A used Honda Accord is usually a sensible, drama-free choice for a used car. However, all is not what it seems, and some model years might challenge your expectations of the titular Honda sedan. Check out the five Honda Accord model years that owners single out as some of the sedan’s most problematic, including the 2004, 2008, and 2009 models.
Which years were bad for the Honda Accord?
Owners singled out the 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008 and 2009 Honda Accords as some of the most problematic model years for the sedan. Among the most common problems for these models, drivers may experience transmission problems, engine problems, and problems with the vehicles’ braking systems.
According to Car Complaints, the 2002-2004 and 2008 Honda Accords earn an “Avoid Like the Plague” rating due to the abundance of owner reports. For example, the 2003 Accord of the seventh-generation model has nearly 1,000 complaints on the web related explicitly to transmission problems. However, the 2009 model received an “Attention to the Wrap” rating, citing fewer dissatisfied owners than previous models.
How many miles can a 2003 Honda Accord last?
A 2003 Honda Accord could last well over 200,000 or 250,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. However, the significant number of owner complaints of transmission failures and rough operation prevent the Accord from being as reliable as more modern models.
Specifically, the 2003 model has over 500 transmission failure complaints at an average mileage of 98,000 miles. Unfortunately, repairing or replacing the transmission could cost around $2,710. As a result, Vehicle History gives the 2003 Accord a 6.0 out of 10.0 for reliability, one point behind a comparable 2003 Toyota Camry.
What problems does the 2004 Honda Accord have?
Like the 2003 model, the 2004 Honda Accord has transmission problems such as premature failures and slippage. However, the 2004 model also has a 2019 recall of 3,947 vehicles related to a defective driver’s side airbag. Specifically, the airbag inflator could explode, causing injury or death.
To check if your vehicle has an outstanding recall, use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) VIN lookup tool.
Does a 2002 Accord have a timing belt or chain?
2002 was the last year for the Honda Accord timing belt. As a result, the 2002 Accord does not have the same timing chain problems that might develop later.
However, it has 347 NHTSA complaints about transmission problems. For example, most of the complaints from owners are about improper operation, shaking and slipping. Unfortunately, the most common solution is a replacement drive, which could cost around $2,500.
What about the 2008 agreement?
Unfortunately for the 2008 model year, the Accord has about 1,277 NHTSA complaints about braking problems. Specifically, more than 1,000 owners of the eighth-generation model reported premature brake wear, including excessive vibration and warped rotors.
Is the 2009 Honda Accord leaking oil?
Although the 2009 Accord has very few owner reports of oil leaks, it has nearly 140 complaints about excessive oil consumption. In addition, the 2009 model has the same premature brake wear problems as its predecessor, the 2008 Accord.
Are these issues a deal breaker? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
