2009 Honda Accord Review: A Car In Need Of Some Mechanical Improvements

Higher priced than other midsize cars ranging from $6,660 to $10,968, the 2009 model is a bad year with more complaints than newer models. Frequent engine and brake problems give the Accord a shorter-than-average lifespan at only 150,000 miles.

2009 Honda Accord: Quick Overview

• We rate the 2009 Honda Accord’s reliability as poor, even though J.D. Power gave it a great rating when the car was new. This lower rating is based on problems with the brakes and engines which develop as the car ages.
• Two engine choices are available including a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder, and a V6 with excellent power for a midsize car.
• Fuel economy is average, ranking 5^th out of 12 midsize cars from 2009, getting a combined rating of up to 25 miles per gallon.
• Safety ratings are excellent for the class, with a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests, and a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
• The 2009 Honda Accord ranks 2^nd out of 12 midsize vehicles based on owner reviews. Although the Accord ranks highly compared to other midsize cars, the 2009 model year is a bad choice, and one buyers should avoid.

What Problems Does the 2009 Honda Accord Have?

There are more problems with the 2009 Honda Accord than other midsize cars from the same year. The 2011 model offers serious improvements, making the extra $1,000 worth the cost for shoppers looking for a more reliable version of the Accord.

Premature brake wear is the most common problem owners have. The pads and rotors both wear out sooner than other vehicles, only lasting about 28,000 miles. When they wear out, the only solution is to replace the components, costing about $300.

Excessive oil consumption is another frequent issue, becoming more common around 70,000 miles. There is a technical service bulletin from Honda to update the software on the variable cylinder management system. Sometimes the software update does not fix the problem, and replacing pistons and rings costs over $1,000.

Uncomfortable seats are one of the most common complaints from owners. Some owners solve the problem affordably by putting pillows on the seats. Other people have replaced the seats with aftermarket solutions, costing over $1,500.

There are 11 recalls, which is more than other midsize cars from 2009. They include the automatic transmission control module software which improves responsiveness. The additional 9 recalls are for the airbags, and once repaired are not a concern.

How Much is the 2009 Honda Accord Worth?

Ranging in price from $6,660 to $10,698, depending on the model and mileage, the 2009 Honda Accord is more expensive than other midsize cars including the Altima and Sonata. When new, the price range was $20,905 to $31,155. Depreciation is average for the class, dropping about 10% in value per year on the used market.

What Are the Models & Specs?

LX is the entry-level model with:

• 16-inch Steel Wheels
• Cloth Seating
• Keyless Entry
• Folding Rear Seats
• 6-Speaker Stereo System

LX-P adds features including:

• 16-inch Alloy Wheels
• Automatic Front Windows
• Power Driver’s Seat

EX is next in the lineup with:

• 17-inch Alloy Wheels
• Improved Cloth Seating
• 6-CD In-Dash CD Changer
• Upgraded Stereo With Subwoofer

EX-L is the flagship model adding luxury features including:

• Leather Seating
• Heated Front Seats
• Automatic Headlights
• Dual-Zone Climate Control

How Long Will the 2009 Honda Accord Last?

A properly cared for 2009 Honda Accord will last about 150,000 miles, which is shorter than other years for the Accord. According to Repair Pal, annual maintenance costs are $364 per year, which is $100 cheaper than some competitors including the Altima.

There are some components which start to fail around 100,000 miles, and buyers should be prepared to replace them. The parts include serpentine belts for around $100, the yaw sensor for $650, and the mass air pressure sensor costing $150.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology in the 2009 Honda Accord is above average for the class, offering some minor improvements from the older 2008 model year.

• Standard technology includes a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input.
• Optional upgrades include a premium 7-speaker stereo system, an 8-inch infotainment screen with navigation, as well as Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
• Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, airbags, along with stability and traction control systems.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is a strong suit for the 2009 Honda Accord. The more powerful V6 engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds, which is quick for the class.

• A 2.4L 4-cylinder is standard on Accord, and has 190 horsepower.
• The upgraded engine is a 3.L V6 with 271 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Accord?

The 2009 Honda Accord is available as both a coupe and sedan, with the sedan having similar exterior dimensions to the Toyota Camry. Passenger room is class-leading in the Accord sedan with plenty of legroom in the back seats. On the other hand, the coupe is very cramped for adult passengers. The 14 cubic feet of room in the trunk of the sedan and 11.9 cubic feet in the coupe is enough to fit 3 to 4 suitcases.

How Does the 2009 Honda Accord Compare to Other Cars?

Ranking 2^nd out of 12 midsize cars based on owner reviews, the 2009 Honda Accord is near the top of the class.

The only car with a higher rating is the Mazda6, which is slightly more affordable. Where the Mazda stands out is with a higher quality interior, and fewer mechanical problems. The Accord has a more powerful base engine, and better technology. Overall, the Mazda6 wins out simply because they have less problems for the 2009 model, but in other years the competition is much closer.

Another rival is the more expensive Toyota Camry. The Camry has a smoother suspension, and more luxurious touches throughout the cabin. Where the Accord comes out ahead is with a more engaging driving experience, and better standard infotainment technology. In most years both the Accord and Camry get our recommendation, but for 2009 both just have too many problems to recommend either one.

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Honda Accord a Good Car?

No, the 2009 Honda Accord is not a good car. Although there is a combined rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 415 verified owner reviews, we found serious engine issues as the cars age. The positives include an engaging driving experience with the powerful V6, and more technology than some of the rivals. Where the Accord misses the mark is with more problems than other years, and uncomfortable seats. Overall we do like the Accord, but 2009 is a bad year to get. Going with a 2011 model is a better choice for $1,000 more since you will have significantly fewer problems.