What Is the Common Problem With the 2009 Honda Accord?

The most commonly reported problem with the 2009 Honda Accord is premature rear brake pad wear—often requiring replacement as early as 12,000–20,000 miles. A second widespread issue is excessive engine oil consumption on some four-cylinder and V6 models. Both problems have been documented by owners and addressed in varying ways by Honda, though coverage depends on mileage, age, and service history.

Premature Rear Brake Pad Wear (Most Reported)

Owners of 2008–2009 Accords, including the 2009 model year, frequently report that rear brake pads wear out far faster than expected. The issue led to a class-action settlement more than a decade ago and prompted updated rear pad designs and service procedures from Honda. While not a safety recall, Honda dealers commonly replaced pads and related hardware with revised parts intended to extend pad life.

The brake issue typically shows up in the following ways, especially in city or stop‑and‑go driving:

• Rear brake pads needing replacement unusually early (often 12,000–20,000 miles), sometimes repeatedly.
• Persistent brake squeal or grinding noises from the rear, even shortly after pad replacement.
• Heavy brake dust buildup on rear wheels compared with the front.
• Vibration or pulsation when braking due to accelerated rotor wear or uneven deposition.
• Uneven pad wear (inner pads thinner than outer pads) from sticky slide pins or hardware.

These symptoms collectively point to accelerated rear pad wear, a pattern widely reported by 2009 Accord owners and reflected in consumer complaint databases.

Why It Happens and What Honda Did

Technicians often attribute the problem to a combination of factors: the original rear pad compound and hardware, rear brake bias under certain loads, and caliper slide pin maintenance. Honda issued updated rear pad kits and shims, along with revised service procedures. Many shops also emphasize proper lubrication of caliper pins and pad abutments and thorough pad “bedding” after installation.

If you’re addressing the brake wear issue, the following steps are commonly recommended by dealers and independent shops:

1. Inspect rear pad thickness and rotor condition; measure rotor runout and thickness variation.
2. Install updated rear pads and shims/hardware designed to reduce wear and noise.
3. Resurface or replace rear rotors if they are below spec or show significant scoring or hotspots.
4. Clean and lubricate caliper slide pins and pad abutment points; replace sticking pins or boots.
5. Bleed brakes if pedal feel is soft; verify proper rear brake operation and proportioning.
6. Bed-in new pads per manufacturer procedure to stabilize friction material and reduce noise.

With updated parts and proper service, many owners report more typical pad life (often 30,000–50,000+ miles), though results vary with driving habits and environment.

Excessive Engine Oil Consumption (Also Common)

Another frequent complaint involves higher-than-normal oil consumption, reported on some 2009 Accords with the 2.4L four-cylinder and the 3.5L V6 (especially those with Variable Cylinder Management, or VCM). Honda addressed this over the years with software updates and, in certain cases, piston ring replacement and warranty extensions. Depending on vehicle age and mileage, some coverage windows may now be expired, but dealers can check eligibility.

Signs you may be experiencing the oil consumption issue include:

• Low oil level between changes, sometimes exceeding one quart per 1,000 miles.
• Blue smoke at startup or after extended idling, indicating oil burning.
• Fouled spark plugs or misfire codes (P0301–P0306), particularly on V6 models with active cylinder deactivation.
• Rattling on cold start, rough idle, or reduced fuel economy due to carbon buildup.
• Frequent need to top off oil and an oil smell from the exhaust under load.

These symptoms can stem from piston ring sticking/wear and, on some V6 engines, side effects of cylinder deactivation (VCM) that increase oil entry into combustion chambers over time.

Causes, Coverage, and Fixes

Honda’s remedies have included engine control software updates aimed at reducing ring wear and, if necessary based on test results, replacing pistons and rings. For V6 models with misfire tied to VCM operation, Honda has previously offered warranty extensions and technical updates. Even if official extension periods have lapsed, thorough documentation of oil use can help dealers evaluate goodwill assistance on a case-by-case basis.

