Used 1998 Honda Accord Sedan Consumer Reviews
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I am waiting for this damn thing to break down
It's nearly 20 years old and astoundingly reliable. It's also boring. AND I don't have any more tapes to play in it since that technology died long before the car. But it is strong, not rusting and just fine, thanks. I suspect I'd have to drive it off a cliff to get it to break. Update: in 2018 had to get a lot of work done on brakes and clutch. But it is running fine update in 2020: the body rust finally did it in -- RIP car. Next time I'll wash the undercarriage more in the winter.
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++MPG, Reliable, Cheap repairs
I bought this car in 08 @ 132k miles. I still have the car today and it runs, drives, and looks just as good as it did the day i got it. I have been reading alot of posts saying that they have had engine, tranny, and paint issues, and i havnt experienced any of those issues (knock on wood). However, i do my oil changes, tranny and coolant flushes, and i wash my car every week to preserve the paint and underbody. If you take care of your car, it will treat your right in return. Definately would reccomend for college student and long commuters. Only thing i have ever had to fix was a CV shaft and wheel bearing, which ended up costing me less than $100 combined.
- EX SedanMSRP: $5,999101 mi away
- LX V6 CoupeMSRP: $8,995137 mi away
- LX SedanMSRP: $4,995265 mi away
One of the best cars ever made
Our '98 has 375,000 kms. We have had it for 7 yrs and love driving it. We have to retire it finally because of rusted out frame and gas tank from so much salt on the roads of Canada. We have done very little to it except to replace all the brake and gas lines, again due to rusting. Still gets excellent gas mileage( we were getting as much as 44 mpg). So if you have 175000 - 200000 kms on your car, don't give up hope, there's plenty left.
This car is literally bullet proof
My mother bought this car new and I've had it for the past 3 years and 50k miles (190k total now). It has handled everything I could throw at it. Last summer we took it through 4000 miles of mexico and all the bumps and pot holes that that entailed. I even drove it through a river that washed out my road. It has only had standard maintenance done to it (fluids, timing belt tires) and a few other parts to replace some damage i caused when I went off the road (ball joint, new wheel) Someone even shot a gun into the hood and the support brace stopped the bullet so no damage was done to the engine! How's that for bullet proof!
the perfect car
I bought my 98 accord in 2002. it had about 30,000 miles on it. was kept in great shape by previous owner..it is now december 2011 and i still own this great car. i am at 175,000 miles now with not 1 major problem in 10 years of owning it. still runs nice and smooth, quiet. i can trust and rely on this car to start and run great anytime. even in the dead of winter, will start up no problem. only thing ive ever had done major is replace the catalytic converter and starter. on my second set of brake pads in 10 years. i get 3 month oil changes and once a year maintenance checkup every year. im sure it would last another 10 years easy. great car, will miss it when i dont have it her anymore!
1998 Honda Accord, 4 door, manual transmission
Bought this car used in 1999; it was one year old and had 60,000 miles on it. it now has 385,350 (December, 2024). This is positively, the best car I have ever owned. Routine maintenance and inspections have been done "by the book," 3,000 mile oil changes (sometimes 4,000), and kept mostly in a garage. I never use the local dealership unless absolutely necessary. I have long said the worse thing about Honda is the dealership maintenance. My maintenance has been done by a privately owned garage, dedicated to Honda maintenance only. The owner is an excellent mechanic who takes pride in his work, charges a fair price, and uses Honda parts; I've never been disappointed !! Never had any transmission or clutch problems, drive the car gently and get about 30 mpg on the road and about 27-28 around town. The paint is and has been peeling for quite some time (I don't care) and there is some rust in front of both the rear wheel wells (I don't care). The driver's seat is excellent and fits me perfectly. The interior has not torn or worn out (unbelievable!!). The tape deck, an aftermarket add-on, quit a long time ago (ask me if I care :-)). My goal is 500,000 miles but given my age and annual miles driven, I'll never make it (and that's ok). And by the way, this is an American made car by Honda near Columbus, Ohio. Thanks Honda and American workers, for an EXCELLENT product !!!
