How long do struts last on a Honda Accord?
Struts on a Honda Accord typically last about 60,000 to 100,000 miles under normal driving conditions, though actual life varies widely with use and environment.
Lifespan depends on factors like road quality, driving habits, load, and maintenance. Rough roads, heavy payloads, and rough handling can shorten life, while quality parts and careful driving can extend it. Common wear signs include a harsher ride, nose-down braking,/leaking fluid, and uneven tire wear—prompting a professional inspection.
What affects strut longevity
Several variables determine when struts wear out. The following factors are the main drivers of suspension life in a Honda Accord.
- Road conditions and driving style: potholes, speed bumps, rough pavement, and aggressive driving accelerate wear.
- Mileage and load: high annual mileage, heavy payloads, or towing increase shock loads.
- Alignment and tire condition: misalignment or worn tires can place uneven stress on the suspension.
- Component quality and installation: OEM versus aftermarket parts, proper torque, and secure mounting affect durability.
- Climate and exposure: winter road salt and moisture can contribute to corrosion and faster wear.
In practice, these factors mean many Accord owners see strut replacement somewhere in the 60,000–100,000-mile window, with some lasting longer under favorable conditions.
Signs your struts may be worn
Look for these indicators that the suspension may be nearing the end of its service life.
- Excessive bouncing or a wallowy ride after bumps
- Nose-diving during braking or increased body lean in corners
- Leaking hydraulic fluid around the strut assembly
- Uneven tire wear or cupping patterns
- Knocking or clunking noises over rough road surfaces
- Difficulty maintaining traction after impacts or during lane changes
If several signs appear, schedule a professional inspection. In many cases, shops recommend replacing struts in pairs to preserve balanced handling and ride quality.
Replacement timing, costs, and options
There is no one-size-fits-all mileage for strut replacement; most owners plan for a change somewhere between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, but conditions can shorten or extend that window. The following considerations help guide decisions.
- Budget and labor: typical total per-axle replacement costs range from roughly $500 to $1,200, depending on parts and local labor rates.
- OEM versus aftermarket: OEM replacements aim to match factory performance; reputable aftermarket options can offer cost or ride characteristics benefits.
- Replacement in pairs: to maintain even handling, many technicians replace both front struts at the same time (and sometimes both rear shocks).
- What’s included: some assemblies come with coil springs; others are just the strut cartridge. Verify what you’re buying to plan for labor and mounting hardware.
Planning ahead with a diagnostic check during routine service can help you schedule replacement and coordinate alignment or tire checks to maximize overall suspension life.
OEM vs aftermarket considerations
OEM parts are designed to emulate factory performance and ride characteristics, while reputable aftermarket options can tailor feel to your preferences or budgets. A qualified technician can recommend a choice based on your driving style, climate, and the vehicle’s condition.
Summary
In short, Honda Accord struts commonly last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, with life influenced by road conditions, mileage, and maintenance. Watch for ride quality changes, braking behavior, and fluid leaks, and have a professional inspect when concerns arise. Replacing struts in pairs and performing a wheel alignment when needed helps preserve handling, tire life, and overall safety. Budget for parts and labor, and consider OEM or trusted aftermarket options to align performance with your driving needs.
How often should I replace struts on my Honda Accord?
Under normal conditions, you shocks and struts should last between 75,000 and 90,000 miles. If you often carry heavy loads in your vehicle or drive often on unpaved roads, your shocks and struts should last 40,000 to 50,000 miles.
How much does it cost to replace struts on a Honda Accord?
The average cost for a Honda Accord Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $936 and $1,375. Labor costs are estimated between $351 and $515 while parts are priced between $585 and $860.
What are the signs of a bad strut?
Symptoms of a bad strut include a bouncy or uncontrolled ride, excessive vehicle body roll or sway when cornering, and the vehicle nose-diving during braking. Other signs are visible fluid leaks from the strut, unusual noises like clunking or grinding, and uneven tire wear (cupping or scalloping).
Ride quality
- Excessive bouncing: The vehicle continues to bounce up and down more than once after hitting a bump.
- Body roll: The car leans or sways excessively when making turns.
- Nose-diving: The front end dips down significantly during hard braking.
- Rear squat: The back end of the vehicle squats or dips down when you accelerate.
Handling and performance
- Poor handling: The vehicle feels unstable or wobbly, especially at higher speeds.
- Longer stopping distance: It takes longer for your car to come to a complete stop.
- Vibrating steering wheel: A slight vibration may be normal, but a noticeable shake when driving on bumpy roads can indicate bad struts.
Visual and auditory signs
- Fluid leaks: Look for oil or fluid leaking from the strut's exterior, which can cause dirt and debris to accumulate around it.
- Unusual noises: Listen for sounds like clunking, knocking, grinding, or creaking, especially when going over bumps or turning.
- Uneven tire wear: Check your tires for signs of "cupping" or "scalloping," which can be caused by the tire bouncing on the road.
- Visible damage: Inspect for any visible dents or damage to the strut itself.
What year was a bad year for the 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.
