Best Honda Accord Year – Which Honda Accord Is The Hidden Gem?

Are you on the market for a mid-size car and the Honda Accord is one of your options and you want to get informed on what is the best Honda Accord year? If that is the case, then you are at the right place because we are going to cover a lot when it comes to this model.

• What Is The Honda Accord?
• Honda Accord Generations
• 7th Gen Accord
• 8th Gen Accord
• 9th Gen Accord
• 10th Gen Accord
• Final Conclusion

Getting yourself properly informed before you make a purchase is key if you want to avoid paying a fortune on possible repairs that could be needed to be performed if you purchase a lemon or a vehicle that needs serious work to be brought back to life.

That’s why research is key if you want to avoid this and make sure that you never ever end up in a money pit full of problems. And trust me, there are a ton of cars and engines and transmissions that you need to stay away from if you want to keep your wallet safe.

Almost every model has an engine or a transmission that isn’t performing the best and is full of problems. That’s why we are going to explain to you which are the best engines and transmissions when it comes to the Honda Accord.

In this article, first, we are going to learn what is the Honda Accord. Then we will cover the last four generations where we will cover every detail about these cars in terms of platforms, engines, and transmissions. And then we will discuss the problems that these cars have and also the best Honda Accord year. In the end, we will cover some alternatives. So, let’s get into it.

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a 4-door sedan manufactured by Honda since 1976. At the moment this model is in its 10th iteration which tells quite a lot about this model and its popularity worldwide.

The Accord was initially offered in a couple of body styles that included a hatchback, a coupe, a sedan, and a station wagon. But since 2015, Honda has decided to ditch the coupe and station wagon options and include only the sedan which is the most popular when it comes to sales.

Overall when it comes to sales, the Accord is one of Honda’s bestsellers in the US market and is responsible for most of the profits that Honda makes in this market. Even though recently with the appearance of the crossover SUV market, the sales have shrunk a bit. The Accord still keeps selling well.

When someone wants a sedan for themselves. The Accord is one of the top picks since this model has a lot to offer. And the biggest thing that it offers is reliability. Especially the early Accords from the ’90s that ran for a million miles with no problems. Reliability has decreased in the last decade a bit in comparison to these years. But still is quite good in comparison to the competition that is out there.

And you shouldn’t worry because we are going to cover the best Honda Accord year for each generation so you have a better perspective on what you should get for yourself.

And that would be in the following chapters where we will cover the last four generations of the Accord. Since they are the most recent ones. Then we will cover the best Honda Accord year for each generation.

Best Year For Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is one of the most iconic sedans in the automotive world. Its commitment to quality and performance has seen numerous iterations over the years. Let’s dive deep into the best and most reliable model years, and the potential challenges each brings.

1998 Honda Accord

Starting with the 1998 Accord, this model year was part of Honda’s efforts to offer more interior space. Still, it’s crucial to tread carefully. Consumer Reports rated this year with a modest reliability score. The main concern? Widespread transmission failure and issues with body integrity. If you’re eyeing this classic, ensure you thoroughly inspect these areas.

2003 Honda Accord

The 2003 Accord was a step forward with powerful powertrains, including a V6 engine for the coupe. While it boasts a lively drive, this model had its hiccups, notably with the transmission. Particularly, issues arose around the 100k mile mark.

2004 Honda Accord

Much like its predecessor, the 2004 Accord faced transmission troubles. The high number of complaints in this area makes it a year to approach with caution. However, it retained its popularity among many, suggesting other redeeming features.

2005 Honda Accord

The 2005 model had fewer transmission issues than the previous two years but wasn’t immune. Before diving in, it’s wise to get a thorough check from a trusted mechanic.

2006 Honda Accord

Transitioning into a more reliable phase, the 2006 Accord is a strong contender for those wanting a dependable used car. It rectified many of its earlier issues, earning a “Pretty Good” seal from CarComplaints.

