2004 Honda Accord

2004 Honda Accord

Overview

The 2004 Honda Accord is generally considered a reliable vehicle, known for its balanced performance, comfortable ride, and practical design. This generation of Accord offered a range of engine and transmission options, catering to different driver preferences. While most owners report positive experiences, like any vehicle, certain components can be prone to specific issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented, non-wear-and-tear related problems that may affect the reliability of the 2004 Accord across its key systems, providing insights for potential buyers and current owners.

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Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder (K24A)

Oil Leaks (Rear Main Seal)

• Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of the rear main crankshaft seal.
• Cost: $400 - $800

VTEC Solenoid Issues

• Symptoms: Check Engine Light, rough idle, loss of power, especially at higher RPMs.
• Solution: Replacement of the VTEC solenoid or its gasket.
• Cost: $150 - $300

3.0L V6 (J30A)

Timing Belt Replacement Interval

• Symptoms: Not a failure, but critical maintenance. Failure to replace can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
• Solution: Scheduled replacement of the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump.
• Cost: $600 - $1000

Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) Issues

• Symptoms: Rough idle, engine misfires, oil consumption, Check Engine Light.
• Solution: Can involve software updates, oil de-carbonization, or replacement of VCM-related components.
• Cost: $300 - $1500+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, transmission fluid leaks.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $2500+

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Suspension

Standard Suspension

Worn Ball Joints / Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Rear Shock Absorber Leaks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, visible fluid leaks on shock bodies.
• Solution: Replacement of rear shock absorbers.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Power windows not working, interior lights flickering, door locks malfunctioning, dashboard warning lights illuminating randomly.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $400 - $900

Alternator

Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery, electrical system malfunctions.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Paint and Body

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: Fading or peeling clear coat, especially on the roof, hood, and trunk.
• Solution: Professional repainting or touch-up work.
• Cost: $500 - $2000+

Sunroof

Drain Tube Clogs

• Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, musty smell, potential damage to interior electronics.
• Solution: Clearing of sunroof drain tubes and sealing.
• Cost: $100 - $300

Interior

HVAC System

Blower Motor Resistor Failure

• Symptoms: HVAC fan only works on the highest setting, or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $100 - $250

Dashboard Illumination

Dim or Flickering Dashboard Lights

• Symptoms: Instrument cluster lights are dim, flicker, or go out completely.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster or its associated wiring/components.
• Cost: $200 - $600

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Summary Verdict

The 2004 Honda Accord is a dependable car with a solid reputation for reliability. While it’s not immune to issues, the problems reported are generally manageable and often related to specific components rather than widespread design flaws. Common concerns include potential oil leaks from the rear main seal on the 4-cylinder, VCM issues on the V6, and occasional automatic transmission harshness. Electrical gremlins and exterior paint issues can also arise. Regular maintenance, especially for the timing belt on V6 models, is crucial. Overall, the 2004 Accord remains a good used car choice, provided it has been well-maintained and any potential issues are addressed.