What year did the Honda Accord have a bad transmission?
The issue isn’t tied to a single year; the most commonly cited period for transmission problems in the Honda Accord is the early 2000s—particularly the 2003–2007 models with automatic transmissions.
Below is a closer look at why those years stand out, how the problems manifested, and practical guidance for buyers and owners dealing with potential transmission issues in Accords.
Historical patterns and public reporting
Public data from consumer reviews, traffic safety records, and warranty/recall histories show a cluster of reported transmission problems for certain early-2000s Accords with automatic gearboxes. Later generations generally improved, but isolated issues can still occur. This section summarizes what has been most frequently noted by owners and technicians.
Before listing the most commonly cited years, it helps to know what type of transmission problems tended to appear and how they were addressed by manufacturers and dealers.
- 2003–2007 Honda Accord models with automatic transmissions are the period most often cited for transmission woes by owners and consumer organizations. Reported symptoms typically included slipping, harsh or delayed shifting, and, in some cases, complete transmission failure. Honda and dealer service bulletins addressed a range of issues on these units, and some markets offered extended warranties or service campaigns related to the affected transmissions.
These patterns have informed buyer guidance for older Accords: a careful pre-purchase inspection and a check of any applicable recalls or extended warranties can make a critical difference in ownership experience.
What to check if you own or buy a used Accord
If you’re considering a used Honda Accord, use the following steps to assess the transmission system and avoid potential pitfalls.
- Review full service history for any transmission-related repairs, recalls, or warranty work.
- Listen for symptoms such as slipping, hard or delayed shifting, or unusual noises during a test drive.
- Have a qualified mechanic perform a transmission health check, including a road test and codes scan.
- Pay special attention to 2003–2007 models, where the risk profile for automatic transmissions is higher than in many other model years.
After evaluating these factors, you’ll have a clearer sense of whether the specific Accord you’re considering has a manageable maintenance history or if a more thorough remedy would be needed.
Common transmission symptoms
- Slipping gears or unexpected gear changes
- Harsh, delayed, or rough shifting, especially at low speeds
- Unusual noises or grinding sounds when the transmission engages
- Warning lights related to transmission or torque converter
If any of these signs appear, a professional assessment is advised to determine whether a repair, overhaul, or transmission replacement is warranted.
Summary
The Honda Accord’s reputation for reliability remains strong overall, but certain early-2000s models—especially 2003–2007 with automatic transmissions—are frequently cited as having higher incidence of transmission problems. For prospective buyers, that historical pattern means a thorough inspection, confirmation of any recalls or warranty extensions, and careful review of service history are essential when considering a used Accord from that era. For current owners, prompt diagnosis and timely repairs are key to extending the life of the transmission and the vehicle overall.
What year do Hondas have transmission problems?
Honda automatic and CVT transmissions from the late 1990s and early 2000s are known for problems, with specific problematic years often cited including 1998–2004 for general issues and 1999–2003 for specific automatic transmission failures. Specific models like the Accord, Odyssey, and Acura TL are frequently mentioned as being affected.
This video explains the reasons why Honda transmissions fail: 59sspeedkar99YouTube · Jun 10, 2024
Problematic years by model
- Honda Accord: Years 1998–2002 and 1999–2003 had widespread automatic transmission issues, with some later models like 2008–2010 and 2013–2014 also having problems.
- Honda Odyssey: The 1999–2003 and 1999–2001 models are frequently cited for transmission problems.
- Acura TL/CL: The 2000–2003 and 2001–2003 models are known to have issues, with the Acura 3.2 TL having problems from 1999 onward.
- Honda Civic: Some earlier CVT models, like those from 1999–2004, are known to have issues.
- Honda Pilot: The early 2000s models had issues with overheating transmissions.
- Honda Jazz and Vezel Hybrid: Some 2014 models had issues with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission software.
Common symptoms of transmission problems
- Slipping gears
- Rough shifting or delayed shifts
- Jerking during acceleration
- Unusual noises
- Transmission failing to engage
- Vibrations
This video discusses Honda CVT reliability: 46sShadetree AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 10, 2024
Why these years had problems
- Automatic transmissions: The V6 automatics from the late 1990s and early 2000s were particularly prone to failure.
- CVTs: Some early Honda CVTs, particularly those from 1999–2004, had a high rate of failure.
- Dual-clutch transmissions: Some 2014 models had software issues that could cause delays or failure in gear selection.
Which Honda models have transmission problems?
Drivers often report a delay when shifting into Drive or experiencing vibrations when cruising. Some older Odyssey models were subject to recalls due to serious transmission faults. The Pilot, especially in early 2000s models, also had problems related to transmission fluid overheating or failing pressure switches.
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 years did the Honda Accord have transmission problems?
Transmission failures: Models from 1998–2002 and 2003–2007 are especially prone to automatic transmission problems, including slipping, hard shifting, and complete failure, sometimes as early as 60,000–100,000 miles. Repairs are costly, often requiring full replacements.
