1997 Honda Accord

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 460 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 15 times.

Avoid One of the Honda Accord years to avoid: an unusual share of fires, crashes and deaths for a car of its age. Which Honda Accord years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
107,000 milesMedian miles at failure

126 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 150,000–200,000 miles.

Most common 1997 Honda Accord problems

107 of the 460 complaints (23%) are about the airbags.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Air Bags · airbags61
203
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch32
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration31
14012
Air Bags › Frontal · airbags25
1107
Electrical System22
131
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module · airbags18
010
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline · engine17
000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · brakes15
200
Electrical System › Ignition13
100
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission11
000

1997 Honda Accord airbags problems

23% of all complaints

107 of the 460 complaints are about the airbags. This is what owners describe:

  • shows an airbag warning light56% · 60
  • sets off warning lights on the dash36% · 39
  • did not deploy its airbags in a crash8% · 9

Share of the 107 airbags complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
78,000 mi
median of 24 reports
Peak year of filing
2002
23 airbags complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
14 · 1 · 11
in these complaints
Recalls on the airbags
None
“I was driving home from work and my SRS light came on and has not went off. I have not hit anything and I was just driving on the interstate when it just came on.”
Owner complaint, filed Nov 30, 2017 at 25 miles
“The SRS light came on suddenly while driving. Took to dealer and they are charging a lot to repair it. I have not done the repair . How come air bag related SRS light can come while just driving and why do I need to pay for it ? It should be covered by manufacturer”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 21, 2015 at 150,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
1996: 1 complaints, 0 about the airbags'961997: 16 complaints, 2 about the airbags1998: 33 complaints, 7 about the airbags1999: 50 complaints, 8 about the airbags2000: 37 complaints, 9 about the airbags'002001: 53 complaints, 17 about the airbags2002: 77 complaints, 23 about the airbags2003: 34 complaints, 12 about the airbags2004: 33 complaints, 8 about the airbags'042005: 17 complaints, 7 about the airbags2006: 10 complaints, 4 about the airbags2007: 3 complaints, 1 about the airbags2008: 6 complaints, 0 about the airbags'082009: 10 complaints, 1 about the airbags2010: 22 complaints, 3 about the airbags2011: 7 complaints, 1 about the airbags2012: 11 complaints, 1 about the airbags'122013: 5 complaints, 1 about the airbags2014: 11 complaints, 0 about the airbags2015: 9 complaints, 1 about the airbags2016: 3 complaints, 0 about the airbags'162017: 2 complaints, 1 about the airbags2018: 3 complaints, 0 about the airbags2019: 1 complaints, 0 about the airbags2020: 1 complaints, 0 about the airbags'202021: 2 complaints, 0 about the airbags2022: 0 complaints, 0 about the airbags2023: 3 complaints, 0 about the airbagsRecall 98V231000 (electrical system)Recall 99V069000 (suspension)Recall 02V120000 (electrical system)Recall 06E023000 (headlights)Recall 06E025000 (headlights)Recall 08E050000 (headlights)Recall 09E025000 (headlights)
All complaintsAbout the airbagsRecall (red: the airbags)

Complaints about the 1997 Accord peaked in 2002, with 77 filed that year. No recall on file covers the airbags, the subject of 23% of the complaints. In 2023 owners filed 3 so far.

15 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Exterior Lighting › Headlights09E025000
Filed May 11, 200942,540 vehiclesDope, Inc.

Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights08E050000
Filed Aug 11, 20081,921 vehiclesK2 Motor Corporation

Defect. K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.

Exterior Lighting06E065000
Filed Jul 17, 20063,593 vehiclesAj Motorsport

Defect. CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.

Exterior Lighting06E064000
Filed Jul 17, 20064,029 vehiclesTradesonic

Defect. CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.

Exterior Lighting06E060000
Filed Jun 29, 200687,745 vehiclesAai Motorsports USA, LLC

Defect. CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH

Remedy. AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.

Exterior Lighting06E049000
Filed May 24, 200627,176 vehiclesCk Motorsport, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.