2007 Honda Accord

Matching the reliability of the 2006 model, the 2007 Honda Accord further solidified its reputation. Its minimal issues make it a safe bet in the used car market.

2008 Honda Accord

This year marked another redesign. Despite the roomy interiors, it faced challenges like excessive oil consumption and brake concerns. A cautious approach is recommended for this model.

2009 Honda Accord

A slight improvement over 2008, the 2009 model still had lingering issues. It’s best to cross-check with owners or reviews before making a purchase decision.

2011 Honda Accord

Signifying a significant turnaround, the 2011 Accord is one of the best in the eighth generation. Fewer complaints and improved reliability make it a top choice for used car enthusiasts.

2012 Honda Accord

Riding the wave of its predecessor, the 2012 Accord also stands out. This model is among the most reliable, offering a blend of performance and dependability.

2015 Honda Accord

Jumping to the ninth generation, the 2015 Accord shines brightly. With fewer complaints and a robust build, it’s arguably the crown jewel of this generation.

2016 & 2017 Honda Accords

Both these years carried forward the reliability trend. Although there were minor issues like clear coat problems, these models remained steadfast favorites.

2020 Honda Accord

For the tenth generation, the 2020 Accord takes the cake. With high ratings in reliability and owner satisfaction, it’s a testament to Honda’s commitment to excellence.

2021 Honda Accord

Following suit, the 2021 model carries the torch of reliability. But as a newer model, potential buyers should be prepared for a slightly steeper price tag.

The Honda Accord, over the years, has been a beacon of reliability in the sedan market. While some years faced challenges, many have stood the test of time. When considering a used Honda Accord, research, and due diligence will ensure you drive off with a gem.

Honda Accord Generations

As we mentioned above, in the following chapters, we are going to cover the last four generations of the Honda Accord, since that it’s highly likely that you will come across one of them if you are looking for a used or new vehicle.

Then we will cover the problems of each of these generations and the most complaints people have about them. Then we will discuss the best Honda Accord year for each generation. So, let’s begin.

Seventh Generation Honda Accord

The seventh generation of the Accord was introduced in 2002 and was in production up until 2007 when it was replaced by the 8th generation of the Accord. At the moment, you could snatch one of these Accords for a really good deal since they are almost 20 years old.

The North American model was assembled in Marysville, Ohio. What is unique to other Accords that we have now is that this model was also available as a coupe beside the sedan. This means that you get an Accord with 2 doors.

When it comes to trim levels, these were a few of them. The DX was the base and then followed by the LX, and EX levels which were more equipped than the base DX trim.

This model was front-wheel drive, so you have a better perspective. But what about the best Honda Accord year? More on that later, first, let’s discuss the specs.

Engines And Transmissions

The base models came with the 2.4L K24 straight-4 engine. This engine was one of the hottest offerings back in the day because it delivered quite a performance and also reliability. Not to mention that it was also fuel-efficient as well.

The 2.4L was making around 160hp and 161 lb-ft of torque. It implemented a DOHC head design and variable valve timing.

The more powerful engine was the 3.0L V6 which was the way to go for those who wanted more power from their Accord. This engine was producing 240hp and 212 lb-ft of torque. This engine is running single overhead camshaft also known as SOHC and variable valve timing.

Since this engine is implementing a SOHC design it means that it is quite fuel-efficient as well. But more on that later, before we cover the best Honda Accord year.

Both of these engines were paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. The automatic was the transmission of choice in the US.

Safety

The safety of this Accord was quite good and according to the NTHSA that performed the tests. It got 5 stars on most of them, it only got 4 stars on the side driver, and also got 4 stars in case of a rollover.

Fuel Mileage

The fuel mileage of this generation is also quite good for both engines. The 2.4L got 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with 25 mpg on average.

While the V6 got 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with 22 mpg on average.

