Only provide an edge when accelerating on slippery surfaces, it does nothing when cornering at speed or braking on slippery surfaces. For the latter two, you need STABILITY control and ABS brakes respectively. So the term "stability is better in AWD" is not completely correct. It's only true if you accelerate a lot on slippery surfaces, which I doubt will happen very much (unless you're a rally racer or a VERY aggressive driver)
Every feature does only what it's desgned to do, even though marketing departments would like you to believe otherwise, combining them all is the best, but do not confuse one for another.
AWD - 4 wheels driving, so less chance of only two wheels getting stuck in a slippery patch. Prevents getting stuck in snow/mud more than as a safety feature. They decrease the car's efficiency (lower mpg) and add complexity and maintenance costs, consider it only if you are afraid of getting stuck in snow/mud often.
Traction control - computer eases off the gas automatically so driving wheels do not spin when they don't have traction (bad for transmission and tires). Just a cheaper solution to AWD. Again not really a safety feature.
Stability control - computer determines the vehicle dynamics and brakes specific wheels to correct oversteer/understeer or sliding. This is a safety system while driving.
ABS brakes - Prevents brakes from locking up to allow steering while braking hard. Another safety system.
And then you have some of the new features in luxury cars these days, such as automatic braking when the car detects an object approaching fast in front. But they need more time to prove their effectiveness.
when using the tilt feature, how much should the moonroof tilt? when I first got the car in july, I tried everything including all moonroof functions. then it got hot in the northeast so I stayed with a/c. the few days I used the moonroof I used the slide feature.
now I used the tilt yesterday and I swear it opened more when I checked it out back in july. Is it supposed to only open (tilt) about 2 inches?
Don't get too scared...there is a lot of ranitng going on (myself included).
But bottom line - I have an 03 EX-L with Navi, and if I was going to buy an 04, I'd get the Accord again, hands down. Before Camry, Passat, Maxima, etc.
Is the XM Radio going to be ready to activate upon delivery of EXV6 Accords?. This may wind up changing my mind on what car to buy....Anybody got the info on this???
My sunroof only tilts about two inches as well so I think that's the norm. Actually I like the feature as down here in Texas one never knows whena rogue thunderstorm may come by. With the sunroof only tilting a couple of inches, not too much water can get into the vehicle. At least in theory. hehehe
doesn't even seem to tilt that much. Only enough to make a loud howling noise at speed. Really anoying and not really worth much other than a vent when the car is parked. My '97 doesn't have the tilt feature and I don't miss it much.
I have also noted that the sunroof in the 7th generation car seems smaller than that of the 6th generation. I don't know if it makes much difference as where I sit in the car I don't have that much open roof in front of my head.
After 10 months driving the 03 EX-V6, I would agree that I would go out and purchase the Accord again if I was getting a 4 door sedan, over the Passat/Camry/6/Altima. The Acura's might get some attention, but I bet I'd still go with the Accord!
"Some parts I replaced on my old Accord were outrageously expensive and Honda service (oil changes ect.)is pricey."
$21 oil change (sometimes $16, if I get a coupon from the dealership on time) is not too expensive, IMO.
As for replacement parts, here is all that I have to replace so far in my Accord... Tires (third set now). The original tires were damn expensive, so I opted for lesser tires. Car Battery: might need the third soon (purchased at Walmart) Fob Batteries: Once (purchased at Walmart) Headlamp: $12 Taillamp: once, don't remember the cost. Timing Belt Plus Water Pump: $425 (the most expensive replacement so far).
I might need to replace the brake pads soon, but they don't have to come with Honda delaership price tag.
I got my Accord last April. It was build in Feb in Japan. The Navi DVD disk is dated Sept 30, 2002. You can call Honda at 888 291-4675 about DVD updates. The last time I called, the recording said I had the latest.
Transmission problems at 40,000 miles. Very disappointed since the key reason I bought a Honda is reliability. Found out the transmission needs to be replaced. Also, found out 4 other people in my office also need to get their 2000-2001 accord transmissions replaced. What gives?
My Honda dealer at the time was charging C$30 for an oil change while you could get it done just about anywhere else for $20-24. Perhaps it varies by area, not sure what they charge now.
