Honda Accord Hybrid Problems
Honda Accord Hybrid Problems
The Honda Accord Hybrid is the most popular and loved sedan out there in the market. It is not only safe and fun to use but also pocket-friendly for many. The Accord hybrid models are one of their own kind, with incredible price tags, decent fuel economy, and low maintenance transmission mechanisms.
However, over the years, consumers have spotted a few lingering mechanical and construction issues, which may ruin the entire experience for you. Therefore, it is better to evaluate them beforehand. So, if you want to know more about the potential Honda Accord Hybrid problems, keep on reading this guide.
Air Bags
The first setback for the Honda Hybrid Accord in the market was the issue with an airbag inflator rupture that damaged their claims of being a low-maintenance substitute. The entire collection from 200 to 2015 has the airbag rupture danger, and the reports implied that it would result in a collision crash with serious injuries or even death in some cases.
Soy Coated Wiring
Soy-coated wiring is a highly dominant problem in Honda models, as most automated vehicles use this material for its biodegradability and eco-friendly construction. However, the problem is that it attracts rodents and can be a source of nesting for them. In this way, it becomes inevitable for the transmission wires to sustain themselves for a longer period.
What is even worse is that there is no quick solution to this, and getting rid of rodent nests can be expensive. In this situation, the only possible way out is to maintain the hood regularly and check for signs and symptoms of shredded wires during cleaning. If you are going for a long-term fix, Honda has an electric tape treated with rodent repellents like capsaicin, and you can easily get it from your dealer.
Transmission Control Failure
Transmission is by far the gray area in the Honda Accord hybrid models, and it is caused by several problems, one of them being faulty transmission control software. Having the software error can result in low fuel economy and loss of power, even if there is no other issue with the transmission system. The problems reported by the drivers were highly dominant in the 2005 and 2007 models.
The only possible solution to this problem is a seamless control software mobile. If you are facing this issue, it is better to ask your dealer to update the module or replace it altogether without charging any money, as it is covered by the company. But if you are buying a new one, always check that it does not have a recall transmission module software.
Loss of Drive Power
In Honda Accord Hybrid models, there have been a number of complaints regarding the sudden loss of drive power, which can eventually result in accidents. As per the investigation carried out by Honda, it was unraveled that the hybrid Accord models had corrosion in the driveshaft, which would immediately result in broken machinery and power losses.
That said, do consider that these issues are mostly a part of the 2014 and 2015 models and were caused by production faults. It was even worse in states where they put salt on roads during cold weather and snowfall, given that it interacts with the lubricant used in the driveshaft and damages the outer coating. The only solution to this problem is replacing the left and right driveshaft.
Hybrid Battery Issues
Another potential issue with the Honda Accord Hybrid, especially the seventh and ninth-generation models, is its high-voltage battery that eventually dies. This is because these models have nickel-metal NiMH hydride batteries, which are not really long-lasting compared to lithium-ion batteries.
In most cases, you can use the vehicle normally, even with low hybrid efficiency. However, if you notice poor fuel economy, engine light flickering, and battery loss, it may be the error in your IMA system caused by the battery used in your Honda Accord.
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Phantom Braking Failure
Similarly, there have been frequent reports of the tenth-generation CMBS collision mitigation braking system randomly generating triggers and alerts on its own. Most accidents regarding braking were noticed in the 2018 and 2019 Honda Accord models. As a result, the NHTSA investigated the matter in February 2022.
It was explored during the investigation that the braking failure directly influenced the safety support and caused fatal injuries and deaths (in some cases). Honda has not yet released any fix for this automated braking issue. However, in the 2019 models, the manufacturers added Adaptive Cruise Control to avoid accidents.
Mediocre Mileage
Poor fuel economy and average mileage are yet other problems that have hit the Honda Accord sales majorly in the market. Well, it is no surprise, given that 2006 and 2007 Hybrid models use the V6 engine, which is the same as in the non-hybrid models. Hence, the average mileage of the vehicle is between 45 and 50 mpg.
In addition, the ninth-generation Hybrid also had issues of gas leakage, especially in the 2014, 2015, and 2017 models. To avoid this, using regen paddles to charge your hybrid batteries can improve the engine working and fuel economy, needless to say, mileage. So, if you have these models, installing a regen paddle might be a sensible decision.
Faulty Starter
Another recurring problem with the Honda Hybrid Accord is that it has a faulty starter mechanism. This was first recognized in the 2014 and 2015 models, but more and more complaints were received from the ninth-generation models. Moreover, even if you get them replaced, the dealers will use the original replacement, which will also last you for a similar mileage.
Therefore, the only way out of this situation is to get updated starter replacements. But, it can be expensive; for instance, it can cost you approximately between $600 and $800 for 40,000 miles. Though most consumers are going for cheaper options like 36,000-mile warranty replacements, the labor cost remains the same, and service management is often compromised, so at the end of the day, it is your call.
Easily Cracked Windshield
Last but not least, the compromised construction quality coupled with the insulation in the 2018 and 29 Honda Accord Hybrid models results in easily cracked windshields. Most consumers reported that the windshield gets cracked when they are driving at 10k miles, while some noted that it happened with the 40 thousand miles replacements. Though it is not a mechanical fault, the repair cost can be an additional burden for those with no car insurance.
Jerking While Cruising
Another problem reported by Honda users was that their cars sometimes surge when switching from EV mode to engine mode for cruising. According to the reports, consumers implied that their car feels like it is moving forward and backward repeatedly. Upon investigation, it was discovered that it usually happens when drivers cruise between 45 to 60 mph or when the engine hasn’t fully warmed up yet.
The good thing is that it occurs rarely and in cold weather, so the owners are not mad about this issue. However, if you are facing this issue and it continues for a few seconds, it is best to pull over and restart the car. Honda has not yet come up with any fix or software update to deal with EV Engine regarding issues.
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FAQs
Are Honda Accord hybrid models reliable?
Yes, given the price and functionality, Accord Hybrid models are pretty reliable. However, the mechanical faults in the 9th and 10th generations make them susceptible to accident risk, so it is better to do market research before making any decision.
Which battery setup is used in the Honda Accord Hybrid?
In the earlier Honda Accord Hybrid models, a high-voltage nickel-metal hydride battery is used. The problem with this battery is that there are high power losses and mediocre mileage.
How much does it cost to replace a hybrid battery on a higher Honda Accord?
Typically, replacing the Honda hybrid battery with the high voltage battery can easily cost you between $14000 and $15000, including the labor cost. Overall, it depends on your location and the model of the Honda hybrid.
How long does the battery last in the 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid?
On average, the 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid battery can easily last year between 3 to 5 years. However, it is important to consider that your battery life depends on the weather conditions, battery size, and driving style.
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Final Thoughts
In essence, Honda Accord models are an excellent fit for anyone with a limited budget but high expectations. It is a safe sedan alternative for anyone in search of decent fuel economy, transmission mechanism, and low maintenance services.
However, it is equally important to have a look at the negatives of the previous models before jumping to the decision. Finally, I hope this guide was helpful in figuring out whether the Honda Accord Hybrid works for you.
Thanks For Reading!
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