2014 Honda Accord V6: Is It a Good Car in 2025?

Yes—if you want a quick, comfortable, and generally reliable midsize with old-school V6 smoothness, the 2014 Honda Accord V6 is still a strong buy in 2025. It delivers excellent performance and long-term dependability, but savvy shoppers should verify key maintenance (notably the timing belt) and watch for Variable Cylinder Management–related oil consumption, plus ensure all airbag and battery-sensor recalls are completed.

What It Is: The 2014 Accord V6 at a Glance

The 2014 Accord V6 sits in the ninth generation of Honda’s stalwart midsize lineup. Available in sedan (EX-L V6, Touring) and coupe (EX-L V6) forms, it uses a 3.5-liter J-series V6 rated at 278 hp and 252 lb-ft. Most sedans pair it with a 6‑speed automatic; the coupe offered either a 6‑speed automatic or a 6‑speed manual for enthusiasts. The V6 uses Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) to shut off cylinders at cruise for better fuel economy.

Performance and Economy

On the road, the Accord V6 is brisk and refined. Independent instrumented tests have put 0–60 mph roughly in the 5.8–6.1 second range for the sedan with the 6‑speed automatic, with smooth, immediate passing power. EPA fuel economy is competitive for its era: up to 21/34 mpg city/highway (26 combined) for the sedan with the automatic, with the coupe rated slightly lower depending on transmission. Ride quality is composed, steering is light but accurate, and braking performance is confident for daily use.

Safety and Technology

Safety scores were excellent when new. The 2014 Accord sedan earned a 5‑star overall rating from NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with the optional front crash warning system. Available driver aids included Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning; the Touring trim added Adaptive Cruise Control. Note there was no automatic emergency braking (AEB) in 2014. Tech features were solid for the time—Bluetooth, a dual-screen infotainment layout, and Honda’s LaneWatch right-side camera—but there’s no native Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on this model year.

Reliability Record and Common Issues

Overall reliability for the 2013–2017 Accord generation has been strong, and the V6 powertrain is well regarded. That said, a few patterns are worth noting, mainly tied to the V6’s cylinder deactivation and routine wear items.

Here are the issues most often cited by owners and shops:

• Variable Cylinder Management (VCM): Some engines exhibit increased oil consumption, plug fouling, or vibration during cylinder deactivation. Meticulous oil-change intervals and software updates help; some owners choose aftermarket VCM disable devices, though that’s not manufacturer-approved.
• Torque converter/low-speed shudder: Usually improved with a transmission software update and fluid exchange with Honda ATF DW‑1; severe cases may need parts.
• Starter and battery-sensor problems: Weak or intermittent starting can trace to the starter motor; separate from the battery-sensor recall noted below.
• Engine mounts: Can wear prematurely, sometimes exacerbated by VCM cycling or age.
• General age-related wear: Struts, bushings, brakes, and AC components on higher-mileage cars.

None of these are universal deal-breakers, but they’re worth screening in a pre-purchase inspection. Maintenance history and software/TSB updates mitigate many of them.

Maintenance Must-Knows

Buying an 11-year-old V6 Accord is mostly about verifying the right services have been done on time. The biggest single item is the timing belt, which is routine on Honda’s V6 engines.

Key items to confirm or plan for:

• Timing belt and water pump: Due at roughly 7 years/105,000 miles (whichever comes first); many examples are now overdue if not documented.
• Spark plugs: Typically around 105,000 miles; use the correct iridium plugs.
• Transmission fluid: Fresh Honda DW‑1 can quell shudder; many owners service every 30–60k miles depending on use.
• Brake fluid: Every 3 years is a good rule of thumb.
• Coolant: Honda Type 2 coolant usually at 10 years/120k for the first change, then 5 years/60k thereafter—verify records.
• VCM vigilance: Monitor oil level between services; look for signs of plug fouling or unusual vibration.

A thorough service history strongly correlates with trouble-free ownership on these cars. If records are thin, budget proactively for the belt service and baseline fluids.

Recalls and Service Actions

The 2014 Accord was included in industry-wide airbag recalls and a separate electrical recall. Always run the VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls or with a Honda dealer to confirm completion, as there were multiple campaign waves over several years.

Major recalls that may affect a 2014 Accord V6 include:

• Takata passenger-front airbag inflator: Multiple recall rounds spanning mid-2010s; ensure the latest replacement is installed.
• 12‑volt battery sensor recall (2013–2016 Accord): Potential for short-circuit and thermal risk; remedy involves inspection and part replacement/cover installation.

Beyond recalls, Honda issued technical service bulletins (TSBs) for issues like transmission judder; these aren’t recalls but can guide diagnosis and dealership software updates.

