The Honda Accord has been the benchmark of family mid-size sedans since its introduction. Drivers looking for safe, reliable family transportation have been turning to the Accord for decades. Every generation of the Accord has earned critical acclaim, with Honda receiving praise for its tradition of relentless refinement. Though its form has changed and evolved over the years, the Accord has always been high-quality, practical, and good to drive.
Introduced as an upsized Honda Civic, the Accord has grown steadily with each generation, and is now considered a “large car” by the EPA. This rating translates to an expansive cargo hold and a roomy rear seat for a mid-size sedan. Fit and finish have always impressed, with the Accord offering near-luxury-car feel, especially for the top trim levels equipped with leather-trimmed seats. Technology-wise, Honda’s infotainment is pleasant and easy to use, with modern Accords offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility through large touchscreens.
Honda has also used technology to improve safety. Starting with the tenth generation, all Accord models come standard with the Honda Sensing suite of active safety features, which includes lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision braking, road-departure mitigation, and the list goes on. Combining these driver-assistance systems with robust construction, the Accord has regularly earned Top Safety Pick awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and has been equally well-received by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Honda Accords have always provided reliable, dependable transportation. Some generations do have issues, but these are well-documented and can be addressed. To guide you through all these Accords, we’ve assembled this generation guide with some advice about what to look for and what to spend on each model.
Honda Accord Buying Guide: Cost, Reliability, and the Best Years to Buy
- FAQ
- Honda Accord Generations
- Honda Accord Pros and Cons
- Eleventh Generation (2023-current)
- Tenth Generation (2018-2022)
- Ninth Generation (2013-2017)
- Eighth Generation (2008-2012)
- Seventh Generation (2003-2007)
- Sixth Generation (1998-2002)
- Fifth Generation (1994-1998)
- Fourth Generation (1990-1993)
- Third Generation (1986-1989)
- Second Generation (1982-1985)
- First Generation (1976-1981)
FAQ
Which Honda Accord years are the best?
The Accord’s ninth (2013-2017) and tenth (2018-2022) generations have great reliability records. From a sporty two-door coupe with a powerful V6 to a fuel-efficient hybrid model, these two eras of Accord offer something for everyone. The tenth generation in particular provides great value with modern styling, functionality, and technology (like wireless Apple CarPlay) at a discount. Thanks to the evolutionary rather than revolutionary approach Honda took with the current Accord, the tenth generation still looks modern.
What are the worst Honda Accord years?
The seventh generation (2003-2007) arguably represents the worst of the modern Accords, with widespread transmission problems on the V6 models. As these nearly-20-year-old cars continue to age, buyers may have to deal with deferred maintenance and should expect to replace parts as they wear out. Additionally, these model years are affected by the Takata airbag recall.
Is a used Honda Accord a good deal?
Yes, it can be. With eleven generations, buyers have a wide range of years to choose from. From practical base sedans to handsome V6 coupes with slick-shifting manual transmissions, the Accord offers something for everyone. Since the Honda Accord has been a best-selling car for decades, there are plenty available.
Honda Accord Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable and spacious
- Fun to drive
- Reputation for reliability and safety
Cons:
- No AWD options
- Tends to be more expensive than its competitors
- Conservative, sometimes boring, exterior styling
Honda Accord Generations
Eleventh Generation (2023-present)
The 2023 Honda Accord entered its eleventh generation refreshed and rejuvenated, if not exactly revolutionized compared to its predecessor. Honda certainly didn’t attempt to rewrite the rulebook when it set about improving one of its most important and popular models.
Unlike the previous generation, which offered the hybrid powertrain as an option, most Accord models now come standard with Honda’s hybrid system. Only the base Honda Accord LX and the step-up Honda Accord EX trim now have the gas-only option, a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and carried over from the tenth generation. The more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is no longer available. From the outside, Honda took a more conservative approach in updating the Accord to the automaker’s latest design language.
