Used 1997 Honda Accord Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Reliable, basic transport
Hondaowner, 07/01/2003
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Our Accord has had very minor repairs done other than regular maintenance. We are very happy with that. You can always be sure that when you turn the key, the engine will start and the car will move. AT 75K miles it shows no signs of trouble. The engine, however, is too weak for a car this size. If you have the AC on, forget about any acceleration even with a manual tranny. Performance and cornering are total afterthoughts.
Running strong
yixter, 09/07/2009
1997 Honda Accord DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this car in 03 with 68k now it is 183k and still going strong, about 80% of the miles are highway and I still got 31/32mpg overall according to the car's odometer. I carefully rated this car in the listed categories and won't say anything more. I had to replace a failed starter, front cv joints, changed the exhaust system and the tires 2 times, battery and a pair of front brake pads once, that is all. I recently bought a 09 accord new instead of trade in my 97 for $1000 I decided to keep it.
Great Car - Honda Success
Jbruce, 06/09/2004
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought our 97 Accord 4DR Special Edition as a Certified lease return when it was 3 years old and had 32,000 miles. Though it was used when we bought it, it seemed like a new car. The ride is very stable and quiet. Fuel mileage is excellent. Features include CD player, sunroof, security system, woodgrain accents, alloy wheels and all power accessories. The seats are very comfortable, and it is easy to sit for hours. Our only problem is a creaking noise infrequently from front left suspension. The engine could have more passing power, but we benefit from the great gas mileage. Honda is a winner and we love their cars!
My first car
shaun, 01/25/2005
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the first car I've owned that I am actually paying for (I just got out of college) and I have to say it's a fantastic piece of machinery. For being a "boring family sedan", Honda does a good job of making me like this car. I've never had any problems with it in the past 9 months owning it, and will probably own it for a while to come.
High mileage
windshawne, 11/14/2009
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought the car in 2003-3 days after I bought it, I had to have the heads redone. Researching its history, I found the car had been abused, however, as of today, it has 199,500 miles on it and it's still as sound as the day I bought it. Just the past oil change it has started to use oil, so I need to investigate that. This has been the most reliable car I have ever had. When it finally dies, I will buy another one.
honda utility, back and forth to work
HondaValueSedan, 03/09/2002
1997 Honda Accord Value 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle for reliable transportation to and from work. The car has been very dependable. However, the car is low and light...as a result, I do not feel that safe. Now that I have children, I plan to upgrade and buy something more safe. However, my Honda has been great and I am looking for to a high residual value.
Nice Car, Iffy Build Quality
ColdSteel, 09/25/2004
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I like the styling, lots of aftermarket parts available. Aftermarket sunroof stinks. Tranny lurches at low speeds, engine is unexcepticly noisy and enemic. Needs VTEC. Windows are really slow. Handeling is bad. But it does looks nice. :)
Too Many Times In The Shop!
SweetTee, 11/03/2004
1997 Honda Accord LX V6 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had this car for two years and I constantly had this car in and out the shop getting minor things fixed on it. I had brakes and rotors put on the car 3 times ( I have a heavy foot) but Im fine with that. I brought the car when it only had 77,000 miles on it. I had water pump, timing belt, temperature gauge, lower ball point replace on both sides and CV boot, alternator and now I need to replace one of my ABS speed sensors and the engine light is on and I dont know whats wrong with the car. I take very good care of my car dont get me wrong. Sometimes I just want to get rid of it. As of right now it has 150,000 miles on it.
'97 SE accord
SeattleGirl, 10/25/2007
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car with 55,000 miles on it in Nov '00. I now have 140,000 and it's still going. Do regular oil changes and maintenance. The dealer tells me the oilpan has slight leak, which I won't pay to repair and they say I might never need to repair (pricey fix, like about $1000). Slow window motors, weak AC, great gas mileage, reliable car that looks good too. I'll drive it until it dies, which I hope isn't before 200,000 miles. It is my daily driver to work, I'd love to get a new one but can't see getting rid of such a great car. It was worth the $14,000 paid 7 years ago.
