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

Reliability score : 8.8/10

The 7th generation Honda Accord (CL/CM chassis for Europe and Japan, sold as Acura TSX in North America) is often considered one of the most reliable sedans of its era, particularly in its gasoline powertrains. Positioned as a dynamic family car (D-segment) leaning towards premium, it stands out with a sharp chassis (double wishbone front suspension) and naturally aspirated VTEC engines (K series) with exceptional efficiency. Note: There is a major distinction between the European/Japanese Accord (CL/CM) and the North American Accord of the same era, which is based on a larger platform and offers V6 engines. This report exhaustively covers both versions for a global overview, with a strong focus on gasoline powertrains. The facelift, which occurred in late 2005, brought minor aesthetic tou

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The 7th generation Honda Accord is a true 'dinosaur' of automotive reliability, in the best sense of the term. If you opt for a gasoline powertrain (2.0i or 2.4i), you are buying one of the most robust vehicles ever built, capable of exceeding 300,000 km with simple routine maintenance. The chassis is excellent and the driving experience remains modern. Buying advice: Avoid the diesel (2.2 i-CTDi) which accounts for 90% of the model's costly breakdowns (flywheel, manifold, chain). Look for a 2.0 or 2.4 gasoline model, preferably post-2005 (facelift), with a clear service history (regular oil changes). Check if the Takata airbag recall has been performed.

Common issues

Défaillance du compresseur de climatisation High
🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km
💶 1 200 – 2 000 €
Vérifier le fonctionnement de la clim et l'absence de bruits anormaux.
Fuites ou bruits de la pompe de direction assistée Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 300 – 600 €
Écouter les bruits de pompe et vérifier le niveau/fuites de liquide.
Problèmes de transmission automatique (patinage, à-coups) High
🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km
💶 2 000 – 3 500 €
Tester la douceur des changements de vitesse, vérifier l'historique d'entretien.
Usure des supports moteur (silentblocs) Medium
🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km
💶 400 – 800 €
Vérifier les vibrations excessives au ralenti ou à l'accélération.
Défaillance des sondes à oxygène (Lambda) Medium
🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km
💶 200 – 450 €
S'assurer qu'aucun voyant moteur n'est allumé.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £70 – 130
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.