A Mechanic's Guide to 2013-2017 Honda CR-V Suspension Struts
Restore your CR-V's original ride quality by understanding its struts and choosing the right replacement parts.
- Always replace struts in pairs (front or rear) to maintain balanced handling and safety.
- A four-wheel alignment is mandatory after strut replacement to prevent uneven tire wear.
- For DIY replacement, complete strut assemblies ('quick struts') are much safer and easier to install than bare struts.
- KYB is widely considered the OEM-equivalent brand for Honda, offering the best quality, while Monroe is a solid mid-grade choice.
Is Your CR-V's Ride Not What It Used to Be?
As your 2013-2017 Honda CR-V gets older, the parts that give it a smooth, controlled ride begin to wear out. The suspension struts are a primary wear item. You might not notice the slow decline in ride quality, but once you replace worn struts, the difference is night and day. Common signs of failure include a bouncy or floaty feeling on the highway, harshness over small bumps, and a loud clunking or knocking noise from the front or rear suspension. You may also notice that the vehicle doesn't feel as stable when turning or braking.
Known Issue: Rattling Noise from Front Suspension
For the 2017 model year CR-V (and others), a common issue is a rattling noise from the front suspension over bumps. Honda issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) A20-036 🎬 Watch this video to see how to replace the damper caps. for this problem. The cause is often faulty rubber damper caps on the top of the struts, not the entire strut assembly. Before replacing the entire strut for a rattling noise, it's worth investigating if this simple, inexpensive part is the true cause.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut
When replacing your CR-V's struts, you don't have to go back to the dealer. Aftermarket parts offer a wide range of quality and price. For this job, it's important to understand the difference between a bare strut and a complete strut assembly (often called a "quick strut").
- Bare Strut: This is just the strut itself. It's less expensive upfront, but the installation is more complex and requires a special tool called a spring compressor. This can be dangerous if not done correctly.
- Complete Strut Assembly: This includes the strut, coil spring, and top mount all in one pre-assembled unit. It's safer, faster, and much easier to install, making it the top choice for most DIY mechanics.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Your CR-V
Premium Tier - KYB: KYB is a well-regarded brand and is often the original equipment (OEM) manufacturer for Honda. This means choosing a KYB strut is like getting a genuine Honda part, often at a lower price. They are known for restoring the original factory ride and handling characteristics. For most CR-V owners, KYB is the best choice for quality and longevity.
Mid-Grade Tier - Monroe: Monroe is another major brand that offers reliable, good-quality struts. Their "Quick-Strut" complete assemblies are popular for being an all-in-one solution that restores factory ride height. While some users find them to be slightly softer than KYB, they are a solid and widely available option.
Economy Tier - FCS: FCS struts are a budget-friendly option. They are significantly less expensive, which can be appealing. However, owner feedback suggests the ride quality may be softer and they may not last as long as premium brands. They can be a reasonable choice if you're on a tight budget or planning to sell the vehicle soon, but don't expect the same performance or durability 🎬 Check out this review of the top 5 CR-V strut options. as KYB or Monroe.
Pro Tip: Always replace struts in pairs (both fronts or both rears). Replacing just one can lead to unbalanced handling and uneven wear. Also, a four-wheel alignment is required after replacing struts to ensure your tires wear evenly and the vehicle drives straight.
Cost to Replace 2013-2017 Honda CR-V Struts
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Strut Assembly (per corner) | $62 - $143 |
| New OEM Strut (bare strut, per corner) | $140 - $215 |
| Shop Labor (per pair, front or rear) | $396 - $581 |
| Total Professional Replacement (pair, aftermarket) | $520 - $867 |
Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location, the specific parts chosen, and the repair shop's labor rates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to replace struts in pairs?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Struts wear out over time, and replacing only one side can create an imbalance in your CR-V's suspension. This can negatively affect handling, stability, and braking. Always replace both the left and right struts on an axle at the same time.
What is a "Quick Strut" and should I use one?
A "Quick Strut" or complete strut assembly is a single unit that includes the strut, coil spring, and mount. For a DIY replacement, this is the best and safest option. It eliminates the need to use a dangerous spring compressor and significantly speeds up the installation process, often reducing a 4-hour job to under 1 hour per side.
Is an alignment necessary after replacing struts?
Absolutely. Replacing a strut will always change the vehicle's suspension geometry. A four-wheel alignment is required to reset the camber, caster, and toe angles to the correct specifications. Skipping this step will cause poor handling and rapid, uneven tire wear.
Are there any recalls for the 2013-2017 CR-V suspension?
No, there are no recalls specifically for the struts on the 2013-2017 Honda CR-V. There was a significant recall for rear suspension frame rust on older 2007-2011 models in salt-belt states, but this does not apply to the 2013-2017 generation. Always check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information for your specific vehicle.
Helpful Videos
![Top 5 Best Struts for Honda CRV [Review 2024] - Front Left Coil Spring Shocks & Quick Struts](https://img.youtube.com/vi/mznP1Iz7mBY/mqdefault.jpg)
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 51621-T0A-A01 52611-T1W-A03 52611-T0A-A02
The 2013-2017 Honda CR-V uses a MacPherson strut design for the front suspension and a shock absorber with a separate coil spring for the rear suspension. However, the term 'strut' is commonly used for both front and rear assemblies in the aftermarket.
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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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