Here Are The Most Reliable Used Best Honda Accord Years to Buy

Author: Patrick Oziegbe
Updated On:

Are you looking for a ride that’s dependable and stylish? Look no further than the Honda Accord – a car that’s been the apple of many a car enthusiast’s eye for over four decades.

With so many exceptional best model years in its storied history, knowing where to start your search can take time and effort. Fear not, though – we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll be taking a deep dive into some of the absolute best Honda Accord years to consider if you’re after a used car that’s both reliable and a joy to drive.

From the rock-solid 2020 model to the beloved 2011 and 2012 Accord model years, we’ll break down what makes these standout models tick.

Please note there are mixed best worst years, but Accord’s unreliable years to avoid are fewer than bad versions!

So buckle up, get ready to find your perfect front wheel drive ride, and wonder why the Kelley Blue Book considers the Honda Accord the best midsize sedan car in 2023!

Best Honda Accord Years

Best Years for Reliability

When it comes to reliability, you might want to consider the following used Honda Accord years:

  • 2015: The 2015 Honda Accord year stands out as one of the most reliable and best Honda Accord in its 9th generation, with the least number of complaints and only four recalls.
  • 2012: The Honda Accord year from 2012 was highly rated for its excellent fuel economy and overall reliability, with a RepairPal reliability score of 4.5 out of 5. According to the EPA, the 2012 automatic transmission gets 22 MPG/city and 33 MPG on the highway!
  • 2011 & 2020: The 2011 and 2020 Honda Accord received perfect reliability scores in their respective model years.

I suggest avoiding the 2013 Honda Accord and 2014 Honda Accord models, as they have documented issues with reliability.

Best Years for Performance

If performance is what you’re after, these are the best Honda Accord years you should consider:

  • 2022, 2021, & 2020: These recent models (especially the 2022 and 2021 Honda Accord) feature updated engines and advanced technology, offering a satisfying driving experience and solid fuel efficiency.
  • 2019 & 2017: Both the 2019 Honda Accord and 2017 Honda Accord got rave reviews, with critics praising their responsive handling, powerful engine options, stylish design, and improved Automatic Climate Control feature.
  • 2006: The 2006 Honda Accord stands out as a reliable performer, with a strong V6 engine and a reputation for being fun to drive. The 3003 Honda Accord is one to consider as it received above-average performance ratings from owners.

Based on the information, you can be confident in choosing from the above-mentioned years when looking for a reliable and high-performing Honda Accord.

Generations and Redesigns

From First to Tenth Generation Lineup

The Honda Accord has evolved significantly over its ten generations, a mix of best worst years and several redesigned.

Starting as a compact sedan in the 1980s, it has grown into a midsize car while maintaining its status as a popular choice for drivers like you.

In the early years of the Honda Accord, the car was known for its reliable performance and excellent fuel economy – minimal MPG ratings and few sweet specs, including cruise control and automatic climate control for the USA market.

3rd Generation (1986 to 1989)

The third-generation Accord (1986-1989) gained popularity among enthusiasts and received praise for its sleek design and technological advancements.

4th Generation (1992 to 1993)

As you enter the mid-generation era, the fourth-generation (1992-93) Accord became a midsize sedan with a 107.1-inch wheelbase and an overall length of 185 inches.

Its three trims—DX, LX, and EX—offer a variety of specs and options to cater to your preferences.

6th Generation (1998 to 2002)

Enter the 6th Generation – from the 1998 Honda Accord – the 2002 Honda Accord. The 6th Gen was a better-redesigned version with new headlights and tail-spanning brake lights. Plus, it was reputed to be a firm and sound engine, but owners and drivers reported some transmission issues.

The 1999 Honda Accord recorded one of the highest sales of the sixth generation, but many customers preferred the 2000 Honda Accord and the firmer 2001 Honda Accord to the 1998 version.

7th Generation (2003-2007)

The seventh generation Honda Accord was produced from 2003 to 2007 years. This gen is considered a reliable car, especially the 2007 Honda Accord, which also comes with a six-speed manual in its Coupe version.

Some of the pros of the 7th generation used Honda Accord include its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. The 4-cylinder engine is good on gasoline, and it’s not uncommon for this generation Accord to last well over 300,000 miles. Additionally, the Accord’s interior is spacious and comfortable for drivers and passengers.

Unfortunately, the 7th gen Honda Accord’s problems include the ignition switch, starter motor, headliner, and power steering-wheel issues.

Some models, like the 2004 Honda Accord, may experience excessive oil consumption issues that can be difficult to diagnose and fix, and according to CarComplaints reports, used car buyers should be wary of the 2003 Honda Accord as it has more problems and high repair costs.

