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Used 2003 Honda Accord Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
1324 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

225,000 miles and still a beast

Lilbit Libra, 11/18/2015
2003 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
65 of 67 people found this review helpful

I am writing this review because I have owned my Honda accord since 2003. I have done very little repairs over the 10+ years. Only replaced an O2 sensor. Its has been a godsend. Only had transmission problem because McGee tire put junk fluid. As soon as I put Honda trans fluid back in, zero problems. My car just hit 225,000 and just had to give her front end brakes, rotors, bearings, tie rods. All general maintenance. This car will last forever.Its death due us part so look for my 500k update.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Great car with lots of little issues

Pickandpray, 07/24/2015
updated 07/29/2019
2003 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
34 of 35 people found this review helpful

I got this car second hand and it has many little problems that don't sully the overall satisfaction with driving the car. BAD: door lock actuator failure moon roof relay dark radio prevents seeing the station or the time tail lights leak water internally clear coat peeling GOOD: Very acceptable audio quality (decent bass in factory component setup) Very smooth quiet ride Pretty good handling (not sporty but not floaty either) No excessive wind noise on the highway During high speed road trips the suspension feels under dampened when hitting dips in the road at 80mph. Suspension feels great below 70mph. *update* After sorting out the little issues, the car has been problem free except for an idler bearing that needed replacement twice and my heat is not too warm but a coolant flush helped a little. I'm still very happy with this car because it has been very dependable and I hope it stays that way for atleast a few more years.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Hard to replace

Bernie, 06/13/2018
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
17 of 17 people found this review helpful

Bought my 03 EXL V6 new. At 148K miles, I'd like to upgrade. I have followed manufacturer maintenance schedule and other than expected wear over time, the car still looks good and as I tell people, it doesn't owe me a dime! It has had two transmission flushes, per schedule and I've never had problems. Reviews on newer cars have been discouraging at best with issues ranging from cheaper interiors, navigation, sound systems, door seals and transmissions, (especially the newer CVT). Probably not too many seekers for a review on this old Honda but I felt compelled to submit one from a "very happy car owner". I may just keep it a wee bit longer.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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3.88 out of 5 stars

VERY GOOD USED CAR

hondas_rule, 04/14/2014
2003 Honda Accord EX 2dr Coupe w/Leather (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
63 of 68 people found this review helpful

Bought this as my work car this past Christmas break with 121k miles on it. These are great cars but Honda did have some troubles with this new body style in '03. The V6's eat up transmissions if you are the type to mash the gas and make the transmission shift under full throttle acceleration. The 4 cyls don't seem to have transmission issues. I had to replace the cruise control switch on the steering column which was an easy and cheap fix ( $35 on eBay ). The driver side door lock actuator which requires taking the door panel off went bad ( $20 on eBay ). Drivers seat belt light on the dash won't go out even though I have it buckled. Not that big a deal. Overall a great car for $5800

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3 out of 5 stars

Our Experience

Ty, 06/25/2016
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful

This is a car that I insisted my friend should get after her first lemon of a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Turns out that this Accord makes that lemon look heaven-sent. It's a shame because I drive a 2000 Honda Accord with over 210,000 miles. The suspension rattles and clunks, the engine burns oil, but it runs well otherwise and hasn't given me any major issues. The 2003 Honda Accord that my friend got has just 79,000 miles. The ride is infinitely better, the seats are much more comfortable, and the car is all around a significant improvement from the previous model. However, the number of issues that the 2003 Accord has way outnumbers my own Accord just 3 years older. The transmission is absolutely garbage. This car has left us on the side of the road outside of Vegas in the middle of the summer with an overheated transmission, pouring fluid all over the side of the freeway. After getting one part of the transmission fixed, it started to shift hard. The tail light switch failed and started killing the battery, which I had to fix on my own to save some money. The AC would only blow cold air through one half of the car. The list of issues go on. All in all, as much as I love this car, the quality of the mechanical components is incredibly bad. A car that I told my friend would be reliable and problem-free has been anything but. CarComplaints.com rates this car as the second worst car to purchase and suggests "avoiding this model year like the plague." Boy were they right. Be careful when thinking about buying a 2003 Honda Accord. As much as I love this car, I hate it just as much.

