What year did Honda make the best Accord?

There isn’t a single universal best year for the Honda Accord; opinions vary based on what you value—reliability, performance, or modern features. Many critics and long-time owners point to late 1990s to early 2000s models for reliability and value, while newer generations shine with safety tech and efficiency.

Honda’s Accord has evolved through 11 generations, with the current 11th generation debuting around the 2023 model year and continuing into 2024–2025. The notion of “best” depends on priorities like maintenance costs, driving dynamics, and the level of technology you want. This piece surveys commonly cited standout years and explains how to weigh trade-offs when shopping.

Commonly Favored Accord Years

Below is a concise rundown of model years frequently cited by reviewers and owners as standout for particular strengths.

• 1994–1997 (Fifth generation) — celebrated for reliability, straightforward maintenance, and solid long-term value.


• 1998–2002 (Sixth generation) — refined ride, more features, and the availability of a V6 engine boosting performance.


• 2003–2007 (Seventh generation) — praised for space, comfort, and strong V6 performance; widely considered a well-rounded package.


• 2013–2017 (Ninth generation) — modern tech, improved efficiency, and historically strong resale; includes a well-regarded hybrid option (2014–2017).


• 2018–2022 (Tenth generation) — updated styling, standard Honda Sensing safety features, and strong reliability in many reviews.

These years are commonly cited for specific strengths, but individual experiences vary based on trim, maintenance history, and regional availability.

How to Decide Which Year Is Best for You

Before you shop, consider what matters most: reliability and cost of ownership, performance, fuel economy, technology, or safety features. Use the list below to align your priorities with model-year characteristics.

1. Prioritize reliability and low maintenance costs: look to late 1990s to early 2000s models (roughly 1994–2002) with proven four-cylinder engines and robust transmissions.


2. Want maximum performance? The late 1990s to early 2000s V6-equipped Accords (especially 1998–2002) deliver strong acceleration with a smooth ride.


3. Crave modern tech and safety? Focus on the 2018–2022 tenth generation, which offers Honda Sensing, updated infotainment, and better advanced safety features.


4. Interested in a hybrid? The mid-2010s hybrid Accord (2014–2017) blends efficiency with traditional Accord practicality.

When shopping, have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic, review maintenance records, and check for common issues reported by owners for the specific year and trim you’re considering.

Summary

The “best year” for an Accord depends on what you value most. Long-standing reliability and value are often associated with late 1990s to early 2000s models, while modern safety and tech shine in the 2018–2022 range, and hybrids offer another avenue for efficiency. Use your priorities to guide a test drive and a thorough vehicle history review.

What is the best Honda Accord you can buy?

The best Honda Accord to buy depends on your priorities, but the 2019-2022 (10th generation) models are often recommended for a good balance of modern technology, fuel efficiency, and value. For a newer, more premium experience, the 2023-Present (11th generation) models offer the latest features like a 12.3-inch screen and standard safety tech, with a focus on hybrid power. If you're on a tighter budget, the 2008-2012 (8th generation) models are reliable and affordable used options.
 
For modern features and value

• 2019-2022 (10th Generation): These models offer a great value proposition, providing modern styling, a high-tech interior, and available turbocharged engines. The 2.0L turbo engine, especially when paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission, is a strong performer that provides a fun driving experience. 
• What to look for: Consider the 2.0T engine for more power or the hybrid for better fuel economy. 

For the latest technology and hybrid efficiency

• 2023-Present (11th Generation): This is the latest generation, with a redesigned body and a standard suite of advanced safety and convenience features.
• What to look for: This generation focuses on hybrid technology, with hybrid powertrains standard on most trims and the latest infotainment systems, including a large 12.3-inch touchscreen on top trims. 

For a budget-friendly used option

• 2008-2012 (8th Generation): These models are widely praised for their reliability, comfortable ride, and affordability on the used market. They offer a solid, dependable experience without the high price of newer models.
• What to look for: The 2010 or 2012 model years are often cited as strong picks within this generation due to a good balance of performance, interior features, and reliability. 

For specific needs

• Budget-conscious: Look for the 2006-2007 models, which offer classic Accord reliability at a more affordable price. 
• Sporty: The 2019-2022 models are a great choice, especially those with the 2.0T engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. 
• Fuel-efficient: The 2023-Present hybrid models offer the latest in fuel-saving technology. 

What is the most reliable year of Honda Accord?

The most reliable years for the Honda Accord are generally considered to be the 2006–2007, 2008–2012, and 2013–2017 model years, along with recent models like 2019–2022 and 2023. These generations are praised for their reliability, good value, and fewer issues compared to some other years. 
Specifically recommended years:

• 2006–2007: Often cited as being among the most reliable, with a smooth ride and minimal maintenance. 
• 2008–2012: This generation is frequently mentioned as a top choice, offering reliability, a comfortable ride, and good performance. 
• 2013–2017: Praised for reliability, with a more stylish exterior and modern interior compared to earlier generations. 
• 2019–2022 & 2023: These more recent models have strong reliability records, modern features, and have received high safety ratings. 

What to avoid:

• 2003–2007: Some V6 models from this generation had widespread transmission problems, so it's important to be cautious with these years. 
• 2008 (with exceptions): While the 2008 model year is generally considered reliable, one source mentions it had a higher number of complaints filed with the NHTSA than some other models in its generation. 

Which Honda Accord to stay away from?

Honda Accord models to avoid include the 1998-2005, 2008-2010, 2013-2014, and 2018 model years due to issues like transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, and problems with newer turbocharged engines and infotainment systems. Specifically, 2003 models had high transmission complaint rates, 2008-2010 models suffered from oil consumption, and 2018 models saw engine and tech issues.
 
Years to avoid and their issues

• 1998–2005: This generation (especially the 2003 model) is known for significant automatic transmission failures. Interior trim and rattles are also common complaints. 
• 2008–2010: These models frequently experience excessive oil consumption, often due to piston ring issues. The 2008 model also saw premature brake wear. 
• 2013–2014: Both years had reliability concerns, with the 2014 model in particular experiencing issues with its CVT transmission, such as shuddering and stalling. Both years also had problems with their early infotainment systems. 
• 2018: This was the first year for the new turbocharged engines, and many owners reported engine problems. Infotainment and safety system issues (including driver-assist malfunctions) were also reported. 

Other considerations

• Transmission issues: Beyond the specific years listed, Honda Accords have had a history of transmission problems, so it's crucial to have any used model's transmission checked thoroughly, especially those with automatic transmissions. 
• Maintenance: A lack of proper maintenance can lead to major engine and transmission problems in many Accord models, regardless of the specific year. 

What year was a bad year for the Honda Accord?

The Honda Accord years to avoid are primarily 1998–2002, 2008, 2013, and 2014, due to common issues like transmission problems, oil consumption, and safety recalls. The 1998–2002 models are particularly prone to transmission failure, while the 2008–2010 models can have engine and transmission issues, and the 2013–2014 models introduced problems with the new continuously variable transmission (CVT). 
Years to avoid

• 1998–2002: These models are notorious for transmission problems, including slipping, delayed shifting, and total failure, sometimes before 100,000 miles. 
• 2008–2010: This generation saw reports of premature transmission failure (especially automatic models), excessive oil consumption, and potential issues with rear brakes. 
• 2013–2014: The introduction of the CVT in these model years led to reliability concerns like oil consumption and transmission issues. 
• 2018: Some sources indicate this year should be avoided due to potential safety issues, including faulty airbags and steering malfunctions.