8th Generation (2008 to 2012)

The 8th generation Honda Accord was produced from 2008 to 2012 with fewer features, including the keyless remote start system. It’s generally considered a reliable Honda Accord car. CarBuzz notes that the 8th-gen Accord is “one of the most dependable names in the automotive industry.

The 2010 Honda Accord was a standout car of the eighth generation, with solid level performance, a more extensive interior, and some navigation system complaints. The 2010 Coupe and Sedan scored 5 stars for its crash test ratings, according to IIHS Safety Ratings.

However, few owners of 2008 models reported premature brake wear and some engine issues, while drivers reported the 2009 Honda Accord as more reliable than 2008. Still, several drivers also experienced premature brake wear and excessive oil consumption!

9th Generation (2012–2017)

Jumping to the ninth generation Honda Accord, the 2016 Honda Accord and 2017 Honda Accords became notable for their standard features, comfortable rides, and roomy cabins.

These years they also introduced the Honda Sensing package, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems to enhance your safety on the road. It also has a redesigned grille, front fascia, alloy wheel, headlights, and tail lights designs.

10th Generation (2018 – 2022)

The tenth-generation Honda Accord, from the 2018 Honda Accord to the 2022 Honda Accord, maintained the car’s reputation for reliability and comfort.

One of its most significant improvements was the expanded use of the Honda Sensing package, now standard on all trim levels.

The 10th new-car generation also saw an improved navigation system, giving you a more innovative, more efficient driving experience and offering the keyless remote start as standard on the Touring and EX-L trims.

Over the years, Honda Company has redesigned several models to ensure the Honda Accord keeps up with the changing times with cleverly designed and engineered 18-inch Noise-Reducing Alloy Wheels!

From its humble beginnings as a compact sedan to its current status as one of America’s top-selling midsize sedans, the Honda Accord remains a testament to continuous improvement and evolution for drivers like you.

Trim Levels and Features

The Honda Accord offers various trim levels, each with its features catering to different preferences and needs.

This section dives into the specifics of the LX, EX, EX-L, Hybrid, and Sport trims.

LX

The LX is the base trim for the Honda Accord. In this configuration, you’ll find the essentials for a comfortable driving experience, such as:

  • A 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT
  • Standard safety features like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control
  • Basic entertainment options, including Bluetooth and a touchscreen display

This trim is ideal for drivers seeking a reliable, budget-friendly option without the need for fancy extras.

EX

Stepping up to the EX trim adds more convenience and comfort features to enhance your driving experience. Some highlights of the EX trim include:

  • Upgraded infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
  • Sunroof for an open-air feel on those beautiful days
  • Heated front seats to keep you warm during colder seasons

The EX trim blends affordability with upgraded amenities for a well-rounded choice.

EX-L

If you’re looking for a touch of luxury in your Honda Accord, the EX-L trim offers just that. This configuration includes features such as:

  • Leather-trimmed seats for a premium feel
  • Power-adjustable front seats with driver-side memory for personalized comfort
  • Additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring

The EX-L takes the Accord’s comfort and convenience to the next level with its high-quality materials and additional amenities.

Hybrid

It embraced fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness, and the Hybrid trim provides the following advantages:

  • A fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain that doesn’t compromise on performance
  • Standard driver assistance features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning
  • Upgraded infotainment options, similar to EX trim

The Hybrid trim is suitable for eco-conscious drivers who want to save on fuel without sacrificing critical features of the Accord. The average MPG ratings for the Hybrid is around 47-51 MPG city and 40-44 MPG highway.

Sport

The Sport trim offers an energetic edge for those who appreciate a more dynamic driving experience. In this configuration, expect extras such as:

  • A more powerful engine option
  • Sport-tuned suspension for improved handling
  • Unique exterior and interior styling accents

The Sport trim caters to drivers who prefer a sporty flair and enhanced performance characteristics in their Accord.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy

Four-Cylinder vs. V6

The four-cylinder engine offers a reliable option with solid performance and excellent fuel economy.

The 2008 Honda Accord had a 2.4-liter, double-overhead-cam VTEC four-cylinder engine rated 177 horsepower. The 4-Cylinder is paired with a five-speed manual or automatic transmission, providing impressive gasoline mileage.

On the other hand, a V6 engine takes the performance of your Accord to the next level.

While it has a slightly lower fuel economy than the four-cylinder variant, the V6 provides more horsepower for an enhanced driving experience.

The 2008 Honda Accord, for instance, had a 3.5-liter, single-overhead-cam, VTEC V6 engine as an option with a bit less gas mileage than its four-cylinder counterpart.