If you suspect excessive oil consumption, consider the following actions:

1. Check oil level every 1,000 miles and log how much you add to establish a clear consumption pattern.
2. Have the dealer perform an oil consumption test and check for any applicable software updates or service bulletins.
3. Inspect the PCV system, spark plugs, and for external leaks; correct inexpensive causes first.
4. If consumption is verified, discuss piston ring service; parts-and-labor costs can be significant out of warranty.
5. Use quality oil of the specified grade (typically 5W‑20 for 2009 models) and adhere to shorter change intervals if consumption is present.
6. Keep all service receipts and test results to support any goodwill or warranty consideration.

Addressing oil consumption can range from simple maintenance to major engine work; documenting the issue and following Honda’s test procedures are key to determining next steps and potential assistance.

Other Notes and Owner Tips

Separate from these common complaints, the 2009 Accord may be subject to broader safety recalls (for example, airbag inflator campaigns in later years). Because recall eligibility varies by VIN, owners should check the NHTSA database or Honda’s official recall site to confirm their vehicle’s status. Routine brake inspections and regular oil checks are particularly important on this model year given the issues outlined above.

Summary

For the 2009 Honda Accord, the most common problem is premature rear brake pad wear, often surfacing well before expected service intervals and typically addressed with updated pads, hardware, and proper caliper maintenance. A second widely reported issue is excessive engine oil consumption affecting some four‑cylinder and V6 engines, managed through software updates, monitored oil-consumption tests, and, in some cases, piston ring repairs. Staying vigilant with inspections, documenting symptoms, and consulting a dealer about current technical guidance can help owners resolve issues efficiently and safely.

Is 2009 a good year for Honda Accords?

As a whole, consumers found the vehicle’s reliability and styling to be its strongest features and quality to be its weakest. 744 out of 1227 of owners (61% of them) rank the 2009 Accord five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2009 Honda Accord.

Is there any recalls on a 2009 Honda Accord?

Recalls for the 2009 Honda Accord include issues with side airbag sensor calibrations and Takata airbag inflators. There was also a recall for an issue where the secondary shaft bearing’s outer race could break, leading to a possible short circuit and vehicle stalling or rolling after being put in park. Additionally, aftermarket nose masks were recalled if their material interfered with the hood latch, potentially causing the hood to open while driving.
 
This video explains some of the common problems with the 8th generation Honda Accord, which includes the 2009 model year: 38sOBD InsightsYouTube · Aug 16, 2024
Airbag Recalls

• Side Impact Sensor Calibration: . Opens in new tabA recall addressed issues where side impact sensors could be overly sensitive, leading to the unexpected deployment of side airbags or curtain airbags. 
• Takata Airbag Inflators: . Opens in new tabSome 2009 Accords are part of a larger recall involving Takata airbag inflators that can rupture when deployed, causing injury. 
• Improperly Installed Passenger Airbags: . Opens in new tabSome vehicles that received a replacement passenger frontal airbag inflator may have received incorrectly installed parts. 

Powertrain Recall 

• Transmission Safety: In certain 2005-2010 Accords, the secondary shaft bearing’s outer race could break. This could lead to:
  • A short circuit causing the engine to stall.
  • The vehicle rolling after being put in park, as broken pieces could lodge in the parking pawl.

Accessory Recall 

• Aftermarket Nose Masks: An accessory recall was issued for certain aftermarket full nose masks that could interfere with the hood latch mechanism, potentially causing the hood to open unexpectedly while driving.

How to Check for Recalls
You can check for specific recalls on your 2009 Honda Accord by using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. By entering your vehicle’s VIN, you can see all open recalls for your specific car.

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. 

How many miles will a 2009 Honda Accord last?

A 2009 Honda Accord can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more, with some well-maintained models exceeding this range. Its longevity depends heavily on regular maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services. With proper care and by addressing potential issues like timing belt and transmission fluid, your 2009 Accord can achieve a long and reliable life.
 
Factors influencing lifespan

• Maintenance: Consistent oil changes, filter replacements, and other basic maintenance are crucial for increasing performance and efficiency. 
• Engine and transmission: A poorly maintained Accord is more prone to engine and transmission issues, while a well-cared-for one can avoid major problems. 
• Driving conditions: Vehicles used for light commuting and country roads tend to last longer. 

Common recommended services
To ensure a long lifespan for your 2009 Honda Accord, consider these maintenance steps: 

• Timing belt
• Valve adjustments
• Transmission fluid drain and fill
• Regular tune-ups
• Spark plugs and wires
• Compression check