Is Accord as reliable as Camry?
Both the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are widely regarded as exceptionally reliable mid-size sedans. In most ownership scenarios, the Camry tends to edge out the Accord in long-term reliability and resale value, while the Accord remains a standout for everyday dependability and strong overall ownership experience.
Across 2024–2025 data, independent ratings from Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and U.S. News consistently place both models near the top of their class. The question for buyers often comes down to how much value they place on long-run durability, resale prospects, and maintenance costs. This article compares reliability across these lenses to help shoppers decide which car fits their priorities.
Reliability at a glance
Overview of how reliability stacks up in current ratings and ownership experiences helps readers gauge which vehicle might suit their expectations for years of use.
- The Camry generally earns slightly higher reliability scores from major outlets than the Accord, particularly for long-term ownership and fewer unexpected repairs.
- Both vehicles rank in the top tier of the midsize-sedan segment, with the Accord delivering excellent reliability in most model years.
- Resale value tends to favor the Camry due to Toyota’s broad reputation for durability and strong demand in the used-car market.
- Maintenance and repair costs for both are reasonable, though Toyota is commonly viewed as having a lower risk of costly repairs over the life of the car.
- Reliability can vary by model year and drivetrain, so checking year-specific ratings and recall histories is important when shopping used models.
In practice, both cars offer high reliability and strong ownership satisfaction. The Camry’s advantage tends to show up in long-term durability and resale value, while the Accord remains a very close competitor with excellent day-to-day reliability. Prospective buyers should focus on the exact year, trim, and maintenance history when evaluating used examples.
Reliability by measure
To understand reliability beyond general impressions, it helps to examine ratings from multiple authorities and what they mean in everyday ownership. The following section summarizes those takeaways and what they imply for buyers.
Independent ratings and owner sentiment
Across Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and U.S. News, both the Accord and Camry perform exceptionally well within the midsize sedan category. The Camry often edges the Accord in long-term reliability scores, while owner surveys show high satisfaction for both models.
- Consumer Reports reliability: Camry typically ranks slightly higher for long-term durability; Accord remains in the high-reliability tier.
- J.D. Power Quality & Reliability: Both cars score well; Camry sits near the top of the segment and Accord is a strong runner-up.
- Resale and cost of ownership: Camry generally holds value better, contributing to potentially lower ownership costs over many years.
Bottom line: both vehicles enjoy strong trust from owners and reviewers, with a modest edge to the Camry for longevity and resale value. For strict reliability emphasis, either model will perform well, but the Camry has a clearer advantage in long-run durability.
Model-year considerations
Reliability can drift by model year due to updates in powertrains, electronics, and manufacturing. When shopping used, it pays to review reliability data and recall histories for the exact year and drivetrain you’re considering.
- Check year-by-year reliability scores for specific engine/transmission combinations (e.g., Accord with 1.5T vs 2.0T, Camry with 2.5L or Hybrid).
- Review recalls and service campaigns that affect the generation you’re evaluating.
- Consider certified pre-owned options or extended warranties for added peace of mind.
For most buyers, a well-documented, well-maintained late-model example from either nameplate offers reliable ownership with minimal surprises.
Summary
The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry stand as two of the most reliable mid-size sedans on the market. While the Camry often holds a slight edge in long-term reliability and resale value, the Accord remains an outstanding and nearly equal option for dependable daily driving. Your best approach is to compare year-specific reliability ratings, review recall histories, and assess maintenance records for the particular car you’re considering. Either way, you’re choosing from two of the most dependable choices in the segment, which explains why both remain favorites among buyers seeking lasting value.
