Hey all, nice place you got here.

I'm looking at buying a used Accord for commuting. I'm not wanting to spend over $4k.

I've never owned an Accord before, not sure what problems are and have a few questions.

1) What are the best years, best reliability?
2) Are the auto's or manual transmissions more reliable
3) What kind of hwy mileage can I expect out of a 4 cyl (auto and manual)?
4) What is considered "high mileage" with these cars?

I'd appreciate ANY info y'all have on areas of trouble, things to look at, etc.

Thank you in advance!!

 

In the $4k range you should look for a '98-'02 Accord. The automatic trans is known to be problematic. The manuals are equally known to be almost bullet proof. We took our '99 on a 3500 mile trip in August. The worst mileage we got was 29mpg (one tank) and the best was 38mpg (one tank). We averaged 33mpg for the trip. I had the cruise set at 75mph most of the trip, Indiana to Wyoming and back. High mileage? Many easily make it past 300k. Personally, I don't buy one over 150k. Just my $.02

 

Thanks for the information!! Yours is a 4 cylinder?

I currently have a 2003 Corolla 5 speed. It is currently in the shop having tranny rebuilt. These cars are known to have issues, but I didn't learn that until I bought it.

How are the 95,96,97 models?

Thanks again!!

 

Ours is the 4 cylinder. I believe the '94-'97 is viewed as "slightly" less reliable, but my sister has one ('96) with 241k miles on it. I was patient and found our '99 with only 102k miles for $4000, but I looked for quite a while because I like that body style.

 

You will have to search for the cars in your price range. Avoid the 98-02 accords with an automatic.

I think the 94-97 accords are very solid cars. The hardest thing to do on these cars is the front brake rotors.

The 03-07 accords are pretty decent. Not sure if you can find one in your price range, but it can't hurt.

If I had to buy a cheap accord, I would look at the 96-97 4-cylinder ones. Either AT or MT.

 

Personally, the 94-97 are solid, even the auto trans-of course you have to take care of them,,,,,which means change the fluid when it is due. I have 372K on my 95 EX Auto (orig engine and trans ), avg ~26mpg in mixed daily driving. If you can find a manual trans in the 98-02 then I would go with that.

 

Back from the dead...still haven't gotten an Accord yet.

Concerning 2002+ models (may spend more than originally planned), which transmission is the best? Any other known issues/ problems?

Thanks

 

Welcome back, I would probably avoid the 02 and somewhat 03 automatic transmission.