What is the weakness of the Honda Accord?
The Honda Accord is widely praised for reliability, space, and resale value, but like any model, it carries a few well-documented drawbacks. Below is a concise rundown of the most frequently cited weaknesses, with context on when they matter most for buyers.
Powertrain and performance
Understanding how the Accord’s engines and transmissions behave helps clarify its driving dynamics across trims and model years.
1.5-liter turbocharged engine with CVT
This list examines the common drawbacks tied to the 1.5T CVT pairing, which is used in many base and mid-level trims.
- Acceleration can feel sluggish compared with rivals, especially when carrying passengers or climbing grades.
- The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can produce a drone or whine under steady throttle, which some drivers find unengaging or tiresome.
- Turbocharged responsiveness is adequate for daily driving but may not satisfy enthusiasts seeking brisk, sporty acceleration.
- Engine tuning prioritizes fuel economy over sporty performance, which can disappoint buyers expecting more punch from a modern sedan.
For buyers prioritizing brisk acceleration and a traditional automatic feel, the 2.0-liter turbo option generally offers a stronger, more confident performance at the cost of lower city efficiency.
2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 10-speed automatic
This list highlights the tradeoffs of opting for the more powerful engine in higher-end trims.
- Stronger acceleration, but fuel economy and maintenance costs can be higher than the 1.5T setup.
- Some early or aggressive shifts in certain software configurations have been noted, though modern updates have largely smoothed this out.
- Complexity of the turbocharged powertrain can translate to higher potential repair bills relative to the base engine.
- In everyday city driving, the added performance may not always translate into noticeably better fuel economy compared with the 1.5T, depending on driving style.
Overall, the 2.0T is a stronger performer with a smoother highway experience, but it comes with greater maintenance considerations and, in some cases, higher operating costs.
Interior, technology, and usability
Interior feel and the tech interface are common pain points for some buyers, especially in lower trims or when compared with rival cabins.
- Base trims can use harder plastics and less premium feel than upper trims or some competitors, which can affect perceived quality inside the cabin.
- The infotainment system and touchscreen responsiveness can be slower or less intuitive than rivals, with occasional lag reported by drivers and passengers.
- Smartphone integration and screen layout vary by trim; higher trims improve this experience but may still fall short of the most seamless setups offered by some competitors.
In many trims, improving the cabin materials and tech interface is possible, but buyers should test-drive to ensure the experience meets their expectations for comfort and ease of use.
Ride quality and handling
How a car rides can be as important as how fast it goes, and the Accord’s comfort level shifts with trim, wheel size, and suspension tuning.
- Ride comfort can be notably firmer on sport-oriented trims or with larger wheels, making highway imperfections more noticeable.
- Wind and road noise, while generally well controlled, can become more evident at higher speeds or on rough surfaces depending on trim and tires.
- Handling is typically stable and predictable, but some drivers may find the steering feel less communicative than rival mid-size sedans with sport-tocused suspensions.
For a smoother daily ride, many buyers opt for mid-range trims with smaller wheels and touring suspension tuning, balancing comfort and handling.
Reliability, ownership costs, and value
As one of the more dependable mainstream sedans, the Accord tends to hold value, but prospective owners should consider long-term costs.
- Overall reliability is strong, but some model years have seen recalls or service campaigns, particularly related to powertrain software or accessory components. Staying informed about recalls is advisable.
- Maintenance and parts costs are generally reasonable for a mid-size sedan, yet higher-trim or turbocharged variants can incur greater routine maintenance or repair expenses than base configurations.
- Depreciation is typically favorable, but the timing of model-year changes and new feature offerings can influence resale values for particular trims.
In short, the Accord remains a strong long-term value, with most ownership costs closely aligned with or below competing mainstream sedans, provided buyers choose trims that fit their budget and needs.
Bottom line
The Honda Accord continues to be a leading choice for buyers seeking reliability, space, and a comfortable ride. The main weaknesses to watch are its 1.5T CVT’s sometimes unexciting performance and infotainment quirks, plus the ride and cost tradeoffs that come with higher trims and larger wheels. By test-driving both powertrain options and assessing your priorities for tech, ride comfort, and budget, you can determine which Accord configuration best fits your needs.
Summary
In summary, the Honda Accord’s weaknesses center on: a less dynamic feel from the 1.5-liter turbo with CVT, occasional infotainment and interface quirks, ride stiffening with larger wheel choices, and ownership costs that can rise with the more powerful turbo engine or premium trims. Despite these tradeoffs, the Accord remains a well-rounded, reliable sedan with strong resale value and broad practicality for families and commuters alike.