The bigger changes come when you step inside. A new stylish metal dashboard trim and touchscreen infotainment system offer a nice level of refinement. All Accord trims come with standard Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Old-fashioned buyers like us will be glad to know that Honda still gives you physical buttons for radio and dual-zone climate controls.
Every eleventh-get Accord has Honda Sensing, a collection of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that can help to prevent a collision. They include adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, road-departure mitigation, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. In addition, the Accord has a reverse camera with three different views, automatic high-beam headlights, traffic-sign recognition, and a driver-monitoring system.
New pricing for the gas-only Accord starts at just below $28,000 for the LX trim to $30,000 for the EX trim. Prices for the Accord Hybrid start at around $32,000 for the Sport Hybrid to $39,000 for the range-topping Touring hybrid. The Accord EX-L Hybrid and Sport-L Hybrid provide a good value around $35,000. These MSRPs are on target with five-seat sedan rivals like the Toyota Camry, the Nissan Altima, and the Hyundai Sonata, not to mention a dizzying array of small and midsize SUVs, including the Toyota RAV4, the Nissan Rogue, the Ford Escape, and even Honda’s own CR-V.
Reliability for the eleventh generation is still exemplary, though we must mention that the platform is still very new. Of course, this generation’s evolution-not-revolution nature means that the engines and hybrid powertrains used are familiar and have a proven track record for reliability.
This new Accord has held its value well so far. Used prices average around $26,000 for gas-only versions. Accord Hybrids average around $30,000 to $32,000, depending on trim, with the top-of-the-line Honda Accord Touring Hybrid commanding a premium.
Tenth Generation (2018-2022)
The Accord was completely redesigned and revamped for its tenth generation in 2018. Almost everything was new for 2018: Honda introduced a new design philosophy, a new engine lineup, new infotainment, and new active safety features. One of the biggest changes? The Accord was now available exclusively as a four-door sedan, with the coupe no longer offered. Honda nixed the V6 engine, too. Despite all of these changes, the Accord was still one of the best family sedans available.
Inside, the tenth-gen Accord still features a simple, easy-to-use layout. Its infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, is controlled through the center touchscreen. Physical HVAC controls are still present just below, and dual-zone automatic climate control comes standard. Interior room was increased again for this new generation, and rear seat comfort impresses, favorably described as “luxury-car massive.” The cargo hold is best in class among its contemporaries, though cabin storage space could be better.
Under the hood, engine options were limited to four-cylinders starting with the 2018 model year. Lower trims came equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 192 horsepower, mated to a CVT transmission. The 2.0-liter turbocharged motor-derived from the Civic Type R and producing 252 horsepower-was available in higher-end trim levels and was mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual transmission was available for buyers looking to row their own gears, but only in the Sport trim, where it could be combined with either turbo motor. For the enthusiasts, the Honda Accord Sport with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and six-speed manual is the one to get.
The Honda Accord Hybrid returned with an updated version of the ninth-generation hybrid powertrain, featuring two electric motors and a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine, now producing a combined 212 horsepower. The battery for the tenth generation was redesigned and fitted under the rear passenger seats, no longer impacting the Hybrid’s cargo capacity.
Safety, always an important feature for the Accord, was again improved for this new generation. Every trim of the Accord now came standard with Honda Sensing technology, which includes advanced safety systems like radar cruise control and a lane-keeping assist system. These systems helped the Accord to once again become an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
The tenth generation saw a mid-cycle refresh in 2021, which included a minor facelift with new bumpers and brighter LED headlights. This update discontinued the manual transmission option due to poor sales.
Reliability for the tenth generation has generally been great. Early 2018 and 2019 models did suffer problems with the HVAC system and the AC compressor. Some users reported glitches with Bluetooth connectivity, which appear to have been remedied in later model years. A fuel pump recall was also issued, affecting 2018-2020 model years. 2021 and later models do not have many reported issues.
