Parts for your 2017 Honda Civic-Struts

Maintaining and Replacing Struts in Your 2017 Honda Civic

The 2017 Honda Civic is designed with a reliable suspension system that includes struts, making them an integral part of the vehicle's performance and ride quality. The struts in the Civic play a critical role in absorbing shocks from the road, maintaining tire contact, and ensuring a smooth and controlled driving experience. If you own a 2017 Honda Civic or are considering one, it's important to understand how to maintain and, when necessary, replace your struts to keep your car in optimal condition.

Struts are essentially a combination of a shock absorber and a coil spring and are an essential component of the suspension system. They help in dampening the impact of road irregularities, offering stability and support to the vehicle. Typically, Honda Civics are known for their reliable build and quality components, but like any car, parts wear over time. Knowing when and how to replace the struts can prevent further damage and ensure a comfortable ride.

1. Signs Your Struts Need Attention
   • If you notice your car bottoming out when going over speed bumps or dips, it could be a sign that your struts need replacement.
   • Another red flag is excessive bouncing after hitting a bump. This indicates the struts are no longer adequately absorbing shocks.
   • You might also experience a steering wheel that feels loose or responds poorly, often caused by worn-out struts affecting the alignment and handling.
   • Uneven tyre wear can also be a result of malfunctioning struts, as they are unable to maintain proper tyre contact with the road.
2. Regular Maintenance Tips
   • Regularly inspect your struts for visible damage or leaks. Hydraulic fluid leakage can indicate a failing strut.
   • During routine checks, ensure the mounting hardware is secure and there's no rust or corrosion.
   • Consider replacing your shock absorbers in pairs (front or rear) to maintain balanced handling and control.
3. When to Replace Struts
   • The ideal timeframe to consider replacing struts is every 80,000 to 100,000 km or sooner if any of the mentioned symptoms are present. This varies based on driving conditions and frequency of use.
   • Proactively replacing struts when they begin to show signs of wear not only improves safety but also enhances the overall performance of your car.
4. The Replacement Process
   • While replacing struts is a task that can be performed at home if you're skilled with automotive repairs, it's generally recommended to have this done by a professional mechanic. Incorrect installation can lead to further issues with your suspension system.
   • The process involves removing the wheel, detaching the brake hose and anti-lock braking system (ABS) sensor bracket, and unfastening the bolts and nuts that secure the strut assembly. The strut is then replaced, and everything is reattached.
5. Post-Replacement Steps
   • After replacing the struts, it's crucial to have a wheel alignment done to ensure the suspension geometry is correct and the tyres wear evenly.
   • Drive the car slowly at first to get a feel for the new struts and ensure that everything is operating smoothly.

Investing in regular maintenance and timely replacement of your 2017 Honda Civic's struts not only enhances the safety and performance of your car but also prolongs its lifespan. Paying attention to the signs of wear and addressing issues promptly ensures that your Civic remains a joy to drive. Whether you opt to handle the replacement yourself or enlist the expertise of a professional, maintaining your struts is essential to keeping your vehicle in top shape.