Parts for your 2013 Honda Stream-Bump stops

2013 Honda Stream bump-stops: what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2013 Honda Stream is fitted with bump-stops. Technical diagrams in the Honda Service Manual for the RN6–RN9 Stream (2006–2014) show a jounce bumper (bump-stop) integrated on the front MacPherson strut, and a bump rubber on the rear damper. Honda’s EPC/parts catalogues also list these components for this model, and major shock manufacturers’ catalogues include dust-boot kits with integrated bump-stops for the Stream. So they’re absolutely relevant on this vehicle.

Bump-stops are the small but mighty safety nets of the suspension. On the Stream, they act as progressive secondary springs that come into play right at the end of suspension travel. They stop metal-to-metal contact, protect the shocks, mounts and control arms, and help keep the ride composed over big hits, heavy loads, speed humps and deep potholes. With family duty and occasional loads, the Stream benefits a lot from healthy bump-stops.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth giving them a look whenever the shocks, struts or tyres are checked. The front jounce bumper lives under the dust boot on the strut shaft, the rear bump rubber sits on the damper assembly. Heat, age and oil contamination can make the microcellular foam go brittle or crumble, especially in Aussie and Kiwi sun.

• Tell-tales they need attention: dull “thud” on big bumps, torn dust boots, cracked or missing foam, and frequent bottoming-out with passengers or luggage.
• Best practice: replace in axle pairs, and fit new dust boots at the same time.
• Fronts require strut removal and a spring compressor, rears are simpler but still need safe support stands.
• After front strut work, a wheel alignment is recommended.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but many owners do bump-stops when fitting new shocks, or any time the foam shows cracks, is oil-soaked, or has gone mushy. Those running the Stream lowered, towing, or carrying regular loads might consider firmer or slightly longer bump-stops to preserve travel without harshness. Given the low cost, fresh bump-stops are cheap insurance for ride quality and suspension longevity.

Popular questions about 2013 Honda Stream bump-stops

Do all 2013 Honda Streams have bump-stops?
They do. The RN6–RN9 Stream uses a jounce bumper on the front MacPherson strut and a bump rubber on the rear damper. This is shown in the Honda Service Manual suspension sections and corroborated by Honda EPC diagrams and aftermarket shock kit listings.

How often should the bump-stops be replaced?
There’s no strict schedule. Check them during regular servicing or whenever shocks/struts are replaced. If the foam is cracked, missing, or oil-soaked, replace. Many workshops change them with new dampers to keep the ride consistent.

Is it OK to drive with damaged bump-stops?
Short-term, the car will still roll, but it risks bottoming-out, which can hammer the shocks, top mounts and suspension arms. For safety and comfort, get them sorted promptly.