Is the 2017 Honda Accord EX-L a Good Car?

Yes—if you’re shopping midsize sedans, the 2017 Honda Accord EX-L is widely regarded as a good car, blending strong reliability, excellent safety scores, comfortable road manners, and a well-equipped cabin. Its 2.4L four-cylinder is efficient, the optional V6 is genuinely quick, and ownership costs tend to be reasonable. As with any used purchase, condition, maintenance history, and recall status matter.

What the EX-L Trim Includes

The EX-L sits near the top of the 2017 Accord lineup and adds comfort, tech, and convenience features that make daily driving easier. Buyers could choose the standard four-cylinder engine or step up to a V6 on the EX-L.

• Leather-trimmed interior with heated front seats and a power driver’s seat with memory
• Power-adjustable front passenger seat and a one-touch power moonroof
• 7-inch Display Audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• Upgraded audio, dual-zone automatic climate control, and proximity key with push-button start
• Honda LaneWatch side-view camera; Honda Sensing driver-assistance suite available (adaptive cruise, lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, and more)

Taken together, EX-L equipment gives the Accord a near-premium feel for its class and model year, especially if you value smartphone integration and comfort features.

Performance and Efficiency

The 2017 Accord EX-L offers two personalities: efficient and smooth with the four-cylinder/CVT, or strong and refined with the V6/six-speed automatic. Ride quality is comfortable, steering is accurate, and braking performance is confident; the Accord favors balanced, predictable dynamics over sport-sedan aggression.

• 2.4L inline-4 (CVT): about 185 hp; EPA around 27 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined (varies slightly by configuration)
• 3.5L V6 (6-speed automatic): about 278 hp; EPA around 21 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined

Most shoppers will be happy with the four-cylinder’s mix of power and economy, while the V6 remains one of the last, best naturally aspirated options in the segment for those who prioritize acceleration.

Safety and Crash-Test Scores

Safety is a strong suit. The 2017 Accord sedan earned a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the Accord well in crashworthiness, and models equipped with the Honda Sensing suite and the better-performing headlights earned top-tier honors in IIHS evaluations at the time. EX-L models with Honda Sensing add valuable features like forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

The 2017 Accord generally rates above average for reliability and is known for manageable running costs. Routine maintenance is straightforward, and parts availability is excellent. Long-term owners report solid durability when service intervals are followed.

• 2.4L four-cylinder uses a timing chain (no scheduled replacement under normal service)
• 3.5L V6 uses a timing belt—budget for belt and water pump replacement roughly every 7 years/105,000 miles (or per manual)
• CVT and automatic transmission fluid changes are important for longevity (often 30,000–60,000-mile intervals; follow the maintenance minder/service manual)
• Brake fluid, coolant, and spark plugs need periodic replacement; tire rotations and alignments help prevent uneven wear

Insurance costs are typical for the class, fuel expenses favor the four-cylinder, and the Accord’s strong resale values help offset depreciation compared with many rivals.

Known Issues and What to Check on a Used One

While the 2017 Accord is dependable, a careful inspection is smart. Many concerns relate more to age, mileage, or maintenance gaps than to inherent defects.

• Infotainment quirks: occasional lag, Bluetooth/CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity complaints—verify software updates and test your phone
• Transmission service history: CVT judder or harshness can stem from overdue fluid changes—review records and ensure smooth operation on a test drive
• V6-specific maintenance: confirm timing belt and water pump service if the car is near or past the interval
• Brakes and tires: some owners report quicker brake wear in heavy city driving; check rotor condition and tire noise/wear
• Body and trim: inspect for door seal wind noise or sunroof rattles on rough roads
• Recalls: run the VIN on the NHTSA website to confirm all recall and service campaigns are completed

A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, plus a clean Carfax/AutoCheck and complete service records, greatly reduces the chance of surprises.

Running Costs and Resale

As of 2025, market pricing for a 2017 Accord EX-L varies widely by mileage, engine, region, and condition. Expect many examples to list roughly in the mid-teens to around $20,000, with low-mile V6 models and pristine one-owner cars commanding more. The Accord’s reputation keeps resale values stronger than average, and total cost of ownership remains competitive thanks to solid fuel economy (I4), inexpensive routine service, and broad parts availability.

How It Compares

In the 2017 midsize sedan field, the Accord EX-L remains a well-rounded choice. Here’s how it stacks up against key rivals from the same model year.

