Best & Worst Honda Accord Years | Years To Avoid

A legendary car spanning over 10 generations, the Honda Accord is one of the most popular cars in the world. These are the best years for each Honda Accord generation, and which ones to avoid.

Rather than buying the worst Honda Accord model year, you should go for the best. The only data-based guide you need to choose the best Honda Accord model year is this one.

We will examine the best and worst model years of each Honda Accord generation in this guide.

With meticulous research and actual data, we’ve pinpointed the highs and lows of each generation of the Accord. Among the topics we discuss are features, recalls, resale values, and common issues.

Each model year’s specifics are uncovered, from the groundbreaking 5th generation to the futuristic 11th generation.

Here is a look at the various Honda Accord generations without further ado.

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Honda Accord Generations

Honda Accords were introduced in 1976 and quickly became a favorite among drivers around the world. 11 generations have seen notable changes to the Accord over the years.

In this analysis, we will focus on the 5th to 11th generations, starting from 1994, for relevance and data availability.

Generation	Years
11th Generation (CY)	2023-Present
10th Generation (CV)	2018-2022
9th Generation (CR/CT)	2013-2017
8th Generation (CP/CS)	2008-2012
7th Generation (CM)	2003-2007
6th Generation (CF/CG)	1998-2002
5th Generation (CD)	1994-1997

By considering the above table, we can better understand how the Honda Accord has evolved over time.

As the Accord’s history unfolds, each period brings unique features, upgrades, and potential problems.

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Honda Accord Best, Neutral, and Worst Years

A comprehensive evaluation system is employed to rank the Honda Accord models across generations. Our review takes into account the following factors:

In the following table, model years are categorized into best, neutral, and worst.

Generation	Best Years	Neutral Years	Worst Years
10th Generation (CV)	2020	2021 2022	2018 2019
9th Generation (CR/CT)	2016 2017	2013	2014 2015
8th Generation (CP/CS)	2011	2009 2010 2012	2008
7th Generation (CM)	2006 2007	N/A	2003 2004 2005
6th Generation (CF/CG)	1999	1998 2001	2000 2002
5th Generation (CD)	1994	1995 1996	1997

An “Neutral Year” is when performance or reliability didn’t shine brightly but there weren’t any significant problems either. If the vehicle’s maintenance history and current condition are good, these middle-of-the-road models might still be a good buy.

The rating of a model year can be negatively affected by factors such as NHTSA recalls. Generally, the more complaints and recalls a car receives, the lower its reliability and, consequently, its score.

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

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Honda Accord 11th Generation [2023]

Featuring both classically refined styling and modern updates, the 2023 Honda Accord is the first model in the 11th Generation.

With sleek lines, an aggressive front-end, and a wider stance, Honda has modernized the Accord’s design language. Additionally, the interior features premium materials and increased cabin space, providing a luxurious feel for passengers.

In addition to delivering a more connected and enjoyable ride, the 2023 Accord offers a larger touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The vehicle also features a high-quality sound system and a customizable digital gauge cluster.

There are a variety of efficient powertrain options available from Honda under the hood. It comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with plenty of power and impressive fuel efficiency. For those who crave more power, a V6 engine upgrade is available. There is also a hybrid version of the 2023 Accord that provides excellent performance and fuel economy.

With the new Accord, safety remains a top priority. You’ll be alerted to potential hazards when driving thanks to Honda Sensing, the latest suite of driver-assistance technology.

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

With a completely redesigned exterior and interior, the Honda Accord 10th Generation debuts in 2018. Performance and fuel efficiency were combined in the model’s new turbocharged engines and hybrid drivetrain.

2020 and 2021 are the best years

2020 and 2021 are the best years for the 10th Generation Accord. With significant improvements in technology, safety, and performance, the 2020 model year won Edmunds’ Top-Rated Sedan award.

As a standard feature across all models, Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive technologies were included. Kelley Blue Book named the 2021 Accord Best Buy Mid-Size Car, continuing the winning streak.

For the first time, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration were offered on this model year’s vehicle.

