Is the Honda Accord 2.2 diesel reliable?

Yes—when properly maintained, the Honda Accord 2.2 diesel is generally reliable and capable of very high mileages, with the earlier 2.2 i-CTDi being especially robust and the later 2.2 i-DTEC remaining strong but more sensitive to DPF-related use and maintenance. The answer varies by model year, upkeep, and driving pattern, but overall it ranks among the safer used diesel bets in its class.

What we mean by “Honda Accord 2.2 diesel”

In Europe and some other markets (not the U.S.), the Accord was offered with two main 2.2-litre diesels: the 2.2 i-CTDi (roughly 2003–2008, 7th generation, engine code N22A) and the 2.2 i-DTEC (roughly 2008–2015, 8th generation, engine code N22B). Both are chain-driven and known for refined performance and economy. The i-CTDi is simpler and, in most markets and years, came without a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The i-DTEC meets later emissions rules and typically includes a DPF as standard.

Overall reliability picture

These engines have a reputation for lasting well beyond 150,000–200,000 miles (240,000–320,000 km) with regular servicing. Honda’s broader brand reliability record helps, but age and diesel-specific wear items (EGR valves, DPFs, dual-mass flywheels) mean condition and history matter more than the badge. The earlier i-CTDi tends to be the least troublesome over time; the i-DTEC is still solid but is more sensitive to short-trip use that can stress the DPF.

Common weak points and what fails

The following list highlights the most frequently reported issues owners and specialists see on the Accord 2.2 diesels. Knowing these helps you budget and spot a good car from a bad one.

• Exhaust manifold cracking (early i-CTDi): Can cause a diesel smell in the cabin and visible soot near the bulkhead; Honda updated the part and many cars have been fixed.
• EGR valve and intake soot build-up (both engines): Leads to rough running, hesitation, or limp mode; cleaning or replacement typically resolves it.
• DPF-related problems (i-DTEC): Frequent short trips can prevent regenerations, leading to clogged filters, warning lights, and, in some cases, DPF differential pressure sensor failures.
• Timing chain noise on neglected engines (both): The chain is designed for life, but extended oil intervals or incorrect oil can accelerate wear; listen for rattle on cold start.
• Clutch and dual-mass flywheel wear (both): Often due around higher mileages; symptoms include vibration at idle with clutch engaged or judder on takeoff.
• Oil dilution/level rise (i-DTEC): Excess post-injection during DPF regens can raise the dipstick level; strict oil-change discipline and proper driving cycles help.
• Turbo and sensor faults (both, less common): Boost control issues or tired turbos can appear at high mileage; look for smoke, lack of power, or fault codes.

None of these issues are unique to Honda—most modern diesels share similar failure modes. The difference is that the Accord’s core engine design is robust, so cars that are serviced on time and driven correctly often avoid the worst of them.

Maintenance that keeps them healthy

Preventive care has an outsized impact on diesel longevity. The points below are the habits and services that most improve reliability and reduce big-ticket repairs.

• Frequent oil changes with the correct spec: Use high-quality oil that meets the handbook spec (low-SAPS ACEA C2/C3 for most DPF-equipped i-DTEC; check the manual; many i-CTDi use 0W-30 ACEA A5/B5). Shorten intervals to 6,000–8,000 miles (10,000–13,000 km) if mostly short-hop driving.
• DPF-friendly usage (i-DTEC): Include regular sustained runs to allow passive/active regens; don’t interrupt regens; investigate warning lights early.
• EGR/intake cleaning: Periodically cleaning the EGR and intake tract prevents drivability issues and keeps emissions hardware happy.
• Fuel and air filtration: Timely fuel filter and air filter changes protect injectors and the turbo; water in diesel is the enemy.
• Watch the timing chain and oil level: Any cold-start rattle warrants investigation; on i-DTEC, monitor for oil level rising and change oil promptly if it does.
• Cooling system care: Keep coolant fresh and ensure the thermostat reaches proper operating temperature, which aids efficient combustion and DPF health.

Done consistently, these steps turn a “typical” old diesel into a dependable daily that avoids many common pitfalls.

What to check on a used Accord 2.2 diesel

If you’re shopping used, the following checklist will help you separate well-kept examples from future money pits.

