Honda Accord Years to Avoid: Reliability and Common Problems by Year

The Honda Accord years to avoid are the 2003 to 2005 V6 models (automatic transmission failure), the 2008 and 2009 models (oil burning and fast rear brake wear), the 2013 model (early CVT problems) and the 2018 model with the 1.5L turbo (oil dilution). The most reliable used picks are the 2016 and 2017, the 2011 and 2012, and the 2021 and 2022 models.

Most Accords cost $400 to $900 a year in repairs once the factory warranty ends. The risk is one big bill: a failed transmission costs $3,500 to $7,800 to replace. Below you will find each generation, the common problems with real repair costs, and what to check before you buy.

Honda Accord Years to Avoid

These are the model years with the most widespread and most expensive problems. If you are looking at one of them, get a pre-purchase inspection and service records, or pay less to cover the risk.

Buy with care: the 2006 V6 (transmission risk lower, but not gone), the 2014 and 2015 CVT models (fewer complaints than 2013, but they still need regular CVT fluid changes) and the 2019 and 2020 1.5L turbo (oil dilution less common than in 2018).

Best Honda Accord Years to Buy Used

• 2016 and 2017: the last two years of the 9th generation, after the CVT updates. The 2017 is the most reliable year of that generation and a top pick among reliable used cars under $20,000.
• 2021 and 2022: the 1.5L turbo oil dilution problem was mostly resolved, and the 2022 is the best year of the 10th generation.
• 2011 and 2012: the most reliable 8th generation years, with a simple 2.4L 4-cylinder and a conventional automatic.
• 2007 4-cylinder: the best year of the 7th generation if your budget is tight, but it is now close to 20 years old.

The 2023 and newer Accords look promising, but they are too new for a long repair record.

Also looking at a Toyota Camry? Our Toyota vs Honda reliability comparison gives the Camry the edge for predictability, especially 2015 and newer, and favors the 2018 and newer Accord over the 2013 to 2017 CVT models. See the Toyota Camry problems by year before you decide.

Honda Accord Problems by Generation

7th Generation (2003-2007)

Avoid the 2003 to 2005 V6. Its automatic transmission was the Accord's worst weak spot, and Honda extended transmission coverage on some of these cars at the time; that coverage has long expired. The 2006 V6 improved but still carries some risk, and the 2007 is the best year of this generation. The 4-cylinder models do not share the V6 transmission problem. Other common repairs are the A/C compressor, the starter and the rear compliance bushings.

8th Generation (2008-2012)

The 2008 and 2009 models had two common problems: the 2.4L engine burning about 1 quart of oil every 1,000 to 2,000 miles because of the piston ring design, and rear brakes that wore out every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. Honda issued a service bulletin for the brakes, but no recall. V6 models can have VCM problems, the dashboard can crack, and the 2.4L timing chain tensioner can wear with age. The 2011 and 2012 models are the most reliable years of this generation.

9th Generation (2013-2017)

The 2.4L 4-cylinder models use a CVT. The 2013 model had the most CVT complaints, such as shuddering and slipping. Later years improved, which makes the 2016 and 2017 the best years of this generation and among the best Accords overall. V6 models still use VCM. Also watch for infotainment screen problems and starter failures.

10th Generation (2018-2022)

The 1.5L turbo in 2018 to 2020 models can suffer from oil dilution, and 2018 is the worst year. The problem was mostly resolved from 2021. Some owners report infotainment and software bugs and, on turbo models, fouled spark plugs. The 2022 is the best year of this generation.

11th Generation (2023-2026)

The current Accord is too new for a long repair record. The 2023 launch year had some first-year bugs, and no widespread major problem has been reported so far for the 2024 to 2026 models. Most of these cars are still under Honda's factory warranty.

Most Common Honda Accord Problems and Repair Costs

Costs below are typical shop prices for parts and labor. Your quote will depend on your area and the shop.

V6 Automatic Transmission Failure (2003-2007)

The 3.0L V6 automatic is the Accord's best-known problem, worst on 2003 to 2005 models. Signs are slipping, harsh or delayed shifts. A replacement automatic costs $3,500 to $6,500 and a rebuild $2,300 to $6,000. See our transmission replacement cost guide for the full breakdown.

CVT Problems (2013-2017)

The CVT in 4-cylinder Accords can shudder, slip, hesitate, whine or jerk, most often on 2013 models. Regular CVT fluid changes help. A full CVT replacement costs $4,200 to $7,800.

