Essential Tips for Installing a Camber Kit on Your Honda for Better Cornering

When it comes to improving handling, cornering ability, and overall driving dynamics, the suspension system is where enthusiasts often focus their attention. One of the best modifications you can make to enhance cornering on a Honda is installing a camber kit. Whether you own a Civic, Accord, or any other Honda model, a properly installed camber kit can significantly improve your vehicle's grip on the road, especially when cornering at high speeds.

In this article, we’ll dive into the importance of camber kits, installation tips, and adjustment techniques to help you get the most out of your Honda’s suspension, ensuring better stability, improved tire wear, and greater overall performance. adjustable camber bushings

What Is a Camber Kit?

A camber kit is an adjustable suspension component that allows you to modify the camber angle of your wheels. Camber refers to the tilt of the wheels when viewed from the front or rear of the vehicle. Negative camber means the top of the wheel is tilted inward, while positive camber means the top of the wheel is tilted outward.

The primary benefit of a camber kit is to adjust the camber angle, especially if your car is lowered. Lowering a vehicle often causes the suspension geometry to change, leading to increased negative camber. While a small amount of negative camber can improve cornering grip by allowing more of the tire’s contact patch to remain on the road during hard turns, too much negative camber can lead to:

• Uneven tire wear (excessive wear on the inner edge of the tire)

• Reduced straight-line stability

• Poor braking performance

A camber kit helps you correct this imbalance and fine-tune your alignment for better tire wear, more responsive cornering, and overall improved suspension performance.

Why Install a Camber Kit on Your Honda?

Installing a camber kit on your Honda is beneficial for several reasons, particularly if you're into spirited driving, autocross, or track days. Here’s why it’s essential:

1. Improved Cornering Grip

Proper camber adjustment maximizes tire contact during cornering. Negative camber helps the tire remain flat against the road while cornering, providing more grip and reducing the chances of losing traction.

2. Enhanced Handling

With the right camber angle, your Honda will feel more stable and responsive through turns. You'll notice less understeer and oversteer, giving you better control over the vehicle’s handling characteristics.

3. Better Tire Life

Without a camber kit, lowering your vehicle can cause uneven tire wear. A camber kit allows you to adjust the camber angle to maintain an even tire contact patch, promoting longer tire life and preventing excessive wear on the inner edges.

4. Customization for Driving Style

A camber kit provides you with the flexibility to adjust the camber to suit your driving style. Whether you’re tracking your Honda or simply want a more aggressive stance for street driving, a camber kit can help you achieve the desired performance and aesthetics.

Choosing the Right Camber Kit for Your Honda

Before diving into installation, it’s essential to choose the correct camber kit for your specific needs. There are different types of camber kits available, and understanding which one is right for you can make all the difference.

1. Camber Bolts

Camber bolts are the most basic and cost-effective option for adjusting camber. They replace the factory bolts in the upper strut mount or lower control arm and allow for a limited range of camber adjustment. These are ideal for street-driven vehicles that require only a slight adjustment.

Pros:

• Affordable

• Easy to install

• Perfect for mild camber adjustments

Cons:

• Limited adjustment range

• May not provide enough adjustment for lowered vehicles

2. Adjustable Control Arms

For more substantial adjustments, adjustable control arms are a popular choice. These allow for a wider range of camber adjustment, especially useful for vehicles that have been significantly lowered. These control arms often come with spherical bearings or high-quality bushings for better performance.

Pros:

• Wider adjustment range

• Ideal for lowered vehicles

• Improved handling and performance

Cons:

• More expensive

• Requires more installation time and effort

3. Camber Plates

Camber plates are typically used in coilover suspension setups. They replace the top mount of your struts and offer precise camber adjustment. These are great for those looking for maximum control and adjustability, particularly on track-focused builds.

Pros:

• High level of adjustability

• Ideal for track cars or aggressive street setups

• Allows for fine-tuning of camber and caster angles

Cons:

• More expensive

• Complex installation (requires removing the strut assembly)

Tools and Equipment Needed

• Jack and jack stands

• Wheel chocks

• Ratchet and socket set

• Torque wrench

• Pry bar (if necessary)

• Camber gauge or alignment tool

• Anti-seize or lubrication for bolts

• Threadlocker (for securing bolts)

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Camber Kit on Your Honda

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

• Park the car on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.

• Lift the front or rear of the car using a jack, and secure it with jack stands.

• Remove the wheels to gain access to the suspension components.

Step 2: Remove Existing Suspension Components (if needed)

Depending on the type of camber kit, you may need to remove the strut assembly or control arm to install the kit. For camber bolts, the installation is more straightforward, as you only need to replace the existing bolts in the upper strut mounts or lower control arms.

For adjustable control arms or camber plates, you’ll need to disconnect the necessary suspension components (such as the control arm or strut) to access the mounting points.

Step 3: Install the Camber Kit

• Camber Bolts: Simply replace the stock bolts with the camber bolts in the same mounting holes. Adjust the bolts to your desired camber setting (you may need a camber gauge to help with this).

• Adjustable Control Arms: Install the adjustable control arms in place of the stock arms, ensuring all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications. Make any necessary adjustments to the camber angle.

• Camber Plates: If using camber plates, replace the stock top strut mounts with the new plates. These typically come with multiple holes or slots to adjust camber and caster. Tighten the bolts securely and reinstall the strut assembly.

Step 4: Fine-Tune the Camber Settings

Using a camber gauge or aligning the vehicle at a professional shop, set the desired camber angle. A good baseline is around -1.0° to -1.5° for daily driving. Track or performance setups may require more negative camber.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

Once the camber is adjusted, reassemble all suspension components and torque the bolts to spec. Reinstall the wheels, lower the car, and perform a test drive to check for any unusual handling behavior or noises.

Post-Installation: Get an Alignment!

After installing a camber kit, it’s crucial to have a professional alignment done. The alignment shop will check not just the camber, but also the toe and caster angles, which are all crucial for handling, tire wear, and overall vehicle performance.

Final Thoughts

Installing a camber kit on your Honda is one of the best ways to enhance cornering performance and ensure even tire wear. Whether you're adjusting the camber for street use, performance driving, or track days, a camber kit offers a noticeable improvement in stability, grip, and overall driving confidence. By carefully selecting the right kit, following proper installation steps, and fine-tuning your camber settings, you can take your Honda’s handling to the next level.

Remember to always get a professional alignment after making adjustments, and enjoy the enhanced performance that comes with a properly set-up suspension!