Older Honda Accords

anonymousposts · January 2003

I don't doubt the 7.5. Our 03 4 cylinder engine feels just as smooth and quick as the engine in my 01 V6 Accord. The 98-02 V6 Accords had 0-60 times between 7.4-8.1.

ahossa · January 2003

Davegod 75:Based on my experience Buying a hot car like the Honda accord EX-V6 in May. U may not be able to Get it at Invoice unless the economy stays in the doldrums.That's the beginning of the peak buying season.It was like that with the Camry, it was like that with the Altima last year and this year it's Honda's turn.

mikek37 · January 2003

I agree, as the car season begins to mature, the prices of cars, in general tend to increase. The best time to buy a car is in the middle of the automotive season, which is the winter. Once you begin to approach the spring, you will pay more.

Also, I dont believe you will pay more or less if the car is on the lot. If the car has been on the lot for an extended period of time, which is unusual for a HONDA, then the price may drop a bit, but nothing to write home about. People generally tend to buy cars from April-July, that is when car companies see their best selling results. As a result, simple economics, higher demand equals a higher price.

If you are financing, then that is where the downpayment comes into play, but only on your end.

gwleong · January 2003

I have a 98 Accord EXV6 4 door that has the stock AM/FM Single CD headunit. I would like to swap out the unit for a 2001 or 2002 stock headunit w/AM/FM CD Changer/Cassette combo.

Does anyone know if this is a simple job or will modifications be required? The sizes appear the same. I read somewhere that the 2001-2002 radio is designed to fit ONLY the 2001-2002 Accords. Any input on this?

Thanks in advance!

Gary

fritz1224 · January 2003

Now you're saying 'edges', not sides. But I still think you're wrong. Maybe they've changed design since you knew them. And do you REALLY think it would matter ...round edge, flat edge. The important thing is to use a new one and make sure it's on.

mikek37 · January 2003

Fellow Honda Accord Owners: I havea quick question. I have decided to get the windows of my 03 Silver Accord Sedan tinted. The only obstacle that remains is of what color to tint them. I was thinking, a very faint graphite mirror tint, or a very faint mirror tint that is seen on the Infiniti and Lexus Rx 300 SUV . Any opinions on how this may look . If not I may just stick with a very light black tint on all the windows. Thanks.

mikek37 · January 2003

Has anyone noticed the blueish hue on Euro Car side view mirrors. I know they are made that way to reduce glare. The thing is, is it a special type of miror, or a film that is applied. I am interested because I want to apply it to my car, but am wondering if its possible.

atlantabenny · January 2003

You might consider going to the store and letting them show you their tint swatches held to the inside surface of your car's glass (and when the sun is out as I would prefer it).

This way you'll be choosing among actually available alternatives based on the closest as-installed appearance.

The final appearance, I found, depends on your car's glass, the interior color as well as the exterior color, and light conditions.

I would also advise getting the reputable brands (this I'm not updated on, but 3M should be a safe choice) and types with some metallic content to resist fade.

newcar31 · January 2003

That is what I was told to do with Honda gaskets. There wouldn't be two different sides if it didn't matter. Like I said, one side has rounded edges and one side has sharp edges. I have literally changed oil on Hundreds of Hondas and Acuras including my own. And no, it isn't just a washer, it's an aluminum Honda crush gasket. Other manufacturers use different gaskets. ie) organic, copper, etc.

bjvjs · January 2003

My daughter's car is a 90 Accord. Lately, she cannot remove the key from the ignition unless she starts it several times. Anyone elso have this problem? Thanks in advance.

pat · January 2003

bjvjs, you might want to cross post your question on our Maintenance & Repair board.

You can use the Make/Model search on the left side of the page to find all Accord discussions - you should find something like "Honda Accord Problems" or something else suitable.

Meanwhile, does anyone here have a thought?

bowke28 · January 2003

i just cant catch them before they get out my other ear!

pat · January 2003

davegod75 · January 2003

Hmm, i would think since the dealer is getting more money now (time value of money) they would bargain a little.

But if it isn't that way it isn't that way.

After it's all said and done, i.e. taxes (5%), tags...etc. I want to hit 25,000 for the exL-v6. maybe wilth fog lights as an option.