Oil Dilution in the 1.5L Turbo (2018-2020)

Fuel gets into the engine oil, raises the oil level and thins the oil, which speeds up engine wear. The 2018 model is affected most, and the problem was mostly resolved from 2021. Shorter oil change intervals ($60 per change) are the main defense; engine damage can cost $4,000 to $6,000. Ask a Honda dealer whether a software update or warranty extension applies to your VIN. The same engine problem affects the CR-V, see Honda CR-V problems by year.

Excessive Oil Consumption (2008-2012)

The 2.4L 4-cylinder can burn about 1 quart of oil every 1,000 to 2,000 miles because of the piston ring design. Fixing the rings costs $2,500 to $3,500. If you ignore it, the burned oil can damage the catalytic converter, which adds $1,000 or more (see catalytic converter replacement cost).

A/C Compressor Failure (All Generations)

A/C compressor failure shows up in every generation, more often on older cars. A replacement costs about $800 to $1,500, depending on the generation.

VCM Problems on the V6 (2008-2017)

Variable Cylinder Management shuts off cylinders to save fuel. On 2008 to 2017 V6 Accords it is linked to oil burning and rough running. Related engine repairs cost $1,500 to $2,500.

Premature Rear Brake Wear (2008-2010)

Rear brakes on these years can wear out every 15,000 to 20,000 miles, at $400 to $600 per service. Honda issued a service bulletin, but no recall.

Smaller Repairs to Budget For

Protect this repair. A new CVT costs $4,200 to $7,800 and a damaged 1.5L turbo engine $4,000 to $6,000. Every CoverageX plan, starting with Essential, covers the engine and transmission, including turbocharger parts, and Signature adds A/C and electrical systems. Enter your Accord's year, model and mileage for an instant quote, or call 1-800-258-3413.

Honda Accord Engines: Which Ones to Watch

The engine and transmission matter more than the badge. Use this table to see what to check on the Accord you are looking at.

How to Check a Used Accord Before You Buy

• Run the VIN for open recalls and ask a Honda dealer for the service history, including any software updates done under warranty.
• Ask for maintenance records. On 2013-2017 CVT models, look for CVT fluid changes. On 1.5L turbo models, look for regular oil changes.
• Test drive from a cold start. Feel for shudder, slipping, delayed engagement or harsh shifts.
• On 2018-2020 1.5L turbo models, pull the dipstick. An oil level above the full mark or oil that smells of gasoline points to oil dilution.
• Run the A/C on max and make sure it blows cold within a few minutes.
• Listen for humming that changes with speed (wheel bearings) and test every door lock and window.
• Pay an independent mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection, especially past 100,000 miles. Our guide to buying a used car with 100,000 miles explains what else to expect.

Is an Extended Warranty Worth It on a Used Accord?

It depends on the year, the engine and your savings. An Accord costs less to keep running than most cars, so for many owners a repair fund is enough. A vehicle service contract makes more sense when one repair could cost more than you can pay at once.

When Coverage Makes Sense

• You own or are buying a 2013-2017 CVT model, where a replacement costs $4,200 to $7,800.
• You have a 2018-2020 1.5L turbo that is past Honda's powertrain warranty.
• You have a 2008-2017 V6 with VCM.
• You plan to keep the car past 100,000 miles and a surprise bill over $3,000 would hurt.

When It Is Not Worth It

• The car is still under Honda's factory warranty.
• The car is worth less than one major repair, as many 2003-2007 Accords are. Older, high-mileage cars may also not qualify.
• You already have savings that would cover a $4,000 to $8,000 repair.
• The problem has already started. Pre-existing problems are not covered by any vehicle service contract.

Which CoverageX Plan Covers Which Accord Repair

Coverage starts 30 days after purchase and after you drive 1,000 miles. You can use any licensed repair facility, the shop calls for approval before work starts, and CoverageX pays the shop directly; you pay only your deductible. Every plan includes 24/7 roadside assistance, and each plan page links a sample contract with the exact parts list. See how CoverageX works, how to file a claim and what a plan typically costs in our extended car warranty cost guide.

Maintenance That Prevents the Big Accord Repairs

Most expensive Accord failures start with skipped fluid changes. Follow your owner's manual, and use the shorter intervals below for the known weak spots. For a full schedule by mileage, see our used car maintenance schedule.

Bottom Line: Is the Honda Accord Reliable?

Yes, for most years. The Accord is one of the easier sedans to own, and most model years have no widespread major failure. The exceptions are clear: the 2003-2005 V6, the 2008-2009 models, the 2013 CVT and the 2018 1.5L turbo.

• Best used picks: 2016-2017, 2021-2022 and 2011-2012.
• On 2013-2017 models, ask for proof of CVT fluid changes.
• On 2018-2020 1.5L turbo models, check the oil level and smell before you buy.
• A/C compressors fail in every generation, so test the A/C on every test drive.
• Budget $400 to $900 a year for repairs once the factory warranty ends.