Prices for pre-facelift tenth-get Accords average around $20,000 to $22,000. The refreshed 2021-2022 model years command a premium, with prices averaging around $25,000. Hybrid trims in particular have held their value quite well, with used prices averaging $27,000 for the facelifted version.
Ninth Generation (2013-2017)
The ninth-generation Accord, introduced in 2013, was another one which proved to be more evolution than revolution: No ground-up redesigns here. Its overall shape is similar to the eighth gen, but with the new corporate nose and updated head and taillights. Inside, Honda addressed complaints from the previous generation. The design is still simple and easy to use, and the seats are still comfortable.
The big changes were under the hood. The new 2.4-liter four-cylinder motors featured direct injection and were mated to a new CVT. Reviews at the time noted this new Accord’s fuel efficiency and called it pleasant to drive. For drivers wanting to row their own gears, a six-speed manual was available with the four-cylinder. The 3.5-liter V6 was updated to 278 horsepower and was combined with a traditional six-speed automatic transmission.
The enthusiast version we got to know and love over the past few generations now was only available in two-door coupe form. Equipped with the 278 horsepower V6 and a six-speed manual transmission, these models delight with a great shifter and nicely placed pedals. Unfortunately, as the sedan outsold the coupe ten to one, these Honda Accord trim levels are becoming more and more difficult to find.
For the 2014 model year, the Honda Accord Hybrid was reintroduced. This generation of the Accord Hybrid was not based on the top-of-the-line V6; instead, it used Honda’s new hybrid system, which combined two electric motors with an Atkinson-cycle 2.0-liter four cylinder gas engine for a total of 196 horsepower. With its 1.3-kWh battery, this Hybrid was rated at 50 mpg city, 45 mpg highway, and 47 mpg combined. The Honda Accord Hybrid is the perfect choice for the buyer looking to maximize fuel efficiency.
In 2016, the ninth-generation Accord received a mid-cycle refresh and a facelift. From the outside, we see an updated front end, with a new front fascia, grill, and headlights. New taillights and updated alloy wheel designs round out the exterior changes. The more exciting update was inside: The Accord became one of the first mass-market vehicles to be equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Reliability impresses again with this generation. Most owners report only regular maintenance. One common problem area is the starter, particularly on the 2013-2015 model years with the four-cylinder. Honda issued a Technical Service Bulletin for V6 models as well. The face-lifted model years, 2016 and 2017, have fewer issues reported.
Prices average around $12,000 to $14,000 for pre-facelift models, depending on condition and mileage. Pricing for 2016 and 2017 models hovers around $16,000 for a good example. Buyers looking for a more luxurious experience, either with the V6 power or fuel-sipping hybrid, should expect to pay a premium, as low-mileage examples with these more desirable powertrains can cross the $20,000 mark.
Eighth Generation (2008-2012)
The 2008 model year brought another ground-up redesign for the Honda Accord. With this eighth generation came more space, more efficiency, more features, and more power for both the four- and six-cylinder models. Three inches longer, 1 inch higher, and 1 inch wider than the previous generation, this was the first Accord to be classified as a “large car” by the EPA.
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivered a smooth 177 horsepower in the base Honda Accord LX trim. Those looking for more power could option a 190-horsepower version in the EX trim or step up to the powerful 3.5-liter six-cylinder, rated at 268 horsepower. For the enthusiast crowd, there’s the two-door coupe, which was available with the V6 and a six-speed manual transmission.
In its top-of-the-line EX-L V6 trim, the eighth-gen Accord sedan delivers a luxury car experience. Reviews at the time called it “a touch too mature” for the price point and went so far as to question the value of the Acura equivalent. Inside, leather-trimmed seats and a seven-speaker, 270-watt audio system with steering-wheel-mounted controls impressed.
As in past generations, safety remained a priority. All eighth-gen Accord trims came standard with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Brake Assist, and a tire-pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The IIHS recognized the eighth-generation Accord as a Top Safety Pick.