My HOnda
Rob X, 04/11/2003
1997 Honda Accord EX V6 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
One of the best and most reliable cars I have ever owned. A pleasure to drive and always dependable.
Gutless and boring
TooWimpy4me, 06/04/2003
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I got this car because of its reputation for reliability and economy. I used to have a long commute and it was confortable and economic for that. But now my commute is only 5 miles. The car is very boring and wimpy with not guts and personality of its own, it looks like a Camry or like any other japanese car of the same vintage and class, just another me too car. The A/C smells bad, the auto transmission is rough.
Reliable
Brian M, 03/29/2007
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We've owned this vehicle for 10 years and have had zero mechanical problems. Incredible reliability and it still runs nicely with 165,000 miles on it.
my 90 accord was a much better car
leslie2, 04/18/2002
1997 Honda Accord LX V6 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
air conditioning system never worked correctly; after 5 years the dealership finally admitted it and fixed it; handles well on and off the highway my 90 EX was just a better car to drive I did hate those automatic seat belts and that is the only reason I sold it; my son is still driving the '90 with 160000 miles
Best thing I could have bought!
pastrypuff, 07/17/2006
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love this car! I got it 9 years old, but she still drives like a dream! At the 156,000 mile mark this car is still quiet and reliable. The gas mileage is still great, I've had to only do little things to it. I would recomend this car to any one!
Nice car but what's with the P/W?
ImportOnly, 01/28/2003
1997 Honda Accord EX V6 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We just replaced our '87 Acura Legend Coup with a '97 Honda Accord for my wife and although we love the cars for their overall quality and reliability, what's up with the power window motors burning out? I can understand it on the '87 Acura Legend, but the '97 Honda Accord after having it for only a few weeks that motor on the driver side window stopped working. Honda needs to improve the that power feature of the cars. Everything else is superior to anything else on the road for quality and reliability. Great car!!!
The Ultimate driving machine
Kaio, 09/26/2006
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned this Accord for 7 years and I loved it so much that when I needed another car, I bought the exact same one brand new (Accord SE). It has given me absolutely no trouble at all and looks and drives like brand new. I still have the original rear brakes. I have replaced the front brakes once. 2 sets of tyres, a muffler and an expensive 105K mile service ($1000) which included air-conditioner and timing belt. Other than that it is oil change. On top of that it is soooo fun to drive. I wonder why people buy any other car.
Modest and Reliable
Kaizen, 05/24/2005
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am the owner of a beloved 97 Accord SE- sedan. The car presently has 200,561 miles and had only had it's timing belt replaced once. The car is still in top running condition and frequently makes road trips out-of-town with ease. The complaints about the vehicle are slim to few in between, however, in 97 Honda needed much improvement in their electronic department- power windows were slow or the window motors burnt out. Overall, a wonderful car. Going this evening to pick up my 05 ex-v6 sedan with leather, nav and xm radio. I am looking forward to the increased power, from 130 hp to 240.. Thank you Honda...
Great value car
tommyslo, 03/18/2002
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car has never given me any problems, is fun to drive, didn't cost much and had lots of options.
Going on 100K
Bingo69, 06/22/2003
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Car has lasted for a 100K miles with any major problems. I have replace bracks, tires, and battery. The the factor scheduled maintanance can be very pricey.
THE BEST CAR ON THE ROAD
JTHOMAS, 03/11/2002
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
MY HONDA ACCORD LX IS THE BEST CAR I HAVE OWN. IT HAS A 2.3 ENGINE. I GOT IT MAY OF 1999 WITH 29920 MILES ON IT AND NOW I HAVE 110,000 MILES ON IT. AND I DID NOT TUNE IT UP UNTIL 100,000 MILES ON IT. AND IT DOES NOT USE OIL AND I DO NOT CHANGE OIL BUT EVERY 7500 MILES.IT HAVE NEVER GIVEN ME ANY PROBLEMS.