Honda extended tranny warranty on these cars to 100K miles. You should check with Honda (website asks for VIN number), as I am sure your car falls into the affected date of manufacture. Even if it doesn't qualify, you can raise a stink, since the auto tranny problem is very well known, I am pretty sure you will get it replaced free of cost.
In the last 15 years, every car I've traded in has had carpeting that is immaculate. Car companies are almost notorious for not designing mats that cover enough of the carpet.
Presently, I have "Waterhog" mats in my EX V-6 which are made of polypropylene (may have misspelled that) that is a synthetic. The mats have a lip around the outside edge to contain debris and water (great for winter months). They are oversize so they "sweep" up the edges of the footwells as well. Also they can be CUT to size if needed. When they get dirty, and they all do, spray with some all purpose cleaner, add a few strokes with a nylon scrub brush and hose them off. Leave them hang to dry and they look brand new.
Just had my recalls (transmission and air intake hose clamp) done. No questions here.
The good news is that Honda replaced my front rotors. The dealer told me that Honda gives the options to either resurface or replace them and they replaced them. The service advisor told me that I deserved it because my car was so new (11700 miles). By the way, I felt pulsing when speed > 40 mph ( bad but not terribly bad). Overall, very good experience.
to those of you who replied with assurances that the current Accord isn't that bad. Aside from being extremely disappointed that the '04 LX-V6 DOES NOT offer side-curtain airbags (which I was counting on, per postings a month or so ago), the '04 is for sure in my top 3 picks (the other 2 are GM products since I have $3 grand wasting away in GM Card earnings!). Had a '92 EX 4cyl (I know things have changed), produced in Marysville, that was a "B+" for over 60 K miles. Trunk misaligned, rattle in driver's door (that never was resolved), windows coming off tracks, A/C compressor seals went 4 times, and at the end, the front struts were starting to creak, but that was about it. Not too bad, back in those days.
I'm scared about the alignment and brake problems, which have some posters in the other discussions contacting NHTSA. Not ready to buy until the spring, so keep up the good work. Give me the bads and the goods when you all have time (can't all be bad, in an Accord, please. Bit jealous of those of you with navis. Don't want the high payments, but it's fun to hear the stories).
Consider yourself lucky. Two days ago a guy ran a red light. I had no chance to avoid it. Smacked into him going about 35 mph. The total cost to repair my 03 EX V6..........$6,800 bucks.
gee35: Agree, but more on the way, I'm sure. Keep convincing me. It'll work.
03lxv6: Not bad. If you were in a Hyundai, it'd be $2G, easy! Assume you're OK. Let us know, please.
Mike, I assume you're OK too. Keep us posted on the repair situation. What a pain in the you-know-what. Bad drivers here too. AND, DO let us know about the airbag situation. You might have a valid claim.... $6800 is a LOT of damage. Consider an '04 after it's fixed.
Due to some crazy circumstances, I have only put about 1300 miles on my 03 Accord in 2 months. I will only be putting about 85 miles per week on it for the next 2 years. (~ 4500 miles/year).
The driving I do on it is mostly highway, with a few short trips (maybe 20% of the trips).
When should I get the oil changed at 5000 miles or every 6 months. Should I use synthetic then since I will go longer between oil changes.
This is absolutely crazy that I will have a car in 2 years that probably will have less than 10,000 miles on it! My previous rides have all had about 20 - 30k miles per year put on them. I guess I'll have a practically brand new car in 2005!
That is what I do with my vehicle... change the oil every 5k. I drive about 10-11k/year, so I change it at least every 6 mo's. I have used Mobil 1's 0w20(engineered for honda and for 5w-20 applications) and amsoil 5w20. both synthetic, both about the same price, haven't figured out which one I like better, but for $60/year in maintenance, not too bad overall.
I think I am OK after the rear-ending. I am also thankful that I am not rear ended by an SUV. These expeditions, F150s, escalades and navigators are all over the road. I really wonder if my next car will be a car at all. Maybe a full size SUV? No, I don't like SUV. But I have to protect myself on the road.
