how to tell if my Honda Accord struts are bad

Honda Accord 8th Generation (2008-2012)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

561 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and replace bad struts on your Honda Accord. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported by jack stands before working under it.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before performing any work to avoid burns.

Symptoms

•Vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing or swaying during driving.
•Uneven tire wear on the front or rear tires.
•Difficulty maintaining control during turns or when braking.
•A noticeable increase in road noise and vibrations inside the cabin.
•Fluid leakage around the strut assembly.
•The vehicle sits lower than usual on one side or has an uneven stance.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a visual inspection of the struts for signs of fluid leakage.
2
Check for any physical damage or corrosion on the strut housing and mounts.
3
Conduct a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how many times it bounces after release.
4
Inspect the tires for uneven wear patterns that may indicate alignment or strut issues.
5
Test drive the vehicle to assess handling, stability, and comfort over bumps.

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 and jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench

Parts Required

•New strut assembly (front or rear as needed)
•Strut mount (if necessary)

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Symptoms

•Vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing or swaying during driving.

•Uneven tire wear on the front or rear tires.

•Difficulty maintaining control during turns or when braking.

•A noticeable increase in road noise and vibrations inside the cabin.

•Fluid leakage around the strut assembly.

•The vehicle sits lower than usual on one side or has an uneven stance.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a visual inspection of the struts for signs of fluid leakage.
2
Check for any physical damage or corrosion on the strut housing and mounts.
3
Conduct a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how many times it bounces after release.
4
Inspect the tires for uneven wear patterns that may indicate alignment or strut issues.
5
Test drive the vehicle to assess handling, stability, and comfort over bumps.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the ignition is off.
Wear safety gloves and goggles.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on which strut(s) are being serviced.
Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure stability.

3. Remove the Wheel

Use a lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Keep the lug nuts in a safe place for reinstallation.

4. Remove the Strut Assembly

Disconnect the sway bar link if applicable using a socket set.
Remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle.
Unbolt the strut mount from the top of the strut assembly under the hood, typically requiring a socket wrench.
Carefully pull the strut assembly out of the wheel well.

5. Install New Strut Assembly

Position the new strut assembly into the wheel well.
Reattach the strut mount and torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 15-20 ft-lbs).
Reconnect the strut to the steering knuckle and secure with the appropriate bolts.
Reattach the sway bar link if applicable.

6. Reinstall the Wheel

Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle back to the ground and then torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 80-100 ft-lbs).