Does my Honda Accord have ABS?

Most Honda Accords built from the late 1990s onward include an anti-lock braking system (ABS) either as standard equipment or as part of certain trims. To know for your exact car, check the dashboard indicators, consult the owner’s manual or window sticker, and verify via the vehicle identification number (VIN) with a dealer or trusted database.

What ABS is and why it matters

Anti-lock braking systems help prevent wheels from locking up when you brake hard, preserving steering control and reducing stopping distances on slippery surfaces. Honda has used ABS across its recent generations, integrating it with other safety systems such as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) on many models.

Key safety benefits

ABS allows you to steer toward a safe path while braking hard on wet, icy, or loose surfaces, by modulating brake pressure to individual wheels. This reduces the risk of skidding and helps you avoid obstacles.

How to confirm ABS on your specific Accord

Use these reliable checks to determine if your exact car has ABS.

• Dash indicator: When you start the car, watch for an ABS light on the instrument cluster. It typically lights briefly and then goes out if the system is functioning; if it stays on, there may be a fault or no ABS installed.


• Owner’s manual or window sticker: Look in the manual under Brakes or ABS, or check the window sticker or build sheet for a line item mentioning ABS or “Anti-lock Braking System.”


• VIN decode or dealer confirmation: You can provide your VIN to a Honda dealer or use a trusted VIN decoder to see whether ABS was included on your car's build. This is the most reliable way to know for a specific vehicle.


• Service records: If your maintenance history includes an ABS module service, ABS sensor replacement, or related brake work, your car likely has ABS.

Knowing how to verify ABS helps you understand what safety features your Accord has and what kind of repairs or maintenance it may require.

What if your Accord doesn’t have ABS?

While ABS is common on many Accords, older models or certain trims may have conventional braking without ABS. If your car lacks ABS:

• Drive with extra caution in wet, icy, or snowy conditions, and maintain appropriate tire tread and pressure.


• Consider replacing worn tires, as tire grip is a key substitute for ABS performance in poor conditions.


• Consult a qualified mechanic about options for upgrading or retrofitting ABS, though such upgrades can be complex and costly.

The decision to upgrade should weigh safety benefits against cost and compatibility with the vehicle's braking system.

Summary

ABS is a common safety feature on Honda Accords, especially in newer generations. To confirm for your specific car, check the dash lights, owner's manual/window sticker, and verify via the VIN with a dealer or trusted data source. If you discover your Accord lacks ABS, drive cautiously in adverse conditions and discuss options with a professional.

How do I tell if my car has ABS or not?

You can tell if your vehicle has ABS by checking for an "ABS" light on the dashboard that illuminates briefly during startup, consulting the owner's manual, or using a VIN decoder online. For a physical check, you can look for speed sensors near each wheel. 
Check the dashboard 

• Turn the ignition to the "on" position, but not to "start." All warning lights should briefly come on, including the "ABS" light, which is often yellow. 
• This light should then turn off after a few seconds. 
• If the light stays on after startup, it may indicate a problem with the system, but the presence of the light during the check confirms the vehicle is equipped with ABS. 

Consult your vehicle's documentation

• Owner's Manual: This is the most reliable source. Check the section on the braking system, and it will clearly state whether your vehicle is equipped with ABS. 
• VIN Decoder: Enter your vehicle's 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into a free online VIN decoder. The report will list your car's features, including whether it has ABS. 

Inspect the physical components 

• Wheel Speed Sensors: Look for a small electrical wire running to the hub of each wheel. If you see wires going to each wheel, it's a strong indicator of an ABS system. 
• ABS Module: The ABS module is typically a metal component located under the hood, often near the master cylinder. You can find images of it online to help you identify it. 

What is the ABS symbol on a Honda Accord?

This warning light symbol indicates a malfunction within the anti-lock braking system (ABS). The brake warning light may also activate alongside this light if there is an ABS malfunction or sensor damage. ABS is designed to help you safely stop without skidding in emergency or low-traction situations.

What year to stay away from Honda Accord?

The Honda Accord years to avoid are primarily 1998–2002, 2008, 2013, and 2014, due to common issues like transmission problems, oil consumption, and safety recalls. The 1998–2002 models are particularly prone to transmission failure, while the 2008–2010 models can have engine and transmission issues, and the 2013–2014 models introduced problems with the new continuously variable transmission (CVT). 
Years to avoid

• 1998–2002: These models are notorious for transmission problems, including slipping, delayed shifting, and total failure, sometimes before 100,000 miles. 
• 2008–2010: This generation saw reports of premature transmission failure (especially automatic models), excessive oil consumption, and potential issues with rear brakes. 
• 2013–2014: The introduction of the CVT in these model years led to reliability concerns like oil consumption and transmission issues. 
• 2018: Some sources indicate this year should be avoided due to potential safety issues, including faulty airbags and steering malfunctions. 

Does the Honda Accord have ABS?

Driver's and front-passenger's knee airbags. Anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®)5 with traction control.