Lawsuits involving the 2010 Honda Accord: what owners should know

The 2010 Honda Accord is not tied to a single lawsuit; rather, it has been swept into several major legal actions over the years. The most notable are the nationwide Takata airbag multidistrict litigation and settlement (which includes the 2010 Accord), a class-action settlement over premature rear brake pad wear that covered many 2008–2010 Accords, and litigation and warranty extensions related to engine misfire/oil consumption in certain V6 models with Variable Cylinder Management. Below, we break down what each case was about, who was covered, what benefits were offered, and what remains actionable for owners today.

The Takata airbag case that included the 2010 Accord

Honda was a central participant in the Takata airbag inflator crisis, which led to one of the largest automotive recalls and a consolidated federal class action in the United States: In re: Takata Airbag Products Liability Litigation (MDL No. 2599). The 2010 Accord—both sedan and coupe—was among the vehicles equipped with Takata frontal airbag inflators that could rupture and spray metal fragments upon deployment.

What the case alleged and how it was resolved

Plaintiffs alleged defective inflators, economic losses, and safety risks. Honda entered into a court-approved settlement in 2017–2018 that provided outreach and repair programs, free loaner or rental cars in certain circumstances, and reimbursement for some related out-of-pocket expenses. While most cash-claim deadlines have passed, recall repairs remain free and ongoing; dealers continue to replace affected inflators at no cost.

If you still need to confirm your status or take action, the following steps can help you navigate recall and settlement follow-ups.

• Check your VIN on the NHTSA recall lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls) and Honda’s owner site to confirm open airbag recalls.
• Schedule recall repairs immediately with a Honda dealer; parts are supplied at no charge.
• Ask the dealer about loaner or rental options if your vehicle is unsafe to drive pending repair.
• Keep copies of any expenses and dealer work orders; reimbursement windows for the settlement may be closed, but documentation supports any goodwill requests.
• If parts are backordered, request written confirmation of status and available interim safety measures.

In short, even though most settlement reimbursement deadlines have expired, recall repairs for Takata inflators remain free for the life of the vehicle, and owners should prioritize completion for safety.

Rear brake pad premature wear class action (many 2008–2010 Accords)

Honda faced a class action over allegations that certain eighth-generation Accords experienced abnormally fast rear brake pad wear, requiring frequent replacements. Litigation led to a settlement that covered a large number of 2008–2009 Accords and, in many instances, extended to some 2010 models depending on build dates and VIN ranges.

What owners received—and what’s the status now

The settlement typically provided partial reimbursement for early rear pad replacements and promoted the use of a revised pad design. Claims windows associated with that settlement closed years ago. However, if you own a 2010 Accord and paid for unusually frequent rear pad replacements during the early years of ownership, you may already have been eligible under that settlement; if not, the claim period has generally ended.

To assess whether your specific 2010 Accord was ever included or addressed under this resolution, these practical checks can help.

• Review old service records to see if a dealer used revised rear pads or noted accelerated wear.
• If you filed a claim years ago, locate your settlement confirmation or reimbursement letter for your records.
• If you’re encountering current brake wear concerns, ask a Honda dealer to verify that the latest pad/fitment and any updated hardware have been installed.
• Consider an independent inspection to rule out seized slide pins, rotor issues, or caliper problems that can mimic systemic premature wear.

While new claims tied to the class settlement are generally closed, ensuring your car has the updated parts and correct brake service can prevent repeat issues.

V6 engine misfire and oil-consumption litigation and warranty extensions

Separate litigation and technical campaigns addressed engine misfire and excessive oil consumption in certain Honda V6 engines with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) used in the 2008–2012 Accord, which includes many 2010 V6 models. Owners reported fouled spark plugs, rough running, and elevated oil usage tied to cylinder deactivation behavior under light load.

How Honda responded—and what remains for owners

Honda issued technical service bulletins and extended warranty coverage for specific components and conditions associated with the misfire, in some cases up to eight years from the original in-service date. Many of those extended coverage periods have now expired due to vehicle age. Nevertheless, dealers can still diagnose current issues, check past warranty extensions by VIN, and, in some cases, request goodwill assistance depending on maintenance history and mileage.

If you have a 2010 Accord V6 showing symptoms, consider these targeted steps.

• Document oil consumption between changes and note any misfire or check-engine codes (often P0301–P0306).
• Ask a Honda dealer to review historical TSBs and prior warranty extensions tied to your VIN.
• Ensure the vehicle runs the recommended oil grade and that maintenance intervals are current.
• Discuss software updates or repairs that address VCM-related behavior, if applicable.
• If out of warranty, request goodwill consideration backed by service records and consistent ownership/maintenance.

Even with expired extensions, a thorough diagnostic and a discussion with the dealer can clarify the most cost-effective path to repair.

Other notable issues and recalls (not lawsuits)

Beyond litigation, the 2010 Accord has been subject to several safety recalls and service campaigns over the years. These are not lawsuits but can result in free repairs and updates that meaningfully improve safety and reliability.

The following items are commonly associated with Accords of this generation; exact applicability varies by trim, engine, and build date, so always verify by VIN.

