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What year was a bad year for the Honda Accord?

In 2023, the Honda Accord, a long-standing and popular midsize sedan, encountered some difficulties. While the Accord is generally known for its reliability and strong sales, that particular year presented unique challenges for the model.


Declining Sales and Market Shifts


The Honda Accord experienced a decline in sales in 2023, bucking the trend of its typically strong performance. This drop in sales was attributed to several factors, including a shift in consumer preferences towards SUVs and crossovers, as well as increased competition from other midsize sedans in the market. 1 2


Additionally, the Accord faced challenges in adapting to changing market demands, as consumers sought more versatile and spacious vehicles. The model's traditional sedan design, while still appealing to some buyers, struggled to keep pace with the growing popularity of larger, more utility-focused vehicles.


Addressing Challenges and Adapting



  • Honda responded to the Accord's sales slump by introducing updates and revisions to the model, aiming to better align it with evolving consumer preferences.

  • These changes included the addition of more advanced safety features, improved fuel efficiency, and a more modern, stylish exterior design.

  • The company also emphasized the Accord's long-standing reputation for reliability and quality, hoping to appeal to loyal customers and attract new buyers.


Despite the challenges faced in 2023, the Honda Accord remained a significant player in the midsize sedan market, with its strong brand recognition and reputation for dependability. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Honda will likely continue to adapt the Accord to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers.

What year did Honda Accords have bad transmissions?


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



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 to avoid Honda Accord?


You should avoid Honda Accord model years including 1998–2005, 2008–2010, 2013, 2014, and 2018 due to significant issues like transmission failures, engine problems, and faulty driver-assist systems. The 1998–2005 models are particularly known for transmission problems, while 2008–2010 models often suffer from excessive oil consumption. The 2013 and 2018 model years are noted for other issues, including a faulty ABS module in the 2013 and malfunctioning airbags and steering in the 2018. 

Model Year(s) Common Problems
1998–2005 Transmission failure, slipping, and abrupt shifting
2008–2010 Excessive oil consumption, engine stalling
2013 Faulty ABS module, transmission issues
2014 Transmission problems and other mechanical issues
2018 Faulty airbags, steering malfunctions, and problems with driver-assist systems
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Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.