Not as good as I expected
handbook, 09/12/2004
1997 Honda Accord LX V6 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought the car because of the reputation for reliability, but ended up disappointed. The biggest problem is slow power windows that sometimes stop completely in cold weather. No one has ever been able to fix them. I've also had a couple of leaks. In hindsight, I would have bought a car that was more fun to drive instead of this boring sedan.
Honda's at High Mileage
PTheofanis, 12/14/2002
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
When you read high rated reviews about 97 Honda Accords, keep in mind that they are written by people who clearly do not have high mileage. I own a 97 Honda Accord LX sedan, and it has fallen apart exponentially after 80,000 miles. I admit that I drive my car hard, and this car will not keep up with others like me. Its seats are not designed well, the suspension falls apart, there is too much body roll, and the transmission isn't smooth during shifts.
By far the worst car I've ever owned
tmm, 08/25/2005
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
2 of 7 people found this review helpful
I would not recommend purchasing a Honda Accord. My car has been a maintenance nightmare. Since the warranty ended, the car has been in the shop every 3-4 months and has required major maintenance. It once took the dealer over a year to diagnose and correct an intermittent problem I had with the car not starting. I replaced the battery, alternator, clock and other electrical things before they figured out it was the ignitition switch. I'm disappointed and will never buy a Honda or Acura vehicle again. Think twice before you buy...
To many times in the shop
Troy, 11/02/2015
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
2 of 8 people found this review helpful
This accord is the worst car i have ever owned it left me stranded to many times. I strongly advise you not to buy one of these cars especially 1994-1997 go for 1998 or newer. Gas mileage is poor im only getting 16 miles to the gallon and if im lucky 18 mpg. If youre looking to save gas look elsewhere you wont find it in this accord. Acceleration is the worst especially for the engine size im very disappointed its extremely underpowered even without the A/C. The air conditioning system is terrible and weak it does not cool the car down honda could have designed it better. I also have noticed it tends to shut of by itself even when im driving which is a real pain. The only positives is it has a decent look and interior and is cheap to fill up but thats it. Steer clear of the 97 accord
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Decent car
Ryan, 10/30/2006
1997 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
The accord is overall a decent car, but I think there are better choices for the money. Yes, it's a Honda. The engine will run for 250k miles. But that's only if you maintain it properly (not everyone does) and maintaining a Honda is rather expensive. If you buy a Honda with 100k miles on it, be prepared to spend another $1-2k on it right away to keep it going. It will need timing belt, water pump, and suspension replacements. I think people have misconceptions about what Hondas are. They're not above normal wear and tear. Beyond this, any Honda built before 1998 has terrible structural rigidity so expect a lot of flex and rattling. Interior doesn't hold up all that well either.
Still Running & Looking Great
Chris, 09/03/2008
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Accord in January of 2004 at 90,000 miles. It still runs great thanks in part of regular repairs that it has needed and the simple fact that it's a Honda. I am planing on buying a new Accord this spring so I will miss this car a lot when I trade it in.
Great commuter car
Philman, 09/29/2003
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has been great for commuting. I drove it for several years with no problems.
1997 Accord LX 5 Speed
Liquidfender, 07/07/2002
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used with about 62,xxx miles on it. Now I only have about 66,xxx miles on it. But I have only owned it for a few months. This car lives up to its reputation and beyond that. Coupled with the 5 speed manual transmission, this car dips for a 2.3L. This car is fantastic for the everyday driver, fuel economy is great.
Awesome Car
Brindy, 10/12/2003
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car has great acceleration and great gas mileage. It's super comfortable, spacious.
Good Car but expensive repairs
Dockter, 05/30/2008
1997 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car in 2000 with 74,000 miles. I now have 187,000 miles on it and I've never had a problem with the engine. My complaints are slow rolling windows, suspension has been replaced twice, A/C doesn't work even when it was working and now that it's 11 yrs old the radiator, engine mount and cam seal for timing belt and power steering are all leaking or broken and need to be repaired to the tune of $2,000.00. I just put in $1500 in new locks, actuators, tires and suspension. It's not worth it to me to pay that much since I will only get around $3,000.00 for the car...maybe less. So time for a new one. I'm bummed because the engine rocked and it was a comfy ride.
