Is the 2009 Honda Accord V6 reliable?

Generally yes, but with caveats: the 2009 Honda Accord V6 is capable of high-mileage, low-drama ownership when maintained well, yet it’s known for Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)–related oil consumption and misfire issues, plus premature rear brake wear on early cars. Age and maintenance history now dominate reliability, so verifying timing-belt service, software updates, and recall completion is crucial.

How the 2009 Accord V6 has held up

Now well into its second decade, the eighth-generation Accord (2008–2012) with the 3.5-liter V6 (J35) has a strong reputation for durability. Many owners report 150,000–250,000 miles without major powertrain failures. At the same time, the model’s record is mixed by specific, well-documented trouble spots: VCM-induced oil consumption/misfires, early rear-brake wear on 2008–2009 cars, and age-related items such as engine mounts and suspension bushings. Overall, reliability is best described as average to above average for its age—highly dependent on whether key services and fixes have been done.

Common trouble spots

The following issues appear most frequently in owner reports, service bulletins, and used-car inspections for the 2009 Accord V6. Understanding them helps separate a solid car from a potential headache.

• VCM side effects (oil consumption, fouled plugs, misfires): The cylinder-deactivation system can trigger elevated oil use, plug fouling, and roughness. Honda issued software updates and guidance; some vehicles received warranty repairs in-period.
• Premature rear brake wear (notably 2008–2009): Many cars needed rear pads/rotors far earlier than expected; a class-action settlement addressed some costs. By now, quality replacement parts usually resolve it.
• Engine mounts: The V6’s torque and VCM cycling can accelerate mount wear, leading to vibration at idle or during ECO activation.
• 5-speed automatic behaviors: Generally durable, but look for harsh shifts or torque-converter shudder if fluid changes were neglected. Regular ATF service helps longevity.
• Takata airbag inflators: Most 2009 Accords were recalled. Verify both driver and passenger inflators were replaced.
• A/C and electrical odds and ends: Aging compressors, condensers, and window regulators can appear at this age, typically as wear-and-tear rather than systemic defects.

None of these are guaranteed failures, but they are the patterns most likely to affect the ownership experience. Documentation of updates and repairs is a strong positive indicator.

Maintenance and running costs to expect

The V6 uses a timing belt, making preventative maintenance more critical than on chain-driven rivals. Routine fluid and wear-item service typically keeps costs reasonable, but deferred maintenance can get expensive quickly.

• Timing belt, water pump, and related seals: Due every 7 years/105,000 miles (whichever comes first). Confirm it’s been done recently; the engine is interference-design.
• Transmission fluid: Change every 30,000–60,000 miles to minimize shift issues and torque-converter wear.
• Spark plugs: Iridium plugs can last ~100,000 miles, though misfire/oil consumption may necessitate earlier replacement.
• Brake components: Quality pads/rotors address the early rear-wear concern; inspect for uneven wear and seized slide pins.
• Engine mounts and suspension bushings: Common age-related replacements that improve refinement and ride.
• Cooling system: Coolant service on schedule protects the water pump and radiator; inspect the radiator and hoses for age-related leaks.

If these items are current, the Accord V6 tends to deliver predictable, moderate ownership costs for a vehicle of its age and class.

What to check on a used 2009 Accord V6

Because condition varies widely by now, a focused inspection pays off. Use the list below to evaluate any candidate thoroughly.

1. Service records: Look for proof of timing-belt/water-pump replacement, regular ATF changes, and spark-plug service.
2. Oil consumption: Check dipstick level before and after a long test drive; ask about consumption between changes and examine plugs for fouling.
3. VCM behavior: During test drives, note vibrations when ECO light appears; ensure any Honda software updates were performed.
4. Transmission quality: From cold and hot, verify smooth upshifts/downshifts and absence of shudder at steady speeds.
5. Brakes and steering: Watch for pulsation, premature rear-pad wear, and any pulling under braking.
6. Mounts and suspension: Look for excess engine movement at idle/in gear and clunks over bumps indicating worn bushings or struts.
7. Recall status: Confirm Takata airbag replacements and any applicable software updates through a VIN check with a Honda dealer or NHTSA.

A pre-purchase inspection by a technician familiar with Honda V6 models can quickly quantify any upcoming costs and reduce surprises.

Recalls and service campaigns to know

Several factory actions affect peace of mind and resale value. Verifying completion can materially change the car’s risk profile.

• Airbag inflators (Takata): Driver and passenger inflators widely recalled; most vehicles should have been remedied—confirm by VIN.
• Brake wear concerns: 2008–2009 models saw premature rear-pad wear; many cars were repaired under a settlement or subsequent service. Quality parts mitigate repeat issues.
• Engine misfire/VCM software updates: Honda issued updates aimed at reducing misfire incidents related to cylinder deactivation; ensure the latest calibration is installed.

Even if original coverage windows have closed, documented completion of these items is a meaningful reliability signal today.

Verdict

The 2009 Honda Accord V6 can be a dependable, long-lived sedan when maintained on schedule and updated per factory guidance. Its principal reliability risks—VCM-related oil consumption/misfires and early rear-brake wear—are well known and manageable with proper diagnosis, parts, and maintenance. Prioritize examples with full records, a completed timing-belt service, smooth shifting, and confirmed recall work. In that configuration, the car delivers a solid blend of power, comfort, and durability for its age.

Summary

Yes, the 2009 Accord V6 is generally reliable, provided it has strong maintenance history and key issues addressed. Look closely for VCM side effects, confirm timing-belt and recall completion, and assess transmission and brake condition. With those boxes checked, it’s a capable, long-lasting choice in the used midsize market.

What is the common problem with the 2009 Honda Accord?

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

How long will a 2009 Honda Accord V6 last?

about 250,000 miles
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.

Is the 2009 Honda Accord V6 a good car?

The interior trim is hard plastic and a pseudo-aluminum that seem cheap, although the fit and finish are stellar. Overall, the 2009 Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V6 is not only excellent value for money, but an excellent car outright, even at almost a decade old.

Is the Honda Accord V6 reliable?

The Honda Accord Reliability Rating is 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 1st out of 24 for midsize cars.