1996 Honda Accord S 2.0i from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Absolute Bargain!!!

Faults:

No major faults what so ever.

2 electric windows failed, due to the mechanism bending, that cost £55 each.

After 110K the exhaust is beginning to blow a little. No real problem as it can easily be welded for now.

Radiator broke at 108K, but fair play to the car, it still drove for another 1000 miles without any problems before I got round to getting it fixed. Used to steam a little though (well quite a lot actually) no damage done though. That's Honda reliability for you!!!

General Comments:

Mine is the S model with Honda's sports body kit (I say body kit, its really just front and back splitters and fog lights, but it makes it look that little different), lowered suspension and alloy wheels.

The car is brilliant, I can't fault it at all. Servicing is average, consumption is a little steep (25-30mpg). Although the fact that it will wet all over Cavalier SRi's and other boy racer types, and keep pace with Imprezas, more than compensates.

The car will cruise comfortably along the motorway with 4 people and give everyone plenty of space in the front and the back, and if the law allowed it would get all the way up to 142mph. Honestly, I couldn't quite believe it myself.

In my opinion, it beats the new Accord hands down (except for the Type-R).

For the same price as a second hand mondeo taxi, you could have one of these!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st April, 2005

1996 Honda Accord EX 2.2 VTEC from North America

Summary:

Reliable like the sunrise each morning

Faults:

Power door-locks didn't work on the rear doors when I bought the car.

Front motor mount replaced at 50,000 miles.

A/C hose clogged and leaked water on passenger floorboard at 60,000 miles.

TCU (Transmission Control Module) was disconnected by shady dealership and caused transmission to malfunction at 70,000 miles.

Original factory battery replaced at 87,000 miles.

Exhaust B-pipe rusted out and was replaced at 90,000 miles.

First major tune-up at 90,000 miles.

Radiator hose clamp failed and was replaced at 100,000 miles.

Rear driver's side speaker blew at 110,000 miles.

Original CV axles/joints replaced at 120,000 miles.

Driver's side power window regulator and cable failed and were replaced at 125,000 miles.

Radiator replaced at 130,000 miles.

Clear coat began peeling off hood at 145,000 miles.

Water inside passenger side taillight at 150,000 miles.

Some Honda dealerships are shady and overcharge for regular scheduled service.

Nothing else besides routine maintenance.

General Comments:

First and foremost, the car has been exceptionally dependable. No major repairs or break downs in the 100,000 miles I've traveled in it. I enjoy being able to depend on my car without a shadow of a doubt. Longevity of engine components is outstanding. Items such as the alternator, starter, AC compressor, etc. are still the factory originals. It continues to run reliably with nearly 151,000 miles. I have to say, I have been very impressed with it's reliability.

The car still feels tight and solid after 9 years and 151,000 miles. Aside from the clear coat peeling off the hood, it still looks and feels like a new car.

It provides a relatively smooth and quiet ride on the highway and has no trouble traveling above highway speeds. 75 mph requires 3,200 rpms, which may seem high, but the engine has a 7,000 rpm red-line.

The interior design and materials are dated, but ergonomics and switchgear are excellent. The materials are of decent quality, panel gaps are kept to a minimum and there are absolutely no squeaks or rattles to be heard.

The seats are comfortable and supportive, but could use more cushioning. The fabric is durable, showing no signs of wear. Backseat leg room is cramped.

With the right set of tires and factory suspension in good condition, the Accord handles better than a Camry (it's closest competitor) and has much better driver feedback. The Camry is more isolated from the road. Hondas are the BMWs of Japan.

Did I mention it was reliable?

Overall, I've been more than satisfied with the Accord. It's been a genuine car and VERY faithful. Having been around mine, several of my friends and co-workers have gotten one for themselves! I couldn't have asked for a better car, and feel very fortunate to own such a wonderful car. I give Honda two thumbs up for this Accord.

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

Review Date: 24th March, 2005

20th Oct 2006, 16:48

Well yea, I'm not really sure what you mean by semi-automatic, because as far as I know honda only makes 5/6-speed standard or Automatic. There's no middle ground here.