Is a 2016 Honda Accord a Good First Car?

Yes. As a first car in 2025, the 2016 Honda Accord is a strong pick thanks to top-tier safety scores (5-star overall NHTSA and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with Honda Sensing), proven reliability, reasonable ownership costs, and useful modern features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on many trims. Buyers should verify service history (especially CVT fluid changes and, on V6 models, timing-belt service), check for any open recalls, and favor examples with the Honda Sensing safety suite.

What the 2016 Accord Offers

The 2016 Accord sits in the sweet spot for first-time owners: it’s a midsize sedan (or coupe) that’s easy to drive, spacious enough for friends and gear, and efficient. It’s the refreshed version of the ninth-generation Accord, adding better infotainment, optional active safety tech, and subtle chassis and styling updates that make it feel more modern than earlier years.

Safety, Reliability, and Peace of Mind

Safety is a headline strength. The 2016 Accord earned a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and qualified for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with Honda Sensing (forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more). A rearview camera is standard across the lineup.

On reliability, the Accord’s 2.4L four-cylinder engine is known for longevity and uses a timing chain (no routine replacement). The available 3.5L V6 is strong but uses a timing belt that typically needs replacement around 7 years/105,000 miles—an important cost to budget for if you choose the V6. Honda’s CVT in the Accord has a solid track record when serviced on time; fluid changes are key to avoiding judder or premature wear.

Powertrains, Fuel Economy, and Driving Manners

Most first-time buyers should target the 2.4L four-cylinder with the CVT for a balanced mix of performance and efficiency. EPA ratings are competitive for a midsize sedan: around 27/37 mpg city/highway (31 combined) for LX/EX CVT models and roughly 26/35 mpg (30 combined) for the Sport with larger wheels/tires. Manual transmission versions exist (rarer), and the V6 automatic delivers about 21/33 mpg (25 combined) with considerably more power.

On the road, the Accord is composed and predictable. Visibility is good, the steering is light yet accurate, and the ride is comfortable. The Sport trim handles a bit better but rides firmer and wears pricier 19-inch tires, which can increase running costs.

Features and Tech

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto arrived for 2016 on EX trims and above, making smartphone integration straightforward. Honda Sensing was optional on many trims—worth having for added safety and potential insurance discounts. Honda’s LaneWatch (a right-side blind-spot camera) is helpful but not a substitute for true blind-spot monitoring.

Known Issues and What to Watch

While generally dependable, the 2016 Accord has a few patterns worth checking on a used example. The points below highlight the most relevant items for first-time buyers to examine or ask a mechanic to inspect during a pre-purchase evaluation.

• Service history: Confirm regular oil changes and CVT fluid changes (often around 60,000-mile intervals). Lack of CVT service can lead to shudder.
• V6 timing belt: If considering a V6, budget for or confirm documented belt (and water pump) replacement near 105,000 miles/7 years.
• Starter concerns (V6 more commonly): Some owners reported intermittent starter failures; replacement solves it—ask about symptoms like occasional no-crank on push-button start.
• A/C performance: Check for weak cooling; condenser damage or leaks have been reported in various Honda models of this era.
• Infotainment glitches: The 2016 touchscreen can lag or freeze; firmware updates help. Test Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Bluetooth functionality.
• Brakes and suspension: Feel for steering vibration under braking (rotor wear) and listen for clunks over bumps (bushings/links).
• Tires and alignment: Sport’s 19-inch tires cost more; inspect for uneven wear and confirm a recent alignment.
• Recalls: Run the VIN on NHTSA’s website to ensure all recall work is completed.

None of these are deal-breakers when addressed; they’re checkpoints to ensure you buy a well-maintained car and avoid avoidable expenses early on.

Ownership Costs and Insurance

Operating costs are typically friendly for a midsize sedan: maintenance parts are widely available, and independent shops know the Accord well. Insurance premiums for new drivers vary by age and location, but the Accord’s safety record and available driver-assistance features can help keep costs reasonable. Expect the Sport and V6 trims to be a bit pricier to insure and fuel.

What You’ll Likely Pay in 2025

Pricing varies by mileage, condition, and trim, but many 2016 Accords trade in the ballpark of $9,000–$16,000 in 2025. Lower-mileage EX or EX-L cars with Honda Sensing command more; high-mileage or base trims sit at the lower end. Private-party sales are often cheaper than dealer lots but offer fewer purchase protections.

Trims to Target for a First Car

Picking the right trim can improve safety, ease of use, and running costs. Here’s how to focus your search.

• LX (2.4L): Simple, reliable, and affordable. Look for one with documented maintenance; lacks CarPlay.
• EX (2.4L): Sweet spot for many first-time buyers, adding Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and useful convenience features; seek an EX with Honda Sensing.
• Sport (2.4L): Sharper styling/handling, but larger wheels raise tire costs and ride firmness.
• EX-L (2.4L or V6): More comfort features; the four-cylinder EX-L keeps costs down. Choose V6 only if you value power and accept timing-belt maintenance and higher insurance/fuel bills.

In most cases, an EX or EX with Honda Sensing offers the best blend of safety, tech, and affordability for a new driver.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

Before you buy, run through a simple, targeted checklist to catch red flags and confirm value.

• Verify maintenance records, especially CVT fluid changes and, for V6s, timing belt service.
• Scan for fault codes even if the check engine light is off; many parts stores do this free.
• Test all driver-assistance features (adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, collision warning) if equipped.
• Check all infotainment functions, including CarPlay/Android Auto, USB ports, and the backup camera.
• Inspect tires for even tread wear and brake rotors for vibration at highway speeds.
• Run a VIN recall check and obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.

