Muffler

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the muffler assembly on a 2018-2024 Honda Accord with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Muffler assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or quality aftermarket equivalent
• Exhaust gasket (flange connection) × 1 — 18307-TBA-A00 or equivalent
• Exhaust clamp (if reusing is not possible) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and allow exhaust system to cool completely for at least 90 minutes after last operation
2. Apply penetrating oil to all muffler mounting bolts, clamps, and flange connections. Allow to soak for 15-20 minutes
3. Raise vehicle using floor jack at factory lift points and support securely on jack stands at the rear subframe
4. Verify vehicle stability by attempting to rock it gently before working underneath
5. Inspect the entire exhaust system from catalytic converter to tailpipe for damage or excessive corrosion

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect rear exhaust hangers
   Locate the two rubber exhaust hangers supporting the muffler assembly near the rear bumper. Use a pry bar or exhaust hanger tool to carefully disengage the metal hanger loops from the rubber isolators. Work slowly to avoid tearing the rubber. If replacing the muffler, you can cut the rubber hangers if necessary.
2. 2

   Disconnect middle exhaust hanger
   Locate the middle rubber exhaust hanger positioned approximately under the rear passenger seat area. Use the same technique to disengage the metal loop from the rubber isolator. Support the muffler weight with one hand or have an assistant hold it as you work.
3. 3

   Remove muffler clamp at connection pipe
   Locate the band clamp connecting the muffler inlet to the center pipe section (after the resonator). Using a 14mm socket, remove the clamp bolt completely. If the clamp is severely corroded, you may need to cut it off with a reciprocating saw or angle grinder. Twist the muffler gently to break the seal if it is stuck.
   Torque spec

   Muffler Clamps55 Nm (41 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Separate muffler from connection pipe
   With the clamp removed, pull the muffler rearward to slide it off the slip joint connection. The inlet pipe should slide out of the center pipe. You may need to twist and wiggle the assembly while pulling. If stuck due to corrosion, apply more penetrating oil and allow it to soak, then use a twisting motion to break the seal.
5. 5

   Remove muffler assembly from vehicle
   Lower the muffler assembly carefully, ensuring all hangers are disconnected. Guide the tailpipe out from under the rear bumper fascia. Inspect the rubber hangers and mounting points for damage or excessive wear.
6. 6

   Clean connection surfaces
   Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean the connection pipe where the muffler inlet slides over. Remove all rust, carbon deposits, and old gasket material. Clean the inside diameter of the pipe opening to ensure a proper seal. Wipe clean with a rag.
7. 7

   Prepare new muffler assembly
   Unpack the new muffler and verify it matches the old unit in terms of inlet/outlet pipe diameters, overall length, and hanger positions. Apply a thin coat of anti-seize compound to the inlet pipe of the new muffler where it will slide into the connection pipe.
8. 8

   Install new muffler assembly
   Guide the tailpipe end through the rear bumper opening and position the muffler under the vehicle. Slide the muffler inlet pipe into the center pipe connection, ensuring at least 2 inches of overlap. Do not fully tighten any connections yet—this is a preliminary fit.
9. 9

   Connect exhaust hangers
   Reconnect all rubber exhaust hangers in the reverse order of removal. Start with the middle hanger, then the two rear hangers. Use a pry bar or hanger tool to stretch the rubber isolators over the metal hanger loops. Ensure the muffler is hanging evenly and the tailpipe is aligned with the bumper cutout.
10. 10

    Install and torque muffler clamp
    Position the new clamp (or reuse the original if in good condition) over the slip joint connection. Ensure the clamp is centered over the joint. Install the clamp bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Verify the connection is secure and the pipes are properly aligned.
    Torque spec

    Muffler Clamps55 Nm (41 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Verify exhaust alignment and clearance
    Check that the entire exhaust system has adequate clearance from the fuel tank, suspension components, rear subframe, and body panels. There should be at least 10mm clearance on all sides. Verify the tailpipe extends properly through the rear bumper opening and is visually centered. Adjust hanger positions if needed to achieve proper alignment.

Reassembly

1. Double-check all clamp bolts are torqued to specification
2. Ensure all exhaust hangers are properly seated in their rubber isolators
3. Verify no tools or parts have been left under the vehicle
4. Lower vehicle from jack stands carefully

Verification

• Start the engine and listen for exhaust leaks at the muffler connection point. You should hear a hissing sound if a leak is present
• With the engine running, feel around the clamp connection with your hand (keep a safe distance) to detect escaping exhaust gases
• Allow the engine to reach operating temperature and recheck for leaks, as thermal expansion may reveal issues not apparent when cold
• Take a short test drive and listen for any rattling, buzzing, or abnormal exhaust sounds that could indicate improper hanger installation or contact with body panels
• After the test drive, recheck the muffler clamp torque when the system has cooled

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