This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tail pipe assembly on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail pipe assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust flange gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Rubber exhaust hangers × 2 — Replace if damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks at front wheels
3. Allow exhaust system to cool completely (minimum 1 hour after engine operation)
4. Raise rear of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-specified jacking points
5. Apply penetrating oil to exhaust flange bolts and hanger mounting points if corrosion is present

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate tail pipe connection point
   Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle. Identify the tail pipe flange connection located just forward of the rear axle area, where the tail pipe connects to the mid-pipe section. Also locate the two rubber exhaust hangers supporting the tail pipe.
2. 2

   Remove heat shield if equipped
   If a heat shield is present over the flange connection, remove the mounting bolts securing it. Set the heat shield aside for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Support the tail pipe
   Use a jack or have an assistant support the weight of the tail pipe assembly to prevent it from falling when disconnected. Position support near the middle of the tail pipe section.
4. 4

   Remove exhaust flange bolts
   Using a 14mm socket, remove the two bolts securing the tail pipe flange to the mid-pipe flange. These bolts pass through the flanges and may be heavily corroded. If bolts are seized, apply additional penetrating oil and allow to soak, or apply heat carefully with a torch.
   Torque spec

   Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Disconnect exhaust hangers
   Locate the rubber exhaust hangers supporting the tail pipe (typically two hangers). Using a prying motion or twisting action, disconnect the metal hooks from the rubber grommets. Spray with soapy water if needed to ease removal.
6. 6

   Remove tail pipe assembly
   Carefully lower and slide the tail pipe assembly rearward to separate the flange connection. Remove the old exhaust gasket from between the flanges and discard. Maneuver the tail pipe out from under the vehicle.
7. 7

   Clean flange surfaces
   Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean the mating surface of the mid-pipe flange, removing all old gasket material, carbon buildup, and corrosion. The surface must be clean and flat for proper sealing.
8. 8

   Inspect exhaust hangers
   Examine the rubber exhaust hangers for cracks, tears, or excessive wear. Replace any damaged hangers now before installing the new tail pipe. Check that the mounting brackets on the new tail pipe are in good condition.
9. 9

   Install new tail pipe assembly
   Position the new exhaust gasket on the mid-pipe flange. Slide the new tail pipe assembly into position, aligning the flange bolt holes. Support the tail pipe weight with a jack or assistant. Connect the tail pipe hooks to the rubber exhaust hangers.
10. 10

    Install and torque flange bolts
    Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the exhaust flange bolts. Insert both bolts through the flanges and thread nuts onto the opposite side. Tighten bolts in an alternating pattern to ensure even gasket compression. Using a torque wrench, tighten to specification.
    Torque spec

    Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall heat shield
    If a heat shield was removed, reinstall it now and torque the mounting bolts to specification.
    Torque spec

    Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Verify clearances
    Check that the tail pipe has adequate clearance from the rear bumper, chassis components, suspension parts, and fuel tank. The tail pipe should hang evenly without contact points. Adjust hanger positions if needed to achieve proper alignment.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all exhaust hangers are properly seated in their rubber grommets
2. Verify exhaust flange bolts are torqued to specification with anti-seize applied
3. Confirm tail pipe exits cleanly through bumper cutout without interference

Verification

• Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove chocks
• Start engine and allow to idle. Listen for exhaust leaks at the flange connection (hissing or ticking sounds indicate a leak)
• Visually inspect flange connection for escaping exhaust gases while engine is running
• Rev engine to 2000-3000 RPM and recheck for leaks
• Take vehicle for short test drive and verify no abnormal exhaust sounds or vibrations
• After test drive, reinspect flange connection and hanger attachment points while exhaust is still warm

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