EngineMedium
VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) on V6 cars can raise oil consumption and cause vibration.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check oil level and look for aftermarket VCM disablers; feel for vibration at cruise.
2013–2017 Honda Accord · common problems & known faults
The ninth-generation Accord is a strong, efficient used buy, but the V6's cylinder-deactivation system and a few electronics quirks deserve a look.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2017 Honda Accord are Intermittent no-start condition or a loud clicking noise when attempting to crank the engine, VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) on V6 cars can raise oil consumption and cause vibration and V6 automatic torque-converter judder. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Honda Accord.
5.4/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 6
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
TransmissionMedium
V6 automatic torque-converter judder.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test-drive and feel for shudder under light load.
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Build the inspection planElectricalLow
Infotainment/Bluetooth freezes and slow response.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Pair a phone and test the touchscreen responsiveness.
HVACMedium
AC compressor failure.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Confirm the AC blows cold quickly and listen for compressor noise.
ElectricalHigh
Intermittent no-start condition or a loud clicking noise when attempting to crank the engine.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Cycle the ignition on and off several times using the key or start button. Listen for a sharp click without the engine cranking, indicating starter motor solenoid failure.
LightingMedium
Dimming, flickering, or complete failure of the LED daytime running light (DRL) strip within the headlamp cluster.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine, release the handbrake to activate the DRLs, and visually inspect both front headlamp clusters to ensure the LED strips are fully and uniformly illuminated.
SteeringMedium
Steering pulls to one side on a flat road or feels notched and heavy off-centre due to Electronic Power Steering (EPS) rack issues.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock whilst stationary to feel for notching. Drive at low speed on a flat forecourt with hands lightly off the wheel to check for pulling.
DrivetrainMedium
Humming, droning, or rumbling noise from the rear of the vehicle that increases with road speed due to premature wheel bearing wear.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Take the vehicle for a brief drive up to 40 mph. Listen for a low-pitch drone from the rear and gently weave within the lane to see if the pitch changes under load.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the 2013–2017 Honda Accord reliable?
Very — it's a top-rated used sedan. Watch the V6's VCM oil use and infotainment glitches.
Four-cylinder or V6?
The 2.4L four is trouble-free and efficient; the V6 is smoother but adds the VCM oil-consumption risk.
Does the Accord have CVT problems?
The 2013–2017 four-cylinder uses a CVT that is generally durable; keep up with fluid changes.
Does the 2013-2017 Honda Accord use a timing belt or a timing chain?
It depends on the engine fitted. The 2.4-litre four-cylinder engines utilise a durable timing chain that generally lasts the lifetime of the vehicle with regular oil changes. Conversely, the 3.5-litre V6 engines are fitted with a timing belt, which mandates replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or seven years, alongside the water pump.
Are the direct-injection engines prone to carbon build-up on the intake valves?
Yes, the 2.4-litre Earth Dreams engine uses direct injection, which bypasses the intake valves with fuel, preventing the natural cleaning effect. Over time, carbon deposits can accumulate, leading to rough idling, misfires, and reduced fuel economy. Dealers should check for a smooth idle and recommend an intake decoke service if rough running is detected.
What causes a loud rattling noise upon cold start in the four-cylinder models?
A brief, harsh rattle lasting a few seconds on a cold start is typically caused by a faulty Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator. The internal locking pin fails to engage properly when oil pressure drops overnight. While it rarely causes immediate catastrophic engine failure, the actuator must be replaced to prevent long-term timing chain wear.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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