2002-2008 (7th Generation) · K24A 2.4L petrol (156-190 hp)
Reliable family sedan with a reputation for longevity - many examples exceed 300,000 km. The K24 i-VTEC engine is robust and uses a timing chain instead of belt. Major concern: automatic transmission failures especially on 2003-2005 models, particularly the V6 but also some 4-cylinder versions. Oil consumption is common but normal for K24 engines. Power steering whine from degraded O-rings is an easy fix. Check for rust on rear wheel arches and rocker panels. Avoid 2003-2004 if possible - 2006-2008 are the most reliable years.
Torque converter and internal component failures, especially under 160,000 km · more· less
The 2003-2005 Accord automatic transmissions (both V6 and 4-cylinder) are notorious for premature failure. Symptoms include slipping between gears, harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and complete failure often occurring between 90,000-150,000 km. The 2003 model year is the worst - CarComplaints.com recommends avoiding it completely. Honda issued extended warranties and service bulletins but many owners still experienced failures. Torque converter shudder between 30-50 mph is an early warning sign. The 2006+ models have significantly improved transmissions. Rebuilding costs €2,000-2,500; used transmission replacement runs €2,500-3,500.
Piston rings stick causing oil burning, typically 1 quart per 1,500-5,000 km · more· less
Oil consumption is extremely common on K24 engines, with many owners reporting 1 quart every 1,500-5,000 km. Honda considers up to 1 quart per 1,100 km "normal." The root cause is typically stuck piston rings from infrequent oil changes or wrong viscosity oil. 2008-2011 models had a class action lawsuit and extended warranty for oil consumption. If caught early, some owners have fixed it by cleaning PCV valves and using quality synthetic oil. If rings are badly damaged, piston ring replacement costs €2,500-3,000. Most owners just live with it by checking oil every 1,000 km and topping up as needed (€200-400/year in extra oil).
Power steering pump whine/groan€5 - €250
Defective inlet O-ring allows air into system, causes moaning when cold · more· less
A very common issue causing a whine or groan when turning the steering wheel, especially when cold. Honda issued service bulletin #07-086 for 2003-2008 Accords. The problem is a degraded O-ring on the power steering pump inlet that allows air to enter, creating bubbles in the fluid. The fix is extremely simple: replace the O-ring (part costs €1-5) and bleed the system. The job takes 5-10 minutes if you do it yourself. If ignored and pump fails from running with air, replacement costs €200-250. Some cars also have a clogged screen in the reservoir - clean with brake cleaner.
VTC actuator rattle on cold start€200 - €850
Variable timing control actuator sticks, causes 2-second rattle at startup · more· less
The VTC (Variable Timing Control) actuator can fail, causing a loud rattle or grinding noise for 1-3 seconds on cold starts. This happens when the locking pin inside the actuator sticks in the wrong position. If ignored, the repeated chain lash can eventually damage the timing chain tensioner. Honda released an updated part (14310-R5A-305) that prevents recurrence. A DIY spring repair kit costs €35 and takes 90 minutes. Professional VTC actuator replacement costs €600-850. If the timing chain and tensioner are also worn, expect €1,500-2,200 total.
Timing chain tensioner wear€1,000 - €2,200
Tensioner loses pressure overnight, causes cold start rattle after 100,000+ km · more· less
The EA211 timing chain tensioner has a release valve that can weaken over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed off overnight. This causes a distinctive rattle for 1-30 seconds on cold start. Typically occurs between 100,000-180,000 km, especially if oil changes were stretched. If you hear rattling lasting more than a few seconds, the chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets should all be replaced together. VW has an updated tensioner part. Ignoring this can lead to chain skipping teeth and catastrophic valve/piston contact. Full timing chain kit replacement costs €1,000-1,400 at independent shops, €1,600-2,200 at Honda dealers.
Rust on wheel arches and rocker panels€400 - €1,600
Corrosion begins under panel lips, rear passenger quarter panel most common · more· less
The 7th generation Accord is prone to rust on rear wheel arches (especially rear passenger side quarter panel), rocker panels, and undercarriage components. Corrosion starts from grime accumulation and moisture under panel lips. Road salt accelerates the process. The 7th gen is better than the 6th gen for rust, but still requires attention in wet climates. Temporary fiberglass repair costs €400-600 per arch. Proper patch panel welding and repainting costs €800-1,200 per arch. Prevention: regular washing of wheel wells, yearly undercoating, and waxoyl treatment in chassis holes.
Water pump failure€350 - €750
Water pump fails between 120,000-180,000 km, causes coolant leaks · more· less
The K24 water pump typically lasts 120,000-180,000 km before failure. Symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, coolant leaks, or poor cabin heating. OEM Honda water pump costs €150-270; aftermarket versions €60-120. Labor is approximately 2-3 hours due to accessibility. Total cost at independent garage: €350-500. At Honda dealer: €500-750. It's wise to replace the water pump during timing chain service since much of the same disassembly is required.
