By Josh RosenbergWhile historically high new and used car prices have forced buyers to look for "older" vehicles that may have aged well as a way of saving money, the issues of reliability and dependability have become even more crucial.
And older Accords have a well-known reputation for lasting a long time when properly maintained. These cars can easily surpass 200,000 miles and even reach 300,000 miles or more with regular maintenance and care.
The Honda Accord, known for its robust build quality and reliable engines, often tends to endure longer than many other vehicles in its class when owners adhere to proper maintenance schedules. Regular care and attention to any issues that arise can significantly extend the lifespan of an older Accord.
Still, all cars have mechanical issues, including some that may be specific to a particular model, even those with strong reliability reputations. That's just a natural part of car ownership.
So here, we'll review the features of several older Accord generations, as well as possible mechanical issues to be on the lookout for because even Hondas can experience them, and the overall pros and cons worth consideration.
But first, two very important suggestions ...
1. Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Accord:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
2. Know How To Get The Lowest Used Car Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely important. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
Ninth Generation Honda Accord
The ninth generation of this iconic sedan, produced for the 2013 - 2017 model years, continued the Accord's legacy while introducing new advancements and enhancements across its lineup.
It was again available in both sedan and coupe body styles, catering to diverse preferences among consumers. The sedan boasted a sophisticated design with sleek lines and a spacious interior, while the coupe exuded a sportier appeal, featuring a more aggressive stance with the two-door configuration.
Honda offered various trim levels for the Accord, including LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring, each tailored to meet specific consumer needs. The Sport trim, for instance, incorporated enhanced performance features, appealing to drivers seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
The ninth generation Accord offered a range of engine options to suit different driving preferences. The base engine was a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine producing around 185 horsepower, providing a balance of fuel efficiency and performance.
For those seeking more power, a 3.5-liter V6 engine was available, generating approximately 278 horsepower, delivering a more exhilarating driving experience.
Honda also equipped this version with an intuitive infotainment system, featuring a touchscreen interface. It offered seamless connectivity with smartphone integration, enabling access to navigation, music, and various apps.
Possible 2013 - 2017 Accord Mechanical Issues
This Accord, while generally reliable, had a few reported issues that some owners encountered. It's important to note that these problems might not have affected all vehicles, and Honda often addressed some through recalls or service campaigns. Here are a few issues that were reported that should be checked before buying:
Vibration Issues: Some owners experienced vibration or shuddering during acceleration, particularly in models equipped with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Honda addressed this in certain cases through software updates.
Starter Issues: There were reports of starter motor failures in some ninth-gen Accord models. This issue resulted in occasional no-start or slow-cranking problems.
Power Steering Hose Leaks: In some instances, there were reports of power steering hose leaks, which could result in a loss of power steering assistance.
Battery Sensor Failure: A few owners reported issues related to the battery sensor, which could cause warning lights to illuminate on the dashboard or lead to electrical system malfunctions.
Excessive Oil Consumption: There were sporadic reports of some models consuming excessive amounts of engine oil between oil changes. This issue might require closer monitoring of oil levels and more frequent checks.
Audio System Glitches: Some owners reported problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing screens or occasional glitches with Bluetooth connectivity.
Eighth Generation Honda Accord
The Eighth-generation Accord, was produced from the 2008 model year through 2012. This Accord was enlarged slightly and engine performance was also increased ... but without actually hurting its gas mileage performance. These Accords are found in both midsize coupe and sedan forms with enough model variations to meet the different needs of many buyers.
Base LX models are equipped with the essentials while a top-of-the-line EX-L is luxury-like, with features including leather upholstery, Bluetooth and perhaps optional navigation. And all of this generation's models come with standard safety features which include stability control and side curtain airbags.
As in past generations, these Accords are powered by either a four-cylinder engine or V6. The base engine is the 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 177 horsepower. There's an enhanced version of this engine that is available on the Accord EX that's good for 190 horsepower. Naturally enough, the 3.5 liter V6 provides a significant boost in power ... up to 271-hp.
Models with the four-cylinder engine are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, while many used Accords can be found with the optional 5-speed automatic. Most of the V6 models come with the 5-speed automatic, however, the V6 coupes of this era are also available with a 6-speed manual.
Possible 2008 - 2012 Accord Mechanical Issues
This Accord is again generally regarded as a reliable vehicle. However, there were a few reported issues that some owners encountered that should be checked before purchase:
Brake Wear: Premature brake wear was reported by some owners. Brake pads and rotors seemed to wear out faster than expected, requiring more frequent replacements than usual.
VTC Actuator Rattle: Some Accords equipped with the 4-cylinder engine experienced a rattling noise related to the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator. This noise often occurred at cold starts and would cause a misfire, rough idle, or loss of power.
