Is 2009 Honda Accord a good used car?
Yes. The 2009 Honda Accord remains a solid used-car option when it has been well maintained, offering reliability, a comfortable ride, and reasonable running costs for its age.
As with any 16-year-old vehicle, its value depends largely on maintenance history and current condition. This article examines why the 2009 Accord is still worth considering, what to inspect when buying, and what you can expect in terms of fuel economy and ownership costs.
Strengths and drawbacks at a glance
Here are the main reasons buyers tend to consider the 2009 Accord a good used option, along with some caveats to keep in mind.
- Proven reliability: Honda's reputation for durable engines and robust mechanicals helps many 2009 Accords rack up high mileage with relatively few major problems.
- Comfort and practicality: spacious interior, supportive seats, and good ride quality make it a practical daily driver.
- Engine options: a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder and a more powerful V6 cater to different needs, with reasonable long-term durability.
- Strong resale value for an older model: even after many miles, well-kept examples often hold value better than some peers.
- Solid safety record for its era: standard airbags, ABS, and stability control contributed to favorable safety ratings at the time.
- Reasonable maintenance costs: parts availability is good and many routine repairs can be budget-friendly.
Taken together, these factors make the 2009 Accord a strong long-term pick when you verify service history and have a trusted pre-purchase inspection.
What to look for when buying a 2009 Accord
When shopping for a used 2009 Accord, be mindful of common wear items and potential recalls. A thorough inspection and vehicle history check can help you avoid surprises.
- Transmission and drivetrain: If you opt for the automatic, verify smooth upshifts and downshifts with no slipping, clunking, or harsh engagement. High-mileage automatics should be treated with caution, and service records for fluid changes are a plus. Manual transmissions should show easy clutch operation with no grinding.
- Engine condition: both the 2.4L four-cylinder and the 3.5L V6 are chain-driven. Look for noisy startups, excessive oil consumption, or leaks around the valve covers and rear main seal. A clean, dry engine bay with consistent oil changes is a good sign.
- Suspension and steering: inspect for worn front control arms, bushings, ball joints, and tie rods. Listen for clunks on rough pavement and check for excessive bouncing after bumps.
- Brakes and tires: check pad thickness, rotor wear, and tire tread. Uneven wear can point to alignment issues or worn suspension components.
- Rust and corrosion: particularly on older cars in regions with road salt or winter moisture, inspect rocker panels, wheel arches, and undercarriage for rust.
- Electrical and features: test windows, locks, HVAC, and radio; ensure any power accessories work consistently.
- Recalls and service history: verify service records and ensure open recalls, including safety-related airbag repairs, have been addressed by a dealer or qualified shop.
A careful pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a qualified mechanic and a vehicle history report (like Carfax or AutoCheck) can greatly improve your odds of buying a dependable example.
Fuel economy, running costs, and ownership
Understanding running costs helps compare the 2009 Accord to newer models or competing used sedans.
- Fuel economy: The four-cylinder models typically deliver better efficiency, with roughly mid-20s in city driving and low- to mid-30s on the highway. The V6 delivers lower MPG, often in the low-20s in the city and around 30 on the highway, depending on transmission and driving habits.
- Maintenance and repairs: routine maintenance (oil changes, brakes, tires) is generally affordable thanks to common parts and broad service networks. Major repairs (transmission, suspension components, or cooling/heating system work) can vary, but prices are often within the reasonable range for a 10-15 year-old car.
- Insurance and ownership costs: insurance typically remains affordable for a used Accord, with cost varying by driver history, location, and coverage levels.
These ranges give a rough guide; your actual numbers will depend on condition, mileage, maintenance history, and location.
Bottom line
The 2009 Honda Accord can still be a prudent used-car pick if you prioritize a well-documented maintenance history, have it inspected, and budget for routine aging components. It remains a strong value proposition in the used market relative to many peers, especially when you find a model with proven service records and clean mechanical condition. That said, its age means a higher likelihood of worn suspension parts, rubber components, and potential electrical quirks—issues that can surface around the 100k–150k mile range. A careful buyer will factor in those costs when negotiating price.
Summary
Overall, a well-kept 2009 Honda Accord is a solid used-car option worth considering for many buyers seeking reliability, comfort, and reasonable ownership costs. The key to a satisfying purchase is a thorough pre-purchase inspection, complete history, and readiness to address aging components as needed.
