2003 Honda Accord EX-L review from North America
"Don't count on Honda quality in this Accord"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I have now owned my car for three weeks and less than 1,000 miles and I am on the second visit to the dealership for repairs. This is particularly disappointing since my former 1992 Accord only went into the shop for repairs five times in 11 years.
The first trip to the dealership, two weeks after purchase, was to stifle the myriad of rattles coming from the interior. Both front doors, the headliner, and the rear parcel shelf rattle constantly. The dealer did their best to fix them, but all rattles still remain.
The most recent trip to the dealership, three weeks after purchase, was to address creaking/popping noises coming from the right rear suspension. The dealer tells me certain parts of the suspension need to be replaced. I am currently waiting seven to ten business days for the parts to arrive.
After having a remarkably good experience with my prior Accord, I am extremely disappointed in the seemingly poor quality of my 2003 Accord.
General comments?
Other than the continuing quality problems, the car has a lot of good virtues.
The seats are very comfortable, especially on long trips.
The factory stereo is excellent, as is the 6 disk in-dash CD changer.
The engine runs smoothly and the five speed transmission is a joy to operate.
Recommended reviews
  | Outstanding |
| 2002 - Accord DX 2.3 liter 4 cylinder A BIG disappointment, two major repairs and terrible gas mileage |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 2/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 90 miles |
| Most recent distance | 986 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 27th August, 2003 |