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First Car
This car was handed down to me in 2009, although it's been in the family since 2001. It currently has 175k miles on it. Hoping for many more. Advantages: The build quality is fantastic. The power features still work like new, and everything in the interior has the feel of quality. Even the leather still looks nice. The car is very comfortable and stable on the highway. Steering is tight and suspension is firm. Also has a surprisingly huge trunk. Disadvantage: The notorious auto transmission. Was replaced around 110k, and if this one fails, it'll probably be the end of the car. That's a shame, cause otherwise it's been great to me. Just wish it had the manual trans instead.
1998 LX 5 speeds 400650 miles still Running Strong
3 years 50,000 miles ,daily driving ,bought for 1500, spent around $1100 three years (catalytic converter ,CV joints,Clutch,breaks, etc ) .A/c still cold ,heat perfect,still runs between excellent and good. Only problem can't figure out motor oil and gear oil leaks .will drive it till half million miles (500,000). Wish Honda Motor Co help me out about this oil leaks , i will keep it forever.
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Fun to Drive
Has been a great car for us. I have heard about the transmission problems with these model years. Our car has 162K miles and no problems. Guess we are blessed. Car is fun to drive. Passing it down to my teen twins to drive. Only problems was an intake manifold clogging that causes the check engine light to come on. It was a hassle to get that light off. replaced belt tensioner and alternator. no other problems. tires are a bit expensive for this model. Electronically everything works great. car body dents easily though. Plan on driving it to 300k or more.
Great Reliable Car.
This car is great. It is the perfect size. Don't let it fool you because it is actually very roomy and has a large/tall trunk. Honda put a lot of thought into this car. Great first car. Safe also, I had a minor accident and it held up very well.
Love It
I bought this car with 36,000 miles on it 9 y/0. It now has 160,000. My car has all the upgrades, sunroof, leather, controls on steering wheel etc. Had to replace transmission 3 y/o for $2500 and just replaced the oil pan. Other than that no problems what so ever. It's fun to drive and love the way it looks. I have had no problems with my paint but it is white. Will keep it to pass on to my son.
Extremely Solid and good car
As my Accord will hit 120K miles soon, I have to admit it is better than all the American cars in this class that are 2004 models. It is agile, reliable, has good grip, and acclerates very well with the 5 speed manual. Fuel economy is excellent. The interior design and layout is flawless, though the exterior is a little boring.
Honda Accord EXV6 Sedan
It's been a great car for us. Bought the car in 2000 with 24k miles. It has 153,000 now. V6 is fun to drive. Feels like a sports car. Only trouble is intake manifold clogging causing check engine light to keep coming on. There has been Honda service bulletins on this. Front tires seem to wear fast. Michelins are expensive to replace. Plan on keeping this car till it is to expensive to fix. I heard 1998-2002 Honda Accords had problems with their transmissions. We've had good luck here.
w/ the 5 speed=perfect daily driver
Clear coat peel is a major problem with this particular year and model Honda, first year of water born clear coat as opposed to oil. Motor itself is bulletproof reliable, think AMC/Jeep 4.0, Ford 4.6, GM 3.8, etc. These motors are that rugged! Use a high quality oil/filter and change them every 5k miles and these things will literally run forever. Do yourself a favor for both drivings sake, as well as stated reliability, and find yourself one equipped with the 5 speed manual transmission. Currently at 214,000 miles and climbing on mine. Dollar for dollar you will not find a better daily driver. First year for the transponder key which is huge on these cars in terms of theft deterrent. My only gripe is the lack of leg room in the front seats for plus 6 footers, and the lack of availability of a V6/manual trans Sedan in this generation.
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Transmission dooms this car
I bought my 1998 Accord EX V6 new. It is my third accord and I love Hondas. The car is now 11 years old and has 137K miles on it. It still drives like the day I bought it and almost looks it too. So with all that you'd think this is a great used car. NO NO NO. This generation Accord has been plagued with faulty transmissions. My first transmission failed at 69K miles and Honda claimed it was not part of the recall. I went to arbitration and got Honda to pay for half of the new transmission. Fast forward to June 2010 and 137K miles and the transmission fails AGAIN nearly 69K after the first. The dealer offered to pay 25% and I still paid $2500. Still did it as the car is otherwise terrific.