Exterior Lighting06E044000
Filed May 22, 20061,215 vehiclesJ & A Auto Accessories

Defect. CERTAIN J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE HEADLAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES AT 310-327-4981.

Exterior Lighting06E040000
Filed May 15, 20061,648 vehiclesE Speed Racing

Defect. CERTAIN E SPEED RACING COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. E SPEED RACING WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT E SPEED RACING 909-923-3636.

Exterior Lighting06E032000
Filed Apr 18, 2006845 vehiclesTom Motorsport, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN EAGLE EYES AND SONAR HEADLIGHTS AND CORNER LIGHTS SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE ON 1988-2005 HONDA CIVIC, 1990-2005 HONDA ACCORD, AND 1990-2001 ACURA INTEGRA PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. HEADLIGHTS AND CORNER LIGHTS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. TOM MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE PURCHASE OF NONCOMPLIANT LIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN APRIL 17, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOM MOTORSPORT AT 626-968-4007.

Exterior Lighting06E026000
Filed Mar 23, 200661,944 vehiclesPro-A Motors, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E025000
Filed Mar 21, 20061,450 vehiclesPoli-Auto, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN POLI-AUTO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. 11-728, 11-728D, 11-710, 11-419, 11-713, 11-703, 11-704, 11-708P, 11-735, 11-725, 11-726, 11-716 (P&C), 11-721-1, 11-733, 11-729, 11-730, AND 11-732, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. POLI-AUTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE HEADLAMPS AT ITS ORIGINAL PURCHASE PRICE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT POLI-AUTO AT 305-477-1356.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E023000
Filed Mar 13, 2006292,000 vehiclesAnzo USA, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.

Electrical System › Ignition › Switch02V120000
Filed May 16, 20021,000,000 vehiclesAmerican Honda Motor Co.

Defect. ON CERTAIN SEDANS, COUPES, HATCHBACKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, ELECTRICAL CONTACTS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH CAN DEGRADE DUE TO THE HIGH ELECTRICAL CURRENT PASSING THROUGH THE SWITCH WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED.

Risk. WORN CONTACTS COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL WITHOUT WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 14, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.

Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint99V069000
Filed May 10, 1999124,875 vehiclesAmerican Honda Motor Co.

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. CERTAIN VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITH BALL JOINTS THAT CAN PREMATURELY WEAR OUT AND, IN THE WORSE CASE, THE BALL JOINT WOULD SEPARATE CAUSING THE FRONT SUSPENSION TO COLLAPSE.

Risk. THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT IN VEHICLE DECELERATION AND A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER. ALSO STEERING CONTROLLABILITY WOULD BE REDUCED.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS.

Electrical System › Wiring › Front Underhood98V231000
Filed Sep 22, 1998967,771 vehiclesAmerican Honda Motor Co.

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SEDAN, COUPE AND WAGON PASSENGER VEHICLES EXCEPT THE DX MODEL AND MODELS WITH V6 ENGINES. THE FACTORY INSTALLED AIR CONDITIONER WIRE HARNESS WAS IMPROPERLY ROUTED ALLOWING SOME WIRES TO RUB AGAINST EACH OTHER, EVENTUALLY CAUSING A SHORT CIRCUIT.

Risk. THE SHORT CIRCUIT CANPOSSIBLY CAUSE THE UNDERHOOD WIREING TO OVERHEAT AND SMOKE, CAUSING A FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. A SHORT CIRCUIT CAN ALSO RESULT IN A BLOWN FUSE OR DEAD BATTERY.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES FOR PROPER ROUTING OF THESE WIRES. ANY HARNESS IMPROPERLY ROUTED WILL BE INSPECTED FOR DAMAGE AND THE ROUTING WILL BE CORRECTED. IF ANY INSULATION IS WORN THROUGH AND THE COPPER WIRES ARE EXPOSED, THE HARNESS WILL BE REPLACED. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSTALL PLASTIC TUBING TO PROTECT THE HARNESS.

