What is the best year to buy a Honda Accord?
The clearest path to value in 2025 is simple: if you want a fresh, warrantied car, buy the latest model year; if you’re shopping used, aim for late-model years known for reliability and modern features, typically around 2016–2020. This approach balances price, dependability, and technology.
New vs used: choosing the right year for your needs
Buying new guarantees the newest safety tech, cabin updates, and full factory warranty. Buying used lets you capture depreciation savings while still getting a modern, reliable sedan, especially if you target mid-to-late-model years with strong reliability records and up-to-date safety features.
Best used-year targets for Honda Accord (as of 2025)
Below are commonly recommended used-year windows that tend to offer a favorable blend of price, reliability, and features. They reflect guidance from reliability reports, owner feedback, and market data available up to 2025.
- 2016–2018: This mid-cycle period is frequently cited as a sweet spot for value, with solid reliability and an upgraded set of features over earlier years.
- 2019–2020: These years typically offer a modern interior, improved safety tech, and well-regarded powertrains, making them strong used-value picks.
- 2021–2023: The newer generation brought additional tech and efficiency improvements; these years can be pricier but still provide strong reliability and modern conveniences.
In summary, used Accord buyers tend to be well-served by mid-to-late 2010s models, with 2016–2018 and 2019–2020 representing especially common targets for a good balance of price and peace of mind. The 2021–2023 window appeals to buyers who want the latest-gen tech and features, though at a higher upfront cost.
What to check when buying a used Honda Accord
Before you commit, use this checklist to guard against common issues and to verify the car’s value and condition. Each item helps you determine whether a given year aligns with your budget and reliability expectations.
- Vehicle history and recalls: Check for accident history, service records, and whether all open recalls have been completed.
- Maintenance records: Look for regular oil changes, fluid replacements, timing chain/belt service if applicable, and any major repairs.
- Transmission and powertrain: If the Accord in question uses a CVT or a turbocharged engine, test drive for smooth acceleration, hesitation, or unusual noises, and review any manufacturer bulletins or extended warranties related to the drivetrain.
- Oil consumption and leaks: Some engines in certain years have been known to burn oil or exhibit leaks; verify oil level history and look for wet spots under the engine.
- Suspension and brakes: Listen for clunks or creaks and inspect brake pads, rotors, and suspension components for wear that could indicate a heavy-use vehicle.
- Safety features and electronics: Ensure that key safety systems (including available Honda Sensing suite) and infotainment systems function properly, with compatible smartphone integration.
- Inspection by a trusted mechanic: A pre-purchase inspection can uncover issues not evident in a test drive or history report.
After you review these checks, you’ll have a clearer sense of value and risk for a given year, helping you compare offered prices against expected maintenance needs.
New Honda Accord: what to expect in 2025
If your priority is the newest engineering, safety upgrades, and the full factory warranty, buying the current model year is the strongest path. The latest Accord models typically feature updated driver-assistance systems, improved infotainment, and refinements to both efficiency and ride comfort. Expect higher upfront costs, but with the trade-off of long-term dependability and resale appeal.
Summary
In 2025, the best year to buy a Honda Accord depends on your buying style and budget. For most buyers, a new model year delivers the best value in safety and warranty, while a late-model used Accord—particularly from 2016–2020—offers a compelling combination of price, reliability, and modern features. Regardless of year, perform due diligence with a history check, recall status, maintenance records, and a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you’re getting a dependable ride. The Honda Accord remains a standout choice among midsize sedans for reliability, practicality, and long-term value.
What year did Honda Accord have oil consumption issues?
Plaintiffs allege that 2008 – 2010 Honda Accords contain a common manufacturing defect that causes the engine to burn excessive amounts of oil. The defect may be present in the guide valve seals or piston rings or the VTEC variable engine-timing system.
What is the best year of Honda Accord to buy?
The best Honda Accord years to buy are generally considered to be 2006–2007, 2011–2012, 2016–2017, 2019–2022, and 2023 due to their reliability and value. Other highly-regarded years include 2001–2002 for budget-conscious buyers and 2013–2015 for strong performance and safety.
This video discusses the best Honda Accord years to buy: 47sMJ100kYouTube · Oct 25, 2022
Best years to buy
- 2006–2007: These models are known for their strong reliability and performance.
