Used 1997 Honda Accord Sedan Consumer Reviews
Not as good as I expected
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
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
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
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
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Decent car
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
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
This car has been great for commuting. I drove it for several years with no problems.
1997 Accord LX 5 Speed
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
The car has great acceleration and great gas mileage. It's super comfortable, spacious.
Good Car but expensive repairs
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.