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Honda Accord 2003 2.4 L Engine

Jeff, 09/26/2015
2003 Honda Accord LX 2dr Coupe w/Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful

These are some pretty reliable cars as long as long you take care of the maintenance on them. If you take care of your Honda, your Honda will take care of you. Use synthetic oil and change your oil every 5,000 miles and service the transmission every 30,000 miles. Your catalyst converter will need changing every 100,000 miles and you o2 sensors may require changing when every your engine light indicate changing of the o2 sensors. These are the basis requirement for keeping up your Honda and if you do this, the car will last you as long as you take care of the car. Miles on a Honda mean absolutely nothing but another mile just as long as you care for the vehicle.

Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
1 out of 5 stars
Comfort
1 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

2003 Honda Accord, still going strong.

M. Kent, 11/07/2018
2003 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
18 of 19 people found this review helpful

I am a proud owner of a 2003 Honda Accord Ex. The odometer is currently topping off at 400,000 miles. This is my only car and is driven daily. There is nowhere I can’t and won’t drive this car. This car is still going strong!! I wouldn’t buy anything but a Honda. Hands down the most reliable vehicle you can own. The proof is in the mileage!

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

I think it may run forever...

Tom, 07/25/2016
2003 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
18 of 19 people found this review helpful

I bought a 2003 EX 2.4l automatic and now have 185,000 miles on. The car has never broken down, ever. All I do is change the oil every 5,000 miles and then about every 60,000 miles I drain/refill the transmission fluid. I have gone through a couple sets of tires, brakes, and at 100,000 miles I had the coolant drained and replaced. But that is all standard maintenance. The only thing that ever went wrong happened just a few weeks ago. There were a couple days when my A/C was intermittent and then it stopped working all together. Took it to my mechanic and was diagnosed that the A/C clutch went bad. He couldn't find a single other thing wrong with my car so I decided to spend $800 and get a new A/C compressor (with a new clutch of course!) installed. In 13 years of owning the car this is the only thing that has ever went wrong. I feel a sense of pride and accomplishment now and love the fact that I haven't had a car payment in a long time. Curious to see how long it will last but I have a feeling it will last longer then I will and I am only 35!!!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Running Strong after All Theses Years

Wendy G, 05/13/2016
2003 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
17 of 18 people found this review helpful

I have done all the required maintenance on time and this car has never broken down..ever. That is the best thing about Honda's. You take care of them, they will take care of you. After 178,000 miles, all I have done is replace batteries, wipers, tires, brakes and an alternator. Regular attention to the owners manual has kept me rolling along and safe. Love this car!!

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

BadTranny

nikkithediyer, 08/12/2014
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
21 of 23 people found this review helpful

I bought it used in 2012 with about 181k. That thang was surprisingly fast. Loved taking it out on the highway on trips. It was my 3rd Honda. I drove it from Philly to Atlanta and back. Tranny died at 211k. I drive a lot. I must say, it was low on trans fluid but it was also very very dark. I don't know too much about cars my research suggests there could have been that common issue of the 3rd gear not being lubricated properly and grinding out....or maybe neglect on my part. Either way, I don't have the car. I sold it cheap but really miss it! Wish I'd kept it and just replaced trans. I should have noticed the subtle hard downshift from 3rd the 2nd from the beginning...can't win em all.

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2.63 out of 5 stars

Failed Transmission

willm3, 10/30/2013
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
20 of 22 people found this review helpful

Great car but transmission is not dependable. I would not buy this car unless you are a transmission mechanic.

