2003-2007 Honda Accord: Used Buying Guide

Used Buying Guide: Honda Accord 2003–2007 (Seventh Generation)

Overview

• Years covered: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
• Body styles: sedan and coupe
• Common configurations: 4-cylinder engines in most trims; 6-cylinder (V6) options in select trims
• General vibe: Comfortable, roomy interior, strong reliability reputation, solid resale value for the age group

NHTSA data snapshot (from the provided dataset)

• No NHTSA complaints found for this make/model/year/issue combination.
• No recalls found in NHTSA database.

What this means for you

• The dataset contains no official complaint or recall entries for these model years. That does not guarantee there will be no issues in the real world or that every car will be trouble-free. It simply means there are no recorded complaints/recalls in this data excerpt to analyze.
• Use this as a data-grounded starting point, but rely on a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a trusted vehicle history report when evaluating individual cars.

What to look for by model year and engine (practical buying notes)

• 4-cylinder models (most common)
  • Engine family: Generally reliable; timing chain (not belt) in many K-series 4-cyl Honda engines, leading to lower long-term timing-belts risk.
    Potential issues to check:
  • Oil consumption and leaks (valve-cover gaskets, cam seals, and upper engine areas)
  • Cooling system hoses and the radiator for leaks
  • Transmission behavior: smooth shifts, no harsh downshifts or slipping if you’re evaluating a 4-speed/5-speed automatic
  • Suspension wear (struts/shocks, control arm bushings)
• V6 models (2003–2007)
  • Engine family: J-series 3.0L V6 variants were offered; some years used a belt-driven setup that can require maintenance (timing belt and water pump)
  • Check for: timing belt replacement history if the V6 is present; a failed belt can cause major engine damage
  • Cost note: if the timing belt/water pump has not been replaced, expect a substantial service bill if you need it done soon
• Transmission notes (for all engines)
  • Many Accords of this era used a 4-speed or 5-speed automatic; some owners report shifting quirks or wear at higher mileages
  • Look for: smooth engagement, normal upshifts, no slipping, no hard shifts or surges
  • Regular fluid changes help longevity; ask about fluid change history
• Electrical & comfort features
  • Power windows, door locks, and mirrors should operate smoothly
  • Climate control (A/C) should blow cold and vents should direct air correctly
  • Sunroof (if equipped) should not leak; check seals and drains
• Safety and structural checks
  • Rust is more likely in salt-belt regions; check frame rails, pinch-woints, rocker panels, and undercarriage for corrosion
  • Brake system: pads, rotors, and ABS functioning properly
  • Tires should be even wear; misalignment can cause uneven wear and handling issues

2025 pricing guidance (estimated market values by condition and year)
Note: These are broad, regional estimates to help you gauge a fair price in 2025. Prices vary with region, trim level, mileage, and overall condition. Always corroborate with local listings and a professional appraisal.

• 2003–2004 Accords
  • Excellent condition with low mileage (e.g., <120k miles): roughly $4,000–$6,000
  • Average condition with typical aging and 120k–180k miles: roughly $2,500–$4,500
  • Higher-mileage examples (>180k miles) in fair condition: roughly $2,000–$3,500
• 2005 Accords (facelift-era improvements and optional features)
  • Excellent condition: roughly $5,000–$7,000
  • Average condition with 120k–180k miles: roughly $3,000–$5,500
  • Higher-mileage examples: roughly $2,500–$4,500
• 2006–2007 Accords
  • Excellent condition: roughly $6,000–$8,500
  • Average condition with 120k–170k miles: roughly $3,500–$6,000
  • Higher-mileage examples: roughly $3,000–$5,000

Factors that push price up or down

• Trim level and options (EX/LX/V6, anti-lock brakes, VSA, leather, sunroof)
• Transmission type (automatic vs manual; manual cars can be more desirable in some markets)
• Condition of cosmetic elements (interior wear, exterior paint, rust)
• Maintenance history (recent timing belt/water pump on V6, major service items, documented service records)
• Vehicle history (number of owners, accident history, flood damage)

Pre-purchase inspection checklist (prior to negotiation)

• Visual and under-hood checks
  • Look for oil leaks around valve covers, oil pan, and timing belt/water pump area (especially on V6)
  • Inspect for rust on frame rails, rockers, wheel arches, and undercarriage
  • Check belts and hoses for cracks or wear
  • Look for coolant leaks and ensure the radiator and cooling system are in good condition
• Engine and performance
  • Start-up: listen for unusual noises (ticking, knocking); note exhaust tone
  • Idle quality: smooth idle without misfiring; test both cold and warm starts
  • Acceleration: smooth, no misfire or hesitation; check power delivery in all gears (auto) or at different RPMs (manual)
  • Compression test (especially if you suspect oil consumption or burning)
• Transmission and drivetrain
  • Automatic transmission: confirm smooth shifts; no slipping, shuddering, or delayed engagement
  • Manual transmission: verify clutch engagement is smooth; no grinding when shifting into gears
• Suspension and steering
  • Test for excessive play in steering, clunks over bumps, and abnormal tire wear
  • Inspect springs, shocks/struts, control arms, and ball joints
• Brakes and wheels
  • Check brake pads and rotors for wear; listen for grinding sounds
  • Ensure ABS light is off and ABS works as intended
  • Inspect tires for even wear and adequate tread
• Interior and electronics
  • Test all power windows, locks, seats, and mirrors
  • Check HVAC performance (cooling/heating) and blower speeds
  • Verify infotainment and instrument cluster functions
• Documentation
  • Service receipts (timing belt/water pump on V6, transmission services, cooling system work, brake services)
  • Title history and any accident reports
  • Clean Carfax or equivalent history report
• Test drive plan
  • Vary speed, test highway merge, and evaluate steering feel at speed
  • Listen for unusual noises from engine, transmission, or suspension
  • Check climate control, radio, and other electronics during the drive