By Maydoes anyone think that is realistic? or has anyone achieved this yet?

thanks

bowke28 · January 2003

not realistic. invoice on an exv6 (non-navi) is 23462. add 5% and you are at 25k right there. forget tags and whatever etc. is. foglights?!?!

reason for my reaction is that exv6's were being all but given away 6 weeks ago, but the week between christmas and new years is the busiest in the car business. not many left out there, and dealers not likely to break even on an exv6. leave them a little profit, and your deal will go much smoother. i think a realistic # would be $24500-$25000 plus taxes and whatever else.

p.s. the "NOW" factor of money means nothing anymore, as most transactions are done electronically these days. if the salesman tells you it matters, then he's trying to patronize you.

moonkat · January 2003

kiiwii re: #8254

I believe the C&D 7.5 0-60 for 5spd Accord EX I4 is correct, and have suspected this motor was capable of 8.0 sec (auto) 0-60 times ever since Motorweek review of I4 couple of months ago.

Back then MW reviewed both I4 and V6 powered cars but acceleration tested only the I4 (graphite with I4 wheels) and reported 8.0 sec times though they did not identify the model verbally or with on screen text.

Honda is very secretive/conservative about their acceleration & hp numbers and typically underestimate their manufacturers numbers. The C&D numbers reinforce the MW 8.0 sec 0-60 numbers. Wait till Motor Trend tests the Accords for even better numbers.

cds12 · January 2003

pay no attention to bowke.. he is a clueless salesman.

2003corolla · January 2003

Does anyone own the DX model accord? Just wondering if it is a hard thing for the dealer to install the air conditioning. The DX is affordable for my budget. (I also realize that this model only has 2 speakers, is it easy to add in more speakers later with openings there already?)

jimbo65 · January 2003

We now have 1400 miles on our new LX. WoW! This is one great car. The 4 banger runs like a V-8! The automatic is really smooth and the ride is very good. That BIG radio knob is a good thing, easy to locate in a hurry. My compliments to HONDA for making a wonderful car. We also have a '96 with 95k on it, no big problems. I always change my own oil, using Mobil 1 5w30. I never pay any attention to the 'washer' on the drain plug. I drain the oil, and screw it back on. No big deal, and no leaking oil. The new '03 LX calls for 5w20 oil. I called Mobil and they said it will be on the market in March. I plan on staying with Mobil 1. The synthetic may cost more but it does provide better protection. The recomendations is to still follow the manufacturer's guidlines on the change frequency. And I do just that! Whatdayathink??

tblazer503 · January 2003

I would probably just get the LX if you want A/C. The difference in MSRP is about 3200, but I bet you will be able to find an LX for about invoice easily since it is the "mainstream" car for Honda. Then you would be talking roughly 18k for an LX. You would be getting the A/C, with all the other little "creature comforts". I believe the A/C from online dealers is about 1400 for parts alone. Probably about 4-500 for install. If you were going to drop 2000 for the A/C why not just get the LX?

You would be getting the remote powered mirrors, keyless entry w/ p/w control, power door locks, cruise control, remote trunk release(from keyfob), and a few other ammenities.

mikefm58 · January 2003

What is the advantage/disadvantage of using/not using new/old metal washers? I've done all my own oil changes on my '99 Odyssey, '99 CRV, and '01 Accord and there were times I didn't have a new washer and used the old one. Never had any leaks or problems.

newcar31 · January 2003

Honda crush gaskets are designed to crush once. The advantage of replacing it everytime is that you will keep your oil pan from stripping out and prevent leaks. You may not have had any leaks but the chance of a leak is much higher if you don't replace the gasket every time.

diploid · January 2003

"The only tough competition for the 6i in cornering prowess comes from the excellent Accord. It, too, has great steering and a stiff chassis/suspension setup, but it also has an ace: a freer-revving 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The Honda's motor just beats the Mazda's for ear-pleasing friendliness and a seeming willingness to rev without fear that you're doing damage. Not that we fear the Mazda motor is fragile. The assessment is more visceral than intellectual.

And the race is close, by the way. For winding-road kicks, we'd be very happy with the Mazda--and marginally happier still with the Honda.

We think the Honda Accord does most of what the 6i does a bit more deftly, but by such a small margin that it really comes down to taste, not tangible numbers."

"LOWS: Smaller than the competition and not quite as perfect as the new Honda Accord."

http://www.forbes.com/lifestyle/2003/01/13/cx_mf_0113test.html

Note: this is a review of a Mazda6i, not an Accord.

maple49 · January 2003

If you don't have any Honda washers handy you should be fine reusing the one already there until your next change. Not sure how important they are but for about $.15 each I'm not going to challenge the logic. When needed, I just stop off at a dealer and pick up about 20 of them. I think the key to the Honda drain bolt is to NOT over tighten.

