What is the most common issue with Honda Accords?
The most common issue reported is transmission-related problems in automatic models, often manifested as shuddering, slipping, or hesitation. While Honda Accords are broadly reliable, the transmission has repeatedly been highlighted by owners and reviewers as the area with the most recurring complaints.
Beyond transmission concerns, other frequent topics include higher-than-expected oil consumption in some turbocharged engines and various electrical or infotainment glitches in newer models. The prevalence of any issue often depends on the generation and drivetrain, so potential buyers and current owners should review year-specific service histories and recall notices to understand the risk for a given car.
Transmission problems across generations
Before listing the typical transmission-related symptoms reported by Accord owners, it helps to note that reliability can vary by generation and drivetrain. The most consistently cited issue involves automatic transmissions, where symptoms range from shifting irregularities to reduced performance.
Owners experiencing these symptoms are advised to have the transmission inspected promptly. Early interventions may include a software update or fluid service, while more serious cases could require part replacement or transmission overhaul. Regular maintenance and addressing leaks early can reduce the severity of problems.
Oil consumption and engine reliability in newer turbo models
In more recent models that use turbocharged engines, some drivers have reported higher-than-expected oil consumption, particularly in certain 2.0-liter turbo configurations. This issue can lead to more frequent oil level checks and top-offs, and in some cases may trigger warranty or service bulletin investigations.
If you own a turbo-equipped Accord, keeping a careful eye on oil level and following Honda’s maintenance schedule is prudent. Dealers may offer software updates or mechanical fixes as recalls or service campaigns emerge.
Electrical and infotainment issues in newer models
As the Accord model line has incorporated more advanced infotainment and connectivity features, electrical glitches have become an increasingly discussed area among owners of late-model cars. While not as widespread as transmission problems, these issues can affect daily usability and require professional attention.
Keeping the vehicle’s software up to date and consulting a dealer for persistent glitches can mitigate these problems. Some issues may be resolved through recalls, campaigns, or targeted software revisions.
Maintenance and practical guidance
Understanding the most common issues helps prioritize preventative care and informed shopping. Here are practical steps to reduce risk and spot early signs of trouble:
Proactive maintenance, early diagnosis, and reviewing recall/service bulletin histories are your best tools for keeping a Honda Accord dependable over time.
Summary
The Honda Accord’s most frequently reported issue centers on automatic transmission problems, especially in older generations, with symptoms like shifting irregularities and shudder. In newer turbocharged models, oil consumption and electrical/infotainment glitches are notable but less widespread. Regular maintenance, timely inspections, and staying informed about recalls and software updates are essential for minimizing these risks and keeping an Accord running smoothly.
What is the biggest problem with the Honda Accord?
Mason Auto Repair
- The Age-Old Transmission Tribulation. One of the Honda Accord's most talked-about issues revolves around its transmission.
- Electrical Malfunctions Unplugged.
- Braking Bad.
- Steering Clear of Trouble.
- Air Conditioning.
- Suspension.
- Engine Issues.
Which Honda Accords are being recalled?
Recent Honda Accord recalls include issues with the high-pressure fuel pump (cracking and leaking fuel) for 2023-2024 models, front seat belt pretensioners (missing a securing rivet) for 2023-2024 models, and a specific software error affecting 2023-2024 Accord Hybrids. Other recalls for various Accord models include a fuel pump issue that can cause stalling, an airbag sensor problem, and a seat belt buckle defect. You can check the specific recall status for your vehicle by using its VIN on the NHTSA website or the Honda Owners website.
Recent recalls (2023-2024 models)
- High-pressure fuel pump: A high-pressure fuel pump in certain 2023-2024 Accords and Accord Hybrids may crack and leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Front seat belt pretensioner: The rivet securing the front seat belt quick connector may be missing, which can cause the seat belt to detach.
- Driver's seat cushion frame: The driver's seat cushion frame may not have been tightened properly, leading to an unsecured seat.
- Accord Hybrid software error: A software problem in 2023-2024 Accord Hybrids may cause issues with various systems, including the 12-volt battery.
Other recalls
- Fuel pump failure: A separate recall for certain 2013-2023 Accords addresses a potentially failing fuel pump module that could cause engine stalling.
- Airbag sensor: On some models, the front passenger seat's weight sensor may crack, potentially affecting the airbag's deployment.
- Seat belt buckle: A recall for the second-row center seat belt assembly addresses a potential defect in the automatic locking retractor.
How to check for recalls
- Use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to search for recalls on the NHTSA website or the Honda Owners website.
- Check with your local Honda dealer for more information and to schedule any necessary repairs.
Do Honda Accords have transmission problems?
Yes, some Honda Accord models, particularly older ones and certain hybrid years, have had documented transmission problems, including issues like slipping, hard shifting, delayed shifting, and total failure. Some problems stem from specific issues like a software glitch in certain 2023 hybrid models that could cause a loss of power, or are linked to years like 1998–2002 and 2003–2007 which are noted for automatic transmission issues. Proper maintenance can help mitigate problems, but some model years are more prone to issues than others.
This video shows an example of a slipping automatic transmission in a 2000s Honda Accord: 1mTech1968YouTube · Jan 5, 2024
Common transmission problems
- Delayed or hard shifting: The car may hesitate to shift gears, leading to a jerky ride.
- Slipping: The transmission can slip out of gear, resulting in a loss of acceleration.
- Complete failure: In some cases, the transmission may fail entirely.
- Software issues: A recall was issued for 2023 Accord Hybrids due to a software problem that could cause the engine to lose power.
Problematic model years
- 1998–2002 and 2003–2007: These model years are particularly known for problems such as slipping, hard shifting, and failure.
- 2013 and 2018: These specific model years are mentioned as having potential issues, such as transmission failure.
What can help
- Proper maintenance: Regular maintenance, including checking and changing transmission fluid, is crucial to prevent problems.
- Responsible driving: Driving responsibly can help a transmission last longer.
This video demonstrates a common Honda Accord transmission problem, transmission shudder: 56sBCauto_YouTube · Apr 26, 2023
What mileage do Honda Accords start having problems?
A Honda Accord that is not maintained well has a much higher chance of developing major engine and transmission problems before hitting 100,000 – 200,000 miles.