Honda Accord Problems

Now let’s discuss the problems that the Honda Accord has. Knowing the problems will help you out immensely if you are out there on the market for a used Accord. After this, we are going to cover the best Honda Accord year. So, let’s begin.

The biggest problem this generation of Accord has been with the transmission. On carcomplaints’ website, there are almost a thousand complaints about the Accord when it comes to its transmission. The automatics were notoriously for failing on these models.

Engine problems were rare, the biggest engine issues were with oil consumption. Specifically, the 2.4L engine is known to drink a lot of oil.

The second biggest problem is the interior issues that this model has. Problems were concerned with the stereo, door lock mechanism, dashboard issues, and window regulator failures. Overall, a lot of electrical problems.

The third biggest problem is with the paint. More precisely the clear coat was chipping.

Best Honda Accord Year

When it comes to this generation of the Honda Accord. The best Honda Accord year is 2007. Other good years are 2006 and 2005. Avoid the years from 2002 up to 2004 at any cost.

These cars are plagued by transmission and electrical problems that will drain your wallet pretty quickly.

Eighth Generation Honda Accord

The 8th generation of the Honda Accord was introduced in 2007 for the 2008 model year. This model was in production until 2012 when it was replaced with the 9th generation of the Accord.

Similar to its predecessor, it was offered in a coupe and a sedan version. And also similar to its predecessor it was built in Marysville, Ohio.

This model like the previous generation of this model implements a front-engine front-wheel-drive design.

The trim levels for the Accord were the EX and the LX. But what is the best Honda Accord year? More on that later after we cover the specs of this generation of the Accord.

Engines And Transmissions

Similar to its predecessor, there were two engines that were included in the Accord. These were the 2.4L straight-4 engine. But these engines were bumped in power in comparison to the previous generation. In this iteration, they were making a respectable 190hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. Similar to the predecessor, they also included a DOHC head design with variable valve timing or Honda’s V-TEC.

The more powerful option was the 3.5L V6 engine. This engine was producing 268hp and 248 lb-ft of torque which is quite respectable. This engine is running a SOHC head design with variable valve timing and V-Tec.

The transmissions available in this generation of the Accord were the 5-speed automatic and also the 6-speed manual.

Safety

The safety is quite improved in comparison to the previous generation of the Accord. According to the NTHSA that is performing these tests. The accord performed quite well in all tests gaining 5 stars in the process. Except in the tests for the side rear passenger where it only got 4 stars.

Also in the IIHS tests, the Accord performed quite well with a good grade for all of the tests. Except for the roof strength that was deemed acceptable. Overall, when it comes to safety, this generation of the Accord is a good performer.

Fuel Mileage

When it comes to fuel mileage, this model of the Accord performed similarly to its predecessor. The 2.4L engine got 21 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined.

The more powerful V6 engine got 17 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 20 mpg combined. Overall, good fuel economy for both of the engines. But what is the best Honda Accord year? More on that later after we cover the Honda Accord problems.

Honda Accord Problems

Now let’s cover the problems with this generation of the Accord. First, we will cover the engine problems and then we will focus on other aspects.

The biggest problem with these engines is excessive oil consumption. They like to drink oil. Specifically the 2.4L straight-4 engine. Many owners on carcomplaints.com’s website were furious about this issue. With more than 391 complaints about the 2008 model.

The second biggest problem was the VTC actuator that was failing on the engine. This VTC actuator is in charge of the variable valve timing of V-Tec. The grinding noise when this problem happened was the most common symptom. The average repair cost was $520.

Other problems included issues with the brakes. The brakes of the Accord simply started to wear off prematurely. There were a lot of controversies on the brakes fortunately it was resolved in 2010 when Honda replaced these pads with redesigned ones.

Also, problems with the sudden airbag deployment are a big thing on these models. There was a recall of more than 300,000 Accords for this issue.

Other issues include a lot of minor electrical problems with components inside of the car like the stereo, A/C, lights, etc. Not to forget the clear coat chipping that continued to be a thing even in this generation. But what about the best Honda Accord year? More on that in the next chapter.

