2018 Honda Accord
The 2018 Honda Accord marked a significant redesign, offering a more stylish and sporty aesthetic compared to its predecessors. Engine options included a 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 producing 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain. The 1.5L was paired with either a CVT or a 6-speed manual, while the 2.0L came with a 10-speed automatic. People generally liked the Accord’s improved handling, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. Some common dislikes included the infotainment system’s learning curve and some concerns about the long-term reliability of the new turbo engines.
Engine
1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Owners report the smell of fuel, rough idling, and potential engine stalling. This is often accompanied by a check engine light. Fuel dilution of the oil is another symptom.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injectors, often requiring all four to be replaced at once. An oil change is also typically recommended to address fuel dilution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling noises from the engine bay, and the check engine light illuminating.
- Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the exact cause, which may involve replacing the turbocharger unit or addressing boost leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4
- No Issues Found
Transmission
CVT (Paired with 1.5L Turbo)
- CVT Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Slipping, jerking, or hesitation during acceleration. Unusual noises coming from the transmission. Check engine light may illuminate.
- Solution: Replacement of the CVT.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3500 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
10-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.0L Turbo)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of rough or jerky shifting between certain gears. This is more pronounced during low-speed driving.
- Solution: Software update or transmission fluid flush. In some cases, valve body replacement is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (fluid flush and software update); $1200 - $2000+ (valve body replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or creaking noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Inspection of rear suspension components, including bushings, struts, and sway bar links. Replacement of worn or damaged parts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component, depending on the part.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or crashing of the infotainment system. Bluetooth connectivity problems, and unresponsive touchscreen.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software updates); $500 - $1500+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure, requiring frequent jump starts, or inability to start the vehicle.
- Solution: Replacement of the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Seat Discomfort
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have complained about the seat comfort, particularly on long trips.
- Solution: Aftermarket seat covers or cushions may alleviate the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 Honda Accord, while well-regarded for its driving dynamics and features, has a few notable issues. The 1.5L turbo engine exhibits problems with fuel injectors and the CVT transmission has been known to fail. Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system, are also relatively common. Suspension noises are a minor concern. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. Fuel injector failure and CVT failure would be the most costly.