Best & Worst Honda Accord Years [Models To Avoid]

Over 10 generations have been produced of the Honda Accord. The best Honda Accord generation years and the worst Honda Accord generations are listed below.

Honda Accord model years with the best performance should always be chosen over those with the worst performance. The only guide you need to choose the best Honda Accord model year is this data-based guide.

We’ll examine the best and worst model years for each Honda Accord generation in this guide.

Through meticulous research and hands-on data, we have pinpointed the highs and lows of each generation of the Honda Accord. Our team examines features, recalls, resale values, and common issues.

In this article, we unravel the specific details that define each model year – from 1994’s revolutionary 5th generation to the futuristic 11th generation.

Here’s a quick look at the different generations of the Honda Accord.

Honda Accord Generations

The Honda Accord was introduced in 1976 and quickly became one of the most popular cars on the market. Throughout the 11 generations of the Accord, notable changes have taken place.

This analysis will cover the 5th to 11th generations, starting from 1994, for the sake of relevance and data availability.

With the above table in mind, it’s easier to understand the evolution of the Honda Accord.

It is important to view the Accord’s history from this perspective, as each period has its own unique features, upgrades, and disadvantages.

Honda Accord Best, Neutral, and Worst Years

A comprehensive evaluation system is used in ranking Honda Accord models across generations. During our review, we consider the following factors:

• Reliability reported by owners (surveys)
• Maintenance costs on an annual basis
• The safety rating system
• Scores of Consumer Reports on reliability
• Scores of owner satisfaction from Consumer Reports
• The NHTSA investigates and responds to complaints and recalls
• Ratings by Edmunds owners
• Ratings of JD Power owners
• Ratings of Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owners
• Ratings by VehicleHistory owners
• Owner ratings on Cars.com

An overview of the best, neutral, and worst model years can be found in the following table.

Generally speaking, “neutral years” are those when performance or reliability didn’t shine brightly but there weren’t major problems either. They are middle-of-the-road models that might still be a good buy, depending on their maintenance history and current condition.

Model year ratings are negatively impacted by factors like NHTSA recalls. As a result of more complaints and recalls, a car’s reliability will be lower, resulting in a lower score.

Let’s take a closer look at the best, neutral, and worst years of each generation:

Honda Accord 11th Generation [2023]

This first model of the 11th Generation Honda Accord balances classic styling with modern updates to keep up with the times.

The Accord features sleek lines, a wider stance, and a low and wide front-end that exhibits an aggressive appearance. Interior materials are of the highest quality, providing a luxurious feeling, as well as more cabin space, improving overall passenger comfort.

It offers a more connected and enjoyable ride with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on the larger touchscreen infotainment system. It also features a high-quality sound system and a customizable digital gauge cluster.

With Honda, you can choose from an array of efficient powertrain options. An impressive fuel efficiency and plenty of power are delivered by the base model’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine. If you need more power, you can upgrade to the V6 engine. There is also a hybrid variant of the 2023 Accord that offers excellent performance and fuel economy.

The new Accord places a high priority on safety. Honda Sensing is the latest safety and driver-assistance technology that alerts you to things you might miss as you drive.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Accord 10th Generation [2018 to 2022]

In 2018, the Honda Accord 10th Generation debuted with a completely redesigned exterior and interior, along with advanced driver assistance technology. In order to achieve performance and fuel efficiency, it offered turbocharged engines and a hybrid model.

2020 and 2021 are the best years

10th Generation Accords are most likely to succeed in 2020 and 2021. With significant technical, safety, and performance improvements, the 2020 model year won Edmunds’ Top-Rated Sedan award.

All models come with Honda Sensing’s suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. Kelley Blue Book awarded the 2021 Accord Best Buy Mid-Size Car status, continuing the winning streak.

For the first time, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are integrated wirelessly in this model year, offering seamless smartphone integration.

2019 is the Neutral Year

In terms of the 10th Generation Accord, 2019 is considered a neutral year. The 2019 IIHS Top Safety Pick model year received a 5-star rating in all safety tests.

As compared to the previous model year, there weren’t many changes or improvements.

