Power Antenna Motor

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the power antenna motor assembly on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic 1.5L Turbo, typically located in the right rear quarter panel area.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power antenna motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna mast (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trunk liner clips (replacements for broken clips) × 5 — Honda 91560-SNA-A01 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
3. Open trunk and remove any items that may obstruct access to the right rear quarter panel area
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts during the procedure
5. Allow at least 3 minutes after battery disconnect before proceeding to allow systems to power down

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove trunk liner panels
   Using panel removal tools, carefully pry out the clips securing the right rear trunk liner panel. Start from the bottom edge and work upward to avoid breaking clips. Remove the trunk side panel to expose the antenna motor mounting area. Set aside clips and panels in a safe location.
2. 2

   Locate and access antenna motor
   Identify the power antenna motor assembly mounted to the inner quarter panel. The motor is cylindrical with an electrical connector and antenna mast extending upward. Use a flashlight to verify the motor location and check for any corrosion or damage to the mounting area.
3. 3

   Disconnect antenna motor electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the antenna motor electrical connector and carefully pull the connector straight away from the motor. Inspect connector pins for corrosion or damage. Do not pull on wires; grip only the connector body.
4. 4

   Disconnect antenna cable
   Locate the antenna coaxial cable connection at the base of the motor assembly. Unscrew the coaxial cable fitting by turning counterclockwise. Keep track of any washers or grounding components.
5. 5

   Remove antenna motor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket with extension, remove the mounting bolts securing the antenna motor to the quarter panel (typically 3 bolts). Support the motor assembly with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Note the orientation of any ground straps or washers for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove antenna motor assembly
   Carefully withdraw the antenna motor assembly from the quarter panel, guiding the antenna mast through the opening. If the mast is extended, do not force it; manually retract if possible or verify the mast is not caught on body panels. Inspect the motor mounting grommet for deterioration.
7. 7

   Transfer antenna mast if reusable
   If the original antenna mast is in good condition and the motor is being replaced, carefully remove it from the old motor assembly following manufacturer instructions. Inspect mast for bends, corrosion, or stripped teeth. Install into new motor assembly ensuring proper engagement with motor drive gear.
8. 8

   Install new antenna motor assembly
   Position the new antenna motor assembly in the mounting location, carefully guiding the antenna mast through the quarter panel opening. Ensure any grommets are properly seated and the motor is oriented correctly with mounting holes aligned. Verify no wiring is pinched.
9. 9

   Install and torque mounting bolts
   Install the antenna motor mounting bolts and tighten in a cross pattern. Torque mounting bolts to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure any ground straps are properly positioned under bolt heads with clean metal-to-metal contact.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect antenna cable and electrical connector
    Thread the coaxial antenna cable onto the motor assembly fitting and tighten hand-tight plus 1/4 turn; do not overtighten. Connect the electrical connector to the motor, ensuring it clicks into place and the locking tab engages fully.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and test antenna operation
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position (engine off) and turn on the radio. The antenna should extend automatically. Turn off the radio and verify the antenna retracts. Listen for smooth motor operation without grinding or hesitation.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall trunk liner panels
    Align the trunk liner panel with mounting locations and press firmly to engage all clips. Replace any broken clips with new ones. Ensure all panel edges are flush and secure. Verify trunk latch and other trunk functions are not obstructed.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trunk liner panels are securely fastened and flush with surrounding surfaces
2. Verify no tools or parts were left in the trunk area
3. Reset radio presets and clock as needed after battery reconnection

Verification

• Turn radio ON and verify antenna extends smoothly and fully without hesitation or unusual noise
• Turn radio OFF and verify antenna retracts completely into the quarter panel
• Test radio reception on AM and FM bands to confirm proper antenna connection
• Cycle the antenna through several extend/retract cycles to verify consistent operation
• Visually inspect antenna mast for proper vertical alignment when extended

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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