Keeping your Accord past the factory warranty? Get an instant quote from CoverageX with your year, model and mileage. Plans are month-to-month and include 24/7 roadside assistance. Prefer to talk it through? Call sales at 1-800-258-3413.

Honda Accord Reliability FAQ

What is the most reliable Honda Accord year?

The 2017 and 2022 Accords are the most reliable years, followed by the 2016, 2011 and 2012. The 2017 is the last, most refined year of the 9th generation after the CVT updates, and the 2022 is the final 10th generation year, after the 1.5L turbo oil dilution problem was mostly resolved. For a used Accord on a budget, the 2016 and 2017 give the best balance of price and reliability.

Which Honda Accord years should you avoid?

Avoid the 2003 to 2005 V6 models, the 2008 and 2009 models, the 2013 model and the 2018 1.5L turbo. The V6 years had widespread automatic transmission failures, the 2008-2009 cars burn oil and wear out rear brakes early, the 2013 had the most CVT problems, and the 2018 1.5L turbo is the worst year for oil dilution. The table at the top of this guide lists the repair cost for each.

Should I avoid Honda Accord V6 models?

Avoid the 2003 to 2005 V6, but later V6 models are a reasonable buy with the right checks. The early 3.0L V6 automatic transmission failed often, and a replacement costs $3,500 to $6,500. The 2008 to 2017 3.5L V6 has no transmission crisis, but its VCM system is linked to oil burning, so check oil use and service records.

How much does it cost to replace a Honda Accord CVT?

A full CVT replacement costs $4,200 to $7,800 with labor. A rebuilt unit is cheaper, from about $2,000 to $3,500 before labor. The CVT is used in 2013 to 2017 4-cylinder Accords, and the 2013 model had the most problems. See our transmission replacement cost guide.

What is oil dilution in the Honda 1.5L turbo?

Oil dilution means fuel gets into the engine oil and thins it. On the Accord it affects the 1.5L turbo in 2018 to 2020 models, worst in 2018. Signs are an oil level above the full mark and oil that smells of gasoline. Shorter oil change intervals help, and you can ask a Honda dealer whether any update or warranty extension applies to your car.

Are Honda Accords expensive to maintain?

No, Accords are fairly cheap to maintain, at about $400 to $900 a year in repairs once the factory warranty ends. The expensive exceptions are a failed transmission or CVT ($3,500 to $7,800) and an A/C compressor ($800 to $1,500). Regular oil and CVT fluid changes keep most of those risks low.

What mileage is too high for a used Honda Accord?

There is no hard cutoff, but past 150,000 miles a used Accord needs a closer look. Well-kept Accords often reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles, so service history matters more than the odometer. Ask for proof of oil changes and, on 2013 to 2017 models, CVT fluid changes. See what to expect from high-mileage cars past 150,000 miles.

Do all Honda Accords have transmission problems?

No. Transmission problems are concentrated in two groups: the 2003 to 2005 V6 automatic and the 2013 to 2017 CVT, with 2013 the worst CVT year. Most other Accords, including the 2011-2012 and 2018 and newer models, have no widespread transmission problem.

Is the Honda Accord Hybrid reliable?

Yes. The Accord Hybrid, sold from 2014, is one of the most reliable Accord versions, with no widespread major problem listed in this guide. On a high-mileage hybrid, ask for service records and have the hybrid system checked during the pre-purchase inspection.

Does an extended warranty cover Honda Accord transmission problems?

Yes, if the failure starts after coverage begins. Every CoverageX plan, starting with Essential, covers the engine, transmission and drivetrain, including the CVT. Coverage starts after 30 days and 1,000 miles, problems that already exist are not covered, and CoverageX pays the shop directly once the claim is approved. See how it works.

What are the most common Honda Accord problems?

The most common Honda Accord problems are automatic transmission failure on 2003 to 2007 V6 models, CVT shudder and slipping on 2013 to 2017 models, oil dilution in the 2018 to 2020 1.5L turbo and oil burning on 2008 to 2012 4-cylinder models. A/C compressor failure shows up in every generation. Smaller repairs include the starter, wheel bearings, door lock actuators and window regulators.

Which Honda Accord years have a CVT transmission?

Honda Accords from 2013 to 2017 with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine use a CVT, and these are the years linked to CVT problems such as shuddering and slipping. The 2013 model had the most complaints, and the 2016 and 2017 are the best years. Ask for proof of CVT fluid changes about every 30,000 miles, because a full CVT replacement costs $4,200 to $7,800.