How to Replace Control Arm 01-05 Honda Civic (Not Hatchback)
Difficulty: Advanced · About 90 min · Honda Civic
Replace a front lower control arm on a 2001–2005 Honda Civic sedan or coupe, then have the wheel alignment checked after suspension work.
Tools you will need
- 14mm Wrench
- Socket Extensions
- Torque Wrench
- Hammer
- Rust Penetrant
- 17mm Socket
- Jack Stands
- 19mm Socket
- 5mm Hex Wrench
- Reciprocating Saw
- Flat Blade Screwdriver
- Wire Brush
- Floor Jack
- Swivel
- Needle nose pliers
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
Parts and supplies
- Front lower control arm
- Cotter pin
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen the lug nuts on the ground, raise the front, and support it on rated stands. Remove the wheel and turn the steering for access to the stabilizer link and ball joint.
Disconnect the stabilizer link
Clean exposed threads and apply penetrant if needed. Hold the link stud with a wrench while loosening its nut, then separate the link from the control arm.
Separate and remove the control arm
Remove the ball-joint cotter pin and nut, then separate the joint from the knuckle using a suitable separator. Remove the control-arm pivot fasteners and lower the arm out.
Position the replacement arm
Place the new arm into the body mounts and connect the ball joint to the steering knuckle. Start all pivot and joint fasteners by hand to avoid cross-threading.
Tighten suspension joints at ride height
Support the suspension to approximate normal ride height before final tightening of the pivot bolts. Tighten each fastener to the vehicle's specification and install a new cotter pin through the castle nut.
Reconnect the link and wheel
Reconnect the stabilizer link and tighten its fastener to specification. Reinstall the wheel, lower the Civic, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern, and arrange a wheel alignment check.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.