• Airbag inflator recalls (Takata) for both driver and passenger sides.
• Power steering hose or pump-related recalls on certain V6 vehicles addressing potential leaks under high temperatures.
• Electrical and switch-related recalls or service actions addressing potential overheating or malfunction in specific components.
• Software updates and technical bulletins aimed at drivability refinements, particularly on V6 models with VCM.

Because recall applicability is vehicle-specific, a VIN check remains the definitive way to confirm open campaigns and free remedies.

How to check whether your 2010 Accord is covered—today

Given the vehicle’s age, most lawsuit-related reimbursement windows have closed, but safety recalls remain active and free. Here’s how to quickly confirm what still applies to your car.

Follow these steps to get an authoritative, current snapshot of your coverage.

• Run your VIN on the NHTSA recall site (nhtsa.gov/recalls) and Honda’s owner portal to see all open recalls.
• Call a Honda dealer’s service department with your VIN to confirm any remaining campaign work or goodwill pathways.
• Keep all maintenance and repair receipts; they support goodwill requests and establish a clear service history.
• If you believe you experienced an unresolved safety defect, file a complaint with NHTSA; documented patterns can prompt further action.
• For used-car buyers, request the vehicle’s recall and service history before purchase and ensure all airbag work is complete.

A 10-minute VIN check and a call to a dealer can save time and ensure your Accord benefits from all available fixes.

Bottom line

There isn’t one single “lawsuit on the 2010 Honda Accord.” Instead, the model was part of broader legal actions: the Takata airbag MDL and settlement (repairs still free and ongoing), a class settlement over premature rear brake wear (claims now closed, with many 2008–2010 cars affected), and litigation and warranty extensions for V6 misfire/oil-consumption issues (largely expired but still relevant for diagnosis and goodwill discussions). Your best next step is to check your VIN for open recalls, confirm past coverage with a Honda dealer, and keep thorough documentation of any issues.

Summary

The 2010 Honda Accord has been involved in multiple legal and safety actions: inclusion in the nationwide Takata airbag settlement; coverage in a rear brake pad premature wear class-action affecting many 2008–2010 cars; and litigation plus warranty extensions tied to V6 misfire/oil consumption. Most reimbursement windows have closed, but recall repairs—especially for Takata airbags—remain free. Verify your vehicle’s status by running a VIN check on NHTSA’s site and consulting a Honda dealer for any remaining remedies or goodwill options.

What is the class action lawsuit against Honda Accord?

Recent and ongoing class action lawsuits against Honda Accord drivers claim defects in the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine (causing oil dilution, overheating, and coolant leaks) and the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) (which can brake unexpectedly). Another lawsuit from 2013 sought to address issues with an oil dilution problem in some 2013-2016 models. You can stay informed by checking class action news websites and looking for updates from the courts, as cases can take a long time to resolve. 
Types of Honda Accord Class Action Lawsuits

• Engine Defects (Coolant Leaks/Oil Dilution): . Opens in new tabA lawsuit alleges that Honda’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engines in some Accords, Civics, and CR-Vs (model years 2016-2022) have a design defect that causes coolant to leak into the cylinders. This can lead to engine overheating, oil contamination, and loss of power. 
• Automatic Emergency Braking (CMBS) Issues: . Opens in new tabA lawsuit filed in 2018 claims that the Honda Sensing system’s CMBS in certain Accords and CR-Vs may activate suddenly and unnecessarily, even when there is nothing on the road. 
• Older Oil Dilution Issues: . Opens in new tabA 2013 class action lawsuit covered an alleged oil dilution defect in some 2013-2016 Honda Accord models. 

What You Can Do

• Stay Informed: Monitor class action news websites for updates on these ongoing cases, as they can take months or years to resolve. 
• Look for Notices: If a case you’re involved in reaches a settlement, you will receive a notice with instructions on how to file a claim. 
• Contact Attorneys: You can consult with an attorney specializing in auto defect cases to understand your rights and options. 

What is the class action lawsuit on the 2010 Honda Accord?

About this Case. Plaintiffs allege that 2008 – 2010 Honda Accords contain a common manufacturing defect that causes the engine to burn excessive amounts of oil. The defect may be present in the guide valve seals or piston rings or the VTEC variable engine-timing system.

How much can I get for a 2010 Honda Accord?

A 2010 Honda Accord is generally worth between $2,000 and $6,000, depending on its condition, mileage, trim level, and features, with prices varying based on whether you are valuing it for trade-in or private sale. You can get a more precise estimate by checking sites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds and providing your specific vehicle details.
 
Factors influencing the value

• Condition: A car in “outstanding” condition will be worth more than one in “average” or “rough” condition. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage generally increases the value of a used car. 
• Trim Level: Different trim levels, such as LX or EX-L, have different original values and current market prices. 
• Features: Navigation and other optional features can affect the car’s overall worth. 

How to get a precise valuation

1. Visit Valuation Websites: Go to websites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. 
2. Enter Vehicle Details: Input the specific information about your 2010 Honda Accord, including its trim, mileage, and features. 
3. Specify Transaction Type: You can often select whether you want an estimate for a private party sale, trade-in, or dealer retail. 

What is the recall on the 2010 Honda Accord engine?

Honda will recall 2,277 model year 2010 Accord 4-cylinder and CR-V vehicles in the U.S. to replace an electrical wire harness coupler in the engine compartment. The wire harness coupler could have been damaged during vehicle assembly, which can lead to engine stalling over time.