All 15 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

75 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 1997 Accord. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 14equipment 11transmission 10electrical system 9body and frame 7brakes 7suspension 4wheels 3
020103Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 1, 2003airbags

SRS INDICATOR ON WITH NO SRS DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC) SET. *TT *JB

110102Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 1, 2002airbags

DAMAGED CABLE REEL CAN CAUSE SRS DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS). HONDA SERVICENEWS. *TT

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Sep 7, 2023200,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 1997 Honda Accord. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH and attempting to slow down, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality however, the failure became a persistent failure. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. However, the contact stated that the battery, carburetor, and alternator were replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 02V120000 (Electrical System) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Engine
Filed May 18, 2023GA

I bought this car from a private owner about 2 months ago ever since I had it the car shuts off I think it O2 sensor is not working or it's gone the CV joint went out on the right side I had it replaced and it still messed up it's something with the suspension and stuff the front end alignments out real bad it ate up my tires really bad to where it keeps eating up tires every time I put them on here badly real fast too the left side CV joint I believe is about to go out cuz it's knocking the lights are messed up the wiring in this car is bad with the lighting system because the left headlight is out and it won't stay on it blinks on and off the cigarette lighter is not working sometimes this car will not crank it'll turn over and show the lights but it won't crank the radiator fans are not working I don't know what's going on with that and it's a lot of other things I believe that's not properly working right and I really need this checked out because I'm low income with children and I like that I had a bad accident two days ago in this car during the rain because my car slid right and it kept going right instead of turning left on the interstate around the curve in the curve it went right and I'm scared of this car right now cuz it almost killed me and my kids if it would have hit that guardrail we would have went off the in Bank of the interstate I just now today on May 18th 2023 had a tire put on here and I'm going to have another one put on here again these tires cost mon

Suspension
Filed Apr 7, 2023IL

SEVERE frame rust where suspension bolts to. Safety hazard.

Power TrainFire
Filed Sep 30, 2021OH

While driving car speed starts to fall soon there is no pedal at all and smoke and fire come from underneath dashboard transmission hesitates to shift now currently un safe to drive.

EngineFire
Filed May 5, 2021ME

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30- 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED AND SMOKE WAS DETECTED. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT LET THE VEHICLE COOL DOWN HOWEVER EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE REOCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 14, 2020IL

I TEST DRIVE 1997 HONDA ACCORD AND YOU HAD TO PUMP THE BREAK PADDLE TO SLOW IT DOWN WITHIN 4 BLOCK RADIUS WHEN RETURNING THE GARAGE THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON THE VEHICLE STARTED VIBRATING THIS WAS LAST WEEK THIS MONTH JUNE 2020. THEY SELLING THE FOR $1600. THE BLUE BOOK SHOW IT WORTH $800. TO 1200. THIS VEHICLE SERIOUS MECHANICAL ISSU

Vehicle Speed ControlCrash1 injured
Filed May 28, 2019171,000 milesLA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD LX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH (THE CRUSE CONTROL ON), WHEN ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN, THE VEHICLE DID NOT STOP. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO AVOID THE VEHICLES IN FRONT, WENT IN TO AN EMBANKMENT, AND THEN CAME OUT ONTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THE CONTACT GOT STRIKED BY A PICK UP TRUCK. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE PASSENGER WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE, TREATED AND RELEASED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 171,000. *BF*JB

Electrical System
Filed Aug 7, 2018131,000 milesKS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START WHEN PROMPTED. A DEALER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 02V120000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AS THE SOURCE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 131,000.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 7, 2018131,377 milesKS

I AM HEARING ELECTRICAL SPARKING SOUND WHEN I TURN IGNITION SWITCH TO START POSITION. THE CAR STARTS ONLY AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. CAR WAS STATIONARY.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 10, 2018WA

THE CAR DIES WHILE DRIVING, SOMETIMES IN MOTION, SOMETIMES STOPPED IN TRAFFIC. THE MECHANIC SAID IT IS THE IGNITION SWITCH. THIS WAS THE SUBJECT OF A RECALL PREVIOUSLY IN 2002. I CAN'T TELL IF MY CAR WAS LISTED OR REPAIRED THEN.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 30, 201725 milesOH

I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK AND MY SRS LIGHT CAME ON AND HAS NOT WENT OFF. I HAVE NOT HIT ANYTHING AND I WAS JUST DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE WHEN IT JUST CAME ON.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Feb 7, 2017234,000 milesTN

MY CAR SPONTANEOUSLY BLEW UP ON MONDAY. HADN'T DRIVEN IT IN OVER 2 HOURS. BELIEVE IT FALLS UNDER RECALL NUMBER 98V231000. NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS AND REGULARLY MAINTENANCED.