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4 out of 5 stars

pretty nice

stewart, 09/08/2015
2003 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
14 of 15 people found this review helpful

I bought this accord used from a trade in with 220,000 miles. Right now I have 229,000 miles. No major issues. Took it from ohio to florida bo problem. Scariest complaint I have seen is about excessive oil consumption. From my research it seems to happen when oil changes are not done and the oil gets dirty. When that happens your timing chain which relies upon oil pressure can jump/ get stretched. Get your oil changed every 3000 miles. I dont lose any oil and this car to get to 220k miles must have been changed like clockwork. Also the automatic seems to have tranny problems.. I have a 5 speed manual and I seen hardly any complaints. Buying used make sure the car is clean.. If someone took good care of the interior and outside, then they probably took care of it mechanically too. Also when i bought mine the oil was just due for the 3000 change.. And the small dealership didn't change the oil prior to me buying. This let me see the level of the oil, and how dirty it was after 3000 miles.. To which the oil looked good. So i bought it and had it changed first thing. I expected with that many miles to not get the window sticker epa mileage.. But in fact i get 29 combined city and highway. Taking it to florida a tank seemed to get a max of about 520 miles. Take care of your Honda if you want it to last!

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Never wanted a foreign car until Honda Accord

Dennis Popek, 10/12/2018
2003 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan w/Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

I got this car , by accident, and was totally surprised about how great it was. I have owned, Corvettes, Trans Am, 442 Olds, Shelby Mustang, Comet Cyclone, Pontiac Can Am, Lincoln Continental, etc, etc, and I must say this Honda Accord is the best combination of performance, handling, and road feel. Clearly its not the fastest car I ve every owned, but the feel of the car on the highway is fantastic.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fantastic car! The best ever for me.

snowatcher, 11/02/2012
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

I had to write this review, as I have never felt about any car like I do about this one. When I bought it new in February 03, I thought it was the best value compared to competition. 10 years and 150K miles later, it proved to be more than that. It's super reliable, comfortable, runs like new, it brings the smile to my face every time I drive it. I do my own maintenance, which is really easy on this car. The things that went wrong: radio display (fixed by dealer for free), and brakes. I got tired replacing pads every 40K miles, so I put on Centric rotors and Akebono pads myself - best upgrade possible! OEM level performance, but much longer life and no dust. Highly recommended car!

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2 out of 5 stars

Transmission Failure

Shannon, 08/13/2015
2003 Honda Accord LX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
28 of 32 people found this review helpful

I bought this car as my first car. It worked wonderfully, I loved it! Then two weeks later the transmission fails. Everywhere I read says this is a common problem with this year. I spent all my money I saved on this car, I don't have enough to buy a new transmission.

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Honda made a mistake in 2003...

Mike Wilcox, 02/28/2016
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
37 of 43 people found this review helpful

Sorry but after this 2003 Honda Accord EXL v6 ( yes FULLY LOADED ) blew the transmission today after 112,000 miles, I will not buy another Honda. Honda missed the mark on the 2003 cars and we are paying for it. This one has required expensive repair around 110,000 miles including a $3500 transmission, a $2400 power steering replacement and a $3000 paint job due to peeling clearcoat. Note, other annoyances includes door lock actuator failure at about the same time. Didn't most cars fail like this, ie at 100k miles, in the 1970s? Something happened starting in 2003 to Honda quality to let these problems hit the consumer and unfortunately in our case we had to pay for the repairs. It is a sad day, like losing a friend. Particularly, since we have three Hondas in the family. Survivors include a 2002 Accord and a 2003 CRV. The 02 Accord and 03 CRV each have over 200,000 miles on them and have had no serious problems including a rock solid original engine and transmission. In the past, we paid more for Honda quality and expected more from Honda. In my case, we ignored the complaints against the 2003 - 2005 Hondas thinking it was a fluke, this was a bad mistake. And sadly, you can not trust Hondas to the point where you pay more for a Honda than any of the other brand. So the morale of the story is that 'you' must add Honda to the list of vendors that you MUST use a 'buyer beware' approach. Do your homework, delay the purchase and shop around.

