Are Honda Accords customizable?

Yes—Honda Accords are customizable through trims, factory options, dealer-installed Honda Genuine Accessories, and a large aftermarket. However, they aren’t “bespoke” at the factory the way some luxury brands allow; most personalization comes from choosing the right trim and adding accessories or aftermarket parts, with performance tuning on recent models being more limited due to software and hybrid-system constraints.

What “customizable” means for the Accord

For current-generation Accords (2023–present in North America), customization primarily means selecting among trims and packages, then layering on dealer or third‑party accessories. Unlike highly configurable European sedans, Honda bundles most features by trim to simplify ordering and pricing. If you want deeper aesthetic or performance changes, the aftermarket is extensive—but you should weigh warranty, safety, and legal implications.

Factory choices when you buy new

When ordering or buying from dealer stock, your main customizations come from the factory build: trim level, color, wheels tied to trims, and a limited set of port/dealer-installed accessories. Here are the typical areas where you can choose.

• Trim and powertrain: In the U.S., recent Accords are offered in gas (1.5T CVT) and hybrid trims. Equipment, interior materials, and tech bundle by trim (e.g., LX, EX for gas; Sport Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, Touring Hybrid).
• Exterior colors and interior upholstery: Paint palettes and interior materials are tied to trim; availability varies by year and region.
• Wheels: Wheel size/design often changes with trim (e.g., 17–19 inch). Factory “upgrade” wheels are limited; more variety exists in the accessory catalog and aftermarket.
• Tech/features: Larger infotainment screens, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Google built‑in appear on higher trims; driver-assist features are standard but may add capability as you move up trims.
• Accessories at delivery: Dealers can add Honda Genuine Accessories before you take delivery, such as spoilers, black emblems, floor liners, and splash guards.

Because features are trim-bundled, the most effective “factory customization” is selecting the trim that aligns with your priorities (performance, tech, or value), then adding accessories to fine-tune the look and utility.

Model-year notes (2023–2025, U.S.)

The 11th‑gen Accord launched for 2023, with gas (LX, EX) and hybrid-focused trims (Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, Touring). Hybrids replaced the prior 2.0T option, emphasizing efficiency. Infotainment moved to 7-inch (wired CarPlay/Android Auto) on lower trims and 12.3-inch (wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, with Google built‑in on top trims) higher up. These patterns continued into 2024 and, as of mid‑2025, remain similar; always confirm specifics with current dealer inventory, as features can shift by region and model year.

Dealer and Honda Genuine Accessories

Honda’s own accessory catalog lets you personalize appearance and utility while maintaining OEM fit and finish. Availability can vary by year and market, so check your VIN or dealer.

• Exterior appearance: Decklid or lip spoilers, underbody/aero accents, gloss‑black or bronze wheel options (varies), blacked‑out emblems, body side moldings, door edge guards, splash guards.
• Protection and utility: All‑season floor liners, cargo trays, trunk organizers, wheel locks, paint film, door sill protection (including illuminated variants), sunshades.
• Roof and carrying: Roof racks/crossbars with bike, ski, or cargo attachments; note roof load ratings.
• Convenience: Remote engine start kits (if not standard), auto‑dimming mirror, rear USB ports (trim‑dependent), wireless charger trays (trim‑dependent).
• Lighting: LED fog lights (if not standard), puddle lights, interior ambient lighting kits.
• Towing/hitch receivers: Typically offered for accessories like bike racks; U.S. Accords are not tow‑rated—use hitches for cargo carriers or racks, not towing.

OEM accessories tend to integrate cleanly, preserve resale, and minimize warranty headaches. Prices are higher than aftermarket, but installation quality and compatibility are strong selling points.

Aftermarket modifications

If you want a unique look or handling/performance changes, the aftermarket for the Accord is broad—especially for wheels/tires, suspension, and audio. Choose reputable brands and installers to avoid safety and warranty issues.

• Wheels and tires: Popular upgrades include 18–19 inch lightweight wheels with performance all‑season or summer tires; verify bolt pattern (5×114.3), offset, and load rating, and recalibrate TPMS if needed.
• Suspension: Lowering springs or coilovers for stance and handling; consider alignment kits and upgraded sway bars. Keep ground clearance and daily-drivability in mind.
• Brakes: Performance pads/rotors and stainless lines improve pedal feel; big brake kits exist but may require wheel clearance checks.
• Exhaust and intake: Cat‑back systems and high‑flow intakes provide sound and modest gains on gas models; ensure emissions compliance.
• Aero and body kits: Splitters, side skirts, rear diffusers; choose pieces designed for the 11th‑gen to ensure fit and avoid scraping.
• Lighting and styling: Legal‑spec head/taillight upgrades, LED interior kits, vinyl wraps, ceramic tint (obey local VLT laws), paint-protection film.
• Audio and tech: Amplifier/sub upgrades, speaker replacements, and DSP tuning; retain factory controls with appropriate interfaces.

Thoughtful aftermarket builds can transform the Accord’s personality without compromising daily usability. Plan a cohesive setup—wheels, tires, suspension, and alignment matter more to driving feel than cosmetic add‑ons alone.