Honda Reliability!
I bought my '98 2.3L 4 cyl Accord EX-L MANUAL TRANNY in Sep. '06 with 148K miles. Its now almost July '21 n has 290K miles. No issues, never broke down, never left me stranded. Engine oil changed every 5K miles. Changed tranny oil every 30K or so but it's al ways looked clean and with no issues. I may extend tranny oil change to 40K miles. ( I also sometimes use 10W 30 ENGINE OIL in lieu of MTF in my tranny n I can shift fine) No clutch work, no tranny work no major engine work needed ( except timing belts every 100K mi. ) I wish I could have had this kind of service from a previous Ford vehicle. AC went out a couple yrs ago, and I couldn't justify Paying Honda A GRAND to fix it. Paint is fading some but considering it's age, that's fair. In doing a compression test, 2 or 3 cylinders are down in compression, but the car still runs well on the interstate as fast as I wish. (just takes a moment to get up to speed it seems) getting 28 MPG average. I of course have changed the engine oil filter as appropriate, air cleaner, spark plugs every 45k or so, serp. belt and just did brake pads for the second time. I consider these things all normal wear/tear. I can't explain how impressed I am with Honda's quality! This is my 2d Honda in 25 years (both were bought used) and I have no expectation of changing to a different manufacturer with outstanding reliability like this. DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR, YOU'D BE HARD PRESSED TO FIND A BETTER CAR! Sept. 2021: main relay started having issues, car would start fine when cold, however, if I ran it for a short trip n went to return home, car would exhibit difficult starting ( often had to wait a moment or two, but always started eventually ) acted like a fuel issue, but that wasn't so. I soldered main relay under steering wheel which fixed problem.. no issues since. Jan 2022: car has 294K miles. no major issues except: dash lights indicating open doors ( all of 'em ) open trunk brake light and charge indicator lights all light intermittently at same time, then go out randomly while driving. Honda dealer changed ignition switch ($350) but didn't fix problem, even though I stated to the service dept. I thought it was an alternator. Very disappointed at Honda's service dept. for this. Alternator: I changed the brushes ( $8.00 ) myself after searching YouTube. Simple fix. took a couple hours. My Accord again runs like a champ!
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Where has all my oil gone?
I bought this car new summer 1998 because I drive a lot of miles. When it turned about 2 years old, I stated RUNNING OUT OF OIL! It's not leaking, it's not coming out the exhaust. I have taken it everywhere and nobody knows where the oil is going. Also, the 1998 and 1999 have EGR problems, and Honda wouldn't cover mine (or my Dad's 99) under the recall. They told me it needed replacing for 400.00, turns out an independent garage cleaned it for 65 and its fine. The other problem, lights keep going out on my dash. At night, I can't see the clock, mileage and half of my speedometer!
Honest opinion
Overall a nice car. Value, style, driving experience are nice features. Gas mileage 19- 26 depending on tires and driving style. Throttle body sticks, transmission sometimes shifts poorly, alternator and pwr lock died at 72k.
Best caar evet
As long as u do all the required maintenance she will last ! My old besty will be 20 years old next year. I plan to drive her till she drops...
1998 EX V6 Accord 160,000
Purchased with in '01 at 52,000. Now 160,050. Broken/Replaced: alternator, EGR twice! That's the only mechanical failure. Shifts hard around 2nd gear, but has always done that. All mechanics have said there's nothing wrong. At 10 yrs old, it impresses friends and mechanics by its maintained appearance. Has held paint real well. Change oil and filter myself every 3k/3 months. I purchased OE spoiler and fog lights. Could do without the spoiler, but the fog lights are great. Come in handy. Very $$ though. Engine's still smooth and quiet. has driven between FL and Boston and all points between many times over years. Great travel car, from Key West to NC mountains to downtown Boston!