I never noticed the rounded vs straight edge. If I remember, I will check them out over the weekend.

newcar31 · January 2003

Replacing the gasket every time will help you to not overtighten the plug. When the washer crushes, it's tight enough. You can feel it crush. If you re-use the old washer, you can't feel it crush because it has already been crushed. I didn't replace the gasket on my Integra once and the next time I changed the oil, the plug was loose.

ickes_mobile · January 2003

my thoughts exactly...

chiggaraccord4 · January 2003

hey,
i'm just wondering for 03 accord i4 owners, what gasoline/octane are you putting in ur baby?
i heard for v6, premium gives better hp, how about i4?

thanks,
chiggaraccord4

diploid · January 2003

ickes- Glad you liked it. Both are great cars - as the review said, it all boils down to taste.

bowke28 · January 2003

i wouldnt waste your money on premium. its not called for, and IMHO, completely unnecessary.

p.s. check the inventory of most honda dealers on EXV6 sedans...most only have 1 or 2 in stock. we are a 350 car a month store, and we have 2, with half of the 16 in transit already sold.

talon95 · January 2003

Interesting... the dealership that I got my Accord from is the highest volume Honda dealer in the state. I just checked their online inventory, and they have 16 EXV6 sedans.

paulhuang · January 2003

Hello,
I do not remember who had asked a question about having trouble getting the keys out of the ignition. I think this might be because of the steering wheel locking feature. Does this usually happen when the car is parked with the steering wheel turned? This is a feature to discourage theft because the steering wheel is locked when the key is removed.

Try turning the steering wheel a little bit and the key should come out. I think turning the key to the on position (starting the car) helps you in being able to turn the steering wheel and thus enables you to get the key out.

Hope this helps.
Paul

03accordman · January 2003

3500 Miles on my 03 LX and I am getting to like it more and more. Regularly getting 26MPG city and 34-35 Hwy. The issue I have is that Honda says change iol every 10K miles, and leave the oil that the car came with, long enough settling the engine. Dealer says change every 3.5k miles. What do I do? Any Suggestions?

moolman · January 2003

Do Not Listen to any junk the sales man BOWKE28 tells you. A EXV6 accord is not rare, is not in demand ever. Why because they make over 400,000 of these suckers, if they were a shortage, all they would have to do is call up the factory and make the next 50,000 of the EXV6. Supply and Demand do not apply to Honda Accords, never will until they start making about 200,000 or less. But no they make double that amount and even more if they could sell it. The most anyone should pay for any model, any trim, any color, is $300 over invoice. And that's being generous.

I myself paid $200 over invoice with no accessories, no extended warranty, nothing just the car at 3.49% for a EXv6, the only reason why I even paid $200 over was because I went to 20, yes TWENTY dealers and only 1 had it in Graphite Pearl but I could of got that color at any dealer if I was willing to wait and couple of days for the shipment but I couldn't. So even if they run out they will get more the next week, there is never a short supply.

Don't be fooled, Accord EXV6 or anyother accords are not rare, never ever, unless the factory burned down last week.

Alex

diploid · January 2003

EX V6 is hardly rare. Granted it's not sold in the larger numbers that the 4-cylinder Accords are sold, I wouldn't call it rare. Rare is the S2000.

venus537 · January 2003

my local dealer doesn't have any lx v6 models. i guess they're using all the v6s for the ex models.

robertsmx · January 2003

LXV6 has to be rare. I see plenty of EX-L Accords from 98-02 generation, while LXV6 is a rare sight.

masroz · January 2003

I recently purchased an EX 4 cyl in Desert Mist. I love the color, both exterior and interior. I'm very careful with keeping my interiors clean so I'm not worried about the light color. I traded a 98 LX 6 cyl Accord with 125,000 miles in the same color and the interior still looked new. Some random comments on the following. The brake pedal seems very sensitive at times and yet kind of mushy at other times?! The headlights (low beams) don't seem quite as bright as they should be. The wind noise sounds a little louder than I would like and the Honda stiff ride is alive and well. Also, the gas pedal is a quite sensitive. The 4 cylinder vibrates more than I am used to. I'm learning to adjust to these things, but here's the kicker - I absolutely love this car. I've had lots of nice complements on the styling too. Any one else getting used to these same items too?

atlantabenny · January 2003

Yes, I have the same observations with my wife's 03 EX-L (4cyl/auto) except for the intermittent brake mushiness and wind noise.

maxamillion1 · January 2003

At least get the EXV6 for $500 over invoice or LESS. The EXV6 is in demand, but it's not in short supply, at least not in Upstate, SC.

