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2005 Honda Accord

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2005 Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Available engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 and a 3.0L V6. The 2.4L produced around 160 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0L V6 generated approximately 240 horsepower and 212 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic, depending on the engine. Owners generally appreciate the Accord’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reputation for longevity. Common dislikes often revolve around perceived bland styling and, in some cases, specific issues related to the automatic transmission and some electrical components as they age.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

  • VTC Actuator Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start-up that lasts for a few seconds. This is due to the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator failing to hold oil pressure when the engine is off.
    • Solution: Replacement of the VTC actuator. A revised part is available from Honda.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from valve cover gasket and rear main seal as vehicle gets older. Noticeable oil spots in parking spaces, burning smell, and low oil level.
    • Solution: Replacement of valve cover gasket and/or rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for valve cover gasket, $500 - $1200+ for rear main seal
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from valve cover gasket and rear main seal as vehicle gets older. Noticeable oil spots in parking spaces, burning smell, and low oil level.
    • Solution: Replacement of valve cover gasket and/or rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for valve cover gasket, $500 - $1200+ for rear main seal
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or ticking noise from the engine, especially at start-up or idle. If the tensioner fails completely, the timing belt can skip teeth, causing serious engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing belt, water pump, and tensioner as a preventative measure.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

  • Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, noticeable slipping between gears, and harsh or jerky shifts. Often occurs in 2nd to 3rd gear or 3rd to 4th gear.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid change with Honda ATF-DW1 can sometimes alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for fluid change, $2000 - $4000+ for rebuild/replacement
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds or when accelerating. Can also cause stalling or difficulty shifting.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Suspension Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, causing a rough ride and poor handling. Often due to worn rear springs.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear springs and possibly shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Control Arm Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Can also cause vague steering and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per control arm
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly, either not locking/unlocking or only working intermittently.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Radio Display Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Radio display flickering or going completely out.
    • Solution: Replacement of the radio unit or repair of the display circuit board.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Rear Quarter Panels
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rear quarter panels, especially around the wheel wells. This is common in areas with heavy road salt use.
    • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of the affected body panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per panel, depending on the severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sun Visor Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors no longer staying in the upright position and sagging down, obstructing the driver’s view.
    • Solution: Replacement of the sun visors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per visor
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Honda Accord, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to be aware of. Transmission problems, particularly with the automatic transmission, can be a significant concern and costly to repair. Engine oil leaks and timing belt issues (on the V6) are also common as the vehicle ages. Electrical problems, such as failing door lock actuators, are relatively minor but can be annoying. Rust can be a concern, depending on the climate. Overall, while the Accord is known for its longevity, potential buyers should have these issues inspected before purchasing to avoid unexpected repairs.

Honda, Accord
Honda Accord 2005
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