I am just wondering if there is any law that requires the responsible party to pay extra compensation above the repair cost. Because even if the car is repaired, the future resale value will depreciate (a lot in Mike's case, I believe).
thanks to all of you for your feedback on this msg board...i picked up my new EX-V6 Accord last night...it is very sweet. paid a little too much i think, got it for $23675, but i also traded a 2002 sebring convertible with 21K miles...got only $12,800 for that, so i got screwed there, but overall, i;m happy. i will keep you all posted as to how the car performs. i love the audio controls on the steering wheel, very tight suspension, handles bumps ok, climate control is awesome, and the acceleration is incredible, the car just seems to want to "go" thanks again for everyone's input, it was a BIG help.
thanks to all of you for your feedback on this msg board...i picked up my new EX-V6 Accord last night...it is very sweet. paid a little too much i think, got it for $23675, but i also traded a 2002 sebring convertible with 21K miles...got only $12,800 for that, so i got screwed there, but overall, i;m happy. i will keep you all posted as to how the car performs. i love the audio controls on the steering wheel, very tight suspension, handles bumps ok, climate control is awesome, and the acceleration is incredible, the car just seems to want to "go" thanks again for everyone's input, it was a BIG help.
The water and acid build up and subsequent damage would certainly be a concern for me. Since I'm rather obsessive compulsive with my vehicles' maintenance, I would personally change out my oil every 3 to 4 months just to purge out the water and acid.
03lxv6: You're OK, thank goodness. Big relief. Now, we need to hear from Mike. Not an attorney, but I'll bet you have a case. Just don't sue for injuries that didn't happen, please. You'll hurt us all. And, as far as the next vehicle, don't do the SUV bit. Test drive one; you'll see what I mean. Handling is AWFUL. '04 Accord is in your future.
Oil Changes: Due to some really strange circumstances (caring for an ill parent; now deceased), I have only 25K miles on my '98 Malibu. Despite the Chevy issues, she runs like new. Have the oil changed every 3 months, regardless of the mileage.
Hello, Good people. I bought my 03 Accord LX 4Cyl last month and already put 3,000 miles on it. I will be taking a road trip all the way to Wyoming and expect to put another 3 or 4,000 miles on it. Should I get my first oil change before I take on the road or after I get back? Honda manual indicates a 5,000 miles interval for severe driving condition and 10,000 miles for normal condition. Any responses/leads are greatly appreciated! Best Regards!
I wouldn't worry too much about it since you will be doing highway miles, unlikely putting any real strain on your engine.
Personally, I like to change it every 5k just because it's easier 5,10,15,20, etc. You could just do it at that 8000 mark then at 15k assuming you don't drive in "severe conditions" but... I wouldn't be too concerned this time around I would just change it when you get back...
Thank you so much for the info, I'd really appreciate it. It's always good to know there is a place for us to share experiences and exchange ideas to keep us happy Accord owners. Best Regards!
To the person who asked about when to change oil earlier, I would *strongly* suggest you take Honda Motor Co's recommendation of intervals at the first change. This has been discussed to death, but the original oil has "break-in" additives, and the vehicle is designed to be run on this through its initial break-in period. If you are breaking the car in as it should be, and not in a super-extreme environment, go for 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
I don't know about the Michelins.. mine came with Bridgestones which were a bit noisy when new, but have quieted down some after 13000 miles. The car gets around corners faster than I can drive with absolutely no squeal. It stops on a dime. I'm mighty impressed.
I test drove a couple of accords the other day. I know its a minor point. But seemed weird that when you turn windshield wash on..it hits the wiper before the glass. Seemed like the fluid should hit higher up on the glass. Are all accords like that?
I have been researching sedans for my purchase. Drove an '03 EX-L V6 today and was shocked. The car was perfect except for the ride experience on certain paved surfaces. Honda's always have a great feel for the road. But, on several different roads that were not obviously bumpby or rough the ride experience was very unpleasant. The best description was almost a washboard feel at times to a constant vibration. Most of this occured on feeder roads to major freeways at approximately 45-50 mph. Freeway driving did not exude the same unpleasant ride. My conclusion was that the tires were balanced and front end were fine. I have owned Honda's before and never experienced this type of ride quality. Does anyone have a similar experience? Or, can any one possibly give me a reason for me to check out with this Accord. The Accord fits all of my purchase criteria except for the "nervous" ride quality. Thanks for any input.
Hum, not an apples to apples comparison, since the v6 is heavier up front, but we just got back from a 500 mile road trip in our EX 4cyl. Other than some traditional Honda road noise from the tires the car was perfect. We ran on a variety of roads and a wide range of speeds and the car tracked perfectly. I had the car at 90 for an extended period of time and it was so smooth the wife didn't even wake up.