Ownership Costs and Used-Market Pricing

Operating costs are moderate: regular unleaded fuel is fine, insurance is typical for the class, and parts availability is excellent. As of 2025, pricing varies by mileage and condition. Expect roughly $8,000–$14,000 for higher-mileage EX‑L sedans and $14,000–$18,000 for low-mileage Touring sedans or well-kept V6 coupes with the manual. Local markets can swing higher or lower; condition and documentation command premiums.

Who Should Buy It—and Who Shouldn’t

The V6 Accord is ideal for drivers who want a refined, quick, and dependable midsize with straightforward long-term ownership—provided maintenance is up to date.

It’s a great fit if you:

• Value strong, smooth V6 acceleration without luxury-brand upkeep.
• Prioritize comfort, space, and historically solid reliability.
• Appreciate conventional controls and don’t need the latest infotainment standards.

If those points resonate, the 2014 Accord V6 remains a compelling choice in 2025.

You may want to look elsewhere if you:

• Require modern driver assists such as automatic emergency braking and lane centering.
• Must have built-in Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (not available on 2014).
• Prefer to avoid timing-belt maintenance or are wary of VCM’s potential side effects.

In those cases, a newer four-cylinder Accord with Honda Sensing, or a different model-year/brand, may better fit your needs.

Alternatives to Consider

Several rivals offer similar performance, features, or ownership profiles. Cross-shop to see which mix of tech, ride, and costs suits you best.

Comparable choices include:

• 2015–2017 Toyota Camry V6: Bulletproof reputation, strong performance; tech still dated versus newer cars.
• 2015–2017 Acura TLX V6: Shares Honda DNA with more luxury, sometimes similar money; check for transmission service history.
• 2017–2019 Ford Fusion Sport: Turbo V6 punch and AWD; budget for higher maintenance/parts costs.
• 2016–2018 Nissan Maxima: Sporty feel and luxury features; evaluate CVT condition carefully.
• Mazda6 (2.5L I4): No V6, but excellent handling and efficiency; better modern tech if you go newer.

Each alternative trades off different strengths—performance, tech, or running costs—so a thorough test drive and inspection are essential.

Bottom Line

The 2014 Honda Accord V6 is still a good car: quick, comfortable, and, with proper care, durable. Verify timing-belt service, confirm recall completion, and screen for VCM-related symptoms. Do that, and you’ll likely enjoy one of the most satisfying, long-lived V6 sedans or coupes of its era.

Summary

In 2025, the 2014 Accord V6 remains a smart buy for performance-minded shoppers who value reliability and comfort. Strengths include brisk acceleration, top-tier safety scores for its time, and reasonable ownership costs. Weak spots to check are VCM-related oil consumption, transmission shudder mitigated by fluid/software updates, and completion of Takata airbag and battery-sensor recalls. Prioritize cars with documented timing-belt service and strong records for the best long-term experience.

How long will a V6 Honda Accord last?

between 200,000-300,000 miles
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.

Is the 2014 Honda Accord V6 reliable?

The 2014 Honda Accord V6 generally has good reliability, receiving high marks for quality and durability from consumers and organizations like J.D. Power. However, some owners have reported issues, particularly with electrical components and problems with the ABS modulator and engine oil level. The V6 powertrain, while powerful, may increase maintenance costs due to a timing belt that requires replacement at a significant expense.
 
Strengths

• Reputation for Reliability: The Accord has a strong reputation for dependability, with many owners reporting excellent long-term use and only routine maintenance. 
• Quality and Durability: Consumers frequently highlight the Accord’s quality and reliability as its strongest features. 
• Strong Consumer Ratings: The 2014 Honda Accord receives high satisfaction ratings from car owners on sites like Cars.com and Kelley Blue Book. 

Potential Issues to Be Aware Of

• Electrical Problems: Some models, particularly after the warranty period, have been noted for electrical issues, including problems with the OEM battery and starting. 
• ABS and Brake System: Reports include issues with the ABS modulator leaking and the vacuum brake booster hose failing, leading to a hard brake pedal. 
• Check Engine Light: Low engine oil level can trigger the check engine light. 
• Timing Belt: The V6 engine uses a timing belt, not a chain, which will eventually need to be replaced, a costly maintenance item. 
• V6 Engine Characteristics: Some users note that the V6 engine can feel heavy, and city driving can result in a delay in acceleration. 

Maintenance Considerations

• Strict Maintenance Schedule: The V6 engine requires a strict and diligent maintenance schedule to ensure smooth operation and longevity. 
• Regular Transmission Fluid Changes: Regular drain and fill transmission fluid changes using Honda OEM fluid are recommended, not flushes. 
• Timing Belt Replacement: Factor in the cost of replacing the timing belt, which is a significant expense but necessary for continued reliability. 

What is the most common problem with a 2014 Honda Accord?

The top 5 Accord issues are brake vibration, transmission failure, compliance bushing cracking, power door lock failure, and dashboard display problems.

How reliable is a Honda Accord V6?

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