Honda Accord VI (CG/CH) (1997 – 2002)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The 6th generation Honda Accord (CG/CH chassis in Europe, CF/CL in Japan) is a textbook case in automotive history: Honda developed three distinct versions (Europe, North America, Japan) to adapt to the specificities of each market. In Europe, it was produced in Swindon (United Kingdom) and distinguished itself by its incisive road handling (double wishbone suspension) and the legendary reliability of its VTEC gasoline engines (F and H series). The Type R (CH1) version has become an icon for purists. While the gasoline engines with manual gearboxes are absolute benchmarks in terms of longevity, this generation is marred by the chronic fragility of automatic gearboxes (especially in North America) and by the use of an unconvincing Rover diesel engine for the European market.

✅ Strengths

Stratospheric reliability of gasoline engines (F and H Series)
Excellent road handling (double wishbone suspension front/rear)
Ergonomics of controls and driving position
Type R (CH1) version with exceptional mechanical temperament
Generous interior space and trunk volume
Aging of interior materials (plastics and velour)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Catastrophic automatic transmissions (especially on North American V6 versions)
Diesel engine (Rover) unworthy of Honda's reliability standards
Imperfect sound insulation (road and wind noise on the highway)
Susceptibility to corrosion (rear wheel arches, engine subframe)
Large turning radius
Varnished paint sometimes fragile (Milano Red that fades)

🎯 Verdict

The 6th generation Honda Accord is a car with two faces. If you opt for a gasoline engine (1.8i, 2.0i, 2.3i or the incredible 2.2 Type R) coupled with a manual gearbox, you are buying one of the most reliable and indestructible sedans of its era, capable of exceeding 400,000 km with basic maintenance. On the other hand, automatic transmission versions (particularly the American V6) are financial headaches, and the Rover diesel is to be absolutely avoided. Prioritize a healthy European model (CG8/CG9) in terms of bodywork, and you will have a perfect youngtimer 'daily'.

Common issues

Défaillance de la transmission automatique (patinage, changements brusques) High

🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km

💶 1 500 – 3 000 €

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien de la BVA et l'état de l'huile.

Fuites de la pompe de direction assistée ou bruits anormaux Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 300 – 600 €

Inspecter régulièrement le niveau et l'état du liquide de direction assistée.

Corrosion du système d'échappement (silencieux, tuyaux) Medium

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 200 – 500 €

Vérifier l'état de l'échappement lors des entretiens réguliers.

Défaillance des lève-vitres électriques (moteur ou mécanisme) Low

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 150 – 350 € par porte

Tester toutes les vitres avant l'achat du véhicule.

Défaillance des capteurs d'oxygène (sonde Lambda) Medium

🔧 120 000 – 180 000 km

💶 150 – 300 € par capteur

Surveiller la consommation de carburant et le voyant moteur.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing belt	£500 – 1 000
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.