Automatic Transmission Issues: There were sporadic reports of transmission problems in some models, including harsh shifting, slipping, or in rare cases, transmission failure. This issue was more noticeable in earlier model years of this generation.
Power Steering Hose Leaks: Similar to some ninth-generation models, a few eighth-generation Accords experienced power steering hose leaks, potentially leading to a loss of power steering assistance.
Starter Motor Problems: Some owners reported issues with the starter motor failing prematurely, leading to difficulties starting the vehicle.
It's important to note that while these issues were reported by some owners, they were not widespread across all eighth-generation Accords. Honda often addressed these problems through service campaigns, recalls, or revised parts, so not all vehicles were affected.
Seventh Generation Honda Accord
The Seventh generation was produced for the 2003 through 2007 model years, and again many can still be found out there. These used models come with either a 2.4 liter 160 horsepower incline-4 or a 3.0-liter 240 horsepower V6 engine. A choice of a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions are also available while the 6-speed manual was available on the V6 EX coupe.
These Accords were also offered as a midsize coupe or sedan with three initial trims: DX, LX and EX. The DX was fairly stripped in terms of features, so we find most shoppers interested in either the LX or EX.
It's important to note that prospective buyers should be aware that side and side-curtain airbags may not be found in many models because these were optional features during this production run.
The Honda Accord Hybrid was introduced in 2005 and these are most definitely harder to come by as not a lot of them were sold.
This Accord was given a freshened exterior styling, some minor changes to the trim level organization and more powerful engines in 2006. Stability control was also introduced in the 2006 model year.
This generation also earned high praise for its solid build quality, roomy and attractive interior, good crash test scores and smooth drive.
Possible 2003 - 2007 Accord Mechanical Issues
While the seventh generation Accord is also generally considered a quite reliable car, there were a few reported issues that some owners encountered and should be checked before buying:
Transmission Problems: One of the most notable issues with certain of these Accords involved automatic transmission failures. Some owners experienced transmission slipping, rough shifting, or total transmission failure. This was particularly prevalent in V6 models and was associated with the transmission's internal components.
Brake Wear: Premature brake wear was reported by some owners, similar to what was seen in the eighth generation. Brake pads and rotors seemed to wear out faster than expected, necessitating more frequent replacements.
Power Steering Hose Leaks: Some seventh-generation Accords experienced power steering hose leaks, potentially leading to a loss of power steering assistance. This issue could sometimes be identified by fluid leaks near the power steering components.
Rear Wheel Bearing Noise: A few owners reported noise or humming coming from the rear wheel bearings. This issue could sometimes require replacement of the wheel bearings to resolve the noise.
Air Conditioning Problems: Certain models had reported issues with the air conditioning system, including compressor failures or inadequate cooling.
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Overall Older Honda Accord Pros And Cons
Older Honda Accords often carry a premium price over their competitors in the marketplace (and rightfully so). Still, the overall cost over the lifetime of ownership for an Accord is usually quite favorable when compared to most other vehicles due to its typically lower maintanence costs and strong resale values.
Buying one today, considering both its reliability and the potential mechanical risks, comes with its own set of pros and cons compared to purchasing a newer car.
Older Honda Accord Pros:
Cost Savings: Obviously, older models generally have a lower purchase price compared to newer versions of the same car, depending largely on mileage and condition. And this initial cost savings can be significant.
Dependable Reputation: Despite potential issues, older Accords retain a higher reputation for reliability and longevity than most competitors when well-maintained.
Matured Model: As a matured model, many of the reported issues might have been addressed through recalls, updates, or owner maintenance, making some used models more reliable.
Lower Depreciation: Used cars have already experienced the steepest part of their depreciation curve, so the loss in value per year might be less than that of a new car.
Older Honda Accord Cons:
Potential Issues: While many issues might have been addressed, older cars, especially those with higher mileage, could face unexpected repairs or ongoing maintenance needs.
Outdated Technology: Older models might lack the latest safety features, modern infotainment systems, or fuel-efficient engines that newer cars offer.
Warranty and Support: Older cars might not have any remaining warranty coverage, and finding specific parts or receiving manufacturer support might become more challenging as the car ages.
Fuel Economy: Older cars might not have the fuel efficiency of newer models due to advancements in engine technology.
Also, Always Know The Value Of Your Trade-In
Whether you are trading or selling on your own, it's just a good idea ... even whether you are in the market or not at the moment. You can then use this important information for a number of purposes ... to negotiate with a dealer, or to know how to price your car in the retail market, or simply to know the value of one of your assets, which is always a good idea.
Getting trade-in values online tend to vary a lot from site to site. But I've found the one at Edmunds Trade-In Quotes is particularly comprehensive and accurate.
It's free and just takes a couple of minutes. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN# followed by many simple, but specific, yes/no questions. It really focuses in on the detail of the specific vehicle.