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

2003 Honda Accord EX V6 4dr

hollandsc, 12/07/2011
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
17 of 19 people found this review helpful

Background: original owner, 148k miles, new transaxle @ 45k, new output shaft oil seal @ 145k, new struts @ 145k, and every warning light that could have come on has come on. I need to mention that it has been in four wrecks – all due to being hit from behind while stopped. With this said, I do all repair work myself on this car and all of my other cars. This Honda is a little “touchy” because of the number of sensors. This is good or bad; good if you fix the issue because the car knows if there is an issue or bad if you want to ignore the problem and don’t want to know about it. Parts are readily available, cheep & the car is easy to fix. No matter the car (I have had just about every

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1 out of 5 stars

Tranny problems are known, documented - stay away

jpgillach, 05/22/2018
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

Don't make the same mistake I did. Read this before you buy a Honda built before 2005 with a V6 and an automatic transmission - short story is they have a known transmission problem, the long story is better told here (and many other places): https://www.transmissionrepaircostguide.com/honda-accord-transmission-problems/

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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3 out of 5 stars

Beware of going over 100,000 miles

Keith, 07/12/2016
2003 Honda Accord DX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

Had transmission issues-gasket in-between casings gone-hard to fix -costing 15-2000 dollars. Two oil leaks sprang up in engine-gaskets. I was later told Honda gaskets die after 100,000-so dam true! Other person I know had severe transmission issues in this model. Door is a issue-try and go out it goes to swing back on you. Body rot started on the panels-exhaust system rotted out-same right tail light went out 6 times in a few years. Nightmare. Please look at the later models first. This 2003 was a Bust!

Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

I can't imagine a better car

revs29, 12/12/2011
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

I am now at 196,000 miles on my Accord EX-V6 6MT which I bought CPO with 69k miles. I cannot imagine a better all-around car. I have NEVER been stranded with this car and last month went on a 2-week 5000 mile trip with it with zero problems. This car still has serious power and I routinely hit redline. It is the perfect mix of power, comfort, reliability and looks - my S2000 kills it in driving dymamics, but on most days I honestly prefer driving my Accord V6. The only issues I have had are ball joints/struts (Michigan roads!), a driver's side window regulator, and a main seal fixed under warranty. That's IT. I spend about $200/yr maintaining this car - far less than most brand new cars.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best car I've owned (long term)

randomao, 07/17/2011
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

I bought this car in late 05' with approx 34,000 on it. 120,000 miles later, and no major issues at all. The CD changer shorted out @ 75k, but it was covered under the extended warranty. Like others mentioned, the paint isn't holding up the best, there's a lot of chips, and the clear coat is starting to peel in a couple places. The drivers window comes off the track once in while, making a loud squealing noise, and the leather, where the back of you're upper left arm contacts the seat is cracking, Insignificant cons. I've been thinking about getting a newer car, but it's hard to find one that offers more that doesn't cost 25k. It's paid for, and I wouldn't hesitate a 2000 mi trip.

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5 out of 5 stars

Now over 500,000 km

Tee Bee, 09/02/2016
2003 Honda Accord EX 2dr Coupe (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful

Purchased this car new, my first new car, and have enjoyed it immensely. Now at over 345,000 miles, it rides smooth (original struts, joints, CV, links all original), still get over 32 mpg, auto transmission shifts like new, AC blows cold, heater cranks out heat, all doors, hood, trunk lid function fit-perfect. Leather interior wears excellent, no repairs, and carpeting is in fine shape. All brake rotors are factory original. I have replaced only one rear caliper. This is probably the best car ever made in USA. I do all of my own maintenance.

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5 out of 5 stars

I love my Honda

Marco Gonzales, 01/25/2016
2003 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful

My 2003 Accord LX is as good as it was when I bought it in 2003. With 267,844 miles it still runs like the day I bought it. Of course I kept the maintenance and changed the timing belt and water pump every 60K miles. I will be buying 2016 Accord in April.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

15 years and STILL Rolling

Tee Bee, 09/13/2018
2003 Honda Accord EX 2dr Coupe w/Leather (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Purchased new in '03 and now has 365000 miles. I cannot remember how many times I have replaced the tires but that is it. The transmission shifts like NEW, the engine has wonderful performance for a 4-banger, the paint looks new from 10', and the leather interior is surprisingly nice and comfortable. On long trips, this is the most comfortable car I have had to sleep in. The backlight on the radio/climate system died after 10 years and Honda would not cover it, sigh. Still has the original suspension/shocks and rides like new.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.25 out of 5 stars

Great Car

Matt, 09/15/2006
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

I traded in a 2000 Ford Contour SVT for a Honda Accord V6 in 2003 and have been very satisfied with the Honda. There are several flaws in the Accord, the "automatic" air system is a broken piece of junk, the alternater/battery system makes the lights flash (unfixable), and the dummy pedal is too small. The emissions is too far ahead of its time resulting in a sulpher smell. But overall, I've been really happy with the performance, owner cost, service, and reliability of this car. I had the flawed radio display, which stopped working. They replaced that on warrenty. No critical feature has had any problems for me.

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5 out of 5 stars

Don’t change your car says Honda advisor!

Richard, 07/11/2021
2003 Honda Accord DX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Bought new in 2003. 150000 miles. Very few problems. Always serviced by local dealer for whom we have praise. Advisor has the same car - he doesn’t like later models which are crammed with electronics which do fail. Has always told us to keep the car until major failure - unlikely! Yes it is rusting and we fear that will limit its life.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Could not be more happy with my Accord!

shehow, 07/10/2012
2003 Honda Accord LX 2dr Coupe w/Side Airbags (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Short and sweet, this car is reliable and has it all. I have not had it in the shop once. Great in any terrain you put it through. You always hear people say Honda quality, well here you go. Quality all the way. I will for sure buy another honda. This car is my baby. If you are debating buying one... DO IT!!! :)

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2.25 out of 5 stars

Honda USED to make a superb car

tbckc, 07/06/2011
2003 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan w/Leather (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful

I had been a raving Honda fan since the early 90's. I finally gave up and sold my 42,000 mile, 03 Accord after a bad a/c compressor, sunroof relay, wiper motor, and drivers door lock motor. Of course, AHMC had no interest in a goodwill claim on any of it. I'm just now reading reviews by other owners who are citing the same issues over and over. Also looks like I got out just in time to avoid the failure of a poorly engineered automatic transmission. Since the late 90s larger vehicles with more powerful engines, and attempts to make them shift without jerking have stressed Honda's unique design of an automatic. Please, DO YOUR RESEARCH before you buy.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Scared

bigjohn112, 07/14/2013
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful

I wish I had read more reviews before buying this car for my daughters first. I found this car at a dealer. One owner, 119K, no wrecks, no damage. Car looked a drove great. AC did not blow as cold as I thought it should but they checked it and replaced a sensor. I am going to change the transmission fluid as soon as possible. But with all the talk about tranny problems I find myself listening for odd noised and weird shifting . We have only had it a few days, but may end up wishing I had got a 2004+

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1 out of 5 stars

You need a new transmission = 2003 Accord

Antranick Harrentsian, 08/07/2018
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful

Great car, if you don't need to drive the car. The transmission my car, like thousands of other Honda Accord owners, died and needs to be replaced. Though it is the most notorious defect for this model year, unfortunately, it isn't the only one: no A/C due to the positioning of the A/C condenser and its susceptibility to being rendered inoperable by rocks the car runs over; the electrical system malfunctions (i.e. the headlights no longer work, the cd player no longer works). The biggest downfall for this model year Honda is clearly the fact that due to Honda's poor transmission design, you will need to shell out $2,000.00-$4,500.00 for a new transmission.

Safety
1 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

2003 Honda lasts forever!

Cheryl Franklin, 06/29/2018
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful

I purchased this Honda used, and it has been a great running, reliable car. I did not have to change the Timing Belt and Water Pump until it had 218,113 miles on it. I got the oil pump resealed, new radiator, alternator, and catalytic converter between 233,000 - 244,000 miles. And here I am today, at 312,900 miles and it is going strong. I have to admit that when I purchased it used, I considered it to be a lemon because of electrical problems: The CD player stopped working, the passenger side front window did not work (even though we changed the window regulator twice). But for a lemon, this car has been a winner! You will enjoy and drive this car until the wheels fall off. I highly recommend this used car.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Great Car

ken zimmerman, 04/14/2008
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I was specific in what I wanted in 2003 with the Honda Coupe six cy. manual. I am glad that I did. It has been a truly exceptional car to own - a real joy to drive. Until the 2008 remodel, there was no real reason to consider trading because the 2003 has been essentially the same as the 2007. But the 2008 is a looker.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Outstanding 03 Accord

movinwest, 08/22/2011
2003 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I owned a new 03 accord lx with a manual transmission. I purchased the car instead of a nissan z or an audi a4 as I thought I would be practical for once. During 200,000 trouble free miles the car won me over with a combination of enjoyable driving dynamics, all around practicality and reliability. The only repairs other than brake pads and two batteries, was an oxygen sensor which needed replacement costing a little over $100. The build quality is certainly a high point for this car as it seemed as solid at 200k as when it was new. The mileage was tremendous as on one trip I got up to 36 mpg on the highway. A tremendous value.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great Car

