What kind of transmission does a 2006 Honda Accord have?
The 2006 Honda Accord was offered with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, with one notable exception: the EX V6 Coupe could be equipped with a close-ratio 6-speed manual. The Accord Hybrid came only with a 5-speed automatic. Availability varies by engine, body style, and market, but U.S.-spec models follow these configurations.
Contents
Transmission options by model and trim (U.S. market)
Honda sold the 2006 Accord in multiple configurations, and the transmission you get depends on the engine and body style. The following breakdown reflects the standard offerings for U.S.-spec models in the 2006 model year.
- 2.4L inline-4 (Sedan/Coupe): 5-speed manual (standard on many trims) or 5-speed automatic (widely available/standard on some trims)
- 3.0L V6 Sedan: 5-speed automatic only
- EX V6 Coupe: 6-speed manual (available) or 5-speed automatic
- Accord Hybrid (3.0L V6 hybrid): 5-speed automatic only
In short, most four-cylinder Accords could be had with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic, V6 sedans were automatic-only, and the V6 coupe uniquely offered a 6-speed manual performance option.
Notes on regional variations
Outside North America, equipment can vary by market and trim naming, but the 2006 Accord family broadly used 5-speed manuals and 5-speed automatics. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) was not used on the 2006 Accord. Always verify against local specifications or the vehicle’s VIN data for market-specific details.
How to confirm which transmission your 2006 Accord has
If you’re unsure which transmission is in your vehicle, several quick checks can confirm it without guesswork.
- Look at the shifter: a clutch pedal and H-pattern indicate a manual; PRND with “D” and gear positions indicate an automatic.
- Check the driver’s door jamb and under-hood labels: VIN/trim stickers and emissions labels often include drivetrain codes.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the original window sticker (Monroney) if available.
- Run a VIN lookup via Honda’s owner site/dealer or reputable parts catalogs to decode exact transmission type.
- Review service records: fluid type and part numbers (MTF vs ATF) often identify the transmission.
- Ask a Honda dealer to print the build sheet by VIN for definitive confirmation.
These steps will pinpoint your exact transmission even if the car has changed hands or been modified.
Why the transmission choice matters
Transmission type affects performance feel, fuel economy, maintenance, and resale. The 6-speed manual V6 coupe offers a sportier drive, while the 5-speed automatic emphasizes convenience and smoothness. Reliability on 2006 models is generally solid; Honda had addressed earlier 5-speed automatic concerns seen in some 2003–2004 V6 units, though proper maintenance remains critical for longevity.
Maintenance quick facts
Keeping the correct fluid and intervals is key to long service life for both manual and automatic versions.
- Automatic (5AT): Use Honda ATF-DW1 (supersedes the original ATF-Z1). Prefer drain-and-fill over power flushing.
- Manual (5MT/6MT): Use Honda Genuine MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid) or Honda-approved equivalent.
- Intervals: Many owners service ATF every 30,000–60,000 miles under severe use (towing, hot climates, city stop-and-go) and 60,000–90,000 miles otherwise; MTF is often serviced around 60,000 miles. Follow your manual and adjust for driving conditions.
- Symptoms to address early: harsh shifts, slipping, delayed engagement (AT); notchy shifts or grinding (MT).
- Parts verification: Always match fluid and filters to your exact transmission via VIN to avoid compatibility issues.
Correct fluids and timely service dramatically improve shift quality and reduce the risk of costly repairs on aging vehicles.
Summary
The 2006 Honda Accord came with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic across most trims, a 6-speed manual on the EX V6 Coupe, and a 5-speed automatic on the Hybrid. U.S. models follow this lineup, though global variants may differ slightly. If you need certainty for your car, verify via VIN or documentation, and maintain the transmission with Honda-spec fluids at appropriate intervals.
Is the Honda Accord a CVT or DCT?
Honda Accord Features
Smooth power delivery and refinement are two characteristics of its standard continuously variable transmission (CVT). On-road comfort remains excellent thanks to its wide stance and eye-catching alloy wheels.
How much is a new transmission for a 2006 Honda Accord?
A 2006 Honda Accord transmission replacement generally costs between $3,000 and $6,300, depending on whether you use a remanufactured or new part and the labor costs for installation. Parts can range from $1,800 to $3,400, with labor adding another $500 to $1,200. Costs can vary by location and shop, so it’s best to get an exact quote from your local repair facility.
This video shows a step-by-step guide on how to replace a transmission: 1mMechanic lyfeYouTube · Aug 27, 2020
Factors affecting cost:
- Type of replacement part:
- Remanufactured/Rebuilt: These transmissions have been previously used and then professionally refurbished to a like-new condition. They are typically less expensive than new units.
- Used: A transmission sourced from another vehicle, which is the most budget-friendly option but also carries the highest risk.
- New (from dealership): The most expensive option, but may come with a higher level of confidence and a longer warranty.
- Labor costs: Installation is a complex and time-consuming process, with a wide range of labor charges depending on the shop.
- Location: Costs for both parts and labor can vary significantly based on your geographic location and the local market.
- Shop type: Dealerships generally have higher costs, while independent shops can offer more competitive pricing.
How to get an accurate cost:
- Contact your local Honda dealership: They can provide a precise quote for a new transmission replacement.
- Get quotes from independent transmission shops: These specialized shops may be able to source and install remanufactured or used transmissions at a lower cost.
- Factor in other potential costs: Ensure the quote includes all necessary fluids, filters, and related parts, as these may be additional.
What year did the Honda Accord have a bad transmission?
Honda Accord models from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s are most frequently associated with significant transmission problems, particularly the 1998-2003 automatic transmission models and the 2005-2010 automatics that saw increased transmission failures and recalls. These issues often manifest as rough shifting, slipping gears, and premature failure, requiring expensive repairs or replacements.
Specific Years to Be Cautious Of
- 1998-2005: This range is often cited as a period with widespread automatic transmission failures.
- 2005-2010: This generation also experienced significant transmission problems, leading to recalls.
Common Symptoms of Transmission Failure
- Rough Shifting: The vehicle struggles to shift smoothly between gears.
- Slipping Gears: The transmission may lose its grip on a gear, causing high engine revs without acceleration.
- Transmission Fluid Leaks: A leak can indicate a problem, and the transmission may overheat.
- Warning Lights/Error Codes: The dashboard warning lights may illuminate when there’s a transmission issue.
What You Can Do
- Choose a Different Generation: If you’re considering a used Accord, avoid the problematic years listed above and look at newer models with 6-speed automatics or more, as they generally have more reliable transmissions.
- Maintain Your Transmission: For any Accord, proper and timely transmission maintenance, including fluid checks, can help prevent problems.
- Get a Professional Inspection: If buying a used Accord, especially from these problematic years, have a mechanic thoroughly inspect the transmission before purchasing.
What transmission is in a 2006 Honda Accord?
The 2006 Honda Accord offered both automatic and manual transmissions, depending on the engine and trim level. The 2.4L inline-4 engine was available with a 5-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. The 3.0L V6 engine was offered with a 5-speed automatic. Additionally, a 6-speed manual transmission was available for the EX coupe and the EX sedan models with the V6 engine.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- 2.4L Inline-4 Engine:
- 5-speed automatic transmission.
- 5-speed manual transmission.
- 3.0L V6 Engine:
- 5-speed automatic transmission.
- 6-speed manual transmission (EX coupe and EX sedan only).