Electrical SystemCrash1 injured
Filed Mar 16, 2016201,300 milesCA

HONDA DEALERSHIP REPLACED IGNITION SWITCH. THE ORIGINAL IGNITION SWITCH WAS REPLACED IN THE 2002 RECALL. THE REPLACEMENT SWITCH WAS REPLACED IN 2016 AFTER EXHIBITING THE SAME SYMPTOMS THAT LED TO THE ORIGINAL RECALL: SILENT STALL. THE FAULTY SWITCH LED TO A STALL AT A STOP LIGHT AND WHEN THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN I WAS REAR ENDED AS I WAS ATTEMPTING TO RESTART THE CAR. I HAD TO REACH OUT TO HONDA ASKING THEM TO VERIFY THE PROBLEM AND REPLACE AT NO CHARGE.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Feb 8, 2016255,015 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SEVERELY HESITATED TO ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 255,015. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 8, 2016CA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, IT STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT AWARE IF THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 02V120000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 3, 2015230,000 milesTN

THIS CAR RANDOMLY SHUTS DOWN AS I AM DRIVING HAVE TAKEN IT TO NUMEROUS PLACES AND NOTHING IS FOUND. SHUT DOWN 6 TIMES IN A ROW LAST TIME WITH MY CHILD IN THE CAR ON A DARK HIGHWAY COLD AND RAINING. VERY DANGEROUS!!! THE INSIDE LIGHTS FLASH ON AND OFF ALL OF THE TIME MOSTLY TURNING CURVES, WASTING BATTERY. NOISE IN THE FRONT WHEELS/TIRES/AXLES LIKE SOMETHING IS WAITING TO BREAK OFF AS YOU ARE DRIVING. OVERHEATED LAST YEAR FOR NO APPARENT REASON COSTING TON OF MONEY. I HAVE REPLACED THE COMPRESSOR TWICE AND STILL THE AIR CONDITIONER DOESN'T COOL. I LEAVE THE "AIR" BUTTON ON TO KEEP THE FANS RUNNING SO IT DOESN'T OVERHEAT AS I'M DRIVING. NOT TO MENTION IN THE SUMMER IT IS BLOWING OUT HEAT AND ALL THE WINDOWS DO NOT ROLL DOWN. THIS CAR IS A MESS AND I WILL NEVER PURCHASE ANOTHER HONDA. THANKS-

Engine
Filed Nov 24, 2015185,000 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE ENGINE LOST POWER. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS AWAITING DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000.

Air Bags
Filed Aug 21, 2015150,000 milesOR

THE SRS LIGHT CAME ON SUDDENLY WHILE DRIVING. TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY ARE CHARGING A LOT TO REPAIR IT. I HAVE NOT DONE THE REPAIR . HOW COME AIR BAG RELATED SRS LIGHT CAN COME WHILE JUST DRIVING AND WHY DO I NEED TO PAY FOR IT ? IT SHOULD BE COVERED BY MANUFACTURER

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jun 26, 2015155,899 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE SPEEDOMETER FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 155,899. UPDATED 09/03/15*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR WAS REPLACED AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. UPDATED 12/8/2015*JS

Power Train
Filed Jun 1, 2015170,000 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. WHILE REVERSING, THERE WAS A LOUD METALLIC NOISE COMING FROM THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED AND THE MOTOR MOUNT FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 170,000.