Don't Buy Accord V6
On 4/16/98 I purchased my second Honda, an accord EX V6. On 2/12/99 I replaced the transmission computer, under warranty. On 5/19/00 there was a recall. At 100K after first engine tune-up, the alternator dies $275. A few weeks later the transmission goes out $3100, then the check engine light comes on, something about EGR valve $500. The check engine is back on again; all this on top of expensive maintenance costs. The car has 109K miles on it, I am thinking about selling it. My advice to you is don't buy the accord V6 at least not the 98-01 model it was designed to break down. My girl friend has similar problems with 98 LX
Transmission problems
At 56000 miles the transmission is slipping when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear. The check engine light will come on with a code indicating the transmission has a fault. Seems to be a design problem that Honda admitted to in 2000-2002 but not 1998 and 1999. Don't buy one unless you get the transmission checked out. The cost for a new transmission id $4000!!! Ouch!!! I am trading mine in. Hopefully none of the readers will buy it!!! The Odessey with the V6 is having the same problem. I was at the dealer getting mine evaluate and someone was there with the same oriblem on her Odessey.
Sad
Recap to earlier review. Approx 82k and even though maintained well. It's needed alt., vtec valve and pwr door actuator. Car still looks nice except for corroding wheels. Major problem has been the trans which started shifting bad at 18k and gets worse every year. Sad sad sad. I've notified Honda about trans and they claim they'll help me
Good lil car
It really is a good car with 189,000 km on her.but wow what really really bad fuel mileage....only gettin about 18 mpg US in the city with it. (4spd auto).the car really hates the cold....the engine and the tranny..very sluggish until it warms up.
What Happened to Reliable Work?
I love Honda's. My first car was a 89' Accord, and I drove that car all over the U.S. and it never broke down on me. That car looked great, but it was getting really old, so I went for a newer Honda, and bought a 1998 Honda Accord, I love my car. It has everything I want in it. My only disapointment is the poor paint job. The paint is fading on the top of the car from sitting in the sun all day while I'm at work. Honda used to be the best quality car out there, but I am very disapointed in the cheap paint. But the car still runs great. but it will eventually look like a piece of junk, and that's really upsetting to me.
First (Japanese Car) Honda Accord EX
I purchased this car in Dec 2004 with 69000 on it from the original owners. Happy so far. Good gas mileage andcomfortable ride. I have had to put an O2 sensor in it after 1 week of ownership. Something that you can't predict of going out. I will keep you informed of my feelings of the car.
Happy Honda owner
Love my Accord and will probably have more. But, the check engine light has been a nuisance. And, I was shocked to need a $2,700 new transmission at 143,000! Had EGR problems (at 31k, 71k, and 105k) which were under warranty; an evaporative system failure (at 54k) repaired for a small fee; and a new catalytic converter and something about the transmission (at 131k) for a heftier fee. When the transmission failed, I talked to American Honda about my disappointment in the reliability that I had so confidently bought into. Honda agreed to provide a new transmission for free, and I paid the $855 labor charge. This was fair in my opinion, and Im back to being happy Honda owner.
Comfortable / Reliable cruiser
Bought this car from my father in law with 80k miles on it. For the most part it has not failed to meet my high expectations for a Honda . I have had brake work and wheel bearings replaced, but that is expected in NY after 7 winters. Only other problem was a burned out alternator at 120k. Other than that, has never has a problem during the past 3 years, and I am hard on my cars. The odometer currently reads 132,000 and my goal is to hit 200k. I also own a 2004 accord, same model, and that is the only reason my ratings for this car are not higher. The newest model is a huge step forward in overall refinement. Either way, I don't think you can go wrong purchasing a honda.
Good quality car in it's class
In general, after little over 5 years of purchase, I'm very satisfied with this car. The engine power is still there with no problems at all. Noises while driving is almost same as when first purchased. I was going to trade- in for another car when paid-off, but I decided to keep it for another couple of more years, then trade-in with another Honda or Acura.
Best Car At Any Price - That'sThe Accord
Purchased this Accord EX V6 Leather sedan last year with 155,000 miles on it It looks and runs as new - flawless! Everything works (not exceptional for an Accord from my own experience). I swapped out the original audio system for one from a 2002 Accord, to have the 6-disc in dash CD changer and couldn't be happier. My first Accord V6, this engine is awesome - power, great gas mileage (22 city, 29-30 MPG highway), silky smooth and quiet. Transmission shifts are barely noticeable. A pleasure to own, fun to drive, and is equipped with every luxury feature makes it a joy. Interior is extremely roomy and comfortable. No car in any class is better or holds its value better.