Performance tuning considerations

Recent Accords are more complex to tune than older models due to encrypted ECUs and hybrid systems. Proceed carefully if power gains are your goal.

• ECU tuning on 11th‑gen 1.5T: Support is limited and varies by tuner; some late‑model ECUs remain locked, and CVT longevity must be considered. Gains are typically modest without hardware changes.
• Hybrids: The two‑motor hybrid system is not commonly or easily tunable; focus on chassis, tires, and brake upgrades for performance feel.
• Bolt‑ons: Intakes, intercooler improvements (where applicable), and cat‑back exhausts can sharpen response and sound but won’t yield large power jumps on stock turbo/hybrid setups.
• Drivetrain and reliability: The CVT in gas trims is tuned for efficiency; aggressive torque increases can affect durability.
• Warranty and insurance: Modifications can impact coverage; document changes and ask your dealer/insurer before major mods.
• Emissions and legality: Follow federal and state laws (e.g., CARB in California). Keep catalytic converters and required emissions equipment intact.

If outright power is a priority, set realistic expectations or consider a platform with broader tuning headroom. For most owners, handling, braking, and tire upgrades deliver the best bang for the buck.

Software personalization and infotainment

Digital customization is increasingly meaningful with the latest Accord infotainment. Capabilities differ by trim and model year.

• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Wired on base screens; wireless on higher trims. This enables custom app ecosystems, navigation, and media.
• Google built‑in (select upper trims): Native Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store apps on the vehicle screen, plus over‑the‑air app updates.
• Driver profiles: Save seat/mirror, climate, and infotainment preferences to keys or profiles for multi‑driver households.
• Honda Sensing settings: Customize lane‑keeping alerts, following distances, and sensitivity; calibrate to your comfort level.
• Updates: App-level updates occur over the air; core vehicle firmware updates are dealer‑performed unless otherwise noted by Honda.

These software features let you tailor the cabin experience even if you keep the hardware stock, and they’re reversible and warranty‑friendly.

Costs: what owners typically spend

Budgeting helps you prioritize. Ballpark U.S. pricing varies by brand, installer, and region.

• OEM accessory packs (protection/appearance): $300–$1,500 installed.
• Wheels and tires: $1,200–$3,000+ depending on size and brand.
• Lowering springs/coilovers plus alignment: $600–$2,500+.
• Brake pads/rotors/lines: $300–$1,500+; big brake kits much higher.
• Cat‑back exhaust/intake: $400–$1,800+ total.
• Wraps, PPF, tint: $250 (partial tint) to $5,000+ (full PPF/wrap).
• Audio upgrades: $400–$3,000+ depending on scope and integration.

Start with a prioritized list—tires and alignment often deliver the most noticeable improvement per dollar, followed by suspension and brakes.

Buying and planning tips

A methodical approach keeps your build safe, legal, and enjoyable day‑to‑day.

• Verify compatibility by year/trim: Hybrid vs gas and screen size affect part fitment and wiring.
• OEM vs aftermarket: OEM fits cleanly; aftermarket offers variety and value but needs careful selection.
• Mind geometry: Any suspension change should be followed by alignment to avoid uneven tire wear.
• Check load, offset, and rolling diameter for wheels/tires to prevent rubbing and sensor faults.
• Keep take‑off parts: Helpful for resale or warranty visits.
• Document mods and use reputable installers; retain receipts and alignment sheets.

Good planning prevents costly do‑overs and preserves reliability and resale value while achieving your desired look and feel.

Bottom line

Honda Accords are very customizable for appearance, comfort, and handling through trims, OEM accessories, and a robust aftermarket. Performance tuning on late‑model gas and hybrid Accords is more constrained than in past generations, but thoughtful upgrades—especially tires, suspension, and brakes—can meaningfully elevate the driving experience while keeping daily practicality intact.

Summary

Accords can be customized, mainly via trim selection, Honda Genuine Accessories, and a wide aftermarket. Expect limited factory‑order flexibility but strong accessory support. Prioritize compatibility, legality, and warranty considerations, and focus on tires, suspension, and brakes for the most impactful upgrades on modern models.

What is the weakness of the Honda Accord?

One of the Honda Accord’s most talked-about issues revolves around its transmission. Owners have reported cases of slipping, abrupt shifting, and, in some unfortunate instances, complete failure.

Are Honda Accords good to modify?

They most definitely are. Accords and Acuras have a huge community of enthusiasts. That’s because even a base Accord is a solid vehicle, and it doesn’t take much to turn it into a far more capable vehicle. And as we all know, Honda’s have a long lifespan so they’re worth the investment.

Can you customize a Honda Accord?

With our vehicle configurator tool, you can create a custom Honda that has all of the features and amenities that you’re looking for in your next vehicle. Learn how our vehicle configurator tool works, and visit us in person or online to configure your next new Honda vehicle.

What billionaire drives a Honda Accord?

Jeff Bezos
Why Jeff Bezos Drove a Honda Accord Years After Becoming a Billionaire.