Exhaust Clamp

This procedure covers the replacement of an exhaust clamp on the 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L Turbo, including removal of the old clamp and installation of a new clamp to repair an exhaust leak or damaged connection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust band clamp × 1 — Size dependent on exhaust section (typically 60-70mm diameter)
• Exhaust gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification if clamp is at flanged connection

Preparation

1. Ensure engine and exhaust system are completely cold to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level surface, engage parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Raise vehicle using floor jack at appropriate jacking points and support securely on jack stands
4. Locate the damaged or leaking exhaust clamp - common locations include mid-pipe connections and resonator joints
5. Spray penetrating oil on clamp bolts/nuts and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes if corrosion is visible

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove heat shield if necessary
   If the exhaust clamp is covered by a heat shield, remove the heat shield mounting bolts using a 10mm socket. Keep track of bolt locations as some shields use different length bolts. Set heat shield aside.
   Torque spec

   Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Loosen exhaust clamp
   Locate the clamp bolt(s) or nut securing the band clamp. Using a 14mm socket, loosen and remove the clamp hardware completely. If the clamp uses a saddle-type design with two bolts, remove both bolts. For band clamps, there will typically be one bolt passing through the band.
3. 3

   Remove old clamp
   Carefully slide or pry the old clamp off the exhaust pipe connection. If the clamp is seized or corroded in place, use a wire brush to clean around the clamp and apply additional penetrating oil. Tap gently with a rubber mallet if needed to break it free. Inspect the pipe ends for damage or excessive corrosion.
4. 4

   Clean pipe connection surfaces
   Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean both mating surfaces of the exhaust pipes where the clamp will seat. Remove all rust, carbon buildup, and old gasket material. The surfaces should be clean metal to ensure a proper seal. If this is a slip-fit joint, clean both the inner and outer pipe surfaces.
5. 5

   Install new gasket if applicable
   If the clamp connection uses a gasket (common at flanged connections), install a new exhaust gasket between the pipe flanges. Ensure the gasket is properly centered and aligned with all bolt holes. For slip-fit connections without flanges, proceed without a gasket.
6. 6

   Position new exhaust clamp
   Slide the new band clamp over the exhaust pipe connection, ensuring it is centered over the joint. For slip-fit connections, verify the pipes are fully engaged before positioning the clamp. The clamp should sit in the recessed groove if one is present on the pipes.
7. 7

   Install and tighten clamp hardware
   Insert the clamp bolt(s) and thread on the nut(s) by hand. Using a 14mm socket and ratchet, tighten the clamp evenly. For two-bolt saddle clamps, alternate between bolts to ensure even pressure. Tighten securely but do not overtighten band clamps as this can deform the pipe or crack the clamp. Typical tightening is 40-50 Nm for band clamps, snug for slip-fit connections.
8. 8

   Reinstall heat shield
   If a heat shield was removed, reposition it over the exhaust components. Apply anti-seize to heat shield bolt threads and install all bolts hand-tight first. Torque heat shield bolts to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all clamp hardware is tight and the clamp is properly seated on the pipe connection
2. Double-check that heat shields are securely fastened and not contacting moving components
3. Remove jack stands and carefully lower the vehicle to the ground

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to idle. Listen for any exhaust leaks at the clamp location - a hissing or ticking sound indicates a leak
• With engine running, carefully feel around the clamp area (without touching hot components) for exhaust gas escaping
• Inspect the clamp visually with the engine running to ensure it is not vibrating excessively or showing signs of looseness
• Take a short test drive and re-inspect the clamp for any signs of leaking or loosening after the exhaust system reaches operating temperature

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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