The ride in the 03 Accord is far better controlled than in the previous generation Accord. This ain't your father's Oldsmobile though. It has been said the 03 Accord suspension has a more European tuning that in the past. Which generally means the driver feels a little more connected to the car and the road.
Sounds like the nervousness in the car you drove may have been an alignment problem; most likely toe related? I would go back and drive a different car before I wrote the Accord off. I continue to be impressed with my wife's Accord, the whole package works really well.
I have a feeling someone failed to adjust the air pressure in the tires during the pre-delivery inspection. They come over inflated when shipped to reduce flat spotting.
Or, you could be used to a car with mushy suspension?
Comments
Every feature does only what it's desgned to do, even though marketing departments would like you to believe otherwise, combining them all is the best, but do not confuse one for another.
AWD - 4 wheels driving, so less chance of only two wheels getting stuck in a slippery patch. Prevents getting stuck in snow/mud more than as a safety feature. They decrease the car's efficiency (lower mpg) and add complexity and maintenance costs, consider it only if you are afraid of getting stuck in snow/mud often.
Traction control - computer eases off the gas automatically so driving wheels do not spin when they don't have traction (bad for transmission and tires). Just a cheaper solution to AWD. Again not really a safety feature.
Stability control - computer determines the vehicle dynamics and brakes specific wheels to correct oversteer/understeer or sliding. This is a safety system while driving.
ABS brakes - Prevents brakes from locking up to allow steering while braking hard. Another safety system.
And then you have some of the new features in luxury cars these days, such as automatic braking when the car detects an object approaching fast in front. But they need more time to prove their effectiveness.
Maintenance on the Volvo will be much more expensive than on the Honda.
http://netscape.edmunds.com/advice/buying/articles/42962/article.- html
Regarding those first year issues, its worth noting that the '03 has about 1/3 the number of TSBs the '98 had.
now I used the tilt yesterday and I swear it opened more when I checked it out back in july. Is it supposed to only open (tilt) about 2 inches?
I'm not so sure about that. Some parts I replaced on my old Accord were outrageously expensive and Honda service (oil changes ect.)is pricey.
As for Volvo, European imports always have more expensive parts than Japanese ones, so I would think Honda would be much cheaper.
Don't get too scared...there is a lot of ranitng going on (myself included).
But bottom line - I have an 03 EX-L with Navi, and if I was going to buy an 04, I'd get the Accord again, hands down. Before Camry, Passat, Maxima, etc.
Cheers, Kenn
I have also noted that the sunroof in the 7th generation car seems smaller than that of the 6th generation. I don't know if it makes much difference as where I sit in the car I don't have that much open roof in front of my head.
$21 oil change (sometimes $16, if I get a coupon from the dealership on time) is not too expensive, IMO.
As for replacement parts, here is all that I have to replace so far in my Accord...
Tires (third set now). The original tires were damn expensive, so I opted for lesser tires.
Car Battery: might need the third soon (purchased at Walmart)
Fob Batteries: Once (purchased at Walmart)
Headlamp: $12
Taillamp: once, don't remember the cost.
Timing Belt Plus Water Pump: $425 (the most expensive replacement so far).
I might need to replace the brake pads soon, but they don't have to come with Honda delaership price tag.
Not bad, eh?
Transmission problems at 40,000 miles. Very disappointed since the key reason I bought a Honda is reliability. Found out the transmission needs to be replaced. Also, found out 4 other people in my office also need to get their 2000-2001 accord transmissions replaced. What gives?
just my 2 cents
In the last 15 years, every car I've traded in has
had carpeting that is immaculate. Car companies are
almost notorious for not designing mats that cover
enough of the carpet.
Presently, I have "Waterhog" mats in my EX V-6 which are made of polypropylene (may have misspelled that) that is a synthetic. The mats
have a lip around the outside edge to contain debris and water (great for winter months). They
are oversize so they "sweep" up the edges of the
footwells as well. Also they can be CUT to size if
needed. When they get dirty, and they all do, spray
with some all purpose cleaner, add a few strokes
with a nylon scrub brush and hose them off. Leave
them hang to dry and they look brand new.
berbel
The good news is that Honda replaced my front rotors. The dealer told me that Honda gives the options to either resurface or replace them and they replaced them. The service advisor told me that I deserved it because my car was so new (11700 miles). By the way, I felt pulsing when speed > 40 mph ( bad but not terribly bad). Overall, very good experience.