2018 was one of the worst years ever

In terms of the 10th Generation Accord, the 2018 model year is considered one of the worst. In most cases, owners reported problems with the forward collision avoidance system.

In some situations, it malfunctioned and created potential hazards, despite being intended to improve safety.

In subsequent models, Honda addressed this issue, but it significantly affected the Accord’s reputation.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Accord 9th Generation [2013 to 2017]

This generation, introduced in 2013, combines an upscale interior with an updated exterior design.

Similarly to previous generations, some of these model years performed well, while others had issues.

2016 and 2017 were the best years

9th Generation Honda Accords are praised for their 2016 and 2017 models.

As a standard feature on Touring models, Honda Sensing is available across all trim levels and available across all trim levels of the 2016 Accord. In addition to collision mitigation brakes, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control, it had collision mitigation braking system.

In 2017, the 2017 model maintained this emphasis on safety, making it an excellent choice for buyers.

2014 and 2015 were the Neutral Years

For the 9th Generation Honda Accord, 2014 and 2015 are impartial years.

In 2015, Honda attempted to address certain engine concerns despite experiencing electrical and engine problems in 2014. Electrical issues, however, continued to be mentioned by owners.

2013 was one of the worst years

According to experts, the 9th Generation Accord had its worst year in 2013. In spite of the fact that this model introduced many new features and technologies, it had many problems.

Some owners reported problems with the starter and battery, as well as premature brake wear.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Accord 8th Generation [2008 to 2012]

Almost a decade has passed since the Honda Accord was completely redesigned for the 8th Generation.

The new generation highlights Honda’s commitment to keeping the Accord as a top-selling sedan by introducing additional technological advancements and luxury features.

2010 and 2011 were the best years

Honda Accords from the 8th Generation were at their best between 2010 and 2012. Several updated features were included in these later models, such as a USB audio interface and enhanced safety features.

Furthermore, they were more reliable than the initial models of the generation and reported fewer issues. With an updated front end, updated interior, and improved fuel economy, the 2011 model received a mid-cycle refresh.

2009 was a neutral year

The 2009 Honda Accord model year can be classified as neutral. As the initial 2008 model year was plagued with problems, Honda worked to resolve some of those issues in 2009.

In spite of its updated interior materials and an expanded list of standard equipment, the 2009 Accord still had some of the same problems as in 2008, notably airbag deployment issues.

2008 was one of the worst years

According to reports, the 8th Generation Accord had its worst year in 2008. Airbags and service brakes were the major problems.

When the passenger side doors were closed or the vehicle was moving, the side curtain airbags on the passenger side deployed unexpectedly.

Upon discovering that a software problem in the airbag control unit was causing the unexpected deployments, Honda recalled 300,000 Accords in October 2015.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Accord 7th Generation [2003 to 2007]

With the 7th Generation Honda Accord, which spanned from 2003 to 2007, the popular sedan continued its reputation for reliability and comfort, as well as innovations in safety and performance.

New safety technologies such as side curtain airbags were introduced as well as a redesigned exterior.

It was, however, marred by significant transmission problems that necessitated several recalls for this generation.

2007 was one of the best years

A decline in transmission issues that had previously plagued the Accord is seen as a positive sign for the 2007 model year.

Safety ratings are high, the ride is comfortable, and the reliability record is good. With a more robust 3.5L V6 engine and standard side curtain airbags, it was one of the safest vehicles on the road.

In addition, the V6 engine on this year’s model was recalled on October 1, 2012, and Honda quickly resolved the issue.

2005 and 2006 were neutral years

This generation’s neutral years are 2005 and 2006. There were some transmission issues, especially in the 2003 and 2004 models, but design and technology continued to improve.

Improvements to the crashworthiness of the Accord and active safety features continued to be a priority.

In these years, however, they suffered from persistent issues, such as sudden airbag deployments.

2003 and 2004 were the worst years

Accord’s 7th generation is generally considered to have had its worst years between 2003 and 2004. During this period, transmission problems dominated NHTSA complaints, with over half involving the powertrain.

