2014 Honda Accord
The 2014 Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. Available engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 cylinder and a 3.5L V6. The 2.4L engine produces 185 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5L engine generates 278 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) available only with the 2.4L engine. Owners generally appreciate the Accord’s comfortable ride, good fuel economy, and reputation for dependability. Common dislikes include the sometimes uninspiring styling and, for some, the road noise.
Engine
2.4L Inline-4 Cylinder
- Direct Injection Fuel System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, and reduced fuel economy may occur due to carbon buildup on the intake valves. This is a common issue with direct injection engines.
- Solution: Professional cleaning of the intake valves to remove carbon deposits is required. Options include walnut blasting or chemical cleaning.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around the valve cover, burning oil smell, and potentially low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
3.5L V6
- Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, rough idling, and misfires. VCM deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy, but this can sometimes lead to these issues.
- Solution: While Honda has released software updates to address the VCM-related oil consumption, some owners resort to installing aftermarket VCM disabler devices. Another solution includes replacing piston rings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (VCM Disabler), $1500 - $3000+ (Piston Ring Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - 2.4L Engine Only
- CVT Juddering/Shuddering
- Description/Symptoms: Shaking or vibrating during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. This can be caused by wear and tear on the CVT belt or issues with the transmission fluid.
- Solution: Replacing the CVT fluid can sometimes resolve the issue. In more severe cases, a CVT replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (Fluid Change), $3000 - $5000+ (Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Automatic - 2.4L & 3.5L Engines
No Issues Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than usual, especially when loaded. Worn rear springs are the likely cause.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a short period, making it difficult to start the car. A parasitic drain from a faulty module or accessory is the likely cause.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic drain, which may involve replacing a faulty module or accessory.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- Display Screen Issues (Navigation/Infotainment)
- Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen freezing, slow response, or complete failure.
- Solution: Software update (if available) or replacement of the head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (Software Update), $500 - $1500+ (Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: One or both daytime running lights stop working.
- Solution: Replacement of the DRL bulb or assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heater does not warm up or only partially heats.
- Solution: Replacement of the heating element or switch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 Honda Accord, while generally reliable, has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most concerning issues revolve around the CVT transmission and VCM systems, which can lead to costly repairs. Electrical problems, particularly battery drain and display screen issues, are also relatively common. While not all 2014 Accords will experience these problems, being aware of them can help buyers make an informed decision and budget accordingly. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant repair costs, so a thorough inspection is advisable before purchasing a used 2014 Accord.