2008 Honda CRV Rear Sway Bar Link Replacement Bolt Size: A Step-by-Step Guide

Table of Contents
Why You Should Know About the Rear Sway Bar Link
If you own a 2008 Honda CRV and notice strange noises or that the car feels wobbly when you make a turn, it might be time to change your rear sway bar link. This small part helps your car stay stable when driving over bumps or through curves. In this guide, we’ll show you how to replace it yourself, focusing on the most important detail: the 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know what tools to use, the correct steps to follow, and, most importantly, the exact 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size to get the job done right.
What Is a Sway Bar Link?
Before we jump into replacing it, let’s first talk about what a sway bar link is and what it does. The sway bar link is a critical part of your car’s suspension system. It keeps your car balanced while driving, especially when turning or going over bumps. The sway bar link ensures your car doesn’t lean too much to one side. However, like most car parts, it wears out over time. When this happens, your 2008 Honda CRV might start to feel unstable or make clunking noises, especially on bumpy roads.
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What Size Bolt Do You Need?
One of the most important parts of this job is making sure you have the right 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size. The typical size for this model is 12mm in diameter with a 1.25 thread pitch. These sizes are common for rear sway bar links, but it’s always smart to double-check your car’s manual or ask a mechanic to be certain. Using the correct 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size is essential for a secure fit.
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Tools You’ll Need
Before starting the replacement, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the job faster and easier. Here’s a list of tools you’ll need:
Tools for 2008 Honda CRV Rear Sway Bar Link Replacement Bolt Size
Tool | Usage |
---|---|
12mm socket wrench | To remove and replace the sway bar link bolts |
Torque wrench | To make sure the bolts are tightened correctly |
Penetrating oil | Helpful for loosening rusty or stuck bolts |
Jack and jack stands | To lift and safely secure your car |
Replacement sway bar link | Make sure to get the right one for your 2008 Honda CRV |
Replacement bolts | Get bolts that match the 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size |
Why the Correct Bolt Size Matters
It might seem like any bolt would work, but using the wrong size bolt can cause serious issues. If the bolt is too small, it won’t hold the sway bar link tightly, making your car feel unstable. On the other hand, if the bolt is too large, it could damage the threads in the hole. Using the correct 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size (12mm x 1.25 thread pitch) ensures everything fits perfectly and your car handles safely and smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Rear Sway Bar Link
Now that you know the right 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size and have your tools ready, let’s move on to the replacement process.
Start by lifting the rear of your car with a jack. Secure the car using jack stands to make sure it doesn’t move while you’re working. Always double-check that the car is stable before getting under it.
The sway bar link is located in the rear suspension system. It connects the sway bar (a long, curved bar) to the control arm. Don’t worry if this sounds confusing—when you look under your 2008 Honda CRV, you should be able to spot it easily.
To remove the old sway bar link, use your 12mm socket wrench to loosen the bolts holding it in place. If the bolts are rusty, spray some penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again. Once the bolts are loose, carefully take out the old sway bar link.
Now, take your new sway bar link and slide it into position. Use the 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size (12mm x 1.25 thread pitch) to attach the link. Start by hand-threading the bolts, then use your torque wrench to tighten them to around 35-40 ft-lbs of torque.
Once everything is tightened, carefully lower your car from the jack stands. Now, take the car for a quick drive around the block. Pay attention to how it feels during turns and bumps. If the ride feels smooth and there are no clunking sounds, you’ve done the job correctly!
Signs That Your Sway Bar Link Needs Replacement
If you’re not sure whether your sway bar link needs replacing, here are some signs to watch for:
- Clunking noise: If you hear a clunking sound when driving over bumps or turning, it’s a sign your sway bar link may be damaged.
- Poor handling: If your car feels wobbly or unstable, especially when turning, it could mean your sway bar link is worn out.
- Visible damage: Check the sway bar link for cracks, rust, or other signs of wear. If you see damage, it’s time to replace it.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important not to wait too long to fix the problem. Driving with a bad sway bar link can make your 2008 Honda CRV less safe and harder to control.
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How Much Will It Cost to Replace the Sway Bar Link?
Replacing the sway bar link on your 2008 Honda CRV doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s a quick look at the costs:
Type | Cost |
---|---|
DIY Cost | If you’re doing it yourself, you’ll likely spend between $50 and $100 for parts and tools, including the correct 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size. |
Mechanic Cost | If you take your car to a mechanic, it will probably cost between $150 and $250, depending on labor costs and where you live. |
While it’s more expensive to go to a mechanic, it’s often worth it if you’re not comfortable working on cars or don’t have the right tools.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace a Bad Sway Bar Link?

Ignoring a damaged sway bar link can lead to bigger problems:
Without a working sway bar link, your car will handle worse, especially in turns, which can make driving unsafe.
 A broken sway bar link can put stress on other suspension parts, causing more damage and more repairs.
Since the sway bar link helps keep your car stable, driving with a bad one increases the risk of losing control, especially in emergency situations.
Tips for a Smoother Job
To make replacing the sway bar link easier, follow these tips:
- Use penetrating oil: If the bolts are stuck, spray them with oil and wait a few minutes. This will make them easier to remove.
- Double-check the bolt size: Always make sure you’re using the right 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size (12mm x 1.25 thread pitch).
- Tighten bolts correctly: Don’t just hand-tighten the bolts—use a torque wrench to make sure they’re properly tightened.
How Long Does It Take to Replace a Sway Bar Link?
If you have the right tools and follow the steps carefully, replacing the sway bar link should take between 1 and 2 hours. If you’re a beginner, it might take a little longer, but taking your time will help you get the job done safely and correctly.
Conclusion: Fix Your 2008 Honda CRV with the Right Bolt Size
Replacing the sway bar link on your 2008 Honda CRV is a simple task if you have the correct 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link replacement bolt size and follow the steps properly. With the right tools and a little patience, you can restore your car’s stability and handling in no time. Make sure to check your bolt size, use a torque wrench, and test your car after the repair.
FAQs: 2008 Honda CRV Rear Sway Bar Link Replacement Bolt Size
1. What is the correct bolt size for the 2008 Honda CRV rear sway bar link?
The correct bolt size for the rear sway bar link on a 2008 Honda CRV is typically 12mm in diameter with a 1.25 thread pitch.
2. How do I know if my rear sway bar link needs to be replaced?
You may need to replace the sway bar link if you hear clunking noises when driving over bumps or if your vehicle feels unstable during turns.
3. What tools are needed for replacing the rear sway bar link on a 2008 Honda CRV?
You'll need a 12mm socket wrench, torque wrench, penetrating oil, jack and jack stands, and replacement sway bar link and bolts.
4. Can I replace the rear sway bar link on my own?
Yes, with the right tools and a step-by-step guide, you can replace the sway bar link on your own. The process typically takes 1-2 hours.
5. How much does it cost to replace the rear sway bar link?
DIY replacement costs between $50 and $100. If you take your car to a mechanic, it will cost between $150 and $250, depending on labor rates.
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