The 1989 Honda Civic Wagovan (often called the "Wagovan" to distinguish it from the regular Civic hatchback or sedan) is a cult favorite among Honda enthusiasts. Its unique blend of practicality (four doors, wagon body) and lightweight chassis makes it a popular candidate for restoration, daily driving, or even mild performance upgrades. But after 30+ years, the suspension components are likely worn or sagging. Whether you are looking to restore the original ride quality or improve handling, this guide covers the suspension parts you need for the 1989 Civic Wagovan, including OEM replacements, aftermarket upgrades, and installation tips.
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Understanding the 1989 Honda Civic Wagovan Suspension Layout
The 1989 Civic Wagovan is based on the fourth-generation Civic platform (ED/EE chassis), but with a longer wheelbase and heavier rear end to accommodate the wagon body. The front suspension uses a double wishbone setup with coil-over-strut assemblies, while the rear uses a trailing arm with torsion beam (some models have a stabilizer bar). This design offers good handling but can feel floaty when bushings wear out. Key components include:
- Front strut assemblies (coil spring + shock absorber integrated)
- Front lower control arms
- Front sway bar (stabilizer bar) and end links
- Front tie rod ends and steering rack bushings
- Rear shock absorbers (separate from springs on some models)
- Rear coil springs (or leaf springs depending on trim; most Wagovans have coils)
- Rear trailing arm bushings
- Rear sway bar (if equipped)
Front Suspension Parts
Strut Assemblies
For the 1989 Wagovan, the front suspension uses a MacPherson strut design (technically a coil-over-strut, but often referred to as a strut). The strut assembly includes the shock absorber, coil spring, and upper mount. When replacing, you have two options:
- Complete quick-struts: These come pre-assembled with new spring and mount. Brands like KYB, Monroe, and Gabriel offer direct-fit options. Perfect for a straightforward replacement without needing a spring compressor.
- Separate components: Buy new shocks (e.g., KYB Excel-G or GR-2), new springs (H&R or Eibach for lowering, or OEM spec from Moog), and new upper mounts (Moog or Beck/Arnley). This gives more flexibility but requires professional assembly.
Lower Control Arms
The front lower control arms have two ball joints and two bushings. The rear bushing (compliance bushing) often wears first. You can replace just the bushings (Energy Suspension polyurethane) or buy complete arms with ball joints pre-installed. Moog and Mevotech offer good aftermarket options.
Sway Bar and End Links
The front sway bar (18-20mm diameter) connects to the lower control arms via end links. Worn end links cause clunking over bumps. Replace with Moog problem solver or energy suspension poly links. If upgrading, aftermarket sway bars from Progress or Suspension Techniques are available but rare.
Steering and Tie Rods
Inner and outer tie rod ends should be inspected for play. OEM replacements from Honda are expensive; aftermarket from Moog, TRW, or Duralast are fine. The steering rack itself rarely fails, but the bushings may sag – replace with Energy Suspension rack bushings for tighter feel.
Rear Suspension Parts
Shock Absorbers and Springs
The 1989 Wagovan rear suspension uses separate shock absorbers and coil springs (not a strut). The shocks mount to the body and the axle housing. Good options include KYB Gas-a-Just (monotube) for better damping or Bilstein if you want premium performance. Rear springs are often sagged; replace with OEM spec from Moog or a lift kit (if you want to match older springs – note that aftermarket springs often lower the car). For a stock ride height, use "Honda Civic 1988-1991 rear coil springs" from Moog (part number 81015).
Trailing Arm Bushings
The rear trailing arm connects the wheel hub to the body via a large bushing. Worn bushings cause rear-end wander and clunking. Replace with rubber bushings from Honda or polyurethane from Energy Suspension. Energy's poly bushings are much stiffer and reduce wheel hop but transmit more road noise.
Rear Sway Bar (Wagovan-Specific)
Not all 89 Wagovans came with a rear sway bar. Check your VIN or look under the car. If yours has one, it uses bracket bushings and end links. The end links are small and prone to breaking. Replace with Moog or Energy Suspension. If your car didn't come with a rear sway bar, you can retrofit one from a Civic hatchback (1988-1991) – the mounting points are usually there.
Bushings and Mounts Throughout the System
Bushings degrade over time, causing vague handling and noise. Key bushings to replace:
- Front lower control arm bushings (front and rear)
- Front sway bar bushings (where it mounts to the frame)
- Rear trailing arm bushings
- Rear subframe bushings (if your Wagovan has a subframe – some do, some don't)
Polyurethane bushings from Energy Suspension or Prothane are popular, but they require grease and may squeak. Rubber bushings from Moog or Honda last a long time and are quieter.
Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Best for a factory ride. Parts such as struts, shocks, and bushings from Honda are expensive but last many years. Ideal for restoration or daily driver who wants comfort.
- Aftermarket: More variety. KYB, Monroe, Gabriel for shocks/struts; Moog for steering and chassis parts; Energy Suspension for bushings. Performance upgrades like lowering springs (H&R, Eibach, Skunk2) or adjustable coilovers (Koni, Ground Control) are available but may reduce comfort.
- Budget brands: Detroit Axle, A-Premium, and others sell cheap loaded struts. They work but ride quality and longevity are inferior. Used only for temporary fixes.
Installation Tips
Most suspension work on the 1989 Wagovan can be done with basic tools (jack, stands, wrenches, socket set, torque wrench). A spring compressor is needed if separating springs from struts. Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster) is essential for rusty bolts. After installation, get a professional alignment. Torque all bolts to spec: front strut top nut 28 Nm (21 lb-ft), lower control arm pivot bolts 74 Nm (55 lb-ft), sway bar link nuts 33 Nm (24 lb-ft).
Practical Recommendation
For a daily-driven 1989 Honda Civic Wagovan that you want to restore to like-new ride quality, invest in quality components that balance comfort and durability. Start with KYB Excel-G struts and shocks (OEM spec, comfortable), Moog springs (stock height or slightly lowered if you prefer), and replace all bushings with polyurethane ones only if you prioritize handling over noise. Use Energy Suspension for the rear trailing arm bushings and sway bar bushings. For steering, Moog tie rod ends and rack bushings will tighten up the front. Avoid cheap loaded struts – they ride harsh and fail quickly. If you plan to keep the car long-term, OEM Honda parts for critical items like upper strut mounts and ball joints are worth the expense. For a weekend autocross or canyon carver, consider Koni Yellow shocks with Ground Control coilover sleeves, but that's a more specialized direction. Remember to budget for an alignment and a new set of tires to fully benefit from your suspension refresh.
Keeping the 1989 Civic Wagovan on the road requires attention to its suspension – but with the right parts and installation, it can handle like a much newer car.