Honda Accord Problems 2000-2005

anonymousposts · November 2003

There's a problem with my 04 EX-L....

no matter what I do it seems that the speedometer immediately wants to go up to 90 MPH on any flat, cop-free surface.

Any ideas?

serendip · November 2003

I have the same problem with my 03 EX V6 - I almost wish it DID clank and rattle as a reminder. But - the salesman *did* warn me of this problem, so I was prepared.

ROFLOL!

dust90 · November 2003

I have the same problem - have had it forever! Seems the only solution is to engage the cruise control before going thru 80 (you have to be quick) and then immediately take your foot of the gas pedal! Also, I highly recommend a good radar det! Good luck in remaining ticket-free.

lelandhendrix · November 2003

I had my rotors resurfaced at 3500, and haven't noticed the problem coming back and I watch this VERY closely. I am now at 9000 miles, and am wondering how much longer I have to resolve this. I have heard that once you pass 12K miles, you're on your own with the rotors.

In fact, what are the limits for the other things like noises (window creaks) and other minor flaws that could eventually be called normal wear or abuse? I'm trying to give the car a little more settling-in time, but don't want to let mileage slip past the point of no return.

morphius909 · November 2003

It's about -11 degrees celsius outside today in Edmonton. The accord (SE-4cyl) is parked in the garage. When my wife started it, it didnt have a "smooth start". It sort of chugged then started, odd, it had no trouble last year.

Anyone else with the same trouble? Any remedies?

khager · November 2003

Morphius, I forgot to mention it was January when it happened to me, it was still 40F though so I don't think that had anything to do with it.

lelandhendrix · November 2003

I don't know how rough you mean, but if it was just a rough idle or a short cough that remedied itself after a couple of minutes, I would imagine that is normal ops in negative 11 C.

justin · November 2003

my EX-V6 is still half-asleep at 90mph!

wouldn't have it any other way. such a nice feeling, that V6....

anonymousposts · November 2003

Well, my 4 cylinder has plenty of oomph past 90 MPH but I can't incriminate myself too much on here

Seriously, I'm taking it a little slower now that I have an extra life to think about. But I do remember a rather nice trip a few years ago in my 99 EX 5-speed sedan. 110 MPH all the way back from Florida with the Ac on and still getting 30 MPG. That's what the Accord is all about.

bodble2 · November 2003

You must have been one wild & crazy chick, anon! I've gone 110 on occasions and I find that it's actually very tiring to maintain that speed for any extended period of time. Unless you're on a straight stretch of multi-lane with little traffic, you'd have to really concentrate. At that speed, a tiny lapse in concentration could spell trouble.

lelandhendrix · November 2003

I've gone that fast too, but not for any distance. I CAN say that cruising at the 90-95 mark in my accord is absolutely effortless and deceptive in that it feels more like 70.

user777 · November 2003

yes, I'd add that you *THINK* for a moment.

you're not on the autobaun. other cars are out there. cars with drivers that see YOU one moment, and don't see YOU the next; or they don't see YOU at all.

confident you can predict your own reactions? how about the reactions of someone else?

and you also don't need a lapse in concentration...at that speed, you can't see tiny road debris that will puncture a tire. you'r not likely to be able to avoid something comming off another car, or kicked up by a car in front of you...don't tell me you can see beyond vehicles in front of you.

you're not likely to survive a crash at that speed...and worse you are likely on a crowded highway to involve other drivers.

socalflyer · November 2003

My wife's 2003 V6 Sedan has a very stiff ride as if the tires have 80 psi in them. (They are right at 30 psi). I have a lot experience in sporty type cars and this stiffness just seems wrong. I saw someone post a similar problem quite a while back but did not see if or how it was resolved. Has anyone else experienced the same thing.
Thanks
Steve

bodble2 · November 2003

Don't take it out on me, man! I'm on your side on this issue (I think).

emaison · November 2003

I have a 01 LX 4dr 4cyl. I know the car was manufactured with platinum spark plugs in it. I just had work done and I want to verify that the plugs in the car are in fact platinum.

This may be a dumb question:

Can I tell if a spark plug is platinum just by looking at it? Or do I have to take it out?

user777 · November 2003

i didn't mean to take it out on anyone - i saw your post - my post wasn't intended to be directed towards you. sorry about that.

chucko3 · November 2003

It is. Honda's suspension is firmer than other
car manufacturers.

bodble2 · November 2003

No harm done.

tblazer503 · November 2003

highly unlikely that you can tell... unless you can tell by looking at the top of the spark plug(DOHC). You can try, but it's much easier to do it by removing them. a platinum electrode is most generally much thinner than a normal electrode, and I believe they usually have a P in the spark plug code.

cadrew · November 2003

Howdy. Got a 2003 Accord LX in Jan 2003, shortly after which the brakes started squeaking, also, there is a pronounced clunk after I shift into drive, which I was told was the brake pads shifting, which is normal. The dealer never looked at the brakes or anything, and now the brakes squeal, and just don't feel right. I made an appt at the local dealer(a different one), and they will see what the deal is. Has this happened to many of you out there? Is that brake pad "shifting" normal? I have had a CRX and an Integra, and never heard of this sort of thing.
Thanks for the input.

p.s. I now have 23k miles on the car(a lot, I know), will I still be ok? The problems were there very early, not just recently...

bodble2 · November 2003

I don't think the clunk sound when you shift into Drive has to do with the brakes. When you go in reverse and step on the brakes for the first time, you'll hear a "clack" or "clunk" which IS the sound of the brakes adjusting themselves.

lelandhendrix · November 2003

The squealing sounds like it could be the brake wear indicator. Do they squeal when you are reversing and NOT applying the brakes?

23k is about the point where they say wearable brake parts are your expense and not a warrany item. They might work with you though, just ask. The most common problem is rotors warping prematurely. I had mine resurfaced at 3000.

I still have a "clack" that is the rotors waking up, and it happens on the first braking while travelling forward after the car has sat cold for some time. That is indeed normal but strange, as it the ABS self-test that can arouse suspicion.

emaison · November 2003

Thanks for the response.

I did a little research on the NPK (the manufacturer of Hondas Spark plugs) web page and it looked like the platinum plugs had 'blue' text and the standard plugs had 'black'. (Hi-tech yes I know) When I took out my spark plugs to check, it looked like that was true.

lelandhendrix · November 2003

I had a little squeak. I'm happy to hear it now, as my good friend bought a mazda6.

Mazda6 owners now face the issue of RUST around their door sashes and the trunk gutter of their new cars. I feel for them. Take a look at these for more info:

http://www.4doorzoom.1hwy.com/mazda6/problems/rust_update.html

http://www.4doorzoom.1hwy.com/mazda6/problems/Mazda-09-020-03.pdf

troyben · November 2003

have the rust. I don't have it on mine & I love the car. It's a blast to drive. I just hope Mazda steps up to the plate & takes care of 6 owners with the rust

anonymousposts · November 2003

bodble: If you ever take a trip to or from Florida using I-75 at the right time of day you will see that the average speed is somewhere in the 90-100 MPH range. It's a 3 lane highway most of the way. I was actually asleep while gee was driving. Woke up and started making normal conversation then looked down and saw the speed. He was actually following a Town Car of all cars.

user777: If other cars are obeying the law and staying to the right since they are the slower traffic there is no problem. Obviously since I am here posting the trip went just fine. The highway in question is a flat highway (as most in Florida are) where you CAN see for a good ways in front of you. The roads were relatively empty and there were no flying saucers that day to worry about either.

Maybe you shouldn't worry about how other people drive. Unless you have a car with those pretty blue lights and a badge it's really none of your business.

bodble2 · November 2003

I've never been to Florida so I'll have to take your word for it. Well, you guys are young and virile all your body functions are working, so no problem with the occasional speed binge. But when you get to my age, when the eyes are going, hand/foot co-ordination is shot, then......

Talking about age, isn't Florida crawling (literally) with retirees wearing plaid pants with white shiny shoes. Don't they pose a bit of problem on the highways?

bodble2 · November 2003

"Unless you have a car with those pretty blue lights and a badge it's really none of your business."

Someone is a little cranky today

anonymousposts · November 2003

Once you get on the expressway there are few old people and the ones that are on the road stay to the right ... as they should. They pose more of a problem on the local side streets than the major highways.

dust90 · November 2003

"Unless you have a car with those pretty blue lights and a badge it's really none of your business."

In fact, even if you have the blue lights and a badge, unless you see me speeding, it's none of your bussiness! I am an ex state trooper and I can tell you that prudent speeding in a compentent vehicle is much less dangerous than the morons who hog the left lane, trying to enforce their speed limit on everyone else. And of course, they complain about people passing them on the right!

I know, we're off topic, sorry.

imidazol97 · November 2003

"Maybe you shouldn't worry about how other people drive. Unless you have a car with those pretty blue lights and a badge it's really none of your business."

Actually your being a danger by speeding is _everyone's_ business. You may cause an accident because of the differential in speed without having your car physically involved; you may damage your car, self, or others in your car, which may become a cost to the state; you may injure others or damage their property, again potentially costing the state. Speed laws are to there for everyone's protection.

anonymousposts · November 2003

Like dust said, my speeding on a clear, sunny day in a safe, fully- operational vehicle is less dangerous than people who call themselves "policing" the streets by staying in the left lane and making people go around them or someone going the speed limit in a safety hazard. Accidents can happen at 10 MPH just as much as they can happen at 100 MPH. There is no reason not to enjoy a little speeding if the conditions and the vehicle is right.

coleend · November 2003

I have a 2001 4 cyl Accord, 35K miles. At 33K started hearing a "whup, whup, whup" noise from the front end on acceleration, between 25-40 mph.It increases with acceleration (goes faster). Can now hear sound clearly up to 60mph, louder when accelerating. Local mechanic says wheel bearing, Honda dealer mechanic says need new transmission. Sure doesn't sound like transmission to me. Anyone else have this problem?

atlantabenny · November 2003

...not sure offhand about speeding being a "sovereign" right.

In the spirit of mutual concern, unless one explores the joys of speeding in a variable-free race track, I'd advise against speeding in a public highway for the sake of driver, passenger and the sight- and reflex-impaired motorist who may cause the accident.

Off-topic comment, but hopefully of some value.

imidazol97 · November 2003

You'll find the kinetic energy involved at 100 is "substantially" greater than at 10. Lots more chance of injury -- do you agree? LOL

Also as for the law-abiding citizens using the left lane..., being accused to trying to "police" others' behaviors, how about those who want anarchy -- no laws, just drive like you please...

I notice that state patrol cars are all full size RWD cars, not light hondas. I did witness a state patrolman experience a blowout while pursuing a car on our interstate. If he had been in a small car, he probably would have lost control. Much safer in a LARGE car... to drive 100 (which he probably was hitting).

anonymousposts · November 2003

I have also seen Impala police cars and Camaro police cars. I don't think either one of those pose any safety advantage over an Accord. Like I said, if I choose to drive 100 and get a ticket that's my business. If you choose to block the left lane because you feel you are doing it for the greated good of the nation then that's your business. But again, it's all about driving conditions. If it's a clear sunny day and I am pretty much alone, who cares?

coleend · November 2003

I have a 2001 4 cyl Accord, 35K miles. At 33K started hearing a "whup, whup, whup" noise from the front end on acceleration, between 25-40 mph.It increases with acceleration (goes faster). Can now hear sound clearly up to 60mph, louder when accelerating. Local mechanic says wheel bearing, Honda dealer mechanic says need new transmission. Sure doesn't sound like transmission to me. Anyone else have this problem?

imidazol97 · November 2003

"If it's a clear sunny day and I am pretty much alone, who cares?"