Stephanie's Honda, 08/06/2003
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

All in all it's a great car. The pick up is great and the style is very sporty.

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5 out of 5 stars

Kudos to Honda

Accordman, 09/30/2002
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Smooth ride, responsive to cornering, Honda reliability, excellent support from the dealership, style and comfort.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Love it!

jpayne_07, 10/21/2010
2003 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I bought my Accord used with 12,000 miles on it. Now 6 years later it has 253k on it. I have NOT had a problem out of it at all. It has been a great car. Even with the high miles on it i am still averaging 33 MPG. No leaks whatsoever and still rides amazing. I plan on driving this car until it finally quits. I have put 240k miles on it and I believe i can run it for another 250k. The only problem is the paint. It has faded in a select few spots but i cant complain

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5 out of 5 stars

My Honda V6 Ex Review

Bugs, 01/21/2006
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I have 30k miles on this Accord and bought it new. The power is very impressive and on long trips have got 32mpg. I have owned Toyotas, Fords, Chevrolets, Pontiacs and Nissans, none these vehicles in the same class as this car. Had one minor problem on the interior and the dealer fixed it. Overall i would recommend this car. But not for a younger person that is beginning to drive, too much power, get them into trouble.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Can't beat the Accord

James G, 03/31/2010
2003 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Purchased for my wife 2004 from Jim White Honda in Toledo, OH. and received a good deal as it was an 2003 model. Car has held up great. There was an initial problem with a flickering of the dashboard light, which a dealer in Akron, OH (Mike Pruit Honda) promptly fixed under warranty. The rest of the time has just been routine maintenance. Several people in our families think it time for us to purchase a new vehicle and give them our Honda, but we are not ready to part with it yet. Only problem never repaired is one of the key remote lock would drain a battery (in the key) in a day or 2. We had lived in different cities so no one dealer changed the key, each changed the key's battery.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

2003 Honda Accord EX - 6 cyl

wallyk2, 12/21/2014
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful

I've enjoyed my car, but the transmission had to be replaced at 40,000 miles, 2 of 3 catalytic convertor stages had to be replaced in less than 120,000 miles, and the oxygen sensor twice...now my heat "blend doors" have to be replaced (which entails removing the entire dashboard).

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Faithful Honda owner..a little rattled.

ajhall, 04/02/2013
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful

This is my second Accord, also the first car I have ever bought without researching. My thoughts were "it's an Accord. I'm safe". Currently have 80k miles on it. The car has been great, plenty of fun to drive and ample room although the trunk is a little small. What you've read about transmission issues are true. Mine is going in the shop this week for a rebuild around 3k in price. Honda has seem to correct the issue in later models and has been known to split the tranny rebuild with you since losing a class action suit, but it's a little shameful to have to do on a car so young. I'm going to keep it 300k+ miles. Not my last Accord, but research each car individually before buying.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

EX-V6 2-dr coupe Accord, 5M

2nd Coupe owner, 08/10/2003
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Replaces 1998 Accord 2-dr coupe EX- V6. Additional features (outside temp, telescoping steering wheel, collapsing outside mirrors, additional air bags, etc.)are a nice addition. 2003 has lots more pick-up, hands down. I like the body style of the 1998 better than the current style, it may have to grow on me. Overall, it is a nice, fun car.

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5 out of 5 stars

Anyone reading this should buy an Accord

nutter2759, 04/14/2003
2003 Honda Accord EX 2dr Coupe w/Leather (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This car is MONEY! I can't wait to get off work just for the commute home. A great car to drive and just to be in. Excellent road trip car...

