How to Replace Upper Control Arm 03-07 Honda Accord
Difficulty: Advanced · About 120 min · Honda Accord
Replace the upper control arm on a 2003–07 Honda Accord, removing the complete strut for clearance and preserving the ABS wire bracket during reassembly.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- 19 mm socket
- 17 mm socket
- 14 mm socket
- 12 mm socket
- Ratchet
- Torque wrench
Parts and supplies
- Upper control arm
- New cotter pin
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen the lug nuts with the wheel on the ground. Raise and support the front securely, then remove the wheel.
Remove the strut for access
Remove the lower strut fastener and wishbone hardware. Support the knuckle, remove the upper mount nuts, and lift the complete strut assembly out without disturbing its spring.
Disconnect the upper ball joint
Remove the cotter pin and castle nut, then separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle with a suitable separator. Unbolt the ABS wire bracket from the arm.
Remove the upper control arm
Remove the inner control arm bolts and lift the arm from the body mounts. Keep the bushings and bolt orientation noted for correct installation.
Install the replacement arm
Position the new arm in the body guides and start its bolts loosely. Reconnect the ball joint to the knuckle and install a new cotter pin after tightening to specification.
Reinstall strut and ABS bracket
Return the strut assembly to its upper mount and lower wishbone, then tighten all hardware to vehicle specification. Reattach the ABS wire bracket and check routing.
Reinstall wheel and align
Mount the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque lug nuts to specification. Arrange a professional wheel alignment and inspect the suspension before normal driving.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.