicle.

5. Inspect and Replace

Inspect the old strut for signs of wear or damage.
Install the new strut by reversing the removal steps.
Torque Specifications: Use the manufacturer's recommended torque values for strut mounting bolts.

6. Reassemble

Reattach the wheel and lug nuts, tightening them to the specified torque.
Lower the vehicle back to the ground.

7. Final Check

Reconnect any brake lines or sensors disconnected earlier.
Ensure all tools are removed from the engine bay and under the vehicle.