2021 HONDA ACCORD

1.5L I4 TurboFWDCVTgasturbo
4 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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exhaust

Tail Pipe

for 2021 Honda Accord 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
30 min
Tools
9
Steps
12

This procedure covers removal and installation of the tail pipe assembly on a 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L Turbo, including disconnection from the muffler or resonator and removal of exhaust hangers.

Warnings

⚠️Exhaust system will be extremely hot after engine operation. Allow vehicle to cool for at least 1 hour before beginning work.
Exhaust components may be corroded and fragile. Use penetrating oil on all fasteners before attempting removal.
Ensure vehicle is securely supported on jack stands rated for the vehicle weight before working underneath.

Tools required

14mm socket and ratchetEssential
17mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Penetrating oil
Floor jack and jack standsEssential
Anti-seize compoundEssential
Pry bar or exhaust hanger removal tool
Wire brush
Safety glassesEssential

Parts

  • Tail pipe assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
  • Exhaust flange gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
  • Exhaust flange bolts (if corroded) × 2 — M10 bolts, Use OEM specification

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
  2. Allow exhaust system to cool completely for at least 1 hour if vehicle was recently driven
  3. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-approved lift points
  4. Spray all exhaust fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes

Procedure

  1. 1
    Locate tail pipe and flange connection
    Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle. Locate the tail pipe assembly which connects to the muffler or resonator via a flanged connection. Identify the two flange bolts, springs (if equipped), and rubber exhaust hangers supporting the tail pipe.
  2. 2
    Support the tail pipe
    Use a floor jack or have an assistant support the weight of the tail pipe assembly to prevent it from falling when disconnected. Position the jack or support near the middle of the tail pipe section.
  3. 3
    Remove exhaust flange bolts
    Using a 14mm socket, remove the two bolts securing the tail pipe flange to the muffler or resonator flange. If springs are present, carefully unhook them. The flange may be stuck due to corrosion; gently tap with a rubber mallet if needed to separate the connection.
    Torque spec
    Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
  4. 4
    Separate the flange connection
    Once bolts are removed, pull the tail pipe rearward to separate it from the muffler flange. Remove and discard the old exhaust gasket from the flange connection. Inspect the muffler flange surface for damage or excessive corrosion.
  5. 5
    Remove tail pipe from rubber hangers
    Locate the rubber exhaust hangers supporting the tail pipe (typically 1-2 hangers). Use a pry bar or exhaust hanger removal tool to carefully pry the tail pipe mounting tabs out of the rubber hangers. Work slowly to avoid tearing the rubber isolators.
  6. 6
    Remove tail pipe assembly
    With the flange disconnected and hangers released, carefully lower and remove the tail pipe assembly from under the vehicle. Set aside and inspect for damage or excessive corrosion that necessitated replacement.
  7. 7
    Clean flange surfaces
    Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean the mating surface of the muffler flange, removing all old gasket material, carbon deposits, and corrosion. The surface must be clean and flat for proper sealing.
  8. 8
    Install new tail pipe into hangers
    Position the new tail pipe assembly under the vehicle and insert the mounting tabs into the rubber exhaust hangers. You may need to use a pry bar or apply soapy water to the rubber hangers to ease installation. Ensure tabs are fully seated in the hangers.
  9. 9
    Install new flange gasket
    Place the new exhaust flange gasket onto the muffler flange studs or position it between the muffler and tail pipe flanges. Ensure the gasket is properly aligned with the bolt holes.
  10. 10
    Connect tail pipe flange
    Align the tail pipe flange with the muffler flange, ensuring the gasket remains in position. You may need to adjust the tail pipe position slightly to align the bolt holes. Support the tail pipe while connecting.
  11. 11
    Install and torque flange bolts
    Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the flange bolts. Insert both bolts through the flanges and thread them in by hand. Tighten the bolts in an alternating pattern to 45.0 Nm (33.0 lb-ft) using a torque wrench. If springs are part of the assembly, ensure they are properly positioned before final tightening.
    Torque spec
    Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
  12. 12
    Adjust tail pipe alignment
    Check the position and alignment of the tail pipe. The pipe should exit straight from the vehicle with adequate clearance from the bumper, body panels, and suspension components. Adjust by rotating slightly in the rubber hangers if necessary.

Reassembly

  1. Double-check that all flange bolts are torqued to specification
  2. Verify tail pipe is securely seated in all rubber hangers
  3. Ensure adequate clearance between tail pipe and all vehicle components

Verification

  • Start the engine and listen for exhaust leaks at the flange connection (hissing or ticking sounds indicate a leak)
  • Visually inspect the flange joint while engine is running for any visible exhaust gas escaping
  • Check tail pipe alignment and ensure it does not contact body panels or suspension during idle
  • Rev engine slightly and verify no abnormal rattling or vibration from the exhaust system
  • After a short test drive, re-inspect flange bolts for looseness and re-torque if necessary

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