Honda Accord: strong reputation with well-known points of attention

The Honda Accord has for decades been known as a reliable mid-size car with modern engines and solid build quality. Even so, this Japanese saloon also suffers from specific issues that differ per generation, from transmission troubles to electrical faults and engine problems. Despite these points of attention, the Accord scores highly for reliability – provided you know what to look out for. Do you want to know exactly which weak spots you can expect and how to recognise them?

Overall reliability of the Honda Accord

The Honda Accord enjoys a solid reputation as a dependable car that can cover high mileages without major problems. Owners regularly report that their Accord clocks up hundreds of thousands of kilometres on the original engine. Car problems with Honda are relatively rare compared with many competitors, but that does not mean the Accord is completely fault-free.

Each generation has specific complaints that you, as an owner or buyer, should be aware of. The reliability score generally remains high, especially for models with the K20 or K24 four-cylinder engines. V6 versions are more prone to transmission issues, particularly at high mileage. The later generations with turbo engines deliver strong performance, but they do demand meticulous maintenance.

Common engine problems by generation

Different generations of the Accord have their own engine problems. In the first generation (1976–1981) with the 1.6-litre CVCC engine, you mainly see wear on the CVCC components that control emissions. These engines are robust, but after forty years the system often needs certain parts replaced.

The sixth generation (1998–2002) mainly suffers from oil consumption in the 2.3-litre F23 engine. Some owners report having to top up oil between services. This is due to worn piston rings and valve stems. Check the oil level regularly if you have this engine.

In the seventh generation (2003–2008), problems arise with the 2.4-litre K24 engine, especially with the oil pump. In some cases it becomes clogged over time, resulting in low oil pressure. The 2.2-litre N22A1 diesel engine (a common-rail diesel) suffers from diesel particulate filter and injector issues if used carelessly or mainly for short trips.

The eighth generation (2008–2012) shows occasional problems with the 2.4-litre engine where spark plugs wear too quickly. Replace these in good time according to the maintenance schedule. The V6 engines from this period sometimes suffer from a defective timing chain if servicing is delayed.

Transmission problems with manual, automatic and CVT gearboxes

Transmissions are a known weak spot on certain Accord models. The five- and six-speed manuals are generally reliable, but under heavy loads or spirited driving the synchromesh rings wear more quickly. You will notice this as crunching when changing gear, especially into second and third.

Automatic transmissions from the sixth and seventh generations regularly suffer from slipping, particularly on the V6 versions. This is due to worn clutch plates in the gearbox. Owners report that the automatic hesitates when shifting or, in extreme cases, fails completely. Regularly changing the transmission fluid helps to delay this problem.

The CVT gearboxes (continuously variable transmission) used in later models can develop problems under aggressive driving. The CVT can overheat, leading to loss of power or damage. In certain cases Honda carried out recalls for software updates. Have the CVT fluid replaced according to the prescribed schedule and avoid constantly flooring the throttle from a standstill.

Electrical and electronic faults

Electrical problems occur on the Accord mainly from the eighth generation onwards. The infotainment system sometimes shows software glitches where the screen freezes or no longer responds. A reset via the menu often solves this temporarily, but some owners report recurring issues. For certain models Honda offers software updates via the dealer.

Sensors also regularly cause trouble. The oxygen sensors (lambda sensors) in the exhaust can fail after 100,000 kilometres, resulting in an illuminated engine warning light and increased fuel consumption. The tyre pressure sensors TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system) sometimes give false warnings due to weak batteries in the sensors themselves.

Wiring can become brittle over time, especially on older models that have been kept outside. This can lead to faults in lighting, wipers or other electrical functions. Check the wiring when buying a used Accord, especially around the bonnet and doors where the wires flex.

Suspension, steering and brakes

The Accord’s suspension is sturdily built, but certain components require attention. The bushes in the control arms tend to wear after around 80,000 to 120,000 kilometres. This leads to a rattling noise over bumps. Replace them in good time to prevent further damage to the suspension.

Wheel bearings sometimes cause problems at higher mileages, especially at the front. You will then hear a humming or droning noise that gets louder at higher speeds. Have defective wheel bearings replaced immediately to prevent damage to the wheel hub.