Spending a little time on these steps can save significant money and hassle after purchase.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Balancing strengths and trade-offs helps decide if it fits your needs as a first car.

• Pros: Excellent safety scores; strong reliability (especially 2.4L); good fuel economy; roomy interior; CarPlay/Android Auto on EX+; abundant parts and service options.
• Cons: Some infotainment lag; Sport’s big tires add cost; V6 requires timing-belt service and costs more to insure; ensure CVT fluid is changed on time.

For most first-time drivers, the strengths outweigh the drawbacks—particularly with the four-cylinder and Honda Sensing.

Good Alternatives to Consider

If you’re cross-shopping, these models offer comparable safety and reliability with different personalities or pricing.

• Toyota Camry (2015–2017): Ultra-reliable, comfortable ride; safety tech varies by trim.
• Mazda6 (2016–2018): Sportier handling and stylish interior; slightly firmer ride.
• Subaru Legacy (2015–2017): Standard AWD and strong safety; fuel economy trails Accord.
• Honda Civic (2016–2018): Smaller, easier to park, excellent efficiency; a good option if midsize space isn’t required.

Test-driving one or two alternatives helps confirm the Accord’s fit for your priorities and budget.

Bottom Line

If you find a well-maintained 2016 Honda Accord—ideally a four-cylinder EX or EX with Honda Sensing—it’s an excellent first car. It blends safety, reliability, efficiency, and everyday usability in a way few used cars match at the price. Do your due diligence on service history, confirm recalls are closed, and have a mechanic inspect the car before you commit.

Summary

The 2016 Honda Accord is a smart first-car choice: safe (5-star NHTSA; IIHS TSP+ with Honda Sensing), reliable, efficient, and easy to live with. Favor four-cylinder models with documented CVT service and seek trims with Honda Sensing and CarPlay if possible. Watch for V6 timing-belt needs, test the infotainment and A/C, and get a pre-purchase inspection. Priced roughly $9,000–$16,000 in 2025, a clean 2016 Accord delivers strong value for new drivers.

What year was a bad year for the Honda Accord?

Honda Accord years to potentially avoid include the 1998-2002 models due to significant issues with the sixth-generation design, as well as 2003-2004 (V6 transmission problems), 2008-2010 (oil consumption, brake wear), 2013 (CVT hesitation, infotainment), and 2018 (engine problems, infotainment, recalls). 
Specific Problematic Years and Their Issues

• 1998-2002: These models, part of the sixth generation, are known for a high number of problems, including transmission issues, steering malfunctions, and potential airbag faults. 
• 2003-2004: The V6 models from these years experienced automatic transmission failures and problems with slipping or jerky shifting. 
• 2008-2010: The four-cylinder models in these years faced issues like excessive oil consumption and premature brake wear. 
• 2013: This year saw problems with Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) and early complaints about the infotainment system. 
• 2018: This model year suffered from numerous recalls and engine issues, as it was the first year for the turbo 4-cylinder engines. 

More Recent Model Year Considerations 

• 2018-2019: Early models in the tenth generation experienced HVAC and AC compressor problems and Bluetooth glitches, though these issues were often addressed in later production runs or software updates.
• 2018-2020: A fuel pump recall affected vehicles from these model years.

What to Look For

• Infotainment and Software: Issues like freezing screens or Bluetooth connectivity problems were reported in some earlier models and were often remedied in later model years or via updates. 
• Engine Issues: Some models, like the 2018, had significant engine-related problems. 
• Brake Wear: Excessive and premature brake wear was a noted problem in some 2008-2010 models. 
• Transmission Concerns: Transmission issues, including slipping, jerky shifting, or complete failure, were a significant concern for models like the 2003-2004 V6s. 
• CVT Hesitation: The 2013 model year was marked by CVT hesitation, a common problem with some vehicles equipped with CVTs. 

Which Honda is a good first car?

1. Honda Civic – The Classic First Car. The Honda Civic has been a go-to choice for first-time car buyers for decades, and for good reason. It’s fuel-efficient, fun to drive, and loaded with tech features that make every ride enjoyable.

Is the 2016 Honda Accord reliable?

Among the 435 owners who provided feedback on the 2016 Honda Accord for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 83% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle’s reliability and quality to be its strongest features and performance to be its weakest.

Is a Honda Accord a good first car?

Yes, a Honda Accord is a great first car because it is reliable, safe, fuel-efficient, practical, and easy to drive, offering a high level of comfort, modern features, and good value. Its sturdy engineering and excellent reliability make it a durable option, while its 5-star crash ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and various standard safety and connectivity features provide excellent protection for new drivers.
 
Benefits of a Honda Accord as a First Car

• Reliability and Durability: Honda Accords are known for their longevity, with proper maintenance, they can last for hundreds of thousands of miles. 
• Safety: The Accord consistently receives high safety ratings from organizations like the NHTSA, making it a secure choice for new drivers. 
• Fuel Efficiency: Accords offer excellent gas mileage, which helps to reduce ongoing running costs for a first-time car owner. 
• Practicality: With comfortable seating and ample cargo space, the Accord is very practical for daily commutes and everyday needs. 
• Ease of Driving: The Accord is an easy vehicle for a beginner to drive, offering good feedback without being overwhelming. 
• Modern Features: Many newer models come with desirable tech features like infotainment systems, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and connectivity services. 
• Good Value: The Accord provides excellent quality and reliability for the money, often returning a good portion of the initial investment when resold. 

Considerations 

• Price: While the Accord offers great value, a new one can be a significant investment for a first-time buyer; however, older models are readily available at lower price points.
• Alternatives: Other mid-size sedans like the Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, and Mazda 6 (in some markets) also offer similar quality and reliability at comparable or lower price points.