There were numerous recalls due to these problems, which affected the overall reputation and reliability of the Accord.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Accord 6th Generation [1998 to 2002]

Between 1998 and 2002, Honda’s 6th Generation Accord emphasized refinement and comfort while offering more upscale features.

Among the innovations of this generation were the availability of a V6 engine option and some models were ULEV-rated (Ultra Low Emission Vehicles).

Recalls have also negatively affected the reputation for reliability of this generation, particularly in the later years.

1998 was one of the best years

Among this generation’s best years, 1998 stands out. As a result of the optional 3.0L V6 engine, the Accord was able to compete with rivals with six-cylinder engines more effectively.

With some 1998 Accords achieving the ULEV rating this year, Honda has also made a commitment to reducing vehicle emissions.

The model year also saw some recalls for electrical and powertrain issues, which were common in many vehicles of the time.

1999, 2000, and 2001 were the Neutral Years

This generation’s neutral years are 1999, 2000, and 2001. Some of the problems associated with the 1998 model were carried over to these vehicles as well as performance standards and safety features.

There was a recurrence of powertrain and transmission problems that led to significant recalls.

The 2001, 2002, and 2000 model years were also marred by airbag problems, which further damaged these years’ reputations.

2002 was one of the worst years

For this generation, 2002 is considered the worst year. The airbag and transmission issues remained, despite its strong features from previous years.

Complaints and recalls increased as these problems became more pronounced.

However, the reliability concerns tarnish the 2002 Accord’s overall rating within the 6th generation despite its strong performance and comfort.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Accord 5th Generation [1994 to 1997]

This generation improved the Accord’s aerodynamics and introduced a more efficient engine, making it a midsize sedan leader.

Accords have been one of the top-selling cars in the United States since 1989, and this generation contributed significantly to that success.

1994 was one of the best years

This generation’s best Accord model is the 1994 model. In order to improve performance and fuel efficiency, the vehicle was equipped with a 2.2L four-cylinder engine.

The Honda Civic was equipped with dual front airbags as a standard feature, demonstrating Honda’s commitment to safety. In addition to an automatic transmission and antilock braking system, this model featured advanced technology for the time.

1995 and 1996 were neutral years

For this generation, 1995 and 1996 serve as neutral years. There were still some issues with the 1994 model, despite its robust design and performance elements.

In both of these years, airbag problems were reported. Even though this did not adversely affect the vehicle’s performance, subsequent recalls addressed safety concerns.

1997 was one of the worst years

This generation’s worst year has been identified as 1997, the final year of the 5th generation. The exterior lighting recalls were most prevalent in this model year.

The performance of the vehicle may not be directly affected by this, but it raises safety concerns and has an impact on the overall ownership experience.

Common Honda Accord Problems

There are some components of the Honda Accord that may fail or break down, despite its excellent reliability reputation. According to reports, the Accord has the following issues:

Uncomfortable seating

Due to the Accord’s uncomfortable seats, many owners complained of back and neck pain. Many owners complained about poor lumbar support and cushioning on 2008 and 2009 models.

Electrical issues

Owners have complained about their starters failing after 30k miles, which is unfortunate since it is after the warranty expires. The battery drain issues were also a complaint. Battery amps aren’t enough to power the engine of the Honda Accord, according to experts.

Excessive oil consumption

A number of Honda Accord models, particularly those made in 2008 and 2009, have been plagued with excessive oil consumption. The variable cylinder management (VCM) must be updated via software, according to a technical service bulletin issued by Honda.

Faulty power door locks

There have been reports of malfunctions and failures of the Accord’s power door locks. This issue appears to have been caused by the actuators for the power locks on the car. Since the problem was intermittent, it was difficult to diagnose.

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Read: Best & Worst Honda Civic Years
Read: Best & Worst Toyota RAV4 Years

FAQs

Conclusion

Consider the car’s evolution and potential issues carefully when choosing the best model year. By using this guide, you can easily determine which Honda Accord years to avoid.

Are there any particular model years of Honda Accords that have provided you with a memorable or less-than-ideal experience? Would you mind telling us what you think?

Let us know what Honda Accord stories you have in the comments section. In guiding future Accord buyers, your unique experience can be invaluable.

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