The power steering on most Accords works via an electric system, EPS (electric power steering). This system is reliable, but some owners report that the steering feels heavier over time. This may be due to software issues or a faulty power steering motor. A dealer can diagnose this with the correct equipment.

Under normal use, brake wear is no faster than average, but pay attention to the brake discs on the seventh and eighth generations. These can start to judder after a few years due to uneven wear. Have the discs skimmed or replaced if you feel vibrations when braking.

Interior and exterior points of attention

The interior of the Honda Accord is generally durable, but certain parts do show wear. The seat upholstery on models from the sixth and seventh generations can start to tear after ten years, especially on the side of the driver’s seat where you get in and out most often. Check this when buying.

The dashboard can start to crack in very sunny climates. This is particularly visible on dark dashboards that absorb a lot of heat. It is a cosmetic issue that does not affect functionality, but it does look unsightly.

On the outside, European Accord models in particular are prone to rust. Inspect the wheel arches, sills and bottom edges of the doors on older examples. Rust often develops due to stone chips and winter use with road salt. Treat small rust spots immediately to prevent them from spreading.

The paint on certain generations is susceptible to discolouration, particularly on white and silver models. UV radiation causes dull patches on the bonnet and roof. Regular waxing helps to protect the paint.

Recognising symptoms and preventive maintenance

Spotting early signs of trouble saves you from expensive repairs. Listen for unusual noises such as knocking, rattling or droning. A knocking sound from the engine may indicate timing chain problems, while a droning noise while driving is often a wheel bearing.

Check the oil level regularly, especially on models known to use oil. Low oil can lead to serious engine damage. Also look at the colour of the oil: thick, black oil needs to be replaced.

Preventive maintenance is the key to a long service life on the Accord. Stick to the prescribed service intervals and replace wear parts such as spark plugs, air filters and brake fluid on time. On models with a timing chain, regular oil changes are particularly important to keep the chain running smoothly.

Follow these preventative measures:

• Replace engine oil every 10,000 kilometres or according to factory advice
• Check transmission fluid every 40,000 kilometres and replace if necessary
• Inspect the bushes of control arms and anti-roll bars annually
• Have the braking system checked every year for wear and leaks
• Update the infotainment system software via the dealer

Tips when buying a used Honda Accord

If you are buying a used Accord, first check the service history. A fully maintained car with a stamped service book or invoices is far more reliable than one with no history. Pay particular attention to evidence of transmission servicing on automatics and V6 models.

Thoroughly test the gearbox during a test drive. Shift through all the gears and watch for hesitation, slipping or strange noises. On an automatic, gear changes should be smooth and jerk-free. On a CVT, you should not hear a whining noise.

Check these points when buying:

• Rust on wheel arches, sills and bottom edges of doors
• Condition of seat upholstery and dashboard
• Operation of all electrical functions, including infotainment
• Condition of wheel bearings by listening for humming noises
• Engine warning light and reading out any fault codes
• Oil level and condition of the engine oil
• Juddering brakes during a test drive

Always ask a dealer or garage to carry out a pre-purchase inspection. They can detect hidden problems you might easily miss yourself. The cost of this does not compare to the cost of a major repair shortly after purchase.

Avoid V6 models with automatic transmission above 200,000 kilometres unless the gearbox has recently been overhauled. This combination has a higher risk of transmission problems. Choose four-cylinder K20 or K24 engines for the best balance between performance and reliability.

The Honda Accord remains a strong choice

The Honda Accord combines reliability with solid performance and a comfortable interior. Despite the points of attention discussed, this mid-size car consistently scores highly for durability. Owners who look after their Accord properly and are familiar with the generation-specific problems can enjoy years of trouble-free motoring.

The well-known weak spots are well understood by dealers and specialists and are often predictable. Transmission problems on automatics and V6 versions, electrical faults on newer models and specific engine issues by generation can all be managed with preventive maintenance and timely repairs. When buying a used Accord, choose a well-maintained example with a four-cylinder engine for the least worries.

The Accord remains a sensible choice for anyone looking for a reliable, spacious saloon with low running costs. Keep the points of attention mentioned in mind and invest in regular maintenance. Then you will easily cover hundreds of thousands of kilometres in this Japanese classic without problems.