1. Cold start test: Listen for chain rattle, excessive clatter, or rough idle; a quiet start is a good sign.
2. Smell/soot around the bulkhead (i-CTDi): Evidence can indicate an exhaust manifold crack on unfixed early cars.
3. DPF status (i-DTEC): Confirm recent long runs, check for DPF warnings, and ensure the fan isn’t running unusually often after shutdown.
4. Service history: Look for annual or sub-10k-mile oil changes with the correct spec; invoices for EGR cleaning, DPF service, and coolant changes are a bonus.
5. Clutch/DMF health: Feel for judder on takeoff and listen for rattle with the clutch engaged at idle; a high bite point may hint at wear.
6. OBD scan: Read fault codes and DPF ash/soot load data; intermittent sensor faults often leave traces.
7. Injector area: Check for diesel smell, wetness, or “black death” carbon around injectors (uncommon but costly if ignored).
8. Cooling performance: Engine should reach and hold temperature; poor warm-up hurts economy and DPF function.
9. Turbo behavior: Ensure smooth boost, no excessive smoke, and no whooshing/leaks from intercooler pipes.
10. Emissions zone compliance: Most 2.2 i-DTEC cars are Euro 5; in cities like London, Euro 6 is needed to avoid charges—verify local rules.

If the car passes these checks and drives cleanly without warning lights, it’s likely a sound example; if multiple items raise flags, it’s usually wiser to walk away.

Running costs and ownership experience

Real-world economy typically ranges from the low-to-mid 40s mpg UK (mid-30s mpg US) in mixed driving for the i-DTEC, with the i-CTDi often doing a touch better on long runs. Consumables are affordable, and parts availability remains good. Big-ticket possibilities include a clutch/DMF replacement and, on i-DTEC cars, DPF work if the car has been used mostly for short trips. Independent specialists are common, and routine servicing is straightforward for a competent garage.

How it compares to rivals

Against other used diesels of the era, the Accord 2.2 stands up well for durability and refinement. Here’s how it stacks up to common alternatives:

• Toyota Avensis 2.0/2.2 D-4D: Strong overall; the 2.2 had known head-gasket issues on some early cars, so history is critical.
• Mazda 6 2.2 diesel: Lively and efficient but earlier units had timing chain and oil-dilution complaints; condition varies widely.
• VW Passat 2.0 TDI: Plentiful and comfortable; EGR/DPF and emissions-related fixes can complicate ownership if not maintained.
• Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi: Good drive and value; injector and DPF issues are not uncommon but manageable with records.

If you prioritize reliability, a well-serviced Accord—especially the simpler i-CTDi—remains a compelling choice, provided it suits your emissions-zone needs.

Verdict

The Honda Accord 2.2 diesel is broadly reliable. The i-CTDi (2003–2008) is the tougher, simpler pick for long-distance drivers, while the i-DTEC (2008–2015) adds refinement and lower official emissions but demands DPF-aware use and diligent servicing. Buy on condition and history, and you can reasonably expect years of dependable service.

Summary

In short: yes, the Accord 2.2 diesel is reliable by class standards. The earlier i-CTDi is the least fussy; the later i-DTEC is still strong but needs DPF-friendly driving and proper oil. Look for thorough service records, listen for timing-chain noise, check DPF health, and budget for wear items like the clutch/DMF. A good example remains one of the safer used diesel saloon or estate choices.

How many miles per gallon does a Honda Accord 2.2 diesel get?

Honda Accord Press Kit

	Saloon 2.2 i-DTEC manual	Tourer 2.2 i-DTEC manual
New CO2 figure from	138 g/km	143 g/km
Outgoing CO2 figures	147 g/km	153 g/km
Improvement	9g	10g
Fuel economy from	53.3 mpg	51.4 mpg

Is the Honda Accord 2.2 CDTi reliable?

Our verdict on the Honda Accord 2.2 i-CDTi EX
The driving experience is good, too, treading a sensible path between comfort and a sporty ride. And with reliability issues usually non-existent thanks to Honda’s long established reputation, it’s hard to fault the Accord.

What is the life expectancy of a Honda CRV 2.2 diesel?

Thanks to Honda’s commitment to quality engineering and performance, a well-maintained CR-V can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles.

Who makes the Honda 2.2 diesel engine?

i-CTDi engine
The Honda N22A engine is Honda’s first in-house developed diesel engine. The project to develop this engine had been underway since 1995 under lead engineer Kenichi Nagahiro and the first engines were released in 2003.