Maintenance expectations and 2025 service cost estimates
Because this age of Accord is several years older, plan for routine maintenance plus occasional major items. Here are representative 2025 costs you might encounter:

• Timing belt kit with water pump (V6 models)
  • Parts and labor: roughly $900–$1,500
• Timing belt-related tensioners and seals (if applicable)
  • Parts and labor: roughly $100–$300 in addition to the belt kit
• Valve cover gaskets and other common oil leaks
  • Parts and labor: roughly $200–$600 per gasket job
• Transmission service (fluid drain and fill; full service if warranted)
  • Drain/fill: roughly $150–$250
  • Full service with pan gasket and additive: roughly $350–$600
• Brakes (pads and rotors) per axle
  • Pads: $50–$120 per axle; Rotors: $150–$300 per axle (parts only)
  • Complete brake job (pads + rotors on both axles): roughly $300–$700
• Tires (all-season)
  • Set of four: roughly $400–$800 depending on brand and size
• Front-end suspension work (struts/shocks, control arms, ball joints)
  • Per axle: roughly $400–$900 (depending on parts and labor)
• Radiator, hoses, and cooling system refresh
  • Roughly $200–$500 for parts and labor depending on scope
• A/C service
  • Recharge: roughly $100–$250
  • If compressor or condenser is needed: $600–$1,200 total
• Spark plugs and ignition components
  • Roughly $100–$250 for a standard 4-cylinder; V6 may be higher
• Miscellaneous
  • Alignment after suspension work or tire replacement: roughly $80–$140

Ownership considerations

• Fuel economy: For 4-cylinder models, you’ll typically see around mid-20s to low-30s mpg in mixed driving; V6 models may be in the mid- to high-20s. Real-world EPA figures will vary based on condition, tires, maintenance, and driving style.
• Insurance: Similar to other mid-size sedans of the era; expect reasonable premiums but vary by location, driver history, and coverage.
• Reliability perception: Honda builds are generally regarded as durable; with older Accords, the condition of the specific example (maintenance history, rust, and wear) matters more than year alone.
• Collectibility and parts availability: Easy access to parts and a large community of owners can help with maintenance and troubleshooting.

Practical buying strategy by budget

• Budget-conscious buyer (roughly $2,000–$4,000)
  • Prioritize: 2003–2004 models with visible maintenance history and clean title
  • Accept potential: higher-mileage car with some wear; plan for upcoming maintenance (brakes, tires, potential timing belt-related items on V6)
• Mid-budget buyer (roughly $4,000–$6,000)
  • Prioritize: 2005–2007 models with documented maintenance, newer tires, and an clean interior
  • Expect to address: minor rust prevention, suspension wear checks, and possible cooling system refresh if not recently done
• Higher-budget buyer (roughly $6,000–$8,000+)
  • Prioritize: lower mileage examples, well-documented service history, solid paint, minimal rust
  • Look for: timing belt service history on V6, transmission service history, recent brake and tire replacement, and climate control reliability

Pros and cons at a glance

• Pros
  • Comfortable ride and roomy interior
  • Solid reliability reputation and strong resale value for the age
  • Wide parts availability and active owner communities
• Cons
  • Age-related wear: rust in some regions, worn suspension components, aging rubber hoses and belts
  • Potential for oil consumption on certain engines at higher mileages
  • V6 models may require timing-belt service if not already done; that can be a significant upfront cost

Key questions to ask the seller

• When was the timing belt or belt kit replaced (if you’re considering a V6 model)?
• What is the service history for transmission fluid, cooling system, and brake components?
• Are there any known leaks (engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or power steering fluid)?
• Have all recalls and service campaigns been completed? (Note: you should verify with current dealership records even if not cited in the data)
• Are there any rust issues or past collision damage?
• Do all electrical features (windows, sunroof, HVAC, infotainment) work reliably?

Bottom line recommendations

• If you want maximum peace of mind with minimal surprises in this age group, prioritize a well-documented 2005–2007 Accord with evidence of recent major services (timing belt service on V6 if applicable, transmission service, brakes, tires) and no rust.
• If you’re budget-conscious, you can find decent examples from 2003–2004, but plan for upcoming maintenance and potential major items (brakes, suspension, cooling system, oil seals) based on vehicle history and inspection results.
• Regardless of price, insist on a professional pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a qualified mechanic, plus a copy of the vehicle history report before finalizing a buy.

Data limitations note

• This guide references the provided NHTSA data: there are no listed complaints and no recalls for 2003–2007 Honda Accord in the supplied dataset. That absence does not guarantee universal reliability or absence of future issues. Always perform a thorough independent inspection and consider a trusted history report to assess the specific car you’re considering.

If you’d like, I can tailor this guide to your region, preferred trim, and a target mileage/budget, and I can help you draft a targeted pre-purchase inspection checklist for the exact car you’re eyeing.