Accord EX-L 4-Cyl. 4-Door
Bought this car last Friday because my last Accord had been wrecked and totaled out by the insurance. And so far I absolutely love this car! It is way more nice than my car and it has every option possible! Upgraded sound, leather, auto trans., spoiler, chrome wheels, etc. And is amazing. Has been very well taken care of and I would recommend this car to everyone!
NO MORE HONDA'S
Where do I start? I bought the car with 34K miles on it. THANK GOD I bought a 100K mile warranty! I bought the car b/c I'm in outside sales and drive a lot and need a reliable car. I've had numerous recalls, new transmission at 95K miles, new power steering pump, altanator, cateletic converter, and the list goes on. I'm car shopping now b/c I CANNOT spend anymore money or camp out at the dealership. DO NOT buy one without a 100K mile warranty to help with repairs.
Multiple Major Mechanical Problems
The first five years of ownership were exactly what I expected from a Honda. Very reliable. However, in the last 11 months I've had to replace both the transmission and the engine totaling over $6k in repairs. The selling dealer is the same as the servicing and I have maticulous service records. In both major repair cases neither Honda or the dealer have helped other then stating the major failures were extremely rare. A lot of good that did me. After driving Honda's for the last 12 years, this may be my last!
Best Car Ever!!
I bought this car 4 and a half years ago and put 82,000 miles on it. Nothing ever broke on the car. Just oil, gas, and 15k miles interval service. This is by far the most reliable car in the industry. I installed an aftermarket Typhoon air intake system, which boosted the V6 engine's power by at least 10%. Changed original tires at 71,000 miles. Original brake pads (I actually took it to the dealer to have them replaced and the dealer told me they still have another 40,000 miles to go). Nothing breaks in this car!!!
98 Accord EX V-6
Well it's been 5 years now since I first purchased my Accord EX V-6 new! It now has 126,000 miles on it..I have done NOTHING to the car besides routine MX and the timing belt. There is really no change in the way it rides since new! I salute everyone who played a role in this cars production. Thanks Honda..I'm buying an 03 Accord
Good but not great
I've had 3 recalls and six additional items go wrong with this car in five years/50,000 miles - since it was new - a record for any car I've owned in the last 35 years. Service never could get the sunroof to quit rattling (not one of the items I refer to above). I'm tired of camping out at the Dealers. The seats are too hard and my butt hurts after a couple of hours of driving - sometimes after 1/2 hour. Insurance it surprisingly pricey for this car. Rock solid engine. Rock solid suspension. Decent handling but it's no sportscar - see S2000. Good fuel economy. Why do headlights need to fail after five years?
Wonderfully pleasant car
I bought this car with 98k miles, and there are no apparent problems so far. Very pleasant highway ride and quietness. Steering is very precise and acceleration is very rivoting. It has a very comfortable back seat and pretty comfortable front seats. Large trunk... everything you could need, why pay more for a fancy name when you get all the luxury features here!
Love it!
This is my third Accord. Can't beat Honda's reliability, quality. The ride is harsher than that of a Camry but a hell of a lot more fun to drive, and the seats are more comfortable.
It's Pretty Good
The car has good acceleration and handling. Automatic gear changes are a little harsh. Cruise control accelaration has too much response. The driver seat comfort needs improvement. Car looks good and has never left me stranded. The ERG device clogged several times which cost me but overall it's been a good car through 150,000 miles. No recurring problems aside from (3) ERG problems.
Car Review
I bought this car in sept. 05 with 72K on it. So far i have had no real problems with the exception of the cd player keeps sayin P-EO to brand new cd's. the engine check light stays on a little longer than i like. Is this Normal?.. the paint is very easy to chip off took a chunk off with the nozzle at car wash.. Over all it has not let me down it took me cross country with no problems... It's a Honda ... Hope what say is true honda's last forever.