Might as well call it a tank
JohnBonanno, 08/05/2008
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I will tell you how great this car is through experience. I bought the car with around 85,000 on it and it ran like a track star. And this was my first car so I was driving it like Dale Earnhardt. I had to replace the radiator (big deal hah) other than that my car is crazy. I think they put armor on the body of accords or something 1) ran over the side of a 2005 Toyota Corrola. Yes I ran the thing over snapping the Toyota's whole axle bent the rim (pretty much destroyed the whole front side of her car) my passenger side fender was dented and I drove away. 2) a brand new sts cut me off and I rear ended her at about 40. Small dent in the bumper the caddie's bumper was destroyed. Trust me buy this car
Ripped off but I still like it
Matthew D, 07/02/2009
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 97' Accord a month before I got married. The dealer I bought it from told me it had passed all their inspections and was good to go. Right after purchase I had to replace the radiator, water pump & timing belt, belts, brake rotors and tires. Four months later I find out it has a bad piston rod and needs a new engine. Even after all this I love the car. I get a solid 32 MPG on the freeway and I love the way it drives. The seats are a little uncomfortable for long drives but other than that I'm determined to replace the engine and keep driving it.
I love my honda
vizcaino, 10/21/2003
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had this car for 6 years now and I love it, When I get rid of it I will buy another honda
The best car, EVER.
juanHonda, 03/01/2005
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought this car in Oct/2001 with 105,000 miles. The car has been prefect so far. The most reliable car we ever had. MINIMUM MAINTENANCE REQUIRED, if you like to stay away from the shops, this is the car for you. These are the only few repairs done to the car so far: CV axles and transmission fluid at 140,000 miles $400.00, front rotors and pads @ 150,000, $250.00,timing belt and serpentine belts replaced at 163,000, $300.00, 2 tune ups and regular synthetic oil changes, aprox, $300.00. Awesome that's $0.02 a mile!
Great Sedan
Ozzy, 09/29/2010
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought a 97 accord over a 2000 civic by the looks and I do no regret it. I've had the timing belt snap on me but because we had no idea of the history and did not take enough caution to change it while it was still good. Previous owner was horrible. With the timing belt change we redid the heads gaskets, radiator, water and etc. Window motors are horribly slow at the front and nice on the back. Ignition assembly had to be changed. Starter changed. OEM speakers are really amazing for their year. Although a lot of work had to be done it was mostly because of previous owner with horrible habits. This car really is great A to B in comfort, speed, and style.
97 Honda Accord LX - 5 Speed
mlippysr, 11/02/2003
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is an excellent car to drive. With a manual 5 speed, it has acceleration that can compete with the best. Very low maintenance and minimal manufacturer's recalls.
Awesome 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 5th Car
tjak74, 07/09/2009
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought car from original owner with 195,500 miles and complete service records. Hit 200,000 on July 4th. 1st owner was rear-ended in 2002, the only major repair. Car is brand-new feeling. Drives VERY smooth @ 90 MPH. I have driven it on several long trips (550 miles one-way), in hot, cold, bright, dark, dry, and wet conditions, without any problems. Averaged 30MPG @ 80-90MPH on those trips. Only need to make ONE stop because car is so comfortable and good on gas mileage. Car is very reliable and fun-to- drive. Has good around-town and passing power and great brakes. I highly recommend this vehicle.
8 years, and virtually problem-free
Ann Marie, 06/11/2005
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was the first new car I ever purchased. Nearly 8 years and 130,000 miles later, I've hardly put any money into it other than regular maintenance and maybe 2-3 repair jobs in the $500 range. My last car, a Ford Topaz, I got rid of after it was 6 years old and had only 85,000 - and that was after the transmission was replaced. I plan on driving this Honda as long as possible, and because it's been so good to me I'm almost scared to buy a different type of car next time for fear that no other can match its reliability.