New for 2010 was the Accord CrossTour, a lifted crossover version of the venerable sedan. The CrossTour was originally marketed as a hatchback or wagon version of the Accord, but by 2012 it had grown into its own model. Drivers seeking more ground clearance and more storage should consider the CrossTour.
For those looking for fuel efficiency in an Accord sedan, the eighth generation is not your best option. Due to slow sales of the previous generation, the hybrid powertrain was axed. However, base models with the four-cylinder were rated at up to 34 mpg highway, still an impressive figure considering the size of the car.
Reliability for this generation was improved, with not many problems to report. Accords from the 2008 to 2010 model years had a problem with excessive brake wear, which was remedied by redesigned brake pads. In addition, airbag problems have been reported for some 2008 and 2009 models.
Expect to spend around $8,000 for a good example with the four-cylinder engine. V6 models command a premium, with lower-mileage examples selling for up to $12,000. If you can find one, the V6 coupe with the manual transmission is quite a rare configuration.
Seventh Generation (2003-2007)
In 2003, the Accord’s seventh generation was introduced. Redesigned to be more “muscular, vital, and agile,” this new Accord took on a wedge profile with powerful haunches. The headlights, prominent and stylized, were the only part shared between the two-door coupe and four-door sedan.
Under the hood, the base four-cylinder received upgrades with Honda’s i-VTEC system and met California’s low emissions vehicle standards for 2004. The optional V6 engine was upgraded to produce 240 horsepower and could now be combined with a six-speed manual transmission in the two-door coupe. In this “enthusiast” specification, the Accord is surprisingly quick and fun to drive, allowing you to row your own gears to the 6,800-rpm redline. It also had bigger 17” wheels and wider tires, improving handling over the base coupes and sedans.
Step inside, and you are greeted with a familiar clean and logical interior. Interior room is still excellent, especially in four-door sedan form. For those looking for luxury, heated front seats and dual-zone climate control were available on the EX models.
The Accord Hybrid was introduced in 2005. Unlike modern-day hybrid powertrains that maximize efficiency, this first Honda Accord Hybrid was the most powerful variant. Honda added its hybrid system to the top-of-the-line EX V6 trim, boosting it by 15 horsepower for a total of 255 combined horsepower. Standard leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone climate control, and 120-watt premium sound system with a six-disc CD changer added to the refinement of the Honda Accord Hybrid.
A mid-cycle refresh came in 2006, with minor cosmetic updates and modest increases in power. The six-speed manual transmission now became on option on the Accord sedan, and the Hybrid version received a bigger battery.
The seventh-generation Accords can be problematic, depending on which model you buy. V6 models equipped with the automatic were all recalled for problems with the transmission. Four-cylinder models were not affected, nor were those with a manual transmission. This generation was also affected by the Takata airbag recall.
Expect to pay between $5,000 and $7,000 for a good example. The more enthusiast-oriented versions, with the powerful V6 and the manual transmission, command a premium in both coupe and sedan form.
Sixth Generation (1998-2002)
For the sixth generation, the Accord continued to grow, now nearing large sedan status with one of the roomiest back seats for a mid-size sedan. This generation was virtually all new, with a new body, a new platform, and a new 3.0-liter V6 engine. All Honda Accords were now produced in the US, another first for this generation.
No longer available in wagon form, the sixth generation was only offered as a four-door sedan or a stylish two-door coupe. Exterior styling was all new, and for the sedan, it was a little more reserved than the previous generation. Period reviews called it “more of the same, yet different.” The coupe, however, wowed with its slick roofline and a rear-end treatment reminiscent of the Acura NSX. Only the headlights were shared with the sedan.
The Accord’s new optional 3.0-liter V6 impressed with its 200 horsepower and smooth delivery. Shifts were improved over the previous generation, addressing complaints leveled against the old four-speed automatic. For buyers looking for fuel efficiency, the standard 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder delivered, rated at 31 mpg highway when equipped with the five-speed manual transmission.
