What years did the Honda Accord have bad transmissions?

A quick answer: the most consistently cited problem years are the 2003–2007 Accords with the automatic transmission. There are also notes about earlier generations with automatics and some concerns in later generations that use newer transmission designs, including hybrid variants. For any used Accord or a prospective purchase, check vehicle history and recall status for the exact VIN.

The Honda Accord spans multiple generations and transmission designs, and what counts as “bad” can depend on maintenance, mileage, and driving style. When owners report transmission problems, they commonly describe rough shifting, slipping, delayed engagement, whining or grinding noises, or outright transmission failure. This article surveys generations that have been linked to higher than average complaints or notable recall activity, while emphasizing that reliability varies by individual vehicle and servicing history.

Timeline of issues by generation

Late 1990s to early 2000s Accords (primarily automatic transmissions)

These generations with automatic transmissions are the ones most frequently cited in owner reports for transmission trouble.

• Rough or hard shifting between gears


• Slipping out of gear or failure to engage


• Delayed engagement after shifting from Park or Neutral


• Torque converter concerns or leaks

Notes: Symptoms can overlap with fluid problems, worn sensors, or valve-body issues. Many cases led to major repairs or replacements, and some complaints generated recalls or service campaigns. Always check the service history and have a professional diagnose persistent symptoms.

2003–2007 Honda Accord with the 5-speed automatic

This era is the most frequently cited group for transmission problems in consumer reports, lawsuits, and owner forums.

• Premature transmission failure around 60,000–100,000 miles


• Frequent, noticeable rough shifting and hard downshifting


• Slipping or failure to stay in gear under load


• Torque-converter or valve-body issues

There were notable class-action discussions and recalls related to transmission reliability in this window. Maintenance history and proper fluid service were often key in extending the life of these transmissions.

2013–2017 Ninth-generation Accords (gasoline models)

In this generation, most gasoline-trim Accords used a traditional automatic transmission rather than a CVT, but owners reported issues that differed from the earlier 5-speed era.

• Rough shifting or hesitation during acceleration


• Occasional transmission whine or noise at speed


• Soft or hard shifts related to electronic controls or fluid condition

Compared with the 2003–2007 period, these reports were less prevalent, but they indicated that some drivers experienced transmission-related faults requiring service or replacement. Regular software updates and following Honda’s maintenance schedule often mitigated problems.

Accord Hybrid and later variants (e-CVT/electric-drive systems, roughly 2014–2020)

Hybrid variants introduced a different transmission architecture (an e-CVT/electric-drive system) that behaves differently from traditional automatics. Some owners have reported noise, feel of CVT-like slipping, or hesitation, though many owners experience solid reliability when maintained properly.

• CVT-like behavior in the hybrid drive can feel different from traditional automatics


• Occasional noise or perceived slipping in certain driving conditions


• Maintenance and software updates recommended to optimize performance

These concerns are not as widespread as the 2003–2007 automatic issues, but they exist in certain hybrids and later model years. VIN-specific recall and service history should be reviewed for any used Hybrid Accord.

What to do if you’re concerned about a Honda Accord transmission

If you’re buying used or currently own an Accord and want to assess transmission health, follow these steps:

• Check for any open recalls on the VIN via NHTSA’s recall lookup or Honda’s recall portal.


• Review maintenance records for regular transmission fluid changes (where applicable) and any software updates.


• Listen for unusual noises (whining, grinding), note shifting irregularities, and monitor for slipping or delayed engagement.


• Have a qualified mechanic perform a full inspection, including a transmission fluid analysis if indicated and diagnostic scans for transmission control modules.

Be aware that many transmission problems can originate from fluid health, sensors, or related components rather than the transmission itself. A professional diagnosis is essential to determine the exact cause and repair path.

Summary

Across Honda Accord generations, the most consistently documented transmission problems appear in the 2003–2007 period with the 5-speed automatic, where extended reliability issues and appeals for service were most common. Other generations show fewer widespread faults, though early- and mid-2000s Accords, as well as certain hybrids with newer transmission designs, have reported isolated concerns. For any prospective purchase or ownership, always verify complete recall status, review service history, and obtain a professional assessment of the transmission before making a decision.

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. 

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. 

What years did the Honda Accord have transmission problems?

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. 

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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.