• Toyota Camry: Softer ride and stellar reliability; less engaging to drive than Accord, but similarly low running costs
• Mazda6: Sharper handling and stylish interior; typically less powerful, especially versus the Accord V6
• Subaru Legacy: Standard AWD is a plus in snowy climates; cabin is comfortable, but performance is modest
• Hyundai Sonata/Kia Optima: Strong value and warranties; driving feel and resale typically trail Honda/Toyota
• Nissan Altima: Comfortable seats and good highway economy; ownership experience varies more with maintenance history

The Accord’s mix of driver engagement, safety tech availability, and long-term value places it near the top of the class, particularly in EX-L trim.

Verdict

The 2017 Honda Accord EX-L is a smart buy for shoppers who want a safe, comfortable, well-equipped sedan with a strong reliability record. The four-cylinder suits most drivers with its balance of power and efficiency, while the V6 offers rare, old-school smoothness and punch. Prioritize examples with documented maintenance, up-to-date software, and completed recalls to maximize peace of mind.

Summary

The 2017 Accord EX-L is a good car by almost any mainstream measure: it’s safe, reliable, comfortable, and holds value. The four-cylinder is thrifty; the V6 is quick. Look for clean service histories, verify Honda Sensing and infotainment performance on a test drive, and confirm recall status via VIN. If the condition checks out, it’s an easy recommendation in the used midsize sedan market.

Are Honda Accord EX-L reliable?

The Honda Accord, including the EX-L trim, is widely considered a highly reliable and durable vehicle, known for its long-term performance and longevity, often exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Accords are praised by industry experts and owners for their low ownership costs, high owner satisfaction, and excellent resale value, though some model years have seen isolated issues, with transmission problems being a noteworthy potential concern. 
Key Aspects of Accord EX-L Reliability

• Longevity: Honda Accords are built for durability, with many owners reporting their vehicles lasting well beyond 200,000 miles with routine maintenance. 
• Expert Rankings: The Accord frequently receives high marks from reliability experts, with RepairPal ranking it 1st out of 24 midsize cars for its reliability rating and low repair costs. 
• Affordable Ownership: Low average annual repair costs and the ease of maintaining the vehicle contribute to an excellent ownership experience. 
• Strong Resale Value: The inherent durability and reliability of the Honda Accord help it maintain its value over time. 

Things to Consider

• Maintenance is Key: . Opens in new tabLike any car, the lifespan of an Accord is heavily dependent on proper and regular maintenance, especially for the engine and transmission. 
• Potential Transmission Issues: . Opens in new tabSome Accord models have experienced issues with the transmission, including slipping or abrupt shifting, which is something to check during a pre-purchase inspection. 
• Model Year Variations: . Opens in new tabWhile the Accord has a strong overall reputation, specific model years may have specific complaints, with some suggesting a preference for certain model years over others. 

How many miles will a 2017 Honda Accord last?

A 2017 Honda Accord, with proper and consistent maintenance, can last 250,000 to over 300,000 miles, with some vehicles potentially reaching even higher mileage if cared for diligently. The actual lifespan depends heavily on regular oil changes, timely servicing of other fluids like transmission fluid, and addressing minor issues before they become major problems. 
Factors that influence lifespan:

• Regular Maintenance: Consistently following the recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, is crucial for prolonging the vehicle’s life. 
• Driving Habits: Avoiding aggressive driving and being mindful of road conditions, such as potholes, can reduce wear and tear on the vehicle’s components. 
• Fluid Health: Proper servicing of the transmission fluid and checking for leaks can prevent major transmission problems. 
• Addressing Minor Issues: Responding to early signs of wear, such as slipping or rough shifts in the transmission, can prevent more significant and costly repairs later on. 
• Hybrid Battery (if applicable): For a hybrid model, the battery pack typically lasts 100,000+ miles. Maintaining the inverter coolant pump and avoiding deep discharges are key to extending its life. 

By following these practices, you can significantly increase the chances of your 2017 Honda Accord reaching an impressive number of miles.

Is the 2017 Honda Accord EX a good car?

Review Summary
The midsize sedan offers good value, performance, and reliability. It has a stylish design, comfortable interior, and impressive fuel economy. The engine provides ample power, and the transmission delivers a smooth driving experience.

Do 2017 Honda Accords have transmission problems?

If you don’t routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2017 Honda Accord transmission will slip.