Best Honda Accord Year

The best Honda Accord year for this generation was 2011. This year specifically has the least complaints, also 2012 is another good year as well.

Bad years that you don’t want, would probably be 2008, 2009, and the early models of 2010. Overall, good generation of the Accord that didn’t suffer a lot of mechanical problems.

Ninth Generation Honda Accord

The 9th generation of the Accord was introduced in 2012 and was produced up until 2017. This generation saw a massive improvement in comparison to the previous generation both in terms of technology as well as an overall design language and features that were included on the Accord.

Similar to the predecessors, this model was as well assembled in Marysville, Ohio, and was offered in both a 2-door coupe and a 4-door sedan. It implemented a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout like its predecessors.

The trim levels stayed the same as the previous generation and as we can recall these were the EX and LX.

Engines And Transmissions

There were the same engines from the previous generation that were passed over on this one. The 2.4L K24 engine produced 185hp and 181 lb-ft of torque as well and the more powerful engine which was the 3.5 V6 engine which made 278hp and 252 lb-ft of torque. Both engines implemented variable valve timing.

In terms of transmissions, there was a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a new CVT transmission that was available on this model.

Safety

The safety of the Accord was quite good and almost on par with the previous generation. The only drawback with this generation was that it only got 4 stars on the tests on the driver and the front passenger according to the NTHSA. The coupe on the other hand got 5 stars on all of the tests.

According to the IIHS, the accord also performed quite well. Getting good grades on almost all of the tests except the small overlap frontal offset the Accord only got an acceptable grade. Which is also good. But what about the best Honda Accord year? More on that later.

Fuel Mileage

The 2.4L engine model got 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway with 29 mpg combined. The 3.5L V6 got 18 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined.

A bit worse than the 2.4L with CVT. If you are after the fuel mileage, going for the CVT transmission is an excellent idea.

Honda Accord Problems

This generation, fortunately, didn’t suffer major mechanical problems and the engines and transmissions were pretty much bulletproof.

The only problem that was inherited from the previous generation was the oil consumption on the 2.4L engine. So, be aware of this issue.

The biggest issues with this generation were the electrical problems. Problems like starter failures were very common. Also, the battery was draining on a lot of cars.

Other electrical gremlins were also present inside the cabin and some of the systems were known to malfunction more often than on other cars.

Other problems with later-year models were the LED lights which were burning out. Many owners reported this issue on the 2016 model.

Best Honda Accord Year

The best Honda Accord year from this generation would definitely be the 2017 model year since this year noticed the least problems from all of the years of this generation.

2015 is another good year as well. When it comes to avoiding, I would avoid the 2013 and 2014 models.

Tenth Generation Honda Accord

The 10th generation of the Accord was unveiled in 2017 and is still in production to this day.

This generation has improved design with futuristic lines that look particularly pleasing and we can conclude that Honda has put a lot of effort into making this model the best Accord up to date.

This model is implementing the same front-wheel-drive, front-engine layout as all of the previous generations and is assembled in Marysville, Ohio.

Engines And Transmissions

In this generation, Honda has decided to ditch the big engines and make a change by downsizing and using smaller engines that used forced induction to make out for the displacement loss.

The smaller engine is a 1.5L turbo straight-4 engine that produces 192hp and 192 lb-ft of torque.

The more powerful engine is a 2.0L turbo straight-4 engine that makes 252hp and 272 lb-ft of torque. Making this engine extra torquey and quick from the straight line.

There were also new transmissions, 6-speed manual transmission, 10-speed automatic, and as well the CVT transmission.

Safety

The safety ratings for the newest generation of the Accord are pretty close to perfect, getting 5 stars on all of the tests.

Fuel Mileage

The fuel mileage improved on these new models, the 1.5L engine delivered 30 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway, and 33 combined.

