This procedure covers removal and replacement of the audio amplifier located in the trunk area of the 2018-2024 Honda Accord with 1.5L turbo engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Audio amplifier assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Open trunk and remove any cargo or items that may obstruct access to left rear trim panel
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure cable away from terminal

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove trunk side trim panel
   Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry out the plastic push clips securing the left rear trunk side trim panel. Start from the bottom and work upward. There are typically 6-8 clips along the perimeter. Pull the panel away from the body to release it.
2. 2

   Locate amplifier assembly
   With the trim panel removed, locate the amplifier mounted to the body panel on the left side. The amplifier is a rectangular metal box approximately 8x6 inches with a wiring harness connector on one end.
3. 3

   Disconnect amplifier wiring harness
   Press the release tab on the main wiring harness connector and pull straight out to disconnect from the amplifier. If equipped with multiple connectors, disconnect all harness connectors. Note the routing of the wiring for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove amplifier ground connection
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the ground strap bolt connecting the amplifier ground wire to the body. Keep the bolt for reinstallation. Ensure the ground contact surface is clean and free of corrosion.
   ℹ️Clean ground contact surfaces with electrical contact cleaner if corrosion is present
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove amplifier mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the mounting bolts securing the amplifier to the body panel. There are typically 4 mounting bolts. Support the amplifier while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove amplifier from vehicle
   Carefully pull the amplifier away from the mounting location and remove it from the trunk area. Inspect the mounting surface and clean if necessary before installing the replacement amplifier.
7. 7

   Install replacement amplifier
   Position the new amplifier in the mounting location, aligning the mounting holes with the body panel. Install all mounting bolts finger-tight first, then torque to specification in a cross pattern.
   ⚠Do not overtighten mounting bolts as this may damage the amplifier housing
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect ground strap
   Connect the ground strap to the amplifier ground terminal and body ground point. Ensure the contact surfaces are clean and metal-to-metal contact is established. Install the ground strap bolt and torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect wiring harness
   Route the wiring harness to match the original routing. Connect the harness connector(s) to the amplifier, ensuring each connector clicks firmly into place and the locking tab engages.
10. 10

    Reinstall trunk trim panel
    Position the trunk side trim panel and align all mounting holes. Press firmly to engage all push clips, starting at the top and working downward. Ensure all clips are fully seated and the panel is flush with the body.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and allow the audio system to initialize for approximately 30 seconds.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all wiring harness connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify ground connection is tight and contact surfaces are clean
3. Confirm all trim panels are properly secured with no gaps or loose clips
4. Enter radio security code if prompted by the audio system

Verification

• Start the vehicle and turn on the audio system
• Test all speakers for proper sound output and balance
• Verify no warning lights or audio system error messages appear
• Test multiple audio sources (radio, Bluetooth, USB) to confirm amplifier function
• Check for unusual noises, distortion, or lack of bass response indicating improper installation
• Verify trim panel is secure with no rattles when driving

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