Introduction
Known for its reliability, comfort, and long-term value, the Honda Accord has been a top choice for drivers for decades. Buying a used Honda Accord can be a smart move, and knowing what to look for can make the process easier. Research can help you avoid costly repairs down the road. Here is an easy-to-read buying guide to help you learn what you need to know before buying a used Honda Accord. This guide will walk you through everything you need to make a confident, informed decision and find a Honda Accord that fits your needs and budget.
Key Takeaways
- The Honda Accord first debuted as a compact car, undergoing numerous design changes over five generations before becoming a midsize model.
- The Honda Accord lineup has changed a few times to meet market demands while still offering drivers a reliable, affordable car.
- New Honda Accord models offer advanced technology, safety features, and optional hybrid powertrains.
11th Generation (2023 - present)
The latest Honda Accord generation is the eleventh, which debuted in 2023. The latest Honda Accord models are praised by J.D. Power as among the best midsize cars available, offered in six trims, including four hybrid models. The lineup includes the LX, SE, Sport Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid, all priced affordably and featuring advanced technology, comfort, and convenience.
10th Generation (2017 - 2022)
A major change to the tenth-generation lineup was the drop of the coupe body style when the new Honda Accord debuted in 2017, leaving only a sedan. Trim levels include the LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring.
9th Generation (2012 - 2016)
The ninth-generation Honda Accords, produced from 2012 to 2016, were largely unchanged from the previous generation's model. Honda Accord trim levels between 2012 and 2016 include the LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring.
8th Generation (2007 - 2011)
Like previous models, Honda expanded the size of the Accord in 2007, resulting in a larger vehicle with increased interior room. The 2011 Honda Accord coupe and sedan received updates both inside and out, featuring modern elements such as reflective strips and paddle shifters. This generation's trim levels were: LX, LX P, LX S, SE, EC, and EX-L.
7th Generation (2002 - 2006)
The seventh-generation Honda Accord was larger than previous models and produced more power, improving performance. With the same powertrain as the fast Acura TL Type S, the 2003 Honda Accord coupe featured 17-inch wheels, leather seats, carbon-fiber dash pieces, and an incredible sound system to match. This generation's trim levels were the DX, VP, LX, SE, and EX.
6th Generation (1998 - 2001)
Between 1998 and 2001, there were few changes to the Honda Accord's design and engine. What changed for the lineup in the sixth generation was the discontinuation of the wagon body style.
5th Generation (1993 - 1997)
The fifth-generation Honda Accord was launched as a midsize car on the new CD chassis, again larger than previous models, with a wider stance but a shorter wheelbase and overall length. The Honda Accord produced between 1993 and 1997 included the DX, LX, and EX trims, with an upgraded interior better suited to the contours of a driver's body and reach. The 1994 Honda Accord was the Motor Trend Impact Car of the Year.
A major mechanical shift came when the 1995 Honda Accord debuted with a V6 engine, which also affected the front-end design of the EX trims. Other upgrades included a 1996 redesign to modernize the exterior and interior. In 1997, a Special Edition Honda Accord was released in Heather Mist Metallic, San Marino Red, and Dark Currant Pearl.
4th Generation (1990 - 1992)
The fourth-generation Honda Accord was introduced on a new CB chassis, was larger than previous generations, and no longer offered the three-door hatchback option. Other trims that were dropped included the LX-i and SE-i, which were replaced with the DX, LX, and EX trims.
Many engineering innovations changed the design of the fourth-generation Honda Accord between 1990 and 1992, including the addition of a new all-aluminum 2.2-litre 16-valve electronic fuel-injection engine. Dealerships also made CD players available either in the dashboard or in the trunk. Some new options for the Honda Accord included fog lights, a security system rear wing spoiler, a luggage rack, and a variety of covers and visors.
3rd Generation (1985 - 1989)
The third-generation Honda Accord debuted in late 1985 with new hidden retractable headlights. The third-generation Honda Accords featured improved struts, offering better handling and greater stability. New Honda Accords were marketed to drivers as the perfect economy car, which added to their appeal and reliability.
In 1988, the Honda Accord coupe went into production, changing the game on the availability of body styles and appealing to drivers who preferred a sporty design. Other final touches on the third generation for the Honda Accord were the return of the SE-i trim with many standard upgraded features including leather seats, alloy wheels, air conditioning, power steering, power windows, power moonroof in the sedan models, and the Bose audio system with steering wheel mounted controls which really took interior cabin design to the next level in an economy line of compact cars.
2nd Generation (1981 - 1984)
The second-generation Honda Accord compact car debuted in 1981 and was part of the first line produced in the United States, in Marysville, Ohio. These Honda Accord sedans and hatchbacks featured modern interiors and exteriors, with upgrades such as shag carpet and velour trim inside for a more luxurious feel. One of the most innovative and modern features of the second generation was the availability of the first automatic in-car navigation system, the Electro Gyrocator. Using a system based on a gas rate gyroscope, the 1981 Honda Accord could be located to help drivers map trips.
Another update to the second-generation Honda Accord involved the headlamps, which were required by Federal regulations to be a standard size, shape, and use sealed beam construction. Although this regulation was removed in 1983, Honda maintained this headlight design through 1989.
Other upgrades for this Honda Accord generation included a 1983 front-end design update, a new Gray exterior paint option, and a 4-speed automatic transmission paired with the 1.8L engine. The speedometer was also upgraded to 120 MPH to accommodate changing speed limit laws. Finally, the new Honda Accord Special Edition (SE) was a hit, featuring Novillo leather seats, power windows, power locks, and a power sunroof. Other upgrades for this time included velour upholstery, a stereo, air conditioning, and a digital clock.
1st Generation (1976- 1980)
The first Honda Accord debuted in 1976 as a compact car offered in two body styles, hatchback and sedan, and in three colors: Livorno Beige, Silver, or Dark Red. The Honda Accord was popular for its size and fuel economy, which made it a big hit with drivers in the mid to late 1970s.
Some of the changes made to the Honda Accord lineup during the first generation of production included the introduction of the LX trim, the "Hondamatic" transmission, new grille and taillamp designs, and remote mirrors and chrome accents on the four-door sedan models. Other additions to the Honda Accord closer to the second generation of production in 1981 included new fabric materials and color options for the interior, new exterior color options with Oslo Ivory replacing Livorno Beige, making Glacier Gray a new option, along with new instrument cluster designs and shift knob innovations.
Reliable, Used Cars at Alan Jay
Finding reliable used vehicles is easy with the Alan Jay Automotive network. From the dealerships the community trusts to transparent pricing, both online and in person, everything about the Alan Jay Way is why your friends and family upgrade their vehicles with us. Shop online or visit one of our dealership showrooms to experience a stress-free buying experience with friendly professionals ready to assist.