The 2.0L engine delivered also a good performance. Getting 22 mpg city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 26 combined. But what about the best Honda Accord year? More on that later, first, let’s cover the Honda Accord problems.

Honda Accord Problems

Of all of the generations that we have covered, the latest generation has the least of them. Which is quite good if you want to purchase one. But there are still some things to point out.

Most problems people faced with the electronics inside of the car with 22 complaints only because of these issues in the 2017 model year. Electrical problems were second with 16 complaints.

Since this Accord is using the 1.5L engine, you will highly likely also face the oil dilution problem. Or also known as gasoline in oil. This is owed to the design of the engine.

Overall, this generation is quite better and gets my recommendation.

Best Honda Accord Year

Now let’s see what is the best Honda Accord year for this generation. 2020 easily wins this with only 8 complaints in total. 2019 is also quite good and should be your second option. 2018 has the most complaints while not far behind is 2017.

Facts: Honda Accord’s Reliability, Best Years to Buy, and Generational Evolution

• Honda Accord is a four-door sedan that has been in production since 1976 and is known for its durability and reliability.
• Buying a used Honda Accord is a solid buy for those who cannot afford a new one. These midsize sedans have consistently strong dependability ratings thanks to their powerful engines.
• The best years for Honda Accord according to safety ratings, user reviews, and professional assessments are: 2006, 2019, 2011, 2021, 2013, 2015, 2005, and 2007.
• The 2013 Honda Accord sedan is considered the most reliable in the lineup based on safety ratings, user reviews, and professional assessments.
• The years to avoid for Honda Accord based on known issues are: 1998, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2008, and 2014. Among them, the 2008 Honda Accord and 2003 Honda Accord have the most issues.
• The Honda Accord went through ten generations from 1977 to the present day. Each generation brought improved performance, increased passenger space, and upgraded features such as power windows, locks, and sunroofs.
• The First Generation Honda Accord (1977 – 1981) was released as an extension of the Civic series and came with a 5-speed manual, a 2- or 3-speed automatic, and a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generated 68 horsepower.
• The Second Generation Honda Accord (1982 – 1985) had boosted performance, increased passenger space, and upgraded features like a cassette player, power windows, and locks. The 1.8-liter inline-four engine produced up to 86 horsepower.
• The Third Generation Honda Accord (1986 – 1989) was a major leap forward, shedding the economy car image, and competing with full-size sedans. The new 2.0-liter engine produced 98 hp with a carburetor and 110 hp with fuel injection.
• The Fourth Generation Honda Accord (1990 – 1993) had improved interior comfort, and increased length, and width. The new Accord included fuel injection and a 2.2-liter inline-four engine that produced up to 130 horsepower in the top-of-the-line EX trim. The driver-side airbag debuted in 1992.
• The Fifth Generation Honda Accord (1994 – 1997) had a more rounded appearance, with a choice of body styles (coupe, sedan, or station wagon) and the introduction of dual airbags. Models were utilizing Honda’s new VTEC technology, which is found in the more powerful 2.2-liter four-cylinder engines, produced between 130 and 145 horsepower. The 2.7-liter V6 with 170 hp wasn’t available in the Accord sedan until 1995.
• The Sixth Generation Honda Accord (1998 – 2002) was roomier, and the wagon was removed. The Accord coupe was made to look more sporty than the Sedan, the size increased, and the V6 became standard on the EX trim.

Best Honda Accord Year: In Conclusion…

In this article, we have covered a lot about the Honda Accord and we learned a lot about this model. First, we covered the basics of this model.

Then we have covered the last four generations. We learned the configuration and trim levels of these vehicles, then we have covered the engines and transmissions that were used.

After we covered the safety and the fuel mileage. Last we saw the problems that each of these generations had and which is the best Honda Accord year from each of these generations.

If you want something else, you can also look at the alternatives that are out there, like the Nissan Altima, Kia Optima, Chevy Legacy, Toyota Camry, and the VW Passat.