What Is the Weakness of the Honda Accord?

The Honda Accord’s primary weaknesses are its limited powertrain choice and performance compared with past versions, the lack of all-wheel drive, some missing high-end features (such as a surround-view camera and widely available ventilated seats), a base infotainment system that feels basic on lower trims, and a cabin that can transmit more road noise than the quietest rivals. These drawbacks vary by model year and trim, and for many shoppers they’re outweighed by the Accord’s strengths in space, efficiency, safety, and long-term dependability.

The big-picture drawbacks on the latest generation (2023–2025, U.S.)

The current Accord generation emphasizes efficiency, space, and tech, but it also made trade-offs that enthusiasts and comfort-seekers will notice. Below is a concise rundown of the most commonly cited weaknesses on today’s models.

• Powertrain limitations: The lively 2.0-liter turbo and manual transmission are gone; buyers choose between a 1.5-liter turbo with a CVT or a fuel-sipping hybrid focused on efficiency rather than outright speed.
• No all-wheel drive: Unlike key competitors (e.g., Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy), the Accord remains front-wheel drive only.
• Feature gaps: A surround-view (360-degree) camera isn’t offered, and ventilated front seats are not widely available; panoramic roof is absent.
• Infotainment disparity by trim: Lower trims use a small 7-inch screen with wired smartphone integration; the more modern 12.3-inch system and Google built-in are reserved for higher trims.
• Noise and ride: Quieter than older Accords, but still transmits more road noise than the class’s quietest; 19-inch wheels in sporty trims can make the ride feel firmer.
• Trunk practicality quirks: Gooseneck hinges can intrude into cargo; some trims rely on a tire repair kit instead of a spare.
• Warranty length: Solid reliability record, but warranty coverage (3-year/36,000-mile basic, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain) trails the longer terms from Hyundai/Kia.

For many shoppers, these trade-offs won’t be deal-breakers, but they’re material differences that can tip a decision if you prioritize traction in snow, top-tier cabin quiet, or luxury-class convenience tech.

Performance perspective: What changed and why it matters

Honda repositioned the Accord to favor efficiency and refinement over outright speed. Here’s how that shows up in daily driving.

• Acceleration: The 1.5-liter turbo/CVT combo is adequate, not brisk; the hybrid is quicker around town but still tuned for smoothness and economy.
• Engagement: The loss of the 2.0T and manual removes the enthusiast-leaning edge the previous generation offered.
• Powertrain character: The hybrid’s engine can drone under heavy throttle as the system prioritizes efficiency; the CVT behaves naturally in most cruising but lacks the snap of a geared automatic.

If you value agile responses and stronger passing power, the Accord’s current lineup feels more pragmatic than passionate—still composed and capable, but no longer the performance outlier it once was.

Comfort and cabin trade-offs

The Accord is spacious and well-finished, yet some comfort-related trade-offs remain versus top rivals.

• Road noise: Improved in this generation but not class-leading on coarse pavement, especially with larger wheels.
• Seats and features: Heated seats are common, but ventilated seats and a 360-degree camera are not widely available; a panoramic roof isn’t offered.
• Infotainment spread: Base 7-inch systems feel dated next to the excellent 12.3-inch setup on higher trims.

Shoppers who prioritize a hushed cabin and luxury conveniences may find more of what they want in upper Accord trims—or in competitors that emphasize premium amenities.

Known trouble spots on older model years (used buyers)

If you’re shopping used, the “weakness” depends on the generation. The following issues have been reported more often on earlier Accords and are worth checking during a pre-purchase inspection.

• 2018–2020 1.5T oil dilution concerns in very cold climates: Honda issued updates; issues largely reduced by later software and hardware revisions.
• Driver-assist tuning (various years): Honda Sensing can feel overcautious or buzzy on certain roads; calibration and software updates help.
• Wind/road noise (older gens): Pre-2023 cars, especially on larger wheels, are generally louder than the newest competitors.

These aren’t universal failures, but they’re common enough that a thorough test drive and a records check (for software updates and TSBs) are advisable.

Who should think twice about choosing an Accord

The Accord remains an excellent all-around sedan, but it’s not perfect for everyone. If the situations below describe you, consider cross-shopping.

• Regularly drive in snow or on unplowed roads and want AWD.
• Prioritize minimal cabin noise and the plushest ride in class.
• Want maximum straight-line performance or a sport-sedan feel.
• Expect features like a 360-degree camera, broadly available ventilated seats, or a panoramic roof.
• Prefer longer factory warranty coverage without buying extensions.

If one or more of these are must-haves, rivals like the Toyota Camry (now hybrid-only and offering AWD), Subaru Legacy (standard AWD), Hyundai Sonata or Kia K5 (longer warranties), or Mazda’s remaining sedans and crossovers may fit better.

How to shop around the Accord’s weaknesses

Many of the Accord’s pain points can be mitigated with the right trim or expectations. Use the tips below to target the best fit.

• Pick trims with smaller wheels (17–18 inches) to reduce noise and firm ride impacts.
• Test both powertrains: the 1.5T for straightforward commuting, the hybrid for smoother city drivability and better mpg.
• If tech matters, aim for trims with the 12.3-inch screen; Touring adds Google built-in and the most comprehensive feature set.
• Check for a spare: some configurations use a repair kit; decide if you’re comfortable with that or plan to add a spare.
• For used 2018–2020 1.5T cars, confirm service history for software updates and conduct a cold-start evaluation when possible.

