Are 1987 Honda Accords reliable?
The 1987 Honda Accord is part of the third generation (1986–1989) and is widely regarded as a durable, reliable car when properly maintained, though reliability today hinges on mileage, rust, and service history.
Why the 1987 Accord has a reputation for reliability
The Accord from this era earned its reputation through a combination of simple engineering, durable components, and a large community of owners and repair shops familiar with the model. Here are the primary factors that helped build that trust.
- Durable inline-four engines known for longevity with regular maintenance.
- Proven drivetrain designs with relatively low electronic complexity compared to modern cars.
- Wide availability of parts and a large network of trained technicians familiar with Hondas from the period.
- Solid chassis and overall build quality that stood up well to many miles when rust and maintenance were properly managed.
Taken together, these elements contributed to the Accord’s long-running reputation for reliability, though aging examples require careful assessment before purchase.
Common issues to watch for in aging Accords
As with any 30-something-year-old vehicle, aging Accords can show wear in predictable areas. Being aware of these concerns helps prospective buyers and owners gauge reliability and potential upkeep costs.
- Rust, especially on floor pans, rocker panels, wheel arches, and undercarriage components.
- Suspension wear, including worn bushings, ball joints, and shocks, which can affect handling and ride quality.
- Braking system wear and aging components such as hoses, rotors, calipers, and master cylinder.
- Cooling system wear, including radiator cores, hoses, thermostat, and water pump, with potential for leaks or overheating if neglected.
- Engine seals and leaks (valve cover seals, oil leaks around gaskets) and potential head gasket concerns in high-mileage examples.
- Timing belt/drive belts and related components (check whether belts and tensioners have been replaced according to the model’s maintenance schedule).
- Transmission behavior: manual transmissions may show clutch wear; automatic transmissions can develop slipping or delayed engagement if not well maintained.
- Electrical aging: gauges, switches, wiring insulation, alternator performance, and other aging electrical components.
These issues are common among aging examples, but a well-maintained car can remain dependable; thorough inspection is essential to determine residual reliability and future costs.
Buying a 1987 Honda Accord today
If you’re considering a used 1987 Accord, a careful buying approach helps you assess reliability and long-term value. Here are practical steps and checks to perform.
Key checks before you buy
- Inspect the body and undercarriage for rust, especially in the floor pans and along the frame rails.
- Review maintenance records for timing belt/drive belt replacements, cooling system work, brake service, and transmission maintenance.
- Test start the engine and listen for unusual noises; observe idle stability and check for blue or black smoke upon startup.
- Perform a compression test or use a professional engine health check to assess internal wear.
- Check transmission operation on a test drive: smooth shifts for manual gearboxes; watch for slipping or harsh shifts with automatics.
- Inspect the cooling system for leaks, proper radiator function, and hose integrity.
- Evaluate the braking system’s feel and responsiveness; look for rust or wear around rotors, calipers, and lines.
- Look for signs of past bodywork that could indicate rust problems not addressed properly.
- Test electrical systems: lights, climate control, power accessories, and gauges for consistent performance.
These checks help gauge the likelihood of future reliability and the level of ongoing maintenance a prospective owner should plan for.
Maintenance tips to maximize reliability
Regular, proactive maintenance is the best path to keeping an aging Accord dependable. Here are essential practices to extend reliability and performance.
- Stick to a disciplined oil-change schedule using the recommended grade and high-quality filters.
- Maintain the cooling system with periodic coolant replacement, inspect hoses, and monitor for leaks; replace the water pump if indicated by wear or age.
- Replace timing belts and drive belts as recommended, including tensioners and water pump when performing belt work.
- Proactively replace aging rubber components—hoses, belts, and bushings—to prevent cascading failures.
- Regularly service the braking system: pads, rotors, lines, and brake fluid to preserve stopping power and safety.
- Address rust promptly and consider rust prevention measures or undercoating in vulnerable areas to slow corrosion.
- Inspect and maintain weather seals, door seals, and trunk seals to prevent water intrusion and interior wear.
- Adopt a moderate driving regime to reduce stress on the engine and drivetrain, avoiding overheating and aggressive starts/stops.
With diligent maintenance and timely repairs, a well-kept 1987 Accord can remain a dependable daily driver or a cost-effective classic.
Summary
Overall, the 1987 Honda Accord remains one of the enduring reliability benchmarks of its era. Its simple, robust engineering and abundant parts support longevity, but age-related issues—especially rust and wear in mechanical systems—mean reliability today depends on meticulous maintenance and honest condition when purchased. For potential buyers, a thorough inspection, a complete maintenance history, and a plan for ongoing care are essential to ensure dependable performance from a classic that still earns trust among enthusiasts and drivers alike.
