How long does a 2008 Honda Accord V6 last?

With proper care, a 2008 Honda Accord V6 commonly lasts 200,000 to 300,000 miles—roughly 15 to 20-plus years—before major, uneconomical repairs become likely. The J-series 3.5-liter V6 is inherently durable, but longevity hinges on timely timing-belt service, regular fluid changes, and attention to known issues like Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)-related oil consumption and accelerated rear brake wear.

What ultimately determines lifespan

Vehicle longevity is a mix of engineering, maintenance history, driving conditions, and environment. The 2008 Accord’s V6 is robust, but like any aging vehicle, it depends on consistent upkeep and early attention to small problems before they cascade.

• Maintenance discipline: On-time timing-belt/water pump service, quality oil and fluid changes, and addressing wear items promptly.
• Driving profile: Highway-heavy miles are easier on components than short-trip, stop-and-go driving.
• Known model quirks: Managing VCM-related oil consumption/misfires and rear brake wear preserves engine and braking longevity.
• Climate and corrosion: Salt-belt rust can age a car faster than its mechanicals; underbody inspections matter.
• Owner attentiveness: Monitoring fluids, listening for new noises, and fixing small leaks or vibrations early extends life.

Put together, these factors explain why some Accords crest 300,000 miles while others struggle to reach 150,000; care and context are decisive.

Real-world longevity and owner experience

Across classifieds, owner forums, and reliability trackers, 2008 V6 Accords frequently appear with well over 200,000 miles still in daily use. The powertrain’s basic design is proven, and parts availability remains strong. Where long-lived examples differ is almost always maintenance quality—particularly whether the timing belt and transmission services were done on schedule and whether VCM-related issues were addressed promptly.

Mileage expectations by care level

Well-maintained cars with documented belt service, regular ATF changes, and resolved oil-consumption or brake issues commonly reach 220,000–300,000+ miles. Average, mixed-maintenance examples often land around 170,000–220,000 miles before larger repairs stack up. Neglected cars or those exposed to heavy rust may face major work below 150,000 miles.

Maintenance that makes or breaks it

The following maintenance items most strongly influence how long a 2008 Accord V6 will last and how reliably it will get there.

1. Timing belt and water pump: Replace about every 7 years/105,000 miles. A missed belt can lead to catastrophic engine damage in this interference engine.
2. Transmission fluid: Use Honda ATF (DW-1). Change roughly every 30,000–60,000 miles to prevent shudder and extend 5-speed automatic life.
3. Engine oil and monitoring: Change 5,000–7,500 miles with quality oil. Check level regularly; address any oil consumption promptly to avoid spark plug fouling or catalytic converter damage.
4. Spark plugs: Iridium plugs typically last around 100,000 miles; replace as needed, especially if misfire codes appear.
5. Cooling system: Replace coolant about every 5 years/60,000 miles; ensure radiator and hoses are healthy.
6. Brakes: Expect faster rear pad wear on this generation; inspect often and use quality pads/rotors.
7. Suspension and steering: Struts, bushings, control arms, and tie-rod ends often need attention between 100,000–150,000 miles.
8. Motor mounts: The V6 can wear mounts; replace if vibration at idle or thumps on shifts appear.
9. PCV valve and air intake: Refresh the PCV valve around 60,000–100,000 miles; keep the throttle body and air filter clean.
10. Drive belt and pulleys: Inspect/replace the serpentine belt and tensioner if cracked or noisy.
11. Corrosion prevention: In salt regions, wash the underbody and address any rust early.
12. Recalls and service campaigns: Ensure airbag inflator recalls and any engine/VCM updates are completed; verify via the VIN at NHTSA’s website.

Staying ahead on these items transforms the Accord V6 from “aging used car” into a high-mileage commuter that remains predictable and economical to own.

Known issues to watch on the 2008 V6

Every model year has patterns. For the 2008 Accord V6, none of the following are automatic dealbreakers, but recognizing and addressing them early helps maximize service life.