- 2011–2012: These years are often recommended for reliability and value, with the 2012 model specifically highlighted as a top choice, as shown in this Quora thread and Clutch.
- 2013–2015: The 2013 Accord was redesigned and earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating. 2014–2015 models are also consistently recommended for being good, reliable choices, notes Honda of Tenafly.
- 2016–2017: These years are praised for reliability, performance, and comfort.
- 2019–2022: A more recent and reliable option, though prices for these years may be higher.
- 2023: The most recent models are strong contenders for reliability and modern features.
Other reliable options
- 2001–2002: A great budget-friendly option if you're looking for a reliable car on a tighter budget, notes AutoTrek.
This video discusses the best Honda Accord generations: 58sMark RodenYouTube · Dec 11, 2024
Years to approach with caution
- 1998–2005: These models are often cited for significant issues, especially with transmissions.
- 2008–2010: These years are known to have higher maintenance issues, as detailed in WhipFlip and CoPilot.
What year did the Honda Accord have a bad transmission?
Honda Accord models from 1998-2002, 2003-2007, and 2008-2010 are most frequently cited for transmission problems. The most common issues include premature failure, slipping, and hard shifting, particularly in the V6 models from the earlier years. Some later 10-speed automatic transmissions (like those in 2018-2019 models) have also been known for harsh shifting.
Problematic years
- 1998–2002: Prone to automatic transmission failures, including slipping and hard shifting. Some 1999-2002 V6 models have issues with torque converter bolts coming loose due to improper use of thread locker.
- 2003–2007: These years are particularly known for significant transmission issues, including complete failure. The problem is especially prevalent in the V6 automatic models.
- 2008–2010: These models are also frequently mentioned as problematic, with issues including transmission problems, premature brake wear, and engine oil consumption.
- 2018–2019: Some models with the 10-speed automatic transmission have experienced issues like harsh shifting, clunking noises, and delayed engagement.
How to mitigate the risk
- Regular fluid changes: For affected models, a regular and frequent transmission fluid exchange is crucial.
- Check for recall information: Honda issued a recall for some 2005-2010 models for transmission problems, so check to see if a specific vehicle was part of it.
- Be aware of maintenance history: If you are considering a used Accord, especially one from these years, having a full maintenance history can be very helpful. Look for evidence of the transmission fluid being changed regularly.
1:37Help on my 2001 Honda Accord transmission : r/HondaRedditKen350z · 3y 0:45Transmission failure? : r/accordRedditdoxophilia · 5mo 0:14Automatic 2010 honda accord Ex-l v6 having transmission issues but NO ...Redditsomeoneidkhelp · 3y (function(){
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What's the best year to buy a Honda?
The best Honda years vary by model, but generally reliable years include the Honda Civic (2004–2005, 2011, 2013–2015, 2020+), Honda Accord (2006–2007, 2008–2012, 2012–2017, 2020–2021), and Honda CR-V (2011). Some older models are also praised for their durability, particularly the 5th and 6th generation Civics (1992–2000) and 4th generation Accords (1990–1993).
This video discusses some of the best and worst Honda Civic model years: 56sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Sep 19, 2025
Honda Civic
- Best Years: 2004–2005, 2011, 2013–2015, 2020–2024
- Best Generations: 5th (1992–1995) for performance, 6th (1996–2000) for dependability, and 10th (2016–2021) for modern features.
- Avoid: 2001, 2003–2006, 2009, & 2011 due to transmission issues, engine problems, or recalls.
This video analyzes the 10th generation Honda Civic model years: 58sJustin PritchardYouTube · Aug 9, 2024
Honda Accord
- Best Years: 2006–2007, 2008–2012, 2012–2017, 2020–2021
- Best Generations: 4th (1990–1993) and 5th (1994–1997) are noted for longevity, especially 4-cylinder models.
- Avoid: 1999–2003 (transmission issues), 2011 (V6 misfires).
Other Models
- Honda CR-V: 2011 is a strong choice for reliability.
- Honda Fit: Known for reliability, with models often surpassing 200,000 miles.
This video recommends reliable Honda models you can buy: 1m Auction Car ReconditioningYouTube · Nov 14, 2025
