Automotive Insider

Best Used Honda Models And Years

Hondas have the reputation of being dependable, practical, low-maintenance vehicles, and I’ve found nothing to dispute this. All models and years seem to be ranked winners of one kind or another in their respective categories.

Still, even some Hondas are better than others. The biggest headaches with Accords and Civics are transmission and car stereo problems, so it’s best to avoid the years when these were at their worst, and zero in on the years and models when these issues were least evident.

If you want to spend the money for a later model Accord, the 2005-2007 model years are your best bet and have received the fewest complaints. Used cars Toronto and used cars Ottawa are two of many great online resources for purchasing used Accords. If you want an older, more affordable model, Accords built from 1994-1997 is a good choice with above-average reliability when they have been well-maintained.

Civics, however, receive half as many complaints as Accords, and they cost less too. Nonetheless, some Civics also has transmission and car stereo problems. As with Accords, the older Civics is a good choice for those on a budget, especially those built between 1989 and 1999. If you want a later model, check out the 2003 or 2007.

Even with transmission and car stereo problems, the Honda Civic still comes up a winner again and again in numerous “best used cars” reports. And for a virtually problem-free Civic, the hybrids are an excellent choice.

The Honda Odyssey minivan gets half as many complaints as the Civic, although some model years had a few transmission problems (2002, 2003), A/C and heater issues (2005), or steering problems (2006).

Even so, these minivans are well-built and develop few problems overall. If you want a later model, look for either a 2004 or 2008. If you don’t mind an older model, the 1995, 1998 and 2001 are remarkably problem-free and, if cared for, age very well.

Any of the old Honda Preludes is also a good choice – if you can find one. I’ve heard that Honda Preludes last forever. The “worst” Prelude, according to used car dealerships, was the 1992 model with a grand total of 20 complaints. Pilots also have few problems overall, especially those built in 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2008.