Honda Accord VII (CL/CM) (2002 – 2008)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The seventh-generation Honda Accord (CL chassis for the sedan, CM for the Tourer estate, CN for diesel versions) marked a major turning point for the Japanese manufacturer in Europe. Positioned as a premium-leaning family sedan (D-segment), it stood out with a very sharp chassis (double wishbone front, multi-link rear) and remarkable build quality. The major event of this generation was the introduction of the Honda's first 100% in-house designed diesel engine: the 2.2 i-CTDi (N22A1). This aluminum block was praised by critics for its quiet operation, flexibility, and performance, directly rivaling the German benchmarks of the time. A facelift occurred in 2006, bringing slight aesthetic touches, the integration of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and the correction of early issue

✅ Strengths

Driving pleasure and chassis precision (double wishbone)
Exceptional reliability of petrol engines (K series)
Smoothness and quietness of the 2.2 i-CTDi engine (for its time)
Build quality and aging of interior materials
Ergonomics of controls and driving position
Gigantic boot volume on the estate version (Tourer)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Peripheral reliability of the diesel (flywheel, clutch, manifold)
Rear brake calipers prone to seizing (a Honda ailment of this era)
Thin paintwork sensitive to chips (stone chipping)
Noisy or leaking power steering pump (O-ring)
High cost of genuine Honda spare parts
Absence of a particulate filter (DPF) on early i-CTDi models (current ULEZ criteria)

🎯 Verdict

The Honda Accord VII is an excellent sedan, often undervalued on the used car market. If you opt for a petrol engine (2.0 or 2.4 i-VTEC), it's a 'no-brainer' purchase (provided basic maintenance), as these engines are among the most reliable in the world. Regarding the 2.2 i-CTDi (your target): The verdict is more nuanced. Although the engine block itself is robust, its peripherals show their age. Buying a diesel model is recommended ONLY IF the exhaust manifold has already been replaced with the cast iron version, and the clutch + dual-mass flywheel kit has been changed recently. Prioritize a facelifted model (post-2006) with a clear service history. Avoid examples that have been driven mostly in the city or show timing chain noises on startup.