Saw a post back in 2008-09 that the rear control arms need to be replaced when using non-OEM tires. No mention though if covered by warrenty. For those that have had this done is it covered by the warrenty? I still have 236 miles left on mine. Reason I ask is the control arms aren't broken they just work with only OEM tires.

Thanks,
Howard

 

I've got a 2006 Civic EX with 64000 miles. I'm getting the control arms replaced for 75% off parts and labor. The Michelin Hydroedge tires I'm running are cupped, but I'm picking up the tab for the new ones. None of this is under warranty... just goodwill on the part of Honda.

 

This is news to me. What do you mean you can't keep the OEM control arm if you are not useing OEM Tires... So If I put falkan low prof tires i have to switch my control arms?

 

Hi. Cupped tires were very common problem for 2006 to early 2008 civic. HONDA said
"If customer uses Civic for heavier load, Civic need new updated rear control arm with stamped C with alignment".
It is not true. The problem is
1.Honda put really bad cheap tire on new car. Most of them is Eagle with tread wear 280 to 300.
2.Rear upper control arm was designed wrong.(too short).
From mid 2008 Civic, every Civic has stamped (marked) "C" on rear upper control arm.
why?? hey found after 2 1/2 years it was wrong.
Solution? Replace with Micheline tire and alignment. Ask tech to set rear toe to close 0.04 degree(very close to border).
I have changed few hundred vehicle and fought with Honda TechLine over the phone to prove my idea.(as platinum tech at Honda: not anymore)

 

How does changing the toe affect cupping? The only viable solution in your post is changing the tires. It is possible that Honda used cheap tires and this resulted in cupping. (Common with cheaper tires) but there is no alignment angle that will result in cupped tires.

 

My wife's xD had cupped tires (winters) after this last season, and the reason was worn rear struts. I think this is the most likely culprit because cupping usually happens when the tire isn't in full contact with the road at all times. I could see maybe the UCA's causing this but I'm guessing you would only see cupping on the outside of the tire?

 

the tires aren't going to cup themselves. if there's an imperfection in the alignment or a worn/damaged suspension component(s), the tires are going to wear unevenly REGARDLESS of brand.

that being said, cheaper or lower quality tires may wear faster... but that doesn't change the fact that they'll wear the same way as a higher quality tire. there aren't any magic tires that won't wear unevenly if the alignment is off or if there is a worn/damaged suspension component(s).

 

Lets keep in mind that on smaller cars such as our civic's you have to rotate the tires religiously. Every 10 k or every other oil change. Otherwise your tires will "cup" in the rear and get a lot of road noise. Another example is the ford focus. Terrible about this.

 

Bad alignment or bad shocks/struts appear to be the reason behind cupping on any car. Cupping is not a result of cheap tires.

 

this haas been covered so many times use the search function it will help
https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-civic-2006-2015-79/factory-service-bulletin-rear-control-arms-2225229/
check out the attached image it is the TSB you are looking for

 

Incorrect. I dont care how bad the alignment is, it will never cause the tires to cup. Also tires play a large role in the amount of cupping produced.

 

I know this thread is kind of old, but still hoping to see a response!
I have a 06 4Door Honda Civic Automatic, obviously I am here for the Rear Upper Control Arms issue. I have over 100k on my car, so clearly it is not under warranty.

Has anyone tried replacing these themselves? I am hoping to buy a replacement kit from O'Reilly or something of the sort. Can anyone recommend a brand they have had success with? I am not really into tricking my car out, just looking for the most affordable option.