Generations
CG — CG (1997-2002)
1997–2002
1.8 VTEC, 2.2 VTEC
CL — CL (2002-2008)
2002–2008
1.8 VTEC, 2.0 i-VTEC, 2.0 i-VTEC, 2.2 VTEC, 2.2 i-CTDi, 2.2 i-CTDi
CU — CU (2008-2015)
2008–2015
1.8 VTEC, 2.0 i-VTEC, 2.0 i-VTEC, 2.2 VTEC, 2.2 i-CTDi, 2.2 i-CTDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Honda Accord problems ranked by severity. We track 7 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Subframe corrosion (CL/CM)
The rear subframe mounting points are prone to severe corrosion where the subframe bolts to the main body shell. This is a structural failure that affects load-bearing areas within 30cm of suspension mounting points, causing MOT failures at The corrosion typically starts from inside the box sections and progresses outward, making it difficult to detect until advanced. Later CL/CM models show the same pattern, indicating an ongoing design weakness rather than age-related deterioration alone.
What happens if ignoredComplete subframe detachment represents a catastrophic safety failure that can cause loss of control. Repair requires removal of the rear subframe, welding of new metal sections, and full realignment. Total repair costs typically range from £1,500-£3,000 at specialist bodyshops. The car is unsafe to drive if structural corrosion is confirmed and should not be used until repaired.
Independent garage
£1,500–£2,500
Specialist
£1,800–£3,000
Main dealer
£2,500–£4,000
Parts only
£300–£800
Major
Suspension component corrosion (CL/CM)
Suspension components including control arms, anti-roll bar links, and mounting bushes suffer from accelerated corrosion, failing MOT tests at 3335.2x the fleet average rate. The problem affects both front and rear suspension across all engine variants, with failures recorded from 20,000 miles upward. This suggests a fundamental issue with material specification or protective coatings rather than normal wear patterns. Components may become detached during use, creating a dangerous situation.
What happens if ignoredCorroded suspension components can detach without warning, causing loss of control and potential accident. Failed components require immediate replacement of the affected arms, links, or bushes. Individual component replacement typically costs £150-£400 but multiple items often need attention simultaneously, particularly on higher-mileage examples.
Independent garage
£200–£600
Specialist
£250–£750
Main dealer
£400–£1,000
Parts only
£100–£300
Major
Emissions system failure (CL/CM)
Petrol engines fail emissions tests at extraordinarily high rates - up to 9-litre variants. The failures affect both manufacturer limits and default statutory limits, indicating fundamental problems with the emissions control system rather than minor drift. Common causes include failed catalytic converters, faulty lambda sensors, and EGR valve carbon buildup. The problem is worsening over time according to MOT data trends.
What happens if ignoredEmissions failures result in immediate MOT failure and prohibition from road use until repaired. Catalytic converter replacement is the most expensive repair, typically costing £400-£800 including labour. Lambda sensor replacement is less expensive at £150-£300 but often multiple sensors require attention. The car cannot be legally driven on public roads without a valid MOT certificate.
Independent garage
£200–£800
Specialist
£250–£900
Main dealer
£350–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£600
Major
Steering rack gaiter damage (CL/CM)
Steering rack gaiters (protective rubber boots covering the steering rack ends) fail at exceptionally high rates - up to 3335.2x the fleet average. The gaiters protect the steering rack internals from dirt and moisture ingress. Once damaged, contamination enters the steering system causing accelerated wear of the rack mechanism itself. This affects all engine variants and represents a design weakness in the gaiter material or mounting method.
What happens if ignoredDamaged gaiters allow contamination of the steering rack internals, leading to accelerated wear and eventual steering rack replacement. Early intervention by replacing the gaiters costs £100-£200, while a complete steering rack replacement costs £600-£1,200. Contaminated steering racks can develop dangerous amounts of play or binding that affect vehicle control.
Independent garage
£80–£200
Specialist
£100–£250
Main dealer
£150–£350
Parts only
£30–£80
3 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Honda Accord fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 92x the fleet average
Sample: 2,108 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 51x the fleet average
Sample: 213 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 51x the fleet average
Sample: 577 tests
Track rod ends worn
Steering · 150k+ miles
MOT failure rate: 46x the fleet average
Sample: 373 tests
Coil springs broken
Brakes · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 36x the fleet average
Sample: 6,033 tests
Subframe bushes or mounts worn
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 28x the fleet average
Sample: 287 tests
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Related
Honda Accord reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Honda Accord?
The Honda Accord has 7 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Subframe corrosion (CL/CM) and Suspension component corrosion (CL/CM).
Is the Honda Accord reliable?
The Honda Accord has 0 dangerous and 6 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Honda Accord problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe corrosion (CL/CM)) costs £1,500–£2,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.
Which Honda Accord generation is most reliable?
The CG (1997–2002) has the fewest dangerous issues (0). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.