What a 2003 Honda Accord EX Is Worth in Today’s Market
As of mid‑2025 in most U.S. markets, a 2003 Honda Accord EX typically sells for about $1,800–$3,800 in private‑party transactions, trades in for roughly $300–$1,800, and lists at dealers for around $3,000–$5,500; pristine, low‑mileage, well‑documented examples can reach roughly $5,000–$6,500, while rough or high‑risk cars may be worth $300–$1,200. Actual value depends heavily on mileage, condition, body style (sedan vs. coupe), engine/transmission, maintenance history, rust, regional demand, and open recalls.
Contents
Current Price Ranges at a Glance
The 2003 Accord EX is now a 22‑year‑old vehicle, so values vary widely. Below are typical ranges buyers and sellers report across the U.S., informed by pricing guides (e.g., Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds) and current used‑car market trends.
- Private‑party (average condition, ~180k–230k miles): $1,800–$3,800
- Dealer retail (reconditioned, some warranty): $3,000–$5,500
- Trade‑in (dealer offer): $300–$1,800
- Exceptional examples (low miles, EX‑L, documented service, no rust): $5,000–$6,500
- Rough/salvage/rusty or with major mechanical needs: $300–$1,200
Expect the higher end for clean southern/western cars with strong records and the lower end for rust‑belt, high‑mileage, or mechanically needy vehicles.
Key Factors That Move the Price
Several attributes can add or subtract thousands from an older Accord’s value. Understanding these can help you price or shop more precisely.
- Mileage and wear: Under ~140k miles commands a premium; over ~220k tends to depress value unless impeccably maintained.
- Condition grade: Paint, interior, tires/brakes, and evidence of leaks or rust matter more than options at this age.
- Body style: Coupes in clean condition can draw a modest premium over sedans due to relative scarcity; sedans are more common and easier to sell.
- Engine/transmission: The 2.4L 4‑cyl is generally valued for durability. 3.0L V6 automatics from this era are known for transmission issues; proof of a quality rebuild/replacement adds value, lack of it subtracts.
- Trim and options: EX includes a sunroof and alloys; EX‑L leather and factory navigation (rare) add modest value when well kept.
- Maintenance records: Documented timing‑chain/belt status (I4 uses a chain; V6 uses a belt), fluid changes, and major services can significantly boost price.
- Accident and title history: Clean title with verifiable history is worth more; salvage/rebuilt or airbag deployments reduce value.
- Rust and region: Rust‑free Sun Belt cars command more than similar Rust Belt examples with structural corrosion.
- Recalls: Outstanding airbag (Takata) or safety recalls can reduce buyer confidence; proof of completion helps.
Because these factors often interact, two cars with the same model and miles can differ by thousands in market value.
How to Pin Down Your Exact Value in Minutes
If you need a precise number for your specific car or a target purchase price, follow these steps using widely used pricing tools and local listings.
- Gather details: VIN, exact trim (EX or EX‑L), body style (sedan/coupe), engine (I4/V6), transmission (manual/automatic), mileage, options, and ZIP code.
- Assess condition honestly: Note tires/brakes, cosmetic flaws, warning lights, leaks, rust, and recent maintenance receipts.
- Check pricing guides: Input the data into Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to get private‑party, trade‑in, and dealer values for your area.
- Scan local comps: Search Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Autotrader, and dealer sites within 50–100 miles for 2002–2004 Accords with similar miles/condition.
- Adjust for repairs: Subtract realistic repair costs (e.g., tires $400–$800, brakes $300–$800, transmission work $2,000+ on V6 autos) from asking prices or offers.
- Verify recalls: Use your VIN on NHTSA to confirm airbag and other recalls; completed recalls support stronger pricing.
- Set your number: Choose a price within the local comp range that reflects your car’s condition and documentation.
This approach aligns guidebook values with real‑world listings, yielding a defensible price for negotiating or budgeting.
Notable 2003 Accord EX Considerations
Reliability and known issues
The 2003 model year launched the 7th‑gen Accord. The 2.4L 4‑cyl is generally long‑lived when serviced. The 3.0L V6 paired with the 5‑speed automatic is known for transmission failures; documentation of a quality rebuild or replacement is a major value add. Expect age‑related items (motor mounts, suspension bushings, power steering hoses, alternator, headlight oxidation) to affect condition and price.
Safety recalls
Most 2003 Accords were covered by Takata airbag recalls. Completion is free at Honda dealers; keep proof. Unaddressed airbag recalls can lower buyer interest and price.
Depreciation floor
At this age, Accords trade near a “durability floor”: a clean, running example with current maintenance often holds a minimal baseline value because demand for inexpensive, reliable transportation remains strong.
What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect
Whether buying or selling, aligning expectations with condition and documentation helps deals close smoothly. Use the points below as a quick checklist.
- Sellers: Present maintenance records, recall proof, cold‑start video, and clear photos of tires/brakes and underbody to justify the upper end of the range.
- Buyers: Budget a reserve (often $500–$1,500) for catch‑up maintenance on any 20+‑year‑old car unless records are comprehensive.
- Both: Verify title status, scan with an OBD‑II reader for hidden codes, and get a pre‑purchase inspection if the price is above average.
These practices reduce surprises and support fair pricing on both sides of the transaction.
Summary
In mid‑2025, a typical 2003 Honda Accord EX is worth roughly $1,800–$3,800 private‑party, $300–$1,800 trade‑in, and $3,000–$5,500 at a dealer, with exceptional, low‑mileage, well‑documented cars reaching about $5,000–$6,500. Condition, mileage, powertrain, rust, records, and regional demand are decisive. Confirm with pricing guides and local comps, adjust for needed repairs, and document recalls and maintenance to maximize value or negotiate effectively.
What is the value of a 2003 Honda?
2003 Honda Civic Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| EX Coupe 2D | $17,270 | $3,575 |
| EX Sedan 4D | $17,520 | $3,092 |
| Si Hatchback 2D | $19,460 | $4,261 |
| Hybrid Sedan 4D | $19,990 | $3,558 |
How many miles can a 2003 Honda Accord EX last?
A Honda Accord that is not maintained well has a much higher chance of developing major engine and transmission problems before hitting 100,000 – 200,000 miles. With that being said a very well-maintained Honda Accord has the potential to last well past 300,000 miles and further before needing any major work.
How much should I sell my Honda Accord for?
2020 Honda Accord Value – $14,549-$27,150 | Edmunds.
How much is a 2003 Honda Accord EX worth?
A 2003 Honda Accord EX Sedan 4D has a current resale value of $3,590 and trade-in value of $1,836.


