A Guide to Replacing the Suspension Strut Mount Kit on Your 2007-2012 Honda Civic
If you're hearing clunking, popping, or feeling excessive vibrations from your front suspension, your strut mounts may be the culprit.
- Listen for popping or clunking noises when turning; this is a primary symptom for the 2007-2012 Civic.
- Always replace strut mounts in pairs to maintain balanced handling.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing strut mounts to prevent tire damage and steering issues.
- KYB is a trusted aftermarket brand that often serves as the OEM supplier for Honda, making it a reliable choice.
Is Your Civic Showing Signs of a Bad Strut Mount?
For the 2007-2012 Honda Civic (8th generation), the front strut mounts are a common wear item. As the rubber and bearing components age, they can fail, leading to a number of noticeable issues. Pay attention to how your car feels and sounds, especially over bumps and during turns.
Common Failure Symptoms
- Popping or Clunking Noises: A very common sign is a "clunk" or "pop" sound coming from the front suspension. This is often most noticeable when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when driving over bumps. The sound occurs because the worn-out rubber can no longer cushion the metal parts, allowing them to hit each other.
- Excessive Vibration: If the rubber in the mount is worn, it can no longer effectively absorb road vibrations. You might feel these vibrations through the steering wheel or the floor of the car.
- Steering Problems: A bad strut mount bearing can make steering feel stiff, heavy, or cause it to not return to center easily after a turn. This is because the bearing is no longer allowing the strut to pivot smoothly.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Failing strut mounts can throw off your Civic's suspension alignment. This can lead to your tires wearing down unevenly and more quickly than they should.
Known Issues: TSBs for Suspension Noises
Honda released Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the 2007-2012 Civic regarding front suspension noises. TSB 07-078 and TSB 07-043 specifically address a popping or clunking noise from the front suspension when turning or after hitting bumps. While the TSBs may point to other components like bump stops or steering gearbox bolts, the symptoms are nearly identical to a failing strut mount, making diagnosis critical.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount Kit
When replacing your strut mounts, you'll find both OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket options. For a vehicle like the 2007-2012 Civic, high-quality aftermarket parts can offer a great balance of performance and value.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality:
Honda's original parts are excellent, but they come at a premium price. Aftermarket brands must meet or exceed OEM specifications to compete. For this specific part, some owners have noted that while aftermarket struts from top brands are great, the accompanying mount kits can sometimes have less durable rubber than the original Honda part. However, for most drivers, a quality aftermarket kit will restore the vehicle's performance effectively.
Available Brands: KYB and Mevotech
- KYB: KYB is a highly respected brand and is often the original equipment manufacturer for Honda suspension parts. Choosing a KYB strut mount kit is generally a safe bet for OEM-like quality and fit. They are designed to match OE specifications and help restore the original handling and control.
- Mevotech: Mevotech is another strong aftermarket brand known for producing durable suspension components. They often engineer their parts to be as good as or better than the original, sometimes with improvements for longevity.
Pro Tip: When replacing strut mounts, it is highly recommended to replace them in pairs (both left and right). This ensures even handling and predictable performance from your front suspension. Also, consider replacing the entire strut assembly (strut, spring, and mount) if your struts are also old. This can save on labor time and give your suspension a complete refresh.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $100 - $150 |
| New Aftermarket (KYB, Mevotech) | $63 - $90 |
| Shop Labor to Install (Pair) | $200 - $400 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special tool to replace a strut mount?
Yes. To replace only the strut mount, you need a spring compressor to safely remove the coil spring from the old strut. This tool can be dangerous if used improperly. If you are not experienced, it is safer to buy a complete "quick strut" assembly that includes the spring and mount, or to have a professional mechanic perform the repair.
Will I need a wheel alignment after replacing the strut mounts?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Replacing the strut mounts will affect your vehicle's suspension geometry. A four-wheel alignment is necessary to ensure proper handling, prevent pulling to one side, and avoid premature tire wear.
Can I just replace the bearing and not the whole mount?
Generally, no. The strut mount kit includes the rubber insulator, the metal housing, and the bearing as an integrated unit. The main point of failure is often the rubber, so replacing the entire mount is the correct repair.
Was there a recall for the 2007-2012 Civic strut mounts?
No, there have been no specific NHTSA recalls for the suspension strut mounts on the 2007-2012 Honda Civic. However, there were Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued for related suspension noises.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 51920-SNA-023 51925-SNA-023
Kit includes the upper strut mount with an integrated bearing. Designed for the front left or right side of the 2007-2012 Honda Civic.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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