Inside, the Accord makes great use of its interior space. Even though the sixth gen rode on the same wheelbase as the previous Accord, Honda found a way to improve interior cabin volume. Up front, drivers are greeted by comfortable seats, a thoughtful control layout, and excellent visibility. The rear seat offered more room than ever before, and all three backseat passengers now got three-point seat belts.
Despite its many improvements over the previous generation, the sixth generation can be problematic, especially by lofty Accord standards. The automatic transmission used with the V6 is prone to failure and was the subject of class-action lawsuits. Furthermore, late model years (2001-2002) were subject to the Takata airbag recall.
Four-cylinder variants of the sixth-gen Accord are much more reliable. $5,000 should get you a nice example of a four-cylinder sedan. The coupes demand a premium, with the V6 versions getting attention from the enthusiast market. Expect to spend upwards of $10,000 for a clean example.
Fifth Generation (1994-1998)
For the first time in the Accord’s history, Honda specially designed this generation for the North American market. The fifth-generation Accord was larger than its predecessor, growing in width-but not length, to keep its mid-size sedan classification. Another first for this generation: a V6 engine, producing 170 horsepower, became available for those looking for more performance.
The fifth-generation Accord impressed with its driving dynamics and handling. It was often described as having an “enthusiast feel” as a result of its front and rear double wishbone suspension (similar to the sporty Prelude’s) and its low roll center. The standard 2.2 liter four-cylinder, now equipped with Honda’s VTEC technology, produced 145 horsepower and was noted for being remarkably smooth.
The modest increase in exterior size translated to a more comfortable interior space for bigger and taller drivers, with more shoulder and head room. While the cabin may be described by some as dated, it was user-friendly and ergonomic. All Honda Accord trim levels featured a two-tone interior and made extensive use of soft-touch materials for a premium feel.
Overall, the fifth-generation Accord was the benchmark for family cars of the era. Its combination of practicality, comfort, refinement, and reliability attracted commuters and enthusiasts alike. Available as a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, or five-door station wagon, the Accord offered something for everyone.
Common problems on the 1994 to 1997 Accords are generally related to age or deferred maintenance. Many owners report an issue with the speedometer, caused by a bad sensor. Wheel bearings can wear prematurely, but they are inexpensive to replace. The biggest issue with this generation Accord is security: in period, they were one of the most frequently stolen cars.
As these cars age, they are fondly remembered for their simplicity and fun-to-drive handling. While other Hondas of the period increase in popularity, more enthusiasts are turning to these Accords. Expect to pay around $5,000 for a driver-quality model, with prices reaching up to $17,000 for clean, low-mileage examples.
Fourth Generation (1990-1993)
The fourth-generation Accord was introduced for the 1990 model year. Once again, the Accord was redesigned, still prioritizing aerodynamic styling, but this time with fixed headlights-no more pop-up headlights of the 1980s.
This generation of Accord grew once again. Wheelbase and overall length increased by about 5 inches, resulting in increased passenger space as well. For the first time, a three-door coupe was no longer available. The fourth-generation Accord was initially available only as a four-door sedan or a two-door coupe, until a five-door station wagon joined the lineup in 1991.
All Accords of this platform use an all-aluminum, fuel-injected 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder, producing 130 horsepower in the top-of-the-line EX Trim. Another benefit of this new motor: no more carburetors to fiddle with for the fourth generation. With the standard five-speed transmission, the Accord was rated at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The optional four-speed automatic transmission was slightly less efficient.
In 1992, to commemorate 10 years of US Accord production, Honda released the 10th Anniversary Edition sedan. These special-edition cars were only available with an automatic transmission and were offered in unique color combinations.
The main problems to look for on these models are due to age. The fourth-generation Accord has a great reputation for reliability, but rust can be a problem, especially on cars coming from the snow belt. On models equipped with the automatic transmission, a common failure is the Transmission Control Unit (TCU), which can cause issues with drivability.