The downstream oxygen sensor (on the catalytic converter) commonly fails with code P0141 indicating heater circuit malfunction. This sensor is more affordable than the upstream sensor - parts cost €25-90 depending on OEM vs aftermarket. Labor is about 0.9 hours due to location under the car. Total cost: €150-250 at independent shop, €250-450 at dealer. Sometimes wiring or connector corrosion causes the code - clean connectors first before replacing sensor. If you also have code P0420 (catalytic converter), fix the P0141 first as it may resolve both codes.
Climate control and stereo displays dim or fail completely, especially 2003-2005 · more· less
Early 7th gen Accords (2003-2005) suffer from HVAC display backlight failure and stereo display issues. The climate control display becomes dim or completely dark due to failing solder joints or dried-out capacitors on the circuit board. Solutions include resoldering cold joints (€50-100 at electronics repair shop), replacing capacitors (€150-250), or replacing the entire unit with a refurbished one (€300-600). Stereo backlight failure has similar causes. This is a known issue but not safety-critical - the systems still function even with dark displays.
A/C compressor clutch relay failure€10 - €500
Relay fails, causes A/C compressor not to engage · more· less
The A/C clutch relay in the under-hood fuse panel can fail, preventing the A/C compressor from engaging. The relay is very cheap (€6-20) and easy to replace - it's in the fuse box marked with a snowflake symbol. You can swap it with the identical fan relay to test. If the relay isn't the issue, the clutch coil may need replacement (€60-120 for parts, €300-500 installed) or in worst case, full compressor replacement (€400-800). Most of the time it's just the relay - a €6-10 fix.
Starter motor failure€200 - €900
Starter brushes wear out, typically around 180,000-200,000 km · more· less
Starter motor failure is fairly common after 180,000 km. Often it's just the €15 brush set that wears down - a DIY rebuild takes 3-4 hours and costs €25 total. Professional starter replacement costs €600-900 at dealers (€400-420 for remanufactured starter + 2.25 hours labor). At independent shops: €350-550. Aftermarket new starters cost €120-250. Symptoms include clicking sound when turning key, or slow cranking that progressively worsens.
Alternator failure€350 - €950
Alternator can fail after 150,000+ km, causes battery warning light · more· less
Alternator failure is less common but increases dramatically after 150,000 km. Symptoms include battery warning light, dimming headlights, electrical issues, or dead battery. Aftermarket alternators cost €150-300; OEM Honda units €350-500. Labor is 1.5-2 hours. Total cost at independent shop: €350-550. At dealer: €600-950. Most alternators last well over 150,000 km without incident when the battery and electrical system are maintained properly.
Generally reliable, but avoid 2003-2005 automatic transmissions
The 7th generation Accord is fundamentally reliable with the K24 engine capable of 300,000+ km. However, automatic transmission failures in 2003-2005 models are extremely common and expensive. Manual transmission Accords and 2006+ automatics are much safer choices. Oil consumption is normal for K24 engines - expect to add oil between changes. Most other issues are minor and well-documented with affordable fixes.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (every 10,000-12,000 km maximum).
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear patterns. Common sizes: 205/65R15, 215/60R16.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for timing chain or VTC rattle in first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Inspect for rust on rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and undercarriage components.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including highway speeds. Test automatic transmission thoroughly.
Specific for this vehicle
Check oil level and consumption history
Pull dipstick - oil should be at proper level. Ask owner about oil consumption. K24 engines typically burn some oil - 1qt per 2,000-5,000 km is common.
Test automatic transmission thoroughly (if equipped)
Drive for minimum 20 minutes. Feel for slipping, harsh shifts, shuddering between 30-50 mph. Check transmission fluid color and smell. 2003-2005 models are high-risk - strongly consider avoiding.
Listen for cold start timing chain rattle
Engine must be completely cold. Rattle for 1-2 seconds is VTC actuator (minor). Rattle lasting 5+ seconds indicates timing chain tensioner wear (expensive).
Check for power steering whine/groan
Turn steering wheel when engine is cold. Whining or groaning indicates degraded O-ring - easy €5 fix if you negotiate.
Inspect rear wheel arches for rust
Look carefully at rear passenger side quarter panel and both rear wheel arches for paint bubbling or rust. Check rocker panels underneath.
Test all displays (HVAC, stereo, instrument cluster)
Check that all displays are fully lit and readable. Dim or dark displays indicate failing backlights or capacitors, especially on 2003-2005 models.
Verify model year and production date
2006-2008 models are significantly more reliable than 2003-2005. Check VIN or production date on door jamb sticker.
Check coolant level and condition
Low coolant or brown/milky appearance indicates water pump or head gasket issues. Look for coolant leaks around water pump.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Power steering hose deterioration (V6 2003-2007)Verify completed
Power steering O-ring TSB #07-086 (2003-2008)Check if addressed
Transmission torque converter issues (2003-2007)Check service history
Contact Honda with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The Takata airbag recall is critical for safety. Check NHTSA website or visit Honda dealer for complete recall and TSB information specific to your VIN.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years/100,000 km)Expired on all 2002-2008 models
Extended transmission warranty (2003-2005)Check if active - some extended to 8 years/160,000 km
All 2002-2008 Accords are outside their original factory warranty. Some 2003-2005 models received extended transmission warranties due to widespread failures - verify with Honda dealer using VIN. Extended warranties may still be available through third-party providers.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.