2008 Honda Accord Review: A Redesigned Car With A Lot Of New Problems

The 2008 Honda Accord is more expensive than other midsize cars at $6,178 to $9,961, with reliability concerns. Having more problems than any other year, 2008 is a bad choice, only lasting about 150,000 miles.

2008 Honda Accord: Quick Overview

• For the 2008 model year, the Honda Accord is completely redesigned with an all-new exterior, interior, and engine choices.
• According to J.D. Power reliability ratings are average. We have found more mechanical problems in 2008 than other years, and there are significantly more complaints than in the older 2007 model.
• Two engine choices are available including an efficient 4-cylinder and a powerful V6.
• Fuel economy is excellent, tying for 3^rd place out of 13 midsize cars from 2008, and has a combined rating of up to 25 miles per gallon.
• Safety ratings are great for the class, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests, and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
• The 2008 Honda Accord ranks 3^rd out of 13 midsize cars based on owner reviews. Even though the Accord ranks high, we recommend shoppers avoid the bad 2008 model year since there are serious problems.

What Problems Does the 2008 Honda Accord Have?

The 2008 Honda Accord is one of the worst model years for the car, with more problems than any other year. Serious improvements show up for the 2011 model, making the extra $1,500 worth it for buyers.

Premature brake pad wear is an extremely common problem, according to owners. There was a class-action suit related to brake pad wear, which gave owners $125 for replacements, and $150 towards redesigned brake pads. Even with the new design, the pads usually still need to be replaced once a year.

Engine problems, including excessive oil consumption, are frequent as well. Honda has issued a technical service bulletin related to the variable cylinder management system, which uses more oil. There was also a class-action suit which reimburses owners for out-of-pocket costs and gives them a 3-year powertrain warranty extension.

Interior issues, including poor quality leather, are also a common complaint from owners. The leather wears out, bubbles, and tears easier than in other cars. There are a few solutions including seat covers costing about $100 for a set, or having the seats reupholstered, costing thousands.

There are 9 recalls, worse than some other midsize cars from the same era. The recalls include the automatic transmission control module software, nose mask accessory, and several for the airbags. Most serious are airbag recalls since they affect passenger safety.

What is the 2008 Honda Accord Worth?

The 2008 Honda Accord is more expensive than other midsize cars from the same year with a price range of $6,178 to $9,961, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $20,360 to $30,510. Depreciation is average for the class, dropping about 10% in value each year.

What Are the Models & Specs?

• LX is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, power windows and mirrors, keyless entry, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system with AUX connectivity and 6 speakers.
• LX-P adds some features including 16-inch alloy wheels, a power driver’s seat, and automatic front windows.
• EX is next in the lineup with 17-inch wheels, a 6-CD changer in the dash, and a sunroof.
• EX-L is the flagship model with leather seating, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights, and satellite radio.

How Long Will the 2008 Honda Accord Last?

A properly cared for 2008 Honda Accord will last about 150,000 miles, shorter than the average lifespan for other midsize cars. Repair Pal estimates the regular annual maintenance costs to be average for a midsize car, at $400 per year.

There are some common expensive maintenance items buyers should be prepared for as the Accord ages, starting around 120,000 miles. They include water pump replacements for $600, timing belt jobs costing over $500, and engine gaskets which cost about $400.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is average for the class in the 2008 Honda Accord, but feels dated by modern standards.

• Base technology includes a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX connection.
• Optional upgrades include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.
• Standard safety features include air bags, antilock disc brakes, as well as stability and traction control.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance in the 2008 Honda Accord is better than some rivals. The upgraded V6 engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds.

• The base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 177 horsepower.
• An optional 3.5L V6 is available on the EX and EX-L models with 268 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Accord?

The 2008 Honda Accord is a midsize car available as both a coupe and sedan. Passenger room is class-leading in the back seats of the sedan, but still cramped in the coupe. Cargo space is smaller than competitors fitting 3-4 suitcases in the 14 cubic feet of room in the trunk of the sedan and 11.9 in the coupe.

How Does the 2008 Honda Accord Compare to Other Cars?

Ranking 3^rd out of 13 midsize cars based on owner reviews, the 2008 Honda Accord is ranked highly in the class.

A close competitor in the same price range is the Toyota Camry. The Camry has better reliability ratings, fewer owner complaints, and a smoother driving experience. Where the Accord comes out ahead is with more technology, and a sportier driving experience. Overall, for the 2008 model year, the Camry is a better choice since there are significantly fewer problems.

One of the more affordable rivals is the Nissan Altima. Where the Altima stands out is with a higher quality interior, and a more engaging driving experience. The Accord, on the other hand, has fewer mechanical problems, and more advanced technology available. We don’t recommend either car for the 2008 model year, though, since both have too many problems.

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Honda Accord a Good Car?

No, the 2008 Honda Accord is not a good car based on our research including 515 verified owner reviews and 16 government and automotive websites. The positives include a powerful V6 engine, and better technology than some rivals. Where it misses the mark is with more complaints than other years, and less cargo space than rivals. Overall, the 2008 Accord is a car buyers should avoid, going with a 2011 or newer is worth the extra $1,500 to get substantially better reliability.