I'm scared about the alignment and brake problems, which have some posters in the other discussions contacting NHTSA. Not ready to buy until the spring, so keep up the good work. Give me the bads and the goods when you all have time (can't all be bad, in an Accord, please. Bit jealous of those of you with navis. Don't want the high payments, but it's fun to hear the stories).
Harry
Just my luck. Why people in california do not know how to drive? May be Davis really should be recalled for this!.
By the way, did your airbags go off? I have seen some postings about the new accord where either the bags do not deploy or the wrong bag deploys.
03lxv6: Not bad. If you were in a Hyundai, it'd be $2G, easy! Assume you're OK. Let us know, please.
Mike, I assume you're OK too. Keep us posted on the repair situation. What a pain in the you-know-what. Bad drivers here too. AND, DO let us know about the airbag situation. You might have a valid claim.... $6800 is a LOT of damage. Consider an '04 after it's fixed.
Due to some crazy circumstances, I have only put about 1300 miles on my 03 Accord in 2 months. I will only be putting about 85 miles per week on it for the next 2 years. (~ 4500 miles/year).
The driving I do on it is mostly highway, with a few short trips (maybe 20% of the trips).
When should I get the oil changed at 5000 miles or every 6 months. Should I use synthetic then since I will go longer between oil changes.
This is absolutely crazy that I will have a car in 2 years that probably will have less than 10,000 miles on it! My previous rides have all had about 20 - 30k miles per year put on them. I guess I'll have a practically brand new car in 2005!
I am just wondering if there is any law that requires the responsible party to pay extra compensation above the repair cost. Because even if the car is repaired, the future resale value will depreciate (a lot in Mike's case, I believe).
i will keep you all posted as to how the car performs. i love the audio controls on the steering wheel, very tight suspension, handles bumps ok, climate control is awesome, and the acceleration is incredible, the car just seems to want to "go"
thanks again for everyone's input, it was a BIG help.
i will keep you all posted as to how the car performs. i love the audio controls on the steering wheel, very tight suspension, handles bumps ok, climate control is awesome, and the acceleration is incredible, the car just seems to want to "go"
thanks again for everyone's input, it was a BIG help.
http://cartalk.cars.com/Columns/Archive/2003/August/06.html
The water and acid build up and subsequent damage would certainly be a concern for me. Since I'm rather obsessive compulsive with my vehicles' maintenance, I would personally change out my oil every 3 to 4 months just to purge out the water and acid.
-Ty
Oil Changes: Due to some really strange circumstances (caring for an ill parent; now deceased), I have only 25K miles on my '98 Malibu. Despite the Chevy issues, she runs like new. Have the oil changed every 3 months, regardless of the mileage.
Personally, I like to change it every 5k just because it's easier 5,10,15,20, etc. You could just do it at that 8000 mark then at 15k assuming you don't drive in "severe conditions" but... I wouldn't be too concerned this time around I would just change it when you get back...
Thanks.
Open the driver's side door and look for a placard
or sticker on the sill. The info should be there.
berbel
If I change oil at a non-dealership, will my warranty be voided?
If you decide to use another shop to do maintenance, your warranty should not be affected as long as you keep records - receipts, not just a log.
To the person who asked about when to change oil earlier, I would *strongly* suggest you take Honda Motor Co's recommendation of intervals at the first change. This has been discussed to death, but the original oil has "break-in" additives, and the vehicle is designed to be run on this through its initial break-in period. If you are breaking the car in as it should be, and not in a super-extreme environment, go for 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
The ride in the 03 Accord is far better controlled than in the previous generation Accord. This ain't your father's Oldsmobile though. It has been said the 03 Accord suspension has a more European tuning that in the past. Which generally means the driver feels a little more connected to the car and the road.
Sounds like the nervousness in the car you drove may have been an alignment problem; most likely toe related? I would go back and drive a different car before I wrote the Accord off. I continue to be impressed with my wife's Accord, the whole package works really well.
Or, you could be used to a car with mushy suspension?
This isn't a problem I ever hear about.