Electrical System
Filed May 17, 2015235,000 milesNJ

MY CAR ENGINE SOME TIMES USED TO SUDDENLY SHUT OFF AND STOP ABRUPTLY, WHILE SLOWING OR BRAKING. AT TIMES, IT WILL START RIGHT AWAY AFTER CRANKING THE IGNITION SWITCH, BUT, SOME TIMES, REQUIRED SEVERAL TRIES. ABRUPT STOPPING CAUSED EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION, AS THE DRIVERS BEHIND HAD TO MAKE VERY HARD STOPS AND NARROWLY MISSED HITTING REAR END OF MY HONDA. SINCE THE PROBLEM WAS OCCURRING INTERMITTENTLY, IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO DIAGNOSE AND TOOK ALMOST ONE YEAR. FIRST MY MECHANIC THOUGHT IT WAS CAUSED BY DEFECTIVE IDLING SPEED CONTROL RELAY, THEN DUE TO BAD IGNITION RELATED RELAY, WHICH WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAULT PERSISTED AND STALLING BECAME MORE FREQUENT. ACTUALLY, THE DEFECT WAS DUE TO WORN OR DEFECTIVE IGNITION SWITCH, WHICH USE TO SHUT THE ENGINE OFF WHILE SLOWING OR BRAKING. AFTER REPLACING THE IGNITION SWITCH APPROXIMATELY ONE YEAR AGO, CAR HAS NEVER STALLED.

Engine
Filed May 5, 2015198,500 milesCA

ENGINE STALLED SUDDENLY, WITHOUT WARNING, WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. SINCE FIRST OCCURRENCE IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING MORE FREQUENTLY, SOMETIMES ON THE HIGHWAY AND SOMETIMES WHILE STOPPED AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS. IS VERY DIFFICULT TO RESTART. *TR

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jan 18, 201522,536 milesCA

I WAS BACKING UP. I PUT THE CAR IN DRIVE THEN IT DIED AND STARTED TO SMOKE I GOT OUT OF THE CAR AND LOOKED UNDER HOOD, SAW FLAMES FROM BOTTOM OF CAR, TOLD MY DAUGHTER THE CAR IS ON FIRE. WE GOT OUR THINGS AND OUT AND I CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO PUT OUT THE FIRE. *TR

Electrical System › Ignition › Switch
Filed Jan 7, 2015KY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO LATCH IN PLACE WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION KEY DISENGAGED WHILE IN THE ON POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 23, 2014120,000 milesNY

CLEAR COAT PEELING AWAY FROM PAINT ON HOOD ROOF TRUNK AND DOORS. *TR

Seat Belts
Filed Dec 16, 2014405,000 milesCA

I HAD FILED A REPORT WITH THE BAR ABOUT A SEAT BELT ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF MY HONDA ACCORD STARTING TO FREY AND THEY HAD SPOKE WITH HONDA IN POWAY CA AND THEY WILL NOT COVER THE SEAT BELT BECAUSE IT IS NOT BROKEN. TO ME IT SEEMS LIKE A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE IF I AM INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WILL THE SEAT BELT BE WORKING 100%? THERE ARE TEAR MARKS ON THE BELT WERE IT CLICKS TO THE BELT BUCKLE AND I FEEL THIS IS NOT SAFE. I FEEL HONDA SHOULD COVER THIS. *TR

Engine
Filed Dec 10, 2014101,398 milesMA

WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THE ENGINE STALLED/FAILED, WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED WORKING AND IT FELT LIKE THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. HEADLIGHTS WERE WORKING ALONG WITH THE DASH LIGHTS. DURING THE STALLING PERIOD - I PULLED OVER AND CAME TO A STOP ON THE HIGHWAY. SOON THERE AFTER, THE ENGINE CAME ON AND I BEGAN TO DRIVE AGAIN. THIS HAPPENED TWICE DURING A 30 MINUTE RIDE WHILE IT WAS RAINING. VERY DANGEROUS. *TR

Electrical System › Ignition › Switch
Filed Aug 29, 2014183,000 milesMA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE O-RING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND AN OIL LEAK NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 02V120000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AND NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 98V231000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE FAILURE PROGRESSIVELY WORSENED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 183,000.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 27, 2014260,000 milesNC

VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. CONTINUED TO STALL AT LOW SPEEDS HIGH SPEEDS COLD ENGINE HOT ENGINE. SINCE IT WAS INTERMITTENT, MECHANIC HAD TROUBLE DIAGNOSING. I FOUND A RECALL ON NHTSA REGARDING THIS PROBLEM IN WHICH THE IGNITION SWITCH MODULE WAS TO BLAME. HONDA REFUSED TO HONOR THE RECALL GIVEN THE LENGTH OF TIME THAT HAD PASSED SO I HAD IT REPAIRED AT MY MECHANICS. *TR

Engine
Filed Aug 22, 2014200,500 milesTN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED. AS THE VEHICLE SPEED DECELERATED THE CONTACT SWITCHED THE SHIFTER INTO THE NEUTRAL POSITION AND RESTARTED THE ENGINE AND THE VEHICLE OPERATED SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,500.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 18, 201415,000 milesIA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 02V120000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED TWO DAYS AFTER THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000.

Power Train
Filed Jul 12, 201488,000 milesSC

WHILE DRIVING UPHILL IN THE MOUNTAINS OF NC ON I-26, WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, TRANSMISSION SLIPPING OF MY 97 HONDA ACCORD WITH 88,000 ORIGINAL MILES, CAUSED TRAFFIC TO BACK-UP BEHIND ME IN THE RAIN. WAS FINALLY ABLE TO REMOVE FROM FREEWAY OUT OF DANGER. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Apr 8, 2014180,000 milesMA

I NOTICED THE PROBLEM ONCE JUST BY ACCIDENT. I WAS STOPPED AT A GROCERY PARKING LOT WITH A SLIGHT SLOPE. I WAS IN A RUSH AND I TOOK THE KEY OUT OF THE IGNITION AND AS I WAS GETTING OUT OF THE DOOR, THE CAR BEGAN TO ROLL. I REALIZED THAT THE CAR WAS STILL IN DRIVE BUT THE KEY HAD COME OUT OF THE IGNITION. I THOUGHT THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AND SO I AM REPORTING THIS ISSUE. PLEASE INVESTIGATE. *TR

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Apr 8, 2014192,000 milesMA

I HAVE NOTICED THIS PROBLEM FOR THE PAST 2+ WINTERS ON MY CAR. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED, I WAS GOING HOME FROM WORK ON A COLD WINTER NIGHT. I GOT THE FREEWAY AND ACCELERATED TO 55 MPH. I THEN SET THE CRUISE CONTROL (AS I NORMALLY DO IN LIGHT TRAFFIC). I NOTICED THAT THE CAR'S ENGINE WAS STILL REVVING A LOT MORE THAN IT SHOULD. I LOOKED DOWN AND NOTICED THAT I WAS DOING 70 MPH. I IMMEDIATELY STEPPED ON THE BRAKE TO DEACTIVATE THE CRUISE CONTROL. I CONTINUED TO NOTICE THIS ISSUE ALL WINTER. I SET THE CRUISE AT 40 MPH AND NOTICED THAT IT WENT UP BY ABOUT 20 MPH ABOVE THE SETTING BEFORE IT FINALLY STOPPED ACCELERATING AND SETTLED BACK TO THE CRUISE SET SPEED (OR CLOSE TO IT). IN THE WARM WEATHER THIS PROBLEM DISAPPEARS. *TR

Engine
Filed Feb 13, 2014TX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED AND WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE. *TR

Suspension
Filed Dec 9, 2013IL

I'M THE OWNER OF 1997 HONDA ACCORD LX.RECENTLY, I HAVE CHECKED SAFERCARS.GOV WEBSITE TO SEE IF MY CAR HAS ANY OUTSTANDING RECALLS PENDING. YET,I HAVE FOUND ONE SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM: LOWER BALL JOINT. FOR VEHICLES YEAR 1997-1998 HONDA ACCORD'S. I HAVE CONTACTED HONDA ON 09 DEC 13 AT WHICH TIME I WAS INFORMED THAT MY VIN DOES NOT QUALIFY MY VEHICLE FOR A RECALL.I'M VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THIS ,SINCE IT MAY CAUSE SUDDEN VEHICLE DECELERATION AND SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER AND STEERING CONTROLLABILITY COULD BE ALSO BE AFFECTED. SAFETY IS OUR BIGGEST CONCERN TO ME AND MY FAMILY. PLEASE IF YOU CAN HELP ME RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. *TR

