Not that long ago I did a video about inspecting your suspension for faults. I used my 1993 Acura Vigor for this video. In the video it was clear that my upper control arms, axles, and struts needed attention. This video answers to those issues and is a step by step representation of the process of replacing these components on my Acura Vigor. There aren’t many Acura Vigors out there, but there are plenty of Honda Accords. In fact, the information in this video will apply to Honda Accords from 1990-2002.
To me this doesn’t seem like a difficult job, but you may have to deal with rust and other issues that older vehicles often present as you’ll see in the video. I’m also fortunate enough to have a wall mounted spring compressor that makes things easier. If you don’t have access to one of these spring compressors, I’d recommend you take the struts to a shop that has one. You would only pay a fraction of the cost of the full job if you were just having the struts changed out. Something to consider if you’re looking to do this job yourself.
That said, be sure to follow safe repair procedures to avoid injury. Outside of that, you’d be saving yourself quite a bit of money doing this work yourself. I can attest to the fact that the ride was greatly improved after I did these repairs. Can’t wait to put some new tires on to finish the job.
Camera: Brian Kast
Thanks for watching!
The best place for answers to your automotive questions: http://www.ericthecarguy.com
Extended version of this video here: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/premium-content-web/13-premium-content-videos/1277-acura-vigor-honda-accord-axle-upper-control-arm-strut-replacement-extended-version
Related videos.
Monroe Suspension Inspection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=592ZIe_Wncw
Replacing Honda Struts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ce5c6eUPW4s
Front Strut Replacement 2001 Honda Odyssey: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpSIv3mk98k
Replacing Front Struts 1999 Pontiac Grand Am: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDOTTMf2n8g
How To Find Suspension Noises: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scFbb43fwqk
Replacing CV Boots: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-S-ofMoWsr0
How To Replace a Front Wheel Drive Axle: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jydxpsh13WQ
Disc Brake Service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKpmBvfVYZg
Tools.
Branick Spring Compressor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNESfoC-Zrk
Discussion about this video: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/kunena/18-The-EricTheCarGuy-Video-Forum/59509-vigor-accord-axle-upper-control-arm-strut-replacement#144995
Useful articles.
Engine overheat: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/what-to-do-when-your-engine-overheats
No start problems: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-no-start-problems
Idle issues: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-idle-problems
Performance issues: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-performance-issues
Diagnosing Noises: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/diagnosing-noises-in-your-car
Diagnosing Vibrations: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/determining-the-causes-of-vehicle-vibrations
Electrical Problems: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-electrical-problems
Brake Issues: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-brake-problems
Transmission issues: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-transmission-problems
HVAC problems: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-hvac-problems
Buying a Used Car: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/what-to-look-for-in-a-used-car-purchase
Leaks: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/finding-and-fixing-leaks
MPG: http://ericthecarguy.com/faq/finding-and-fixing-the-causes-of-poor-mpg
The best place for answers to your automotive questions: http://www.ericthecarguy.com
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ETCG
Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information.  EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video.  Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.
You be careful hammering on that axle. That's how Abe Lincoln died you know.
Out of this entire video did anyone else see that man made hammer..?? That’s massive and got the mean bend.🤣😎 that’s some grim reaper shit right there.🤣🤣🤣
How about long as you're in there pulling those rubber brake lines and replacing 'em with stainless steel?
I’m surprised you didn’t use some copper grease on that pinch bolt ðŸ¤â€
omg you are so funny, you could prolly start a comedy channel.
I had to do the same works on the ground .
This is a good example of why Eric is king! Sure, there are other people doing other videos, but they all fall into one of two categories. Either they're an amature trying to sell you on some God awful whacked out, shortcut that does more harm than good, or they're a mechanic's shop using a cleaned up, newer, car, and editing out any problems with seized bolts, sheared bolt heads, etc … Eric throws an older, rusted up, car up on the lift and shows you how a professional deals with the good, the bad, and the ugly, of it all.
1:30 ok, you just killed me
There is now a squeal where there as non before coming from the front passenger side of my accord after replacing the CV axle. Maybe I missed it in the video, but does anything need to be greased/lubed between the CV axle and the hub in the knuckle?
Thank You very much thanks to
You learned how to change the Rack Pinion of my Honda.
Eric, is it better to use the original coil spring rather than an aftermarket ?
Yes vever say SSSSSðŸ™ÂEric l like your vidios
Eric, great video as usual. Can you help us understand how to adjust and position the top bolts to help get the camber in its proper adjustment? What did you do to the side bolts of the new control arms to ensure a good alignment after installation? Thanks!
Penetrating oil and sliced bread. No spiders were harmed making this video.
Eric, please do some 3rd gen prelude stuff…you being a honda guy of similar vintage…thanks.
Are torque sticks accurate?
Sometimes i just want to knock out an axle.
what wrong with your Dewalt…?
Didn't see it in the video, but I assume it is okay to hammer a bit on the outer end of the CV shaft to seat the inner spline on the retention ring? It won't damage the spider or rollers within the CV joints, will it?
As far as installing the axles go, you just push them into the transmission/diff? Seems it would be more to it than that. Thanks for all you do!
This episode brought to you by PENETRATING OIL. Don't enter the shop without it!
how much is the vigor suspension like the same year legend??