2021 Honda Accord
Here’s a breakdown of common issues reported for the 2021 Honda Accord, organized by category and engine/transmission type, following your specified format.
The 2021 Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. Engine options include 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 2.0L inline-4 paired with an electric motor for the hybrid version producing a total system output of 212 horsepower. The 1.5L engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the 2.0L engine uses a 10-speed automatic transmission. People generally praise the Accord for its comfortable ride, responsive handling, and abundant standard features. Common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling (subjective) and the occasionally intrusive driver-assist systems.
Engine
1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 (CVT)
- Fuel Injector Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with fuel injectors failing, leading to rough idling, misfires, and potential engine damage. Symptoms can include a check engine light illuminating and noticeable performance degradation.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on how many injectors need replacing)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Dilution
- Description/Symptoms: Although less prevalent in the 2021 model year compared to earlier years of this generation, some owners have reported oil dilution, where fuel mixes with the engine oil. This can lead to premature engine wear. Symptoms include an elevated oil level on the dipstick and a gasoline smell in the oil.
- Solution: Frequent oil changes with the correct oil type and ensuring the engine reaches operating temperature during driving. Honda previously issued a software update to address this in earlier models, but it is still relevant to 2021 model year.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100 (oil change), Software update cost varies.
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (10-Speed Automatic)
- No Issues Found
Electric Motor
- No Issues Found
Transmission
CVT (1.5L Engine)
- Premature Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report premature wear or failure of the CVT, which manifests as slipping, jerking, or hesitation during acceleration. Noises such as whining or grinding from the transmission may also be present.
- Solution: CVT fluid change or CVT replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300 (fluid change), $3,000 - $5,000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
10-Speed Automatic (2.0L Engine)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can be more noticeable at lower speeds.
- Solution: Software update or Transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update varies, $4,000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Premature Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of premature wear in suspension bushings (particularly front lower control arm bushings), leading to clunking noises when driving over bumps.
- Solution: Bushing replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per side)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezes, reboots, or displays error messages. Issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity are also reported.
- Solution: Software update, infotainment system replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue and whether it’s software or hardware related.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining prematurely, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently.
- Solution: Battery replacement, diagnosing parasitic drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (battery replacement), Additional costs for diagnosing and fixing the parasitic drain.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Rattling/Buzzing Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling or buzzing noises emanating from the dashboard or door panels, especially when driving on uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Identifying and tightening the source of the rattle/buzz.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source and complexity.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2021 Honda Accord generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability, but some common issues have surfaced. The most concerning are the potential for CVT issues with the 1.5L engine and infotainment system glitches. While the frequency of these issues is not overwhelming, potential buyers should be aware of them and inspect used vehicles carefully. The estimated costs for repairs vary significantly, with transmission replacements being the most expensive potential problem.