Air Bags
Filed Jul 5, 2013130,000 milesCA

THE SRS LIGHT ILLUMINATED INDICATING AN AIRBAG PROBLEM WITH MY HONDA ACCORD AT APPROX. 130,000 MILES. THE DEALER CHARGED ME $90 FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WITH A 8-5 INTERNAL FAILURE CODE. DEALER WANTS TO REPLACE SRS UNIT AT A COST TO ME OF $1100. I BELIEVE THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE COVERED BY THE HONDA CORPORATION AS A RECALL AS THEY HAVE COURAGEOUSLY DONE FOR THE HONDA CIVIC. *TR

Engine
Filed Apr 16, 2013GA

1997 HONDA ACCORD. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE RE-BUILT MOTOR FAILURE. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE RE-BUILT MOTOR HE PURCHASED, STARTED KNOCKING AND THEN FAILED. THE ESTABLISHMENT WHERE HE PURCHASED THE MOTOR FROM, OFFERED HIM $4,000, WHEN HE PAID $6,000. THEY REFUSED TO FIX OR REPLACE THE MOTOR. UPDATED 06/24/13 THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UPDATED 10/17/13

Electrical System
Filed Feb 11, 2013MI

DUE TO AN INVESTIGATION BY THE NHTSA HONDA IS RECALLING SOME OF THEIR VEHICLES FOR FAULTY IGNITION INTERLOCKS. MY VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL BUT DOES HAVE THIS EXACT PROBLEM. THE KEYS WILL COME OUT OF THE IGNITION WHEN THE CAR IS NOT IN PARK. I HAVE HAD A COUPLE OF INCIDENCES WHERE MY CAR HAS ROLLED AWAY BUT I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET IN AND STOP IT BEFORE IT HAS STRUCK ANYTHING. THIS IS DANGEROUS. I HAVE TALKED TO HONDA BUT THEY WILL NOT FIX THE IGNITION INTERLOCK IN MY CAR SINCE IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. I FEEL THAT SINCE THEY ARE RECALLING SOME MODELS FOR THIS SAFETY CONCERN THEY SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE TO REPLACE THE IGNITION INTERLOCK MY VEHICLE AS WELL. IS THERE ANYTHING NHTSA CAN DO TO HELP WITH THIS ISSUE? *TR

Electrical System
Filed Jan 8, 201380,000 milesOR

ENGINE JUST TURNS OFF. I AM ABLE TO RESTART IT IMMEDIATELY BY SHIFTING TO NEUTRAL. THIS HAPPENS 2-3 TIMES IN A WEEK AND THEN IT STOPS OCCURRING FOR A COUPLE WEEKS AND THE REPEATS THE CYCLE. NOW IT IS HAPPENING MORE FREQUENTLY. THE LOCAL DEALER SAYS THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE HAS ALREADY HAD THE "RECALL COMPLETED". MY QUESTION IS WHAT IS MY RECOURSE IF THE PROBLEM IS STILL HAPPENING EVEN AFTER THE RECALL HAS BEEN COMPLETED. *TR

Air Bags
Filed Nov 2, 201270,000 milesMA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PARKED, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MECHANIC RESET THE AIR BAG LIGHT AND STATED THAT IF THE FAILURE PERSISTED, THE SRS MODULE WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. APPROXIMATELY ONE WEEK LATER THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT RE-ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT FURTHER REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.

Vehicle Speed ControlCrash2 injured
Filed Oct 1, 2012160,000 milesDC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL BUT THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY AND WOULD NOT STOP. THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A BRICK WALL AND THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BURNS TO HIS HANDS DUE TO THE AIR BAG AND WAS ALSO SUFFERING FROM BACK PAIN. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUSTAINED A BROKEN RIB AND PAIN TO HER ENTIRE BODY. THE CONTACT AND THE FRONT PASSENGER WERE UNDERGOING PHYSICAL THERAPY TREATMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.

