🇩🇪 Deutsch
Honda · Mid-Size · 2002–2007

Honda Accord CL

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
4.3 / 5.0 · Based on 3 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

140 PS

2.2L i-CTDi Diesel

Honda's Best Diesel

Fun to Drive!
Most Reliable Engine

166–201 PS

2.4L i-VTEC Benzin

4 weaknesses

Good Choice

Body Variants

The Honda Accord CL is available as Limousine and Tourer — choose your body type for specific insurance data:

Limousine
3 Engines 2× Good Choice
view Limousine →
Tourer
3 Engines 2× Good Choice
view Tourer →

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda Accord CL is available with 3 engine variants — from 140 to 201 hp.

2.2L i-CTDi · Diesel· 140 PS
2003 2007
Good Choice 4 weaknesses
2.0L i-VTEC · Benziner· 155 PS
2002 2007
Be Careful 6 weaknesses
2.4L i-VTEC · Benziner· 190 PS
2002 2007
Good Choice 4 weaknesses

The Honda 2.2L i-CTDi (Diesel, 140 PS) has the N22A (2.2L i-CTDi) — rated: "Good Choice", 4 known weaknesses.

The Honda 2.0L i-VTEC (Benziner, 155 PS) has the K20A (2.0L i-VTEC) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.

The Honda 2.4L i-VTEC (Benziner, 190 PS) has the K24A (2.4L i-VTEC) — rated: "Good Choice", 4 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Seized Rear Brake Calipers

The biggest weak point of the Accord CL is the rear brakes, which seize regularly. The Tourer is particularly affected. Annual cleaning and lubrication of the brake calipers is mandatory.

Symptoms: Rear brake pads wearing unevenly on one side; pads lasting only around 25,000 km instead of the usual service life; brake discs showing scoring and uneven wear.
from 80,000 km
Ad rear brake caliper Accord CLHonda Accord CL7 seized brake
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
5,731 complaints · 2002–2007
Powertrain
1977 ⚠ 50
Airbags
1361 ⚠ 362
Electrical
557 ⚠ 37
Brakes
429 ⚠ 57
Hydraulic
322 ⚠ 39

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (1977 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (1361 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (557 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Alfa Romeo 159 939

Mittelklasse (2005–2011)

Same Segment

Audi RS4 B7

Mittelklasse (2005–2009)

Same Segment

BMW 3er E90

Mittelklasse (2005–2013)

Same Segment

Fiat Croma 194

Mittelklasse (2005–2011)

Same Segment

Mazda 5 CR

Mittelklasse (2005–2010)

Same Segment

Subaru Legacy BL

Mittelklasse (2005–2009)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 21 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda Accord CL (2002–2007) — 14 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Brakes, Rust, Suspension, Electronics. Considered reliable: N22A (2.2L i-CTDi), K24A (2.4L i-VTEC).

Accord (K20A, 2002–2007) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretch from 140,000 km, VTC solenoid cold-start rattle, Oil consumption from worn valve stem seals. Power: 155 PS.

What to watch out for with the Honda Accord? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Honda Accord CL have? +
The Honda Accord CL has 14 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda Accord CL? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: N22A (2.2L i-CTDi), K24A (2.4L i-VTEC). The most reliable engine is the K24A (2.4L i-VTEC) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the N22A (2.2L i-CTDi).
Which Honda Accord CL engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Honda Accord CL. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 4 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Honda Accord CL engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda Accord CL — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} Honda's first in-house diesel: aluminium block, sounds metallic and sporty rather than tractor-like. Power band from 1,500 rpm, slick six-speed gearbox. Surprisingly lively for a diesel.
Is the Honda Accord CL worth buying used? +
The Honda Accord CL is a good choice as a used car — 2 of 3 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda Accord CL? +
The Honda Accord CL is available with engine variants from 140 to 201 hp. Petrol: K20A (2.0L i-VTEC), K24A (2.4L i-VTEC). Diesel: N22A (2.2L i-CTDi).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee