The Best Years for a Honda Accord Coupe

The best years for a Honda Accord Coupe are 2016–2017 overall, with 2013–2015 also strong picks; among older models, 2011–2012 are solid, and 2006–2007 are the top budget choices. Enthusiasts often prize V6 models with the 6-speed manual (which avoid Honda’s VCM cylinder deactivation), while shoppers should be cautious with 2003–2004 V6 automatics and early 2008–2010 models due to known issues. Below, we break down why these years stand out, what to avoid, and what to check before you buy.

How We Evaluated the Accord Coupe’s Best Years

This assessment draws on reliability trends, known mechanical trouble spots, recall history, safety and tech upgrades by model year, and owner/technician feedback. Because the Accord Coupe was discontinued after 2017 in North America, availability and condition now vary widely; desirability is driven by powertrain (especially the V6 6MT), maintenance history, and inclusion of modern safety/infotainment features.

The Standout Years

The following model years consistently deliver the best blend of reliability, performance, safety tech, and resale value for the Accord Coupe. These picks also reflect improvements Honda made to engines, transmissions, brakes, and electronics over time.

• 2016–2017 (9th generation refresh): Most complete package. Sharper styling, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and available Honda Sensing driver aids. The 2.4L direct-injection four with CVT or 6MT is efficient and durable; the 3.5L V6 is strong and the rare V6 6MT avoids VCM. 2017 is the final—and scarcest—year.
• 2013–2015 (9th generation launch): Big reliability step up over the 8th gen. Lighter, better ride/handling, strong safety scores. The 2.4L Earth Dreams four is robust; V6 models are quick, with the 6MT again favored by enthusiasts and long-term owners.
• 2011–2012 (late 8th generation): Refinements help these late-cycle cars. The 2.4L four-cylinder is a safe bet; the V6 with 6MT is desirable and typically not equipped with VCM. Fewer reports of the early 8th-gen brake wear and bushing issues.
• 2006–2007 (late 7th generation): Best of the early modern coupes for budget buyers. Avoid the V6 automatic; instead target the 2.4L four-cylinder (manual or automatic) or the V6 6MT for performance and durability.

While any used coupe’s condition matters most, these years give you the strongest baseline—modern features, fewer systemic issues, and the best combinations of performance and reliability.

Years to Avoid or Scrutinize Closely

Some Accord Coupe years and configurations are more trouble-prone. If you’re considering them for price or availability, get a thorough pre-purchase inspection and verify maintenance and repair history.

• 2003–2004 V6 with 5-speed automatic: Well-documented automatic transmission failures (gear lubrication/overheating) and related recalls. Later 2005–2007 autos improved, but caution still advised on high-mileage V6 automatics.
• 1998–2002 V6 with 4-speed automatic: Aging now, and these V6 automatics also had higher-than-average failure rates. If shopping this era, the 4-cylinder manual is the safer bet.
• 2008–2010 (early 8th gen): Premature rear brake wear (especially 2008–2009), front suspension bushing wear, and reports of oil consumption/misfires on V6 models with VCM. A well-documented, well-repaired example can still be fine.

These models aren’t automatic “no’s,” but they require stronger proof of careful ownership and corrective repairs to be worth the savings.

Powertrains and Transmissions to Target

Choosing the right engine and gearbox is as important as picking the right year. Here’s how the popular combinations stack up for the coupe.

• 3.5L V6 with 6-speed manual (2003–2017, select trims): The enthusiast’s choice—fast, engaging, and generally avoids VCM-related issues. Rare and commands a premium, especially 2016–2017.
• 2.4L four-cylinder (2011–2012 5AT/5MT; 2013–2017 CVT/6MT): Smooth, efficient, and long-lived with routine maintenance. The 2013–2017 direct-injection engine pairs well with Honda’s relatively robust CVT; manual versions add driver involvement.
• V6 with automatic (2008–2017): Strong and refined, but VCM can contribute to oil consumption, fouled plugs, and mount wear over time. Look for meticulous maintenance and consider VCM mitigation (software updates or aftermarket management solutions) if symptoms appear.

In short, the V6 6MT and the four-cylinder (manual or CVT) are the lowest-risk bets. V6 automatics can be fine but need more diligence.

Common Issues and What to Check

Regardless of year, a careful inspection will help you avoid expensive surprises. Use this checklist during test drives and pre-purchase inspections.

• Transmission health: On V6 automatics, check for harsh shifts, flare between gears, or shudder; verify fluid changes. On CVTs (2013–2017 2.4L), confirm Honda CVT fluid service at proper intervals and test for judder. On manuals, check clutch engagement and synchros.
• VCM-related symptoms (V6 automatics): Look for oil consumption, plug fouling, misfires under light load, rough idle on cylinder reactivation, and worn engine mounts.
• Brakes and suspension (2008–2010): Inspect for uneven rear brake wear and front compliance bushing wear; ensure any prior TSBs/repairs documented.
• Direct-injection maintenance (2013–2017 2.4L): Ask about oil change cadence (DI engines are sensitive to long intervals); consider intake valve cleaning if drivability issues arise.
• Electronics and infotainment (2016–2017): Test Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, camera systems, and any Honda Sensing features; some suites were trim- and transmission-dependent.
• Rust and body: Coups are often enthusiast-owned—inspect for accident repair, aftermarket mods, and underbody corrosion in snow-belt cars.

A clean history report, consistent service records, and a third-party inspection are your best tools for separating gems from projects.

Safety and Features Progression

If active safety and modern tech are priorities, lean newer. The 9th-generation (2013–2017) Accord line earned top crash-test results, and the 2016 refresh added available Honda Sensing (with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, collision mitigation braking) on higher trims, primarily when paired with automatic transmissions. CarPlay/Android Auto also arrived for 2016, boosting day-to-day usability.

Pricing and Availability in 2025

Used Accord Coupes are supply-limited, especially desirable configurations. Expect regional variation and premiums for low miles and manuals.

• 2016–2017: Roughly $14,000–$28,000+, with V6 6MT unicorns and pristine low-mile cars at the top end.
• 2013–2015: Typically $10,000–$20,000 depending on trim, mileage, and condition; 2.4L models are more plentiful.
• 2011–2012: About $7,500–$15,000, with 4-cylinders pricing lower than V6 6MTs.
• 2006–2007: Often $4,500–$9,500, condition and rust are the big swing factors.

Values are influenced by local supply, accident history, and service documentation. Manual V6 coupes, especially 2016–2017, can command collector-like premiums.

Bottom Line

For most buyers, the 2016–2017 Accord Coupe is the sweet spot for reliability, safety tech, and features; 2013–2015 are close behind. Shoppers seeking value should look at 2011–2012, while budget-focused buyers can do well with a clean 2006–2007—ideally avoiding early-2000s V6 automatics. Across all years, the V6 6MT and the 2.4L four-cylinder powertrains are the most confidence-inspiring picks.

Summary

Best years: 2016–2017, then 2013–2015; value picks: 2011–2012; budget: 2006–2007. Target the V6 6MT or the 2.4L four-cylinder for the most trouble-free ownership, verify maintenance, and scrutinize early 2000s V6 automatics and early 8th-gen cars for known issues.

What’s the best year to buy a Honda?

Consumer Reports says 2011 and 2019 are the most reliable.

How many miles can a Honda Accord coupe last?

200,000 to 300,000 miles
How long can a Honda Accord last? On average, these vehicles can go anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles, as noted by CoPilot, a third-party evaluator of vehicles. With consistent maintenance and timely repairs, many Accords can exceed these expectations without needing significant work.

What year used Honda Accord is best?

The best used Honda Accord years are generally 2006-2007, 2011-2013, 2016-2017, and 2019-2022. These model years offer a strong combination of reliability, performance, and value, with the 8th generation (2008-2012) and 9th generation (2013-2017) being particularly praised for their dependable nature. However, it is crucial to get a vehicle history report and a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you get a good car.
 
This video explains the different generations of Honda Accord and highlights some of the best years to buy: 1mCarMaxYouTube · Sep 27, 2022
Recommended Years & Why

• 2006–2007 (7th Generation): A “bulletproof” generation that offers reliability and value before modern tech became standard, according to 234Drive. 
• 2011–2013 (8th & Early 9th Generation): Known for strong reliability, comfort, and performance, with 2012 being a standout year. 
• 2016–2017 (9th Generation): This is a sweet spot for the 9th generation, with the 2016 model year adding popular features like Honda Sensing and available automatic emergency braking. 
• 2019–2022 (10th Generation): A strong choice for a more modern vehicle, known for refined styling and continued high reliability. 

Considerations When Buying

• Vehicle History Report: Always get a CARFAX or AutoCheck report to check for major accidents or title issues. 
• Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): A PPI by an independent mechanic is crucial to identify any potential mechanical problems. 
• Trim Levels: The EX trim often comes with desirable features, and the 2017 EX trims are good budget-friendly options. 
• Avoid Early Turbocharged Engines: Starting in 2018, Accords only came with turbocharged 4-cylinder engines. While reliable, some drivers preferred the non-turbo engines of earlier models. 
• Test Drive Multiple Models: The more cars you test, the better your chances of finding the right fit for your needs. 

You can watch this video to learn how to choose the best year for a used Honda Accord: 57sJustin PritchardYouTube · Jul 14, 2024

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.