Vehicle Speed ControlCrash2 injured
Filed Sep 24, 2012160,000 milesDC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH IN AN ALLEY, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO A CONCRETE WALL BEFORE INDEPENDENTLY COMING TO A STOP. THE CONTACT AND HIS WIFE SUSTAINED INJURIES AS A RESULT. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED FOR THE CAUSE OF THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 160,000. UPDATED 10/24/12*LJ UPDATED 10/25/2012 *JS

Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed Sep 14, 201269,550 milesGA

COMPLETE HONDA ACCORD AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE AT 69,550 MILES BELOW INCIDENT ALMOST RESULTED IN REAR END COLLISION ON INTERSTATE HIGHWAY WHEN ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE ONTO ENTRANCE RAMP AND VEHICLE BEHIND REQUIRED EVASIVE ACTION TO PREVENT REAR END COLLISION WITH MY VEHICLE DUE TO AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE, FAILING TO ACCELERATE MORE THAN 20 MPH. FOUR SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY FAILED FOR MY 1997 HONDA ACCORD LX, 4-DOOR, WITH ONLY 69,550 MILES. THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT ILLUMINATED, WHILE THE "D4" AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION INDICATOR FLASHED OFF AND ON AT SAME TIME. HONDA WOULDN'T DRIVE IN FOURTH GEAR AND ACTED AS IT WAS SLIPPING. VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT TO ED VOYLES HONDA, MARIETTA, GEORGIA ON SEPTEMBER 13, 2011 FOR DIAGNOSIS. HONDA TECHNICIAN(S) ADVISED THAT THE "ECM CODE" DISCLOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION HAD COMPLETELY FAILED AND REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 30, 201293,850 milesCA

PRESSED THE GAS PEDAL ON MY CAR, AND THE CAR KEPT ACCELERATING AND THE GAS PEDAL GOT HARD I HAD TO PUT THE CAR IN PARK TO STOP IT FROM HITTING A CAR IN FRONT OF ME ALL WHILE THE ENGINE KEPT REVVING, I THEN TURNED OF THE CAR AND WHEN I TURNED IT ON IT WAS STILL DOING THE SAME THING UNTIL I PRESSED ON THE GAS PEDAL AGAIN IT WENT BACK TO NORMAL. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Aug 15, 201212,000 milesMO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING NUMEROUS TIMES. THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 02V120000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: IGNITION: SWITCH REPAIR WAS PERFORMED; HOWEVER THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE CONTACT STATED THE IGNITION FAILURE CAUSED THE MUFFLER TO FAIL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000.

Seat Belts
Filed Aug 5, 2012IL

ONE OF THE SEAT BELT AT THE BACK DOESNT RETRACT. ITS JUST DANGLING. I HAVE HARDLY USED THIS SEAT BELT HOWEVER WHEN USED SPARINGLY THE SEAT BELT GOT STUCK DIDNT RETRACT. *TR

Power Train
Filed Jun 11, 201269,550 milesGA

FOUR SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY FAILED FOR MY 1997 HONDA ACCORD LX, 4-DOOR, WITH ONLY 69,550 MILES. THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT ILLUMINATED, WHILE THE "D4" AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION INDICATOR FLASHED OFF AND ON AT SAME TIME. HONDA WOULDN'T DRIVE IN FOURTH GEAR AND ACTED AS IT WAS SLIPPING. VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT TO ED VOYLES HONDA, MARIETTA, GEORGIA ON SEPTEMBER 13, 2011 FOR DIAGNOSIS. HONDA TECHNICIAN(S) ADVISED THAT THE "ECM CODE" DISCLOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION HAD COMPLETELY FAILED AND REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. I WAS NOT NOTIFIED AND/OR OFFERED ANY INFORMATION REGARDING HONDA EXTENDING THE TRANSMISSION WARRANTY FOR THIS 1997 HONDA ACCORD LX. AT TIME OF INCIDENT, WAS INTERSTATE 285 ON RAMP WHEN VEHICLE TRANSMISSION STARTED SLIPPING, ALLOWING MAXIMUM SPