What Year Is the Most Reliable Honda Accord?

The most reliable Honda Accord in recent data is the 2021 model, with the 2015 model standing out as the safest long-term used bet. The 2021 benefits from mature 10th‑generation updates and top-tier reliability scores, while the 2015 is notable for exceptionally low complaint rates over time. If you want a newer car, 2021–2022 are prime picks; for budget-minded used buyers, 2015–2017 are consistently strong.

How Reliability Was Assessed

This assessment draws on multiple independent sources and owner trends through the most current model years available, including Consumer Reports’ model-year reliability ratings, J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study (which evaluates three‑year‑old vehicles, meaning the 2024 study covers 2021 models), government complaint data, and large owner-report databases. We also considered known technical service bulletins (TSBs) and widely documented model-year quirks.

Why 2021 Stands Out

The 2021 Accord sits in the “sweet spot” of Honda’s 10th generation (2018–2022), after early teething issues were ironed out and before the 2023 redesign. By this model year, infotainment bugs were largely addressed, powertrain calibrations were refined, and reported problem rates fell compared with the 2018–2019 launches. In major reliability trackers, the 2021 earned top or near‑top scores among midsize sedans, and the 2024 dependability study (covering 2021 vehicles) showed the Accord performing strongly in its segment.

The Best Used-Model Years to Consider

For shoppers balancing reliability, features, and price, several Accord years consistently rise to the top based on long-term owner reports and third‑party ratings. The list below highlights the most dependable model years and why they’re favored.

• 2015 (9th gen): A standout for low complaint volume and durable powertrains (especially the 2.4L I‑4). Fewer systemic issues than early 9th‑gen years.
• 2016–2017 (9th gen refresh): Benefit from incremental fixes and updated tech; widely regarded as among the most trouble‑free Accords of the decade.
• 2020–2022 (10th gen): Post‑launch refinements deliver strong reliability; 2021 is the high point, with 2022 close behind.
• 2012 (late 8th gen): Not as feature-rich, but tends to be solid and straightforward to maintain if condition and history check out.

Taken together, these years offer the best odds of low-cost ownership, balancing proven longevity with fewer known systemic issues.

Model Years You May Want to Avoid

Every long-running nameplate has outliers. The following years are more prone to specific issues or higher complaint rates and are worth approaching with extra diligence on inspection, maintenance history, and pricing.

• 2003–2004: Elevated reports of automatic transmission failures.
• 2008–2010: Noted for premature brake wear and select engine/braking complaints.
• 2013: Generally good car but marked by starter and some electronics issues in owner reports.
• 2018–2019: First years of the 10th gen had more infotainment glitches and scattered 1.5T fuel‑dilution complaints (more common in cold climates); many issues improved with software updates and later builds.

These model years aren’t automatic deal-breakers—many examples run well—but they warrant careful pre-purchase inspections and verification that relevant updates or repairs were completed.

Engine and Trim Reliability Notes

9th Generation (2013–2017)

The naturally aspirated 2.4L four-cylinder is a reliability stalwart with routine maintenance. The V6 is strong and generally reliable but adds complexity and higher service costs. Hybrids from this era can be dependable; earlier production (2014) saw some hiccups, while later builds (2017) are favored.

10th Generation (2018–2022)

The 1.5T with CVT is efficient and, in the Accord, has been more trouble‑free than the CR‑V’s early 1.5T, though cold-climate short‑trip usage can exacerbate fuel dilution—adhering to oil‑change intervals is key. The 2.0T with the 10‑speed automatic is robust; early software updates smoothed shifting. The 2018–2019 infotainment issues were largely mitigated by 2020–2021.

11th Generation (2023–present)

Still relatively new in the long-term data cycle, the 2023–2024 models have posted solid early reliability with simplified powertrains and improved infotainment, but they lack the long-run track record that makes 2021 such a safe bet today.

What This Means for Buyers

If you’re prioritizing “most reliable” in a modern package, target a 2021 Accord. If you want proven longevity at a lower price point, 2015–2017 are excellent choices. Always verify service records, check for completed recalls/TSBs, and have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection—these steps matter as much as model year.

Maintenance Tips to Maximize Reliability

Regardless of year, smart maintenance preserves the Accord’s reputation for longevity. The following checklist focuses on items that most influence long-term reliability and cost of ownership.

• Follow oil-change intervals precisely, especially on direct-injection and turbo engines; consider severe-service intervals for short-trip or cold-climate use.
• Keep transmission fluid fresh on schedule; smooth shifting and longevity depend on it.
• Update software/firmware for infotainment and transmission when available.
• Use high-quality brake pads/rotors and replace promptly to avoid cascading repairs.
• Inspect for oil dilution signs (1.5T): rising oil level, fuel smell; address promptly.
• Check for recall completion and TSBs; many early issues are fixed with updates.

Diligent care narrows the gap between “good” and “great” years and helps any Accord deliver the reliability the nameplate is known for.

Bottom Line

The 2021 Honda Accord is the most reliable recent model year, backed by strong third‑party dependability data and real‑world owner experience. For used buyers seeking long-term value, the 2015–2017 span is a standout. Avoiding known-problem years—or confirming fixes—will further tilt the odds in your favor.

Summary

Most reliable Accord year: 2021 (modern best); long-term used standout: 2015. Excellent alternatives include 2016–2017 and 2022. Be cautious with 2003–2004, 2008–2010, 2013, and early 10th‑gen years (2018–2019) unless issues are documented as resolved. As always, maintenance history and a thorough inspection matter as much as model year.

What’s the best year to buy a Honda?

Consumer Reports says 2011 and 2019 are the most reliable.

What is the most reliable year of Honda Accord?

The 2008-2012 models, or the 8th generation of the Honda Accord, are widely considered some of the best used Honda Accord models available. These vehicles are known for their reliability, comfortable ride, and solid performance.

What’s the best used Honda Accord to buy?

The 2017 Honda Accord is often cited as one of the best used Honda Accords due to its strong reliability scores, improved fuel economy, and a good balance of technology and comfortable features after the 2016 refresh. Other highly recommended models include the 2008-2012 eighth-generation Accords for their reliability and spaciousness, and the 2013-2015 ninth-generation Accords for working out initial kinks and offering a refined ride. 
Highly Recommended Generations & Years

• 8th Generation (2008-2012): Known for reliability, a comfortable ride, and a spacious interior. The 2012 model, in particular, is noted for refined comfort and strong safety ratings. 
• 9th Generation (2013-2017): The 2013 model year is a strong contender as it’s the second model year after the redesign, meaning initial issues were often resolved. 
  • The 2017 Honda Accord is an excellent choice, featuring high reliability ratings, a mid-cycle refresh from 2016, better MPG, and enhanced safety features. 

Factors to Consider

• Specific Model Year: Even within a generation, certain years are more reliable. Always research the specific year you are interested in. 
• Trim Level: Higher trims like the EX-L or Touring offer more luxury and tech features, while lower trims like the LX are more budget-friendly. 
• Engine Type: Four-cylinder engines offer great fuel economy, while the available V6 engines provide more power, especially in the ninth generation. 

Tips for Buying

• Check Reliability Ratings: . Opens in new tabConsult resources like CoPilot for Car Shopping and Top Speed for reliability scores from sources like J.D. Power. 
• Consider Maintenance Costs: . Opens in new tabLook for models like the 2017 Accord that have minimal repair costs and are focused on standard maintenance. 
• Inspect for Technology: . Opens in new tabIf technology is a priority, look for model years that include features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which became standard around 2021. 

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.