2004 Honda Accord LX-E 3.0 V6

Summary:

Buy this car, but sell or trade in at the first sign of trouble

Faults:

Car drifts left even after 3 alignments. Turns out there was a recall that I never was informed of. Got it fixed free of charge.

Ball joints making a clicking sound when going over bumps.

Steering arm seems to be loose, also makes clicks.

Valves would make noises on certain occasions, but could never replicate for the dealer. Now out of warranty, I let it be.

Two days ago transmission failed (5500km). Slips going from second to third, and on occasion from third to fourth. Also delays going to reverse. Always complained about transmission engaging twice when put in D, but no one listened. Now the transmission has failed and is almost useless.

General Comments:

People buy Honda's because of their reputation and build quality, but don't be fooled, these cars have issues. I've talked to a lot of people and read many articles online, and everyone seems to be complaining about the lousy transmission Honda has put in these cars. For day one the car shifted like a concrete mixer, and seemed fragile, as if it's made out of play dough.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 13th October, 2009

2004 Honda Accord EX 4-cylinder

Summary:

A very good car, but questionable value

Faults:

This is my second Honda Accord. I've always been pleased with Honda's reputation for quality and found that to be true. Although my car is five years old, there's an expectation that it will continue to perform well as long as I do my part and make sure it is regularly serviced.

My problem has nothing to due with the vehicle performance. My problem is the clear coat paint on my red Honda Accord. I live in the Northeast, and the paint is fading fast on the roof. After careful inspection, it looks like the paint is also fading around the rear window and along the trunk. It looks terrible, and I can only imagine what it will cost to have the car re-painted! Of course, the dealer and the district manager have essentially told me "tough luck." I called American Honda Motor Company's customer service department today, and was again told that the warranty has expired and there's nothing that can be done. I'm going to write an appeal to the VP - Parts and Services Division, to see if I can be given some consideration. It would be nice if we could come to a "cost-sharing" agreement, but I suspect not. Honda's sales and net income are down this year, and I'm sure the company wants to manage its costs very closely. I really like my Honda, but if I have to pay several thousand dollars to have it re-painted it's not the great value I thought it was when I bought it. I am honestly surprised that there's a problem with the paint. Go figure.

General Comments:

I really like it. Very reliable, good looking inside and out (at least before the paint started to fade).

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 14th September, 2009

15th Sep 2009, 17:50

You really have to keep a good coat of wax on a red vehicle.

I have a red Jeep, and I wash & wax it regularly to keep the paint from fading.

I also use an express wax a couple of times a week between paste waxings.

I don't know if you keep a good coat of wax on your Honda (not just the "wax" from the car wash - which does virtually nothing), but if you don't, you shouldn't be surprised that your red paint job is fading.

2004 Honda Accord EX-L V6 W/ NAVI 3.0L VTEC V6

Summary:

Near perfect

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

The Accord is nearly perfect! Handling is nimble and relatively precise. Certainly not on par with BMW, but definitely better than most other cars in its class. The V6 is silky smooth and paired with the equally smooth and quick shifting 5 speed auto makes for a pleasant (dare I say fun) driving experience.

Navigation system very easy to use and well worth the premium. Fit and finish is great as per Honda standards. Heated seats are great for those cold winter days.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th March, 2009