With a careful test drive and thoughtful trim selection, most shoppers can sidestep the Accord’s key compromises and emphasize its strengths.

What the Accord still gets right

It’s worth noting that the Accord remains a benchmark for space, crash-test performance, fuel economy (especially as a hybrid), steering precision, and resale value. Those attributes are why its weaknesses often remain tolerable trade-offs for a large slice of buyers.

Summary

The Honda Accord’s weaknesses center on reduced performance choice (no 2.0T/manual), the absence of AWD, some missing premium features, a base infotainment setup that lags on lower trims, and cabin noise that still trails the quietest competitors. Older 1.5T models had cold-climate oil-dilution complaints that were addressed with updates. Even so, the Accord’s core strengths—space, efficiency, safety, handling poise, and long-term value—keep it near the top of the midsize-sedan class. Your best move: test both powertrains, pick trims with the features you need, and cross-shop if AWD, ultra-quiet rides, or luxury conveniences are nonnegotiable.

What are the pros and cons of a Honda Accord?

The Honda Accord’s pros include strong reliability, excellent resale value, practical fuel efficiency (especially with the hybrid powertrain), a spacious and comfortable interior, and a suite of standard safety features. Key cons are the lack of an all-wheel-drive option, a potentially underwhelming base engine, and a design that some find too plain or anonymous. Additionally, some desirable tech and comfort features are limited to higher trims, and customization options are somewhat restrictive.
 
Pros

• Reliability & Resale Value: The Accord is known for its long-term reliability and holds its value exceptionally well in the used car market. 
• Fuel Efficiency: The hybrid powertrain offers excellent fuel economy, making it a practical choice for many buyers. 
• Comfort & Space: The interior is comfortable, spacious, and offers ample rear legroom, making it a great vehicle for passengers. 
• Safety Features: Standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane keeping, and adaptive cruise control are included across all trims. 
• Practicality: It boasts class-leading trunk space and good driver visibility, enhancing its overall utility. 

Cons

• No All-Wheel Drive (AWD): A significant drawback for buyers in snowy or wet climates, as only front-wheel drive is available. 
• Limited Powertrain: While the hybrid is efficient, the standard gasoline engine can feel underpowered for some driving situations, and a more powerful, sport-oriented engine is not offered. 
• Unexciting Design: Some reviewers find the Accord’s exterior styling to be somewhat bland, anonymous, or lacking the sporty flair of some competitors. 
• Feature Distribution: Important comfort and technology features are often restricted to the higher, more expensive trim levels. 
• Styling vs. Headroom: The sleek, modern roofline of recent generations improves style but can reduce rear-seat headroom for taller passengers. 

Which Honda Accords to stay away from?

Honda Accord Years to Avoid

Model Years	Key Problems
2003–2004 (V6)	Automatic transmission failures, slipping or jerky shifting
2008–2010 (4-cyl)	Excessive oil consumption, premature brake wear
2013	CVT hesitation, early infotainment complaints
2018	Infotainment screen freezing, quality-control issues

Aug 2, 2025

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. 

What is the main problem with the Honda Accord?

Common Honda Accord problems vary by model year, but generally include issues with transmissions, including delayed shifting and failure, and brakes, such as warped rotors causing vibration. Other reported issues include cracking compliance bushings, failing power door locks, and various electrical problems like dark dashboard displays and infotainment system issues. Some models also experience engine problems like excessive oil consumption or stalling. 
Transmission Issues

• Delayed Shifting and Failure: Particularly on older models, transmissions may experience rough or delayed shifting, slipping, and, in severe cases, total failure. 
• Fluid Leaks: Worn components or faulty seals can lead to transmission fluid leaks, which can be an early sign of a larger problem. 

Brake & Suspension Problems

• Warped Rotors: Vibration when braking is often a sign of warped front brake rotors. 
• Compliance Bushings: Cracking or wear in the front compliance bushings is a common issue that can affect ride comfort and steering. 
• Noisy Brakes: Some owners report noisy brakes and premature brake wear. 

Electrical & Infotainment Issues

• Display Problems: Dashboard or radio displays may go dark, fail to activate, or experience freezing. 
• Power Door Locks: Faulty door lock actuators can cause power door locks to activate intermittently. 
• Infotainment System: On newer models, the infotainment system can have lagging response times, random reboots, and problems with CarPlay or Bluetooth connections. 

Engine & Performance Issues 

• Excessive Oil Consumption: Some models, especially the 2008-2009 years, were prone to excessive oil consumption, which was addressed with a software update.
• Engine Stalling/Misfires: Engine stalling, misfires, and overheating have been reported.

How to Avoid or Address Problems

• Regular Maintenance: Routine maintenance, including transmission fluid changes, can help prevent some issues. 
• Check for Recalls: Be aware of manufacturer recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that address common defects. 
• Inspect Key Components: During inspections, pay close attention to the brakes, suspension components, and the electrical system, as these are frequent areas of concern.