2004 Honda Accord used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Complete transmission failure136 owner complaints, usually around 96,300 miles, owners paid about $4,100

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Airbag warning light99 owner complaints, usually around 84,400 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Transmission slipping64 owner complaints, usually around 111,376 miles, owners paid about $3,800

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 19V499000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V501000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V182000, Mar 6, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 18V268000, Apr 26, 2018
• Air bagsRecall number 16V178000, Mar 30, 2016
• Air bagsRecall number 15V370000, Jun 15, 2015
• Air bagsRecall number 15V320000, May 28, 2015
• Air bagsRecall number 14V700000, Nov 4, 2014
• Air bagsRecall number 14V353000, Jun 20, 2014
• SteeringRecall number 12V222000, May 17, 2012
• Air bagsRecall number 07V001000, Jan 3, 2007
• Air bagsRecall number 04V551000, Nov 18, 2004
• Power trainRecall number 04V176000, Apr 15, 2004

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMay 3, 2022
• Case v. American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Case No. BC 424169 (Third Clutch Transmission SettlementMay 28, 2021
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• This bulletin has been cancelled because the collection is now completeOct 26, 2018
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMay 25, 2018

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.