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Honda Reliability

NorthDallasTexas, 06/29/2006
2003 Honda Accord EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

03 Honda Accord EX Sedan 4cyl with auto and NAV. Great design, GREAT interior comfort! Room for 5 midsize adults. 23-28.5 mpg city 31.2-35.0 mpg highway What other sedan of this size can compete? I love the Navigation, VERY easy to use. Ambient lighting is neat. 6 cd changer is good, steering wheel controls GREAT for people who use to take there eyes off the road (like me) at 72,000 miles starting to "putt putt" a little. I'm 6 foot 1 and hit my knee's under the steering column everytime I get out! I don't feel that the brakes, braking system and ABS system work as good as they can. Feels like you're stopping a Suburban, not a midsize sedan.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

DON'T BUY!

Michele, 12/10/2009
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Since we bought this car the transmission has gone out twice, the radio/cd went out and the A/C went out. Our transmission was replaced at 55,000 miles and now at 120,000 miles it's out again! Honda says they know this is an issue, but are not willing to help. We are looking at another $3500!!!

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5 out of 5 stars

299,000 miles and still running!

Tanya Stemmerman, 10/21/2019
2003 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

My mom bought a 2003 Accord back in 2003 and gave it to me in 2012. It’s 2019 and still running great! It now has 299,000 miles on it! This car has not given me any real issues other than having to change the Cadillac converter in order to pass smog in 2016. I am really good at keeping up with the recommended maintenance which helps the car continue to run smoothly I believe. I will NEVER drive a car that is not an Accord.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Honey of a honda

Norm raush, 09/15/2016
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

After 265000 miles car runs like new, engine terrific, trans repaired at 230,000 miles , still quite rattle free, fun to drive ultra reliable.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Nearly Flawless

Stoney, 01/12/2007
2003 Honda Accord LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Bought this new and have been extremely pleased with the performance, reliability, and overall "functionality." Our 4 cylinder LX accelerates and handles well. The fuel economy is very good. Seat comfort is excellent despite the lack of lumbar adjustment. Repairs have been minimal - oil changes, tire rotation, and new brake pads (typical for 50% city driving). If you buy this car used, be sure to pull a CarFax because there are thousands of "totalled" Accords out there being sold - and it is hard to restore a heavily damaged car to original specs.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

What a set of wheels!

carolina08, 06/25/2006
2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Purchased with 72k miles as certified used vehicle. Love the power, though it has almost gotten me in trouble a few times. I have avoided several accidents in this car thanks to the agile handling and intelligent abs system. Did have the problem with the radio in April but dealer replaced it under good faith (though my certified warranty would have covered it). Only repair I have had to make is replace a brake light switch that won't let the car be put into gear if it goes out. It cost me 8 dollars and I was able to install it myself! I drove a brand new civic before I bought my accord for more room. This accord with over 86,000 miles runs just as well as my brand new civic! ITS A HONDA!!!!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

A Nice Drive

DreArf, 03/09/2005
2003 Honda Accord LX V-6 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

First vehicle I have ever owned and it was new when I bought it. I have had so much fun driving it. Power is quite pleasant, but I do notice a slight hesistation before it kicks in when I accelerate hard. I have fine tuned it some by adding chrome rims, AEM cold air intake valve, AERO turbine performance mufflers, and special paint striping. I'm 5'4 and the visibility is okay, but if you're short you need to just get use to visually compensating when parking and driving in tight spaces. The design a lot of people seem to complain, but of course, if you own one it grows on you. The car has been a surprise to drive and I hope someone can enjoy this model as much as I have.

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3 out of 5 stars

Bad MechanicaL Design & Poor reliability

newstripes, 12/02/2011
2003 Honda Accord DX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
7 of 10 people found this review helpful

My experience with this car has been far from the perception og Hondas go forever, are reliable and great quality. We are experiencing the well known problems of excess oil consumption & timing chain issues. It seems the design of the engine & car makes it very dificult & costly to repair this requiring about 14hours of Labor according to our Honda Dealer. This car usues the most oil of any car i ever owned (3L per 5K) and has cost the most to maintain this year at so far $2000! Now This $2000+!!! all at 80,000 miles (130K Km).

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