marcnyc · January 2003

I love my '86 Honda Accord and have kept it because of both a sentimental attachment and its incredible reliability and good working condition. I would like to purchase a new Accord but just could not get warmed up over their boring, unimaginative designs. I really had high hopes for the redesigned '03 Accord, but I just don't know what Honda was thinking when they signed off on the design---It's just so plain-looking...even cheap-looking, at least with the exterior. The c-pillar is especially disconcerting because of it's flattish, square-ish lines which don't blend well with the roundish front-end. The front-end is totally unimaginative--no grill, nothing that shows any thought by the designers. The rear tail lights are just bizaar. I recognize all of the positive attributes of Honda, but I just wish they would put more thought into making an attractive exterior. They certainly had enough time to do so.

ickes_mobile · January 2003

I thought the cutlines on the hood were an intersting detail. MT had a picture of the front of a Camry and Accord serveral months ago. Its a good design element that draws on the S2000 and Insight.

robertsmx · January 2003

I wouldn't call Accord's styling 'unimaginative' because it is not. You may not like it, but it is far from being bland or uninspired. Clean and purposeful lines, different yet maintains a sense of evolution and Hondaness to it.

I wasn't too excited about the rear when it came out, but the more I see the new Accord in person, the better it looks. I never liked white exterior, but for some strange reasons, I find it appealing in the Accord.

s852 · January 2003

If the C pillar styling is bothering you so much as to write off the car completely, then there are plenty of alternatives that have nicer styling. Mazda6, Altima and Passat all have styling that is more popular with most people.
The previous generation Altimas and Mazda 626 both had very frumpy styling, but Mazda and Nissan improved their styling lately. Only the Camry/Avalon remain as new family sedans with styling generally less liked than the new Accord.
The more people who buy Mazdas and Nissans, the less price pressure there will be on the Accord for those who want those.

bobst · January 2003

Those big, ugly knobs on the dash (especially the one in the middle) really are distasteful. I would really have a hard time looking at that ugly mess all of the time.

We have bought 4 Accords in the past, but I can't see us buying one of the new ones.

s852 · January 2003

Wow, people write off cars for seemingly silly reasons. I can an imagine someone ready to buy a car and saying "Oh, I was ready to buy this car and loved the features, price and everything else about it, but I didn't like the way a knob looked, so I went home."
The knob doesn't bother me in the least. I like the way it looks.
The other person called the rear tail lights "bizaar." They actually seem pretty plain to me and reminds me a little of some Alfa's from years ago.

jimbres · January 2003

I can sympathize with your point of view. The 3rd generation (86-89) Accords were among the best looking cars of the 80s irrespective of price. I had an 87 LXi for many years & loved everything about it. Just this afternoon, I saw a well-cared-for 88 or 89 (judging from the wheels) & I realized how well the styling of that generation has aged.

The latest generation represents a much more conservative approach. It's clear that Honda didn't take the kind of chances with the styling of the 03 that it did with the 86. Nonetheless, I'm warming to this car, particularly in the darker colors, & I'm beginning to think that this car will still look good 10 years from now. That's important, because lots of Accord buyers keep their cars for a long time.

I have one fervent suggestion: please don't put a spoiler on this car. I'll own up to an anti-spoiler bias - I think that they cheapen the looks of just about any 4-door car - but they have a particularly toxic effect on the appearance of the new Accord. Put a spoiler on the 03 & you have something that looks like a large Dustbuster on wheels. Truly awful.

civicw · January 2003

I don't recall that the styling of the previous Accords was as controversial as the styling of the 03. ' Buicky' is a description that I've seen used for the styling, especially the rear end, and I have to agree. Other people have called it an 'old man's car'. Even though I'm a Honda owner, the bloated styling simply hasn't grown on me. But the Euro JDM Accord/Acura TSX looks great! That's what the US Accord should have looked like, IMO.

phkck · January 2003

Have an 03 EX-V6. Owner manual says 87 octane, use it with no problem.
However, was reading the Car&Driver or Road& Track comparos (the V-6's) and noticed they had 91 octane listed under specifications in their articles for all cars tested.
Any idea why?

s852 · January 2003

It would a typo in the magazine article if it said the Accord is supposed to use 91 octane.
Supposedly, you can get more power than listed in the specs if you use 91 octane in the V6 Accord though since it is supposed to be built to take advantage of the extra octane even though it is unnecessary for the advertised 240hp.
This is the opposite of some other cars that are built for 91 octane, but their engines will automatically detune to less power to accept 87 octane without pinging or damage. I believe the V6 Camrys are like this.

davegod75 · January 2003

is this a dealer installed option or would i have to find a car on the lot with it or order one?

Older Honda Accords

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