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Autopapyrus · Honda CR-V 5th Generation (RW)
https://autopapyrus.com/guides/honda/cr-v/front-strut-mount-bearing-replacement/
Compiled automatically from service literature and owner experience. Specs are for the typical configuration — check them against your exact car before you start.

Honda CR-V 5th Generation (RW): Front Strut Mount Bearing Replacement

The front strut mount bearing on the 5th-generation Honda CR-V (2017-2022) allows the strut to rotate with the steering and dampens vibration. Wear shows up as clicking when turning the steering wheel and knocking over bumps. Replacement requires removing the strut and disassembling it with spring compressors. Replace the bearing and the mount at the same time, because a worn bearing paired with a new mount fails quickly.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 2-3 hours per side Steps: 13 Tools: jack, jack stands, socket and wrench set (10-19 mm), torque wrench, spring compressors, bench vise, WD-40 or penetrating oil

Part

  • 🔩 Honda 51726-TBA-A01 (strut mount bearing), Honda 51920-TLA-A01 (strut mount, recommended to replace together with the bearing). Aftermarket equivalents: Febest HB-RE (bearing), HSS-001/002 (right/left mounts)
There's a full repair manual for this car Every system, wiring diagrams and torque specs — not just this job. Haynes and 8 more. See manuals →

Step by step

13 steps
  1. Raise the front of the vehicle with a jack, support it on jack stands, and remove the front wheel.
  2. Disconnect the stabilizer bar (sway bar) link from the strut (14-17 mm nut).
  3. Remove the two bolts that secure the strut to the steering knuckle from below (17-19 mm; tighten to 157 N·m (116 lb-ft) on reassembly). Separate the strut from the knuckle.
  4. Open the hood and remove the three upper nuts that secure the strut mount to the body (12-14 mm; tighten to 45 N·m (33 lb-ft) on reassembly). Remove the complete strut assembly from the wheel well.
  5. Install the spring compressors symmetrically on both sides and compress the spring until the pressure on the upper spring seat is relieved (at least 4-5 turns on each compressor).
  6. Secure the strut shaft in a vise or hold it with a hex key (usually 6-8 mm, inside the shaft), then remove the upper shaft nut (17-19 mm; tighten to 29 N·m (21 lb-ft) on reassembly).
  7. Remove the upper spring seat, dust boot, bump stop, and strut mount bearing. Inspect the bearing for grease squeeze-out, play, and corrosion.
  8. Clean the mating surfaces and install the new bearing (if there is little grease, add NLGI 2 lithium grease), the new strut mount, the dust boot, and the bump stop in reverse order.
  9. Thread on the upper shaft nut by hand and tighten it to 29 N·m (21 lb-ft) while keeping the shaft from turning.
  10. Carefully release the spring compressors evenly and remove them. Check that the spring is seated correctly in the seats.
  11. Install the complete strut assembly in the engine bay and thread on the three upper nuts (45 N·m (33 lb-ft)). Insert the lower end of the strut into the steering knuckle bracket and tighten the two bolts (157 N·m (116 lb-ft)).
  12. Reconnect the stabilizer link. Install the wheel and lower the vehicle.
  13. Have the wheel alignment (camber and toe) checked, because the alignment can be thrown off after the strut mount is replaced.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • Always replace the bearing and the strut mount as a set. An old bearing on a new mount, or the reverse, leads to rapid wear and the return of the knocking noises. Use a torque wrench to tighten suspension fasteners, because over- or under-tightening shortens component life and worsens handling. A wheel alignment is required after the replacement.
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