2019 is the Neutral Year

In terms of the 10th Generation Accord, the 2019 model is considered neutral. The 2019 model year was rated 5-stars overall in safety tests and received the IIHS Top Safety Pick award.

This was one of the worst years in terms of improvements or changes compared with the previous model 8

The 10th Generation Accord’s 2018 model year is considered to be its worst. The forward collision avoidance system was the most commonly reported issue by owners.

In some scenarios, despite its intention to enhance safety, it malfunctioned, posing a safety risk.

This issue was addressed in subsequent models, but the reputation of the 2018 Accord was significantly damaged by it.

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

A smoother, more refined ride and an updated exterior design were the highlights of this generation, which was introduced in 2013.

There were, however, certain models of this generation that performed better than others, while others had major issues.

2016 and 2017 were the best years

In terms of the 9th Generation Honda Accord, 2016 and 2017 have been praised as the top years.

As a standard feature on Touring models, Honda Sensing provides a suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. It included features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Road Departure Mitigation, and Collision Mitigation Braking System.

This safety emphasis continued in the 2017 model, making it an excellent choice for buyers.

2014 and 2015 were the Neutral Years

As far as the 9th Generation Honda Accord is concerned, 2014 and 2015 are considered impartial years.

In 2015, Honda attempted to address engine concerns that plagued the 2014 version as well as electrical issues. The electrical system, however, continued to be a source of concern for owners.

2013 was one of the worst years

For the 9th Generation Accord, 2013 was the worst year. This model was plagued by problems even though it came with a lot of new features and technologies.

Several issues have been reported by owners, ranging from premature brake wear to battery and starter issues.

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

In 2008, Honda introduced its 8th Generation of the Accord, a decade after the model was completely redesigned.

Honda intends to maintain the Accord’s top-selling status by introducing more technological advancements and luxury features.

2010 and 2011 were the best years

Honda Accords of the 8th Generation are known as their best models in 2010, 2011, and 2012. As the model years progressed, more safety features and USB audio interfaces were added.

Furthermore, compared to the initial models of the generation, they were more reliable and reported fewer issues. An update to the front end, an updated interior, and better fuel economy were among the highlights of the 2011 model’s mid-cycle refresh.

2009 was a neutral year

For the 8th Generation Honda Accord, the 2009 model year can be classified as neutral. During the 2009 model year, Honda worked to resolve some of the problems from the 2008 model year.

Even though the 2009 Accord had updated interior materials and a longer list of standard equipment, it still had some of the airbag deployment problems from 2008.

2008 was one of the worst years

The 8th Generation Honda Accord has had a bad year in 2008, unfortunately. Both the airbags and service brakes of the vehicle were in need of repair.

While the vehicle was in motion or when the passenger side doors were closed, side curtain airbags deployed unexpectedly on the passenger side.

Upon discovering that the unexpected deployments were caused by a software bug in the vehicle’s airbag control unit, Honda recalled 300,000 Accords in October 2015.

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

From 2003 to 2007, the 7th Generation Honda Accord continued the sedan’s reputation for reliability and comfort while enhancing safety and performance.

Airbags for the side curtains and a redesigned exterior were key developments.

The transmission of this generation, however, was plagued by significant problems, leading to several recalls.

2007 was one of the best years

In 2007, the transmission issues that had previously plagued the Honda Accord improved, making the model year the best of the seventh generation.

With high safety ratings, a smooth ride, and solid reliability, it stood out among its competitors. Along with a more powerful 3.5L V6 engine option, the car included standard safety enhancements such as side curtain airbags and stability control.

Due to a V6 engine issue, Honda recalled this year’s model on October 1, 2012.

2005 and 2006 were neutral years

This generation is neutral between the model years 2005 and 2006. These years saw incremental improvements and refinements in design and technology, despite transmission issues, particularly in 2003 and 2004.

Accord’s crashworthiness has been improved, and new active safety features have been added.

However, they suffered from persistent issues in these years, including unexpected airbag deployments.

2003 and 2004 were the worst years

In general, 2003 and 2004 are considered the worst years for the 7th generation Accord. This period was dominated by transmission problems, with over half of all NHTSA complaints related to the powertrain.

