2004 Honda Accord

The 2004 Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan praised for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 producing 160 hp and 161 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 producing 240 hp and 212 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options consist of a 5-speed manual (available with both engines) and a 5-speed automatic (available with both engines). Owners often appreciate the Accord’s longevity and smooth driving experience, but some common complaints include issues with the automatic transmission, air conditioning, and some electrical components as the car ages.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• VTC Actuator Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start, typically lasting for a few seconds. This is due to wear and tear on the VTC actuator on the intake camshaft that controls the VTC system, which controls the valve timing and allows the engine to produce more torque.
  • Solution: Replace the VTC actuator and update the PCM software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or timing chain cover gasket. Burning oil smell, visible oil drips.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+

3.0L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or timing chain cover gasket. Burning oil smell, visible oil drips.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, complete transmission failure. This is a very common issue.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission or rebuild the transmission. Often caused by overheating and lack of proper maintenance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: 04-029 (October 2004): Certain A/T equipped vehicles may exhibit a problem with the secondary shaft bearing in the automatic transmission.

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working, intermittent operation of door locks.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door.
• Radio Display Fading
  • Description/Symptoms: The radio display fades over time, making it difficult to read.
  • Solution: Replace the radio or repair the display.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rear quarter panels, particularly around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per panel (depending on severity)

Interior

• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not working, blowing warm air. Often, the compressor clutch will fail.
  • Solution: Replace the AC compressor and possibly the condenser and receiver drier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+

Summary:

The 2004 Honda Accord is generally a reliable vehicle, but it’s prone to certain issues as it ages. The most significant concern is the automatic transmission failure, which can be costly to repair. Other common issues include AC compressor failure, rear trailing arm bushing wear, and electrical problems. Addressing these issues promptly can help prolong the life of the vehicle and maintain its value.