Hybrid Powertrain

Consider a Honda Accord with a hybrid powertrain to improve fuel efficiency further. The hybrid models deliver a perfect combination of performance and eco-friendly driving.

These Accords come equipped with a gas engine and an electric motor, working together to optimize fuel consumption and minimize emissions.

Not only do hybrid Accords provide excellent fuel economy, but they also deliver a smooth driving experience thanks to their quiet electric motors.

Remember that hybrid technology has advanced over the years, so newer models, such as the 2019 Accord Hybrid, will likely offer better performance and excellent fuel economy than older ones.

Your engine choice will significantly impact your Honda Accord’s performance and fuel economy.

Review the pros and cons of four-cylinder, V6, and hybrid powertrain options to find the perfect combination for your driving preferences and maintain an enjoyable ride.

Safety and Technology

Safety Ratings

The 2012 Honda Accord stands out with good safety ratings, making it an excellent choice.

Most Honda Accord model years earn high safety ratings, partly due to the inclusion of Honda Sensing—a suite of driver-assist features to provide an extra layer of protection on the road.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) consistently ranks Honda Accord highly in safety, ensuring you drive confidently.

Notable safety features in these vehicles include electronic stability control, traffic alert, collision mitigation, and lane keep assist.

Infotainment System

As a Honda Accord owner, you’ll also appreciate the sophisticated infotainment system available in most models.

The 10th-generation Honda Accord, launched in 2017, offers the latest technology with the new infotainment system.

It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with your vehicle to quickly access your favorite apps, music, and messages.

The infotainment system offers a user-friendly interface with intuitive controls and a responsive touchscreen, making it easy for you to navigate while staying focused on the road.

In addition, Honda’s technology extends beyond entertainment to provide useful features like adaptive cruise control, providing you with a more enjoyable and convenient driving experience.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

We will explore owner satisfaction and expert opinions to help you better understand the Honda Accord’s performance over the years.

Owner Satisfaction

To understand how owners feel about their Honda Accords, we can look at customer reviews on sites like Consumer Reports.

According to these sources, 2006, 2011, and 2012 are reliable Honda Accord models adjudged and received high ratings for owner satisfaction.

The 2020 through 2022 models also scored well, with the 2022 Accord receiving a 4.5/5.0 rating on Kelley Blue Book.

Expert Opinions

Apart from owner reviews, expert opinions offer valuable insights into the performance and quality of various Honda Accord years.

The 2006 Accord, for example, received a 4.8/5.0 rating on Edmunds, showcasing its popularity among expert reviewers.

Another solid choice, the 2022 Accord, impresses experts with its sleek interior design and advanced features, earning a 4.7/5.0 rating.

Moreover, J.D. Power offers comprehensive rankings for various vehicles, including Honda Accord models, based on quality, dependability, and performance.

Be sure also to consult their ratings to make an informed decision about which Honda Accord’s best model year suits your needs.

Compare Honda Accord Models

Let’s review some highly-rated models and what sets them apart from previous greats, ultimately surpassing the worst Honda Accord years.

2011 Honda Accord

The 2011 Honda Accord year stands out for its perfect reliability score. It has two engines: a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder, which delivers enough power while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency, or a 3.5-liter V6 with more horsepower and torque.

You’ll appreciate its smooth ride and responsive handling. It’s also noteworthy that 2011 is considered one of the three best Honda cars with super design before the recent model years!

2015 Honda Accord

Another model with a perfect reliability score is the 2015 Accord. This year’s model features a sleek design, well-built interior, easy-to-use technology, and minimal Honda Accord problems.

Safety is a top priority, with standard features like a rearview camera and options like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning.

2020 Honda Accord

The 2020 Accord is noteworthy for its reliability, owner satisfaction, and modern features. Some highlights include:

  • Available turbocharged engine for improved performance
  • Standard Honda Sensing technology (lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, braking system, and more)
  • User-friendly infotainment system and premium Audio system.

You’ll also appreciate its spacious, comfortable cabin and generous trunk space.

2022 Honda Accord

The 2022 Accord is one of the most recent models, continuing the excellent build quality and performance trend from the 2021 Honda Accord. It has a standard CMBS – Collision Mitigation Braking System on its Insight trim!

This 2022 Honda Accord got high reviews for its advanced safety features, comfortable ride, and upscale interior, including a sharp 8-Speaker Audio System.

You can customize your Accord to suit your preferences with various trims and options. The 2022 crash test ratings conducted by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) received very high scores.

As you compare these Honda Accord models, consider your needs and preferences regarding performance, safety, and technology features.

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