As a result of these problems, the Accord faced a number of recalls and lost its reputation for reliability.

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

With the 6th Generation Honda Accord, which spanned 1998 to 2002, more upscale features and refined comfort were added.

There were several innovations in this generation, such as the introduction of a V6 engine option and some models were ULEV-rated (Ultra Low Emission Vehicles).

There have also been a number of recalls, notably in the later years, which have negatively affected the reliability reputation of this generation.

1998 was one of the best years

One of the best years of this generation was the 1998 model year. As a result of the 3.0L V6 engine option, the Accord was able to compete with rivals with six-cylinder engines.

Some 1998 Accords were also ULEV-rated this year, marking Honda’s commitment to reducing vehicle emissions.

As with many other vehicles of this era, some recalls were also issued for this model year regarding electrical and powertrain issues.

1999, 2000, and 2001 were the Neutral Years

For this generation, 1999, 2000, and 2001 serve as neutral years. There were some problems carried over from the 1998 model, despite the fact that they maintained the vehicle’s performance and safety features.

Several recalls were issued due to recurring problems with the powertrain and transmission.

Additionally, airbag problems resurfaced, especially in the 2000, 2001, and 2002 model years, further dampening their reputations.

2002 was one of the worst years

Among this generation’s model years, 2002 is regarded as the worst. There were many strong features carried over from previous years as well as recurring airbag and transmission issues.

Recalls and complaints increased as these problems became more prominent.

However, its overall standing within the 6th generation is tarnished by the reliability concerns.

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

The 5th generation Accord introduced a more aerodynamic design and more efficient powertrain that established it as a midsize sedan leader.

This generation of the Honda Accord has played a crucial role in maintaining the car’s top-selling position in the United States since 1989.

1994 was one of the best years

This generation’s best Accord is the 1994 model. Enhanced performance and fuel efficiency were offered by the vehicle’s new four-cylinder 2.2L engine.

Honda’s commitment to safety was reflected in its standard dual front airbags. In addition to the four-speed automatic transmission and anti-lock braking system, this model also featured advanced technology for the time.

1995 and 1996 were neutral years

This generation’s neutral years are 1995 and 1996. While the 1994 model retained its robust design and performance, it also had some faults.

Airbag problems were reported in both of these years. As a result, subsequent recalls addressed safety concerns, though it did not drastically affect the vehicle’s performance.

1997 was one of the worst years

Among the 5th generation, 1997 was considered to be the worst year. The exterior lighting was the most common reason for recalls on this model year.

This may not directly affect the vehicle’s performance, but it raises safety concerns and impacts ownership satisfaction.

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Common Honda Accord Problems

Some of the Accord’s components can fail or break down, despite its excellent reputation for reliability. According to widely reported reports, the Accord has the following issues:

Uncomfortable seating

Accord owners often complain of severe back and neck pain due to its uncomfortable seats. Poor lumbar support and inadequate cushioning were cited as reasons for discomfort on the 2008 and 2009 models.

Electrical issues

Some frustrated owners reported their starters failed after 30k miles, which is after the warranty period has expired. Additionally, many reported battery drain issues. An expert says the Accord batteries can’t power the engine because they don’t have enough amps.

Excessive oil consumption

The 2008 and 2009 models of the Accord were particularly prone to excessive oil consumption. Mechanics were instructed to update the variable cylinder management (VCM) by means of a technical service bulletin issued by Honda.

Faulty power door locks

There are several reports of power door locks malfunctioning or failing on Honda Accords. It appears that the problem was with the power lock actuators in the car. Since the problem was intermittent, it was difficult to diagnose.

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FAQs

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Conclusion

Consider the car’s evolution and potential issues before choosing the best model year. Using this guide, you’ll be able to easily determine which Honda Accord years are best to avoid and which ones are best to buy.

What is your favorite Honda Accord model year, or one that you have had less-than-ideal experiences with? Let us know what you think!

We’d love to hear your stories about Honda Accords in the comments section. Future Accord owners can benefit from your unique experiences.