• VCM-related oil consumption and intermittent misfires: Some engines consume oil, especially on short trips. Regular level checks and prompt fixes (updated plugs, software or hardware remedies where applicable) are key.
• Rear brake pad wear: Many 2008–2009 Accords experienced faster-than-expected rear pad wear; plan for more frequent inspections and quality components.
• Automatic transmission shudder: Can appear at low speeds or light throttle if fluid is old; timely ATF changes often resolve or prevent it.
• Engine mounts: Torn mounts cause vibration; replacement restores smoothness and protects other components.
• Steering/suspension noises: Aging struts, bushings, and tie-rod ends can clunk or wander; renewing them improves safety and tire life.
• Airbag recalls: Many 2008 Accords were included in Takata inflator recalls; confirm all recall work is complete.
• A/C compressor or clutch wear: Not universal, but age-related failures are common in this era; budget for repair if cooling is weak.

If these issues have been documented and resolved—or are addressed soon after purchase—the platform’s underlying durability typically shines through.

Thinking of buying one today? A quick checklist

Given the car’s age, a focused inspection and document review will tell you more about its remaining life than the odometer alone.

1. Service records: Look for proof of timing belt/water pump replacement and regular oil and ATF changes.
2. Engine health: Check for oil consumption, misfire history, and the condition of spark plugs; scan for codes.
3. Transmission behavior: Evaluate for smooth shifts and absence of shudder; fresh ATF is a good sign.
4. Brakes and tires: Inspect rear pad thickness and rotor condition; uneven tire wear can signal suspension issues.
5. Suspension and mounts: Listen for clunks; check for excessive engine movement or vibration.
6. Rust and underbody: Prioritize clean subframes and brake/fuel lines, especially in salt regions.
7. Cooling and A/C: Confirm stable operating temperature and strong cabin cooling.
8. Recalls: Run the VIN on NHTSA.gov to verify all recall work (especially airbags) is completed.
9. Pre-purchase inspection: Have a Honda-experienced technician perform a comprehensive evaluation.

A clean inspection backed by records—especially proof of belt service—usually signals many miles of useful life remain.

Costs and the “keep or replace” decision

Annual maintenance for a high-mileage 2008 Accord V6 is typically modest if you’re proactive. Budget for periodic wear items, and be aware of bigger, occasional jobs: a timing-belt service often lands in the $800–$1,200 range at independent shops; full strut refresh can be $600–$1,200; a quality brake overhaul varies by region and parts choice. If major engine or transmission work is needed late in life, compare repair costs to the car’s market value to decide whether to keep investing or move on.

Summary

A 2008 Honda Accord V6 that’s maintained on schedule—especially with timely timing-belt service, proper ATF changes, and attention to VCM-related oil use—can reliably deliver 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. The biggest determinants are service history, rust exposure, and how quickly small issues are addressed. Find a well-documented example, keep up with maintenance, and the V6 Accord remains a durable, economical long-haul sedan.

How many miles can a V6 2008 Honda Accord take?

A Honda Accord should be able to last an average of about 250,000 miles, but this number can change dramatically depending on how well it is maintained over the course of many years.

Are 2008 Honda Accord V6 reliable?

JD Power has also confirmed that each year of the 8th Gen Honda Accord is above average for reliability, even the lowest ranking one, and has rated each model year for reliability as the following: 2008 Honda Accord: 80/100. 2009 Honda Accord: 81/100. 2010 Honda Accord: 85/100.

How long does a Honda Accord V6 last?

between 200,000-300,000 miles
How long do Honda Accords last? According to getjerry.com, a Honda Accord is anticipated to last between 200,000-300,000 miles. If you take proper care of your Honda Accord, it may stretch long past that milestone before experiencing a need for severe repairs.

What is a 2008 Honda Accord V6 worth?

Prices for a used 2008 Honda Accord currently range from $1,899 to $14,999, with vehicle mileage ranging from 23,955 to 281,128. Find used 2008 Honda Accord inventory at a TrueCar Certified Dealership near you by entering your zip code and seeing the best matches in your area.