2001 Honda Accord LX 2.3 ULEV

Summary:

A nearly perfect general purpose vehicle

Faults:

Nothing. Front brakes recently replaced, but this is considered normal wear.

General Comments:

The car looks good on the outside. I bought the coupe because I liked the styling more than just about any other car in it's class.

The only complaint with the body is that the sheet metal on the car is very thin. I have accumulated a string of small dents along the side from parking.

The interior is pleasing. All the controls seem to be placed in the right spot, except for the radio. I keep reaching for the round heater control instead of the radio volume control. No other complaints, except that the seat can get a little tiring after several hours driving.

The car drives smooth and quiet. This car is equiped with the 2.3 engine. There is not a lot of power, but it is certainly adequate for normal driving. I wanted this engine for the fuel efficiency. I'm glad I chose this instead of the 6 cylinder. My miles per gallon is averaging in the low 30's.

There are plenty of receptacles for everything, including papers, coins, CD's, sunglasses, etc, but no ash tray or a place to store litter.

The car has been very reliable, needing no repairs. It always starts and runs great.

This is my third honda accord. The first, a 1988 was built very cheaply, needed frequent, expensive repairs, but got very good gas mileage.

The second, a 1994, seemed to be constructed a bit better, but still on the flimsy side. I was very displeased with the poor gas mileage. And although it didn't require many repairs, the repair costs were overly expensive. This newest accord has been a pleasant surprise, living up to the reputation of reliability while also being very economical to drive. I'm glad I bought it and not something else.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th October, 2006

2001 Honda Accord EX V6

Summary:

My Worst Nightmare

Faults:

The car has been a major disappointment. The ABS light has been on for over a year, the dealer can't find a fix so I'm stuck with that.

The SRS light is also on, and so is the check engine light, none of these things can be fixed by the dealer unless I spend at least a grand on some computer thing.

The brakes where replaced because they were shuddering, and lo and behold, 3 months later they are doing it again.

The transmission shifts harshly, as I searched on the Internet I found out that there is a recall on the tranny.

The TCS (traction control system) light is also on.

The funny thing is that I also own a 1988 Accord, and besides regular maintenance and wear and tear, I can't complain. It runs like a champ and nothing is wrong with the car, I've had that one since new. LOL.

General Comments:

The good things are:

It's quiet.

It accelerates well. I've driven it up to 135mph.

Nice ride.

It looks good.

Loaded with goodies.

The leather is nice and soft, many seating positions.

Radio and CD player sound great.

Its spacious.

Big trunk.

Too bad that I wound up with a lemon, I don't think I'll be keeping this one for much longer.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th May, 2006

2001 Honda Accord LX 4 cylinder

Summary:

One of the best cars ever made!

Faults:

This is one of the most reliable cars you will ever own! OK, so it's not a new BMW 7 series, but it's still a wonderful car to own.

The only issue I ever had was a relay went out for the shifter (auto). When it went out I was not able to shift into any gear (but button would not depress.) I discovered that there is a pop-out plug next to the shifter. Use something small to press in the button underneath and you'll be able to shift. WARNING! Your brake/tail lights will NOT work if you do this! I took it to the dealer the next day (very carefully; I used someone I knew behind me, and when I turned on the flashers, it meant I was slowing down :) ) I spent around $150 to fix the relay and haven't had it since.

I used an engine cleaner and it fouled up my spark plugs, but that was my fault. New plugs ($13) distributor cap & rotor ($30) and plug wires ($50) later, it fixed the problem. You'll have to do this stuff anyways if you read your service manual.

Just a caution: if you ever buy headlight bulbs that say they're higher than 55/60watts, watch out. I've passed inspections (Virginia is very strict) fine, but your stock wires can't handle the higher watts. They'll burn out a LOT more often than regular ones. Best Buy and Advance Auto Parts sell some good ones that will still give you the 'white/HID' look without burning out every 2-3 months.

General Comments:

Like I said a very reliable car. It's comfortable, but the seats will seem to get a little stiff on long car rides. (Pretty much normal anyways)

The car, ergonomically, is an 8. Everything is within reach (I'm 6'0") The trunk is large enough, but if not, you can flip the rear seat down. The air is cold when you want it. On a side note, remote start is a good investment with ANY car during the winter!

The only 'concern' that I have with the car, is I wish it was a 6 cyl. When you need to 'get up and go' in traffic (passing, etc.) it can be a little sluggish, but then again, it's the same with all 4 cyl.

Remember this one thing: your car burns gas; it runs on oil. As with any car, change your oil and filter (I use fully synthetic Mobile 1). Keep up with your service manual and change the plugs, air filter, all the good stuff.

All of the things listed above (except the relay) you can do yourself. I am by NO means a mechanic! Haynes is one of the best manuals you can ever have ($12)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th March, 2006