2021-2025 Honda Accord & Civic Front Suspension Noise TSB

Honda has released Service Bulletin 23-094, Version 2, to address a common issue of front suspension noise in certain 2021-2025 Accord and Civic models. This bulletin, which supersedes the previous version dated November 7, 2023, provides a clear diagnosis and repair procedure for owners experiencing a specific type of noise from their vehicle's front end. If you are hearing a Honda Civic front suspension noise or similar sounds from your Accord, this information is highly relevant.

Symptoms

Owners may notice a "dull creaking, rubbing, popping, or clicking noise coming from the front of the vehicle while turning at low speeds." This specific Honda Civic front suspension noise typically occurs when maneuvering the vehicle at slower speeds.

Possible Cause

The root cause of this noise has been identified as the front suspension bump stop making contact with the top of the front damper body. This contact generates the audible sounds described by owners.

Important Warnings

Before attempting any diagnosis or repair, it's crucial to understand the conditions under which this bulletin applies:

• Diagnostic Exclusion: Honda explicitly states, "This noise is not coming from the damper bearing." If the noise originates from the damper bearing, this bulletin's solution will not apply.
• Applicability: "If no noise is heard, or a clunking noise is heard, this bulletin does not apply. Continue with normal troubleshooting." This means the bulletin is specific to creaking, rubbing, popping, or clicking sounds, not a general clunking.
• DIY Advisory: The information in this bulletin is intended for use by skilled technicians with proper tools and training. Honda advises that these procedures "should not be attempted by 'do-it-yourselfers.'" Always contact an authorized Honda automobile dealer to determine if this information applies to your vehicle.

Repair Procedure Summary

The corrective action outlined in Honda Service Bulletin 23-094 involves applying Shin-Etsu silicone grease to the front suspension bump stops. The general steps are:

1. The vehicle is raised, and the front wheels are removed.
2. The front damper dust cover is lifted to expose the damper shaft and bump stop.
3. Approximately 0.5 grams (a fingertip dab) of Shin-Etsu silicone grease is applied around the bottom of the bump stop. Care is taken to wipe off any excess grease from the damper shaft.
4. The damper dust cover is reinstalled.
5. These steps are repeated for the other front damper.
6. Finally, the front wheels are reinstalled, and the wheel nuts are torqued to 108 N·m (80 lb-ft).

Required Tools or Parts

The primary material required for this repair is:

• Part Name: Shin-Etsu Silicone Grease (one tube repairs 80 cars)
• Part Number: 08798-9013
• Quantity: 1

Warranty Claim Information

For technicians and dealerships, the following codes are provided for warranty claims related to this issue:

• Operation Number: 4145A4
• Description: Apply Shin-Etsu silicone grease to the front bump stops. (Includes inspection)
• Flat Rate Time: 0.4 hr
• Defect Code: 03001
• Symptom Code: 03217
• Template ID: A23094A
• Failed Part Number: 51722-TVA-A01

Owner Action

If you are experiencing a Honda Civic front suspension noise or similar sounds in your affected Honda Accord or Civic, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Honda dealer. They can properly diagnose the issue using the inspection procedure outlined in TSB 23-094 and perform the necessary repair. This service is typically covered under warranty if your vehicle meets the specified conditions.

Source: NHTSA ID 11015016