Runs Forever
Runs Forever , 06/14/2005
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Finally retiring our 97 Accord LX for a new 2005 Accord LX replacement after 209,000 miles. Engine & Drivetrain still going very strong, but rest of car starting to go. This is by far the best and longest lasting car my wife (aka lead foot) has ever owned. Still getting 24 MPG, we have changed the oil every 3000 - 4000 miles on this car and will continue doing the same with the new one.
Great car
miso, 08/13/2002
1997 Honda Accord DX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the 6 cylinder 97 Honda Accord back in Dec 97 as an exchange for a BMW 325 EX and I was very happy I did it. Not only it was more comfortable but also cheaper to maintain. The car was great I say was because they stole it 5 days ago and when the police found it it was destroy by the vandals who stole it. They killed a GREAT CAR Never had a problem with it i will certainly miss it. Now I will have to find another honda to replace it.
Great Car
jennie, 12/06/2003
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Honda, and I have been loving it. Great car!
Excellent car
Rajesh, 04/25/2002
1997 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Its a value for money car, very reliable
Best Deal and VERY Reliable
rma, 06/08/2002
1997 Honda Accord LX V6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is my moms but I've prob. driven it more than she has. I have to say that this car is VERY reliable! We havent had to take it in ever since we got it...except this week the brakes started rattling but thats about it. Eventhough we spent a couple hours negotiating the price we ended up getting it at $500 over factory invoice! That was in May of 96...Honda's are the only cars we own at the moment
97 Accord very reliable
jh0212, 07/10/2005
1997 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have a 97 accord 4-dr EX w/ 184K miles now. Very reliable. Has lost a little juice and feels underpowered now compared to newer cars, but otherwise runs great. Only problems/complaints: (1) Warped rotors (replaced once, new set warped again), (2) paint is faded and splotchy now, (3) driver's side window slow to slide back up, esp on cold days, (4) A/C is not very strong, (5) mileage is so-so (about 24 mpg in mostly fwy driving, but I don't exactly obey the speed limit either). Not most exciting handling, but more responsive than Camry or some American cars I've driven. Never get tired of my car. Would definitely buy another or recommend to someone.
FANTASTIC CAR
Tristan, 09/23/2002
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
On my third Honda and second Accord. This one to replace my '87 that never failed me. Manual transmission feels great. Superior styling and comfort. I'm keeping this one forever.
Great Car
jonie, 01/16/2004
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. I have had it for about a year now and there hasnt been any major problems. These cars last for a long time so I guess honda lives up to its name.
Love my 97
Jason, 10/23/2008
1997 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used 1 1/2 years old w/ 26k miles. The car now has 264,000 miles and mostly minor fixes due to mileage and age (new radiator in 06), fluid changes, and 1 timing belt so far, plugs/wires etc.. nothing out of the ordinary. I still drive this car 100 miles per day even though I have another 07 Accord and a 03 CR-V all of which have been awesome cars. Easily the best car(s) I've ever owned. Even after all this time its very comfortable and quiet. I am going to run this car till it dies!
Great Car
Nelle, 10/31/2005
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had this car for almost 5 yrs and it drives great! This is my 2nd Honda Accord and they really last. I may pruchase a 2003 shortly. This car is great for a person with a child and limited amount of funds to work with. Only problems I had was my radiator went-just wear and tear.
97 Honda
Cyborg, 09/29/2002
1997 Honda Accord Special Edition 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
reliable transportation, adequate pep, very few mechanical problems.
Solid car; would buy it again
Kevin S., 03/15/2006
1997 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this car, then put 1,000 miles on it in the first week. Extremely frugal on gas; averaged 300 miles on a tank of gas in city driving; 400 miles on highway. A/C quit at 150,000 miles; repaired by dealer. Replaced brakes and thermostat; a few tires, but no major work. I'm a Honda driver for life.