I care (and the Ohio State Patrol cares) if it can impact me or people whom I pay to repair through local taxes/state/federal taxes.
I can't think of any road I've seen where you're alone and able to travel at 100.

bburton3 · November 2003

Does not sound like the tranny. To check wheel bearings-jack up front end with wheels off ground, grab wheel at 3 and 9 oclock position and try to move back and forth-same at 12 and 6. If there is movement, then it could be a bearing but a good mechanic should be able to diagnose this also.

Check your tires-a knot in the tire would make this noise-if you have cord seperation-dangerous and will make this noise-would suspect tire problems. good luck and let us know.

coleend · November 2003

I had the tires rotated last week, and the sound is still in the front end.

justin · November 2003

posted this in Accord sedans forum too:

i am confused now. and this should be really simple...

i drive in stop and go rush hour traffic in DC. two people at my dealer service dept have told me NOT to come at 3750 for oil change. they say wait until 7500. my Honda manual says for "severe" driving, an oil change every 3750 is advised. do they mean every 3750, AFTER the initial 7500 service?

anyone been in this predicament?

aggie1995 · November 2003

hey can anyone tell me where to find the Accord Problems Forum.....I must have gotten lost in Edmundsland and it looks like I found myself in the Traffic Law topic.

lelandhendrix · November 2003

Your technician should be listened to. The oil that is initially put in your new accord is not ordinary oil, it is brea-in oil. It should be used until at least the 5000 mile mark.

If you have the V6, then under severe conditions change thereafter at 3750. If you have the 4-cyl, change at 5000.

emaison · November 2003

I would rather go with what the manual says. That way if you ever have problems during the warranty period, you could easily justify your actions by showing you maintained your car per the manuals instructions. "My mechanic said so" just doesnt fly.

bodble2 · November 2003

No, you are actually in the How to Flout the Traffic Law topic

anonymousposts · November 2003

Not sure how my driving affects you up in Ohio but oh well. And if you don't know of a road where you can be pretty much alone and do 100 MPH then you have never been to Florida at the right time of day nor have you been west on Interstate 20.

Heck, on I-285 (better known as the Atlanta Speedway) if you aren't going 85-90 MPH in the fast lane you will have someone flashing their lights, honking their horn, and flipping you off ... and that's by police officer .....

I have another problem with my Accord .... gee seems to have taken a liking to the XM radio so I have been in his 03 SI for 2 days. Can't say that I mind much though because the SI is a HOOOOT to drive.

khager · November 2003

The Honda factory fill is special break in oil it has about 1000 PPM of Molybdenum and should be left in for at least 5K then go with the severe service schedule.

lelandhendrix · November 2003

khager is very right... It's better for you car to observe this, during the break-in period.

Also, my manual details a different maintenance schedule than does Honda's OwnerLink.

I plan to take meticulous care of my car, but something buggs me.

I happened on a big display in my dealer that showed intellipoint's award of cheapest car to the Accord, citing it's low maintenance costs. It even showed the actual dollar costs.

HOWEVER, if I follow the flyer that the maintenance dept gave me (which also doesn't agree with the manual) then you will spend much more than the intellipoint's projected costs. In my opinion, they shouldn't show that in the dealership becaue it gives you a false sense of ownership costs vs. what the service department says after you purchase the car.

jeffrey15 · November 2003

I have had my 03 accord for 12 monthes now with 18k miles. I have noticed that in the last few days the brake pedal has begun to feel soft. eg. it takes more brake pedal travel before you feel the brakes kick in. What are likely causes of this problem before I bring it into the dealer and they try and sell me a complete brake job.

Thanks

Jeff

chikoo · November 2003

check for the transaxle rubber boots.

Honda Accord Problems 2000-2005

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