What year was the best Accord?
The best Honda Accord year depends on what you value, but the most widely praised standouts are 2016 (reliability and value), 2018 (award-winning redesign and performance), and 2023–2025 (technology, safety, and hybrid efficiency). In short, 2016 is a safe, affordable used pick; 2018 is a modern classic; and 2023–2025 excel as the newest, most advanced options.
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Context: “Best” varies by what matters to you
Across its eleven generations, the Honda Accord has built a reputation for reliability, safety, and strong resale value. But “best” can mean different things: lowest ownership costs, strongest safety and tech, most engaging to drive, or top fuel economy. Below, we highlight the years that consistently surface as top choices in expert reviews, owner reliability data, safety testing, and industry awards through the 2025 model year.
Standout Accord years by priority
The following model years are frequently recommended by reviewers, long-term owners, and industry accolades. Each entry notes why it’s often considered “best” for a particular priority.
- 2016 (9th gen refresh): A sweet spot for reliability and value. First widespread integration of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on the Accord, refined ride and handling, and fewer known headaches than many earlier years.
- 2018 (launch of 10th gen): Widely regarded as the benchmark modern Accord. Won 2018 North American Car of the Year and earned repeated Car and Driver 10Best nods. Strong safety scores, roomy interior, and standout driving dynamics.
- 2018–2020 2.0T (enthusiast pick): The most engaging recent Accords, with a 252-hp turbocharged engine, slick 10‑speed automatic, and a rare 6‑speed manual available through 2020.
- 2021–2022 Hybrid (efficiency/value used): Mature hybrid system with excellent real-world economy, refined ride, and comprehensive standard safety tech.
- 2023–2025 (11th gen, best tech/safety): Clean-sheet interior, larger screens, improved driver-assistance suite, and Google built-in on top trims. Hybrid variants dominate the lineup and deliver excellent efficiency. Strong crash-test performance, including IIHS Top Safety Pick status in recent testing and 5-star overall NHTSA ratings for many trims.
Consider these years first if you want the clearest wins on reliability, features, and overall ownership satisfaction. They strike a strong balance between cost, capability, and long-term confidence.
Why these years stand out
Reliability and ownership costs
Late 9th-gen cars (especially 2015–2016) have earned a reputation for durability with fewer widespread issues than some earlier generations. Routine maintenance costs are reasonable, and parts are plentiful.
Awards and expert consensus
The 2018 Accord’s clean-sheet redesign delivered class-leading space, refinement, and driving manners, bringing in high-profile awards (including 2018 North American Car of the Year) and recurring spots on Car and Driver’s 10Best list through the early 2020s.
Safety and technology
From 2016 onward, the Accord added modern infotainment and driver-assistance. The 2023 redesign elevated cabin tech with a larger touchscreen and expanded active safety features, while hybrid trims became the volume leaders, improving efficiency without sacrificing drivability.
Years to approach with extra diligence
No generation is perfect. The years below have commonly reported issues that warrant a closer pre-purchase inspection and service-history review if you’re shopping used.
- 2000–2003: Higher incidence of automatic transmission failures reported on V6 models; verify replacement/rebuild history and fluid service.
- 2008–2010 (some 2008–2011 4-cyl): Complaints of premature brake wear and, in certain 4-cylinder engines, notable oil consumption; check maintenance records and perform a thorough test drive.
- Early 2010s infotainment (varies by trim/year): Some owners report finicky touch interfaces and aging Bluetooth/nav systems; verify functionality.
These model years are not automatic dealbreakers—many owners have trouble-free experiences—but a meticulous inspection and documentation review are especially important.
Quick buying tips to get the “best” Accord for you
Use these steps to align your choice with your priorities and minimize surprises after purchase.
- Define your priority: reliability/value (2015–2016), all-around excellence (2018), performance (2018–2020 2.0T), or tech/efficiency (2023–2025, especially hybrids).
- Check safety scores for the exact year/trim, plus headlight ratings, which can vary by trim and options.
- Verify maintenance history (oil changes, transmission fluid, brake service) and have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.
- Test the infotainment and driver-assist systems on a real drive; confirm adaptive cruise, lane centering, and all cameras/sensors work as designed.
- For turbo models, listen for abnormal noises and ensure smooth acceleration; for hybrids, evaluate cold-start behavior and fuel economy on a mixed-route test.
Following these steps will help ensure the Accord you pick matches your needs and that its condition lives up to its reputation.
Bottom line
If you want one answer: 2018 is often cited as the best all-around Accord of the modern era. For maximum reliability and value, look at 2016. For the most advanced tech and the best hybrid efficiency, 2023–2025 lead the pack. Your “best” Accord is the one that fits your priorities—and is backed by solid maintenance records and an expert inspection.
Summary
Best years by common priorities: 2016 (reliability/value), 2018 (award-winning all-rounder), 2018–2020 2.0T (performance), and 2023–2025 (tech, safety, hybrid efficiency). Choose based on what you value most, confirm safety/feature details by trim, and verify condition with a thorough inspection.
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 are the best years for a Honda Accord?
The 2008-2012 generation, particularly the 2011-2012, is often cited as a “best” period for the Honda Accord due to its balance of reliability, comfort, and affordability, while the later 2013-2017 and 2018-2022 generations are also considered strong choices with modern tech and improved reliability records. For those seeking a powerful and comfortable ride, the end-of-cycle 2017 model is a great pick, especially with the available V6 engine.
For Reliability and Value (Used Market)
- 2008-2012 (8th Generation): This generation is considered one of the best for reliability and affordability, offering a comfortable and dependable ride. The 2011 and 2012 models, in particular, offer higher refinement and better interior design.
- 2006-2007 (7th Generation): These years are also highlighted for their reliability and fewer complaints compared to surrounding years in their generation.
For Modern Features and Driving Experience
- 2013-2017 (9th Generation): This generation features a sleeker design, improved interior materials, and the most powerful V6 engine ever in an Accord. The 2017 model year is especially well-regarded, being the final year of this generation and having a strong reliability record with a facelift and available Honda Sensing driver-assist systems.
- 2018-2022 (10th Generation): This generation offers modern styling and technology, with features like standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all trims. This period represents a great value, providing a modern and technologically advanced experience.
Key Considerations
- Avoid Redesign Years: Model years that coincide with a major redesign, such as 2003, 2008, and 2018, can sometimes introduce new mechanical issues, according to CarComplaints.com data.
- Look for the V6: If you’re interested in a powerful and luxurious experience, the V6 engine option found in the 2017 and other 9th and 10th generation models is a highlight.
- Consider Trim Levels: Features like leather seating, advanced driver-assist systems, and premium audio vary significantly by trim level and model year.
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.
Which Honda Accord 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
