How to Replace Rear Shock Absorber If Lower Bolt Breaks 06-11 Honda Civic

Difficulty: Advanced · About 90 min · Honda Civic

Replace a rear shock absorber on a 2006–11 Honda Civic, including a broken lower fastener, while supporting the suspension and restoring trunk trim.

Steps

1. Open the trunk and remove trim

   Remove the side trim clips and lift the trunk floor covering. Move the side panel aside to access the shock's upper mount and remove its retaining hardware.

2. Raise the vehicle and support the arm

   Loosen the wheel nuts, raise and support the rear securely, then remove the wheel. Place a jack under the lower control arm to support it before removing the shock bolt.

3. Remove the shock absorber

   Loosen the lower fastener and remove it carefully. If it is broken, support the surrounding parts and use an appropriate extraction method without damaging the control arm; remove the shock from its mounts.

4. Install the new shock

   Transfer the required washers and bushings in the correct order. Position the shock, align the lower mount, and start its fastener by hand while the control arm remains supported.

5. Secure the shock mounts

   Fit the upper bushings and washers and tighten the upper hardware to specification. Raise the control arm as needed to align the lower mount, then tighten its fastener to specification.

6. Restore trim and wheel

   Reinstall the trunk trim and floor covering. Mount the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to specification in a crossing pattern.

7. Inspect and test

   Check the shock bushings and lower fastener for secure seating. Test drive cautiously over a smooth road and listen for movement or knocking.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.