Prices for the fourth-generation Accords average around $5,000, with nice examples reaching around $10,000. While these Accords do have an enthusiast following, they have not quite reached the collector car status of their older brothers.
Third Generation (1986-1989)
In 1986, Honda ushered in the third generation of the bigger and better Accords which had become extremely popular over the preceding decade. For this third generation, the Accord was redesigned and carried with it better aerodynamics, which contributed to a quieter ride. A much-talked-about new feature was the 80s-chic pop-up headlights, which many seemed to like. The wheelbase and overall length increased, along with the car’s weight.
A double wishbone suspension was added, offering even more precise handling to accompany the quiet ride. The engines were made in the "bigger and better" style as well, with displacement increased to 2.0 liters and output to 100 horsepower. All of this earned the third-gen Accord the nickname “the poor man's BMW."
It's interesting to note that the popularity of Honda Accords and Honda Civics around this time created the need for Honda of America Manufacturing to begin production on a second assembly line at its Ohio plant. The Accord had become known as a dependable and economical car that could fit a family and a family's budget. Most adored it, and very few had any complaints at all.
If you can find one, prices can vary widely for third-generation Accords. With cool styling and great handling, nice examples have caught the attention of collectors. Prices average around $7,200, while clean, low-mileage examples fetch up to $18,000. While it’s true that higher-mileage examples can be found for less, be aware that restorations are not easy. As a clean-sheet design, the third generation does not share many parts in common with its predecessors or its successors.
Second Generation (1982-1985)
1982 marked the beginning of the Accord's second generation and the first time the sedan was produced in America. Sporting sleeker, more modern styling, the second-generation Accord was available in four-door sedan or two-door hatchback forms. Its wheelbase was increased by about 3 inches and its length by about 2 inches, giving rear-seat passengers a tad more legroom.
The mechanics of the car were virtually unchanged from the first generation (aside from a three-horsepower increase, which brought it all the way up to 75 hp). The interior, however, became more aesthetically pleasing, with shag carpeting, velour cabin trim, and chrome accents. Reviews at the time called the Accord the “definition of fit and finish”.
The base price started at about $7,400, providing buyers a very competent family car for econobox prices. The second-generation Accord was critically acclaimed, earning a place on Car and Driver’s 10 Best List for the first time in 1983.
Building on the first generation’s success, the Accord now became the best-selling Japanese nameplate in America. In spite of this popularity, though, nice examples are difficult to find today. Prices range from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on condition, and clean, original examples are getting quite collectible these days. Owners report difficulty finding replacement parts and problems with carburetors and vacuum lines.
First Generation (1976-1981)
In 1976, Honda found that it needed a bigger car to expand its business in the US, and an icon was born. Based on the Honda Civic platform, the brand new Accord used a slightly bigger 1.6-liter version of the Civic’s innovative CVCC motor, producing 68 hp at 5,000 rpm and 82 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. The Accord came equipped with a five-speed manual transmission and was rated at 44 mpg highway and 31 mpg city-impressive fuel economy even by today’s standards, and a key selling point during the 1970s oil crisis.
These first-generation Accords helped establish Honda as a value-oriented brand. Great fuel economy, handsome styling, confident handling, impressive braking, and comfortable passenger accommodations made the Accord popular with journalists and consumers. Reviews at the time stated that the Accord “may be the best automotive bargain ever.”
The Accord was first introduced as a three-door hatchback, with a four-door Accord Sedan coming soon after, for the 1977 model year. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, with an optional automatic transmission available. The Accord was one of the first Japanese sedans with features like cloth seats, a tachometer, intermittent wipers, and an AM/FM radio as standard equipment.
First-generation Accords are getting difficult to find these days, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for good examples. Considering the age of these cars, condition is the biggest factor affecting pricing, and clean, original examples are starting to draw the attention of collectors. Buyers who opt for an early Accord should be sure to plan ahead, as parts can be difficult to find these days.
Related Topics:
- The Best Hybrid Cars
- The Cheapest New Cars
- The Best Cars for Commuting
