Does the Honda Accord have road noise?
Yes. The Honda Accord generally delivers a quiet cabin for a midsize sedan, especially on smooth highway surfaces. However, road noise can vary depending on trim, wheel size, tire choice, and road conditions.
What influences road noise in the Accord
Several factors determine how much road noise you hear inside the cabin.
- Tires and tread: All-season tires versus summer performance tires; tire compound and tread depth affect both tire and rolling noise.
- Wheel size and weight: Larger wheels (for example, 19-inch wheels) often magnify road noise on rough pavement and can affect ride compliance.
- Road surface and pavement quality: Smoother highways yield less noise; rough asphalt or concrete increases tire and vibration noise.
- Aerodynamics and wind: Seals, mirrors, and the roofline influence wind noise at highway speeds.
- Powertrain: Engine and exhaust tone, along with any onboard noise-control systems, contribute to interior noise during acceleration and cruising.
In practice, reviewers generally rate the Accord as quiet for its class on well-maintained roads, with tire noise more noticeable on rough pavement or with larger wheels.
Model options and their noise profiles
Different powertrains and trims can alter the noise character of the cabin, particularly with respect to engine speed and tire/wheel configurations.
- 1.5-liter turbo with standard wheels tends to deliver a smooth, refined highway ride with modest engine noise at typical cruising speeds.
- 2.0-liter turbo with larger wheels or performance tires can produce more engine and tire noise, especially during hard acceleration or on rough roads.
- Hybrid models typically emphasize quiet operation at city speeds due to electric motor drive, and may be noticeably quieter at lower speeds than traditional gas engines.
- Top trims with 19-inch wheels may exhibit more road roar on imperfect pavement compared to lower trims with smaller wheels.
These differences mean that the quietness you experience can depend on the exact configuration you choose and the road you drive on.
Practical tips to minimize road noise
If you want to reduce road noise in an Accord, consider the following steps tailored to common ownership scenarios.
- Choose tires designed for comfort and low noise, and avoid aggressive tread compounds that amplify road roar.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures to optimize ride quietness and reduce rolling noise.
- Opt for trims with smaller wheels or higher-profile tires if you prioritize a quieter ride on rough roads.
- Ensure proper wheel alignment, balanced wheels, and a serviced suspension to minimize noise from vibration, tapping, or clunks.
Implementing these steps can help maintain or improve the Accord’s cabin quietness across varying road conditions.
Summary
The Honda Accord generally offers a quiet, refined interior for a midsize sedan, with highway wind and engine noise kept at comfortable levels on well-maintained pavement. However, road noise can increase with larger wheels, sport-oriented tires, and rough roads. Prospective buyers should consider trim and wheel/tire choices if cabin quietness is a priority, and regular maintenance can help preserve a calm ride over time.
Are Honda Accords noisy?
That being said, the biggest complaint we hear about almost all Accords is the road noise. It's not unbearable, but when comparing it to something like an older model Lexus, owners tend to complain that there's a noticeable difference in the cabin noise of the Accord.
What is the weakness of the Honda Accord?
Honda Accords have occasionally suffered from power steering leaks or pump failures, making steering effortful or uneven.
Why do Hondas have road noise?
This noise is caused by resonance in the tires' hollow cavities when driving over unevenness on the road surface. This has been a serious problem, especially for an automobile manufacturer pursuing comfortable mobility.
Why is my Honda Accord so loud while driving?
Low Oil Levels: Insufficient oil can lead to increased friction and noise. Check your oil level and condition, and top it up or change it if necessary. Air Intake Issues: A problem with the air intake system, such as a damaged air filter or intake hose, can also cause loud engine noise.