ACCORD'98 LXI after 250,000 Miles
bought this car on Feb 1998, still looks neat and flashy, the A/C is still fantastic although here in Saudi; the weather temperature can easily hit/exceed (120'F). Never made an accident, as result; the original paint is still shiny. I own a 2005 Volvo S80 T5 yet I still rely on the accord for long trips between cities. Engine+ automatic Transmission still original. My friend has a 2009 Accord 4/cyl Aut. and some how got in a drag race with him, surprisingly, my 98'accord stayed nose to nose till we hit 200KM/H (125M/H) which is good enough for me.
maintenance
found that actual ownership experience is the best opinions from all The Ultimate she drives great and is very dependable!! The seats are comfortable and you do not realy need the sunroof. Erganomics are superb and you should go out and get one!!
My honda is a lemon
What ever happen to Honda's reputation for reliable engines. My diffuculties include engine shut off constantly as I approach a red light. I took my current Honda to a dealer to figure out what was wrong and they explained to me that it was due to a sensor canister (whatever I'm not a mechanic) so I got it fixed and a couple of months later the same problem appeared - engine shut off. Second, are minor issues such as the winshield wiper blades nut or screw whatever the thing is every so often becomes lose and I've had to tighten it a couple of times.
Transmission Problems
At 69k miles my accord automatic tranny had to be rebuilt. I've heard alot of incidents of accord auto transmissions needing rebuilding at 50k-90k miles (98-2002)... thats why honda extended the transmission warranty for 2000-2002 (i didnt get so lucky.. if you talk to them right.. they might extend 98's - 99's). If you get this car.. you might want to *possibly* look into getting a tranny cooler as well. This applies to both i4's and v6's. Overall its a good car with a reliable motor :)
Reliability with minor complaints
Bought car based on reputation of quality/reliability. Past 2 cars were Toyotas. Although not Toyota quality, was pleased with look of interior. Woodgrain dash applique, wood/leather steering wheel and after market white face gauges dress up interior. Added Honda fog lights, trunk lid chrome strip and stainless exhaust tips at half cost of dealer when purchased online. Biggest complaint: durability of paint. When purchased paint was glossy and 22 months later roof and hood have foggy white spots, spreading at alarming rate. Also after washing and drying with 100% cotton towel, paint looks "scratched". Have to wax to remove these EVERY TIME!
Loving My 1998 Honda Accord EX
I bought my white 1998 Honda Accord EX (leather) about a month ago and DAMN I love it. Bought it with 76,000 miles on it but the car is friggin' amazing. Its only a V-4 but it has some decent pickup for a V-4 Ill have to admit. Car rides great, smooth as ever. Trunk space is awesome, alloy wheels are hot looking, and white looks classy! Sunroof is a great feature, really love this car! My first car by the way and damn I love it. Changing the oil every 3,000 miles to make sure it lasts well past the 200,000 mile mark.
Great car-wish I could order a duplicate
Bought the car used with 7,000 miles. It now has 127k. Recall repair on ignition (never caused a problem) at 90k; New belts, hoses, timing belt, spark plugs at 100k ($700ish). Exterior rear driver's side door handle quit working at 105k--replaced this on my Civic once; will probably fix it if/when it's next in the shop, as I don't use the door too often. Working on fourth set of tires although the last two are low profile Nittos on 18" rims. Replaced front brake pads at 80k. A bit more road noise than I like due mainly to the aftermarket rims/tires. Change oil every 5k miles, adding a bit of Lucas Oil stabilizer--doesn't use a drop. Still gets 24-26mpg city; 27-31mpg hwy
Excellent car with one exception
the car is great and fun to drive. Has great pick up. One chronic problem is that the check engine light came on at approx. 75,000 miles and have not been able to determine why.
Love this car
Never had a problem with it. Wonderful. I've driven it for 3 years. Incredibly reliable.
Serious Transmission Problems
I have always been a Honda lover. However, with only 2 more car payments to go, the transmission began to slip severely, with only 70,000 miles. The problem only occurred when starting the car cold. After the engine warmed up, the transmission ran like a new car. The car is currently at the dealership, and they rebuilt the transmission which did not correct the problem. The 2000+ Accords had a cold- start transmission problem, and Honda offered extended transmission warranties, but this does not apply to my 98. I am very surprised and disappointed. I plan to get rid of the car as soon as the Honda dealership can figure out how to fix it!