2021 HONDA ACCORD

1.5L I4 TurboFWDCVTgasturbo
3 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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electrical

Backup Camera

for 2021 Honda Accord 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.0 h
Tools
7
Steps
11

Replace or repair the rear backup camera on a 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L Turbo, including removal of the trunk trim panel and camera module replacement.

Warnings

Do not force trim clips as they break easily. Use proper plastic trim removal tools.
ℹ️The backup camera system may store diagnostic codes if disconnected with ignition on. Keep ignition off during this procedure.
Ensure the camera lens is not scratched during removal or installation.

Tools required

Plastic trim removal toolsEssential
Phillips screwdriverEssential
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Flathead screwdriver
Torque wrench (5-15 Nm range)Essential
Electrical contact cleaner
Microfiber cloth

Parts

  • Backup camera assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
  • Trunk trim panel clips (if broken) × 4 — Honda OEM trunk clips
  • Camera seal/gasket × 1 — Usually included with camera assembly

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
  2. Turn ignition off and remove key
  3. Open trunk and ensure adequate lighting for working in trunk area
  4. Verify new camera part number matches original unit if replacing

Procedure

  1. 1
    Remove trunk interior trim panel
    Open the trunk fully. Locate the interior trunk trim panel that covers the area behind the rear bumper and camera location. Use plastic trim removal tools to carefully pry out the trim clips securing the lower trunk trim panel. Start from one side and work across, releasing 6-8 clips. Pull the panel away gently and set aside.
  2. 2
    Remove trunk lid trim cover
    The backup camera is mounted in the trunk lid trim. Locate and remove the small Phillips screws (typically 2-3) securing the trunk lid trim cover near the camera location. Use plastic trim tools to release the remaining clips holding the trim cover in place. Carefully pull the trim cover away to expose the camera mounting area.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  3. 3
    Access camera wiring harness
    Locate the wiring harness connector attached to the backup camera. The connector is typically secured with a locking tab. Press the release tab on the connector while pulling it straight away from the camera. If the connector is difficult to access, you may need to remove additional trunk weatherstripping or routing clips to gain slack in the wiring.
  4. 4
    Remove camera mounting fasteners
    The camera is secured to the trunk lid with module mounting bolts (typically 2-3 bolts). Use a 10mm socket to remove these bolts. Note the location of any grommets or seals around the mounting points as these must be reinstalled to prevent water intrusion.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  5. 5
    Remove backup camera assembly
    Carefully pull the camera assembly out of the trunk lid mounting location. The camera may have a rubber seal or gasket around it. Note the orientation of the camera and how it sits in the mounting bracket. Remove the old gasket if it is damaged or not reusable. Clean the mounting surface with a microfiber cloth to ensure proper seal when installing the new camera.
  6. 6
    Prepare new camera for installation
    Inspect the new backup camera assembly and verify it matches the original. Install the new gasket or seal onto the camera body if not pre-installed. Ensure the camera lens is clean and free of protective film or debris. Check that the mounting holes align with the bracket.
  7. 7
    Install new backup camera
    Position the new camera assembly into the trunk lid mounting location, ensuring correct orientation (lens facing rearward and level). Align the mounting holes with the bracket. Hand-start the module mounting bolts to ensure proper thread engagement before tightening.
  8. 8
    Torque camera mounting bolts
    Using a torque wrench, tighten the module mounting bolts to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure on the camera seal. Verify the camera is seated flush and level in the mounting location. Check that the seal is properly compressed around the entire perimeter to prevent water leaks.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  9. 9
    Connect camera wiring harness
    Route the camera wiring harness to the connector location. Align the connector and push it firmly onto the camera until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked. Ensure wiring is not pinched or stressed.
  10. 10
    Reinstall trunk lid trim cover
    Position the trunk lid trim cover back into place, aligning all clip locations. Press firmly on the trim cover to seat the clips. Install the Phillips screws and tighten to specification. Ensure the trim cover sits flush and does not interfere with trunk operation.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  11. 11
    Reinstall trunk interior trim panel
    Position the lower trunk trim panel back into place. Align all clip locations and press firmly to seat each clip. Work from one side to the other, ensuring each clip is fully engaged. Verify the panel is secure and flush with surrounding trim.

Reassembly

  1. Ensure all trim panels are properly seated and secured with no gaps
  2. Verify trunk lid opens and closes properly without interference from camera or trim
  3. Replace any broken trim clips with new OEM clips

Verification

  • Turn ignition to ON position (engine does not need to run)
  • Shift transmission to REVERSE and verify backup camera image appears on display screen
  • Check that camera image is clear, properly oriented, and centered
  • Verify camera guidelines appear correctly on screen
  • Test camera in various lighting conditions if possible
  • Check for any warning lights or error messages on the dashboard
  • Inspect trunk lid seal area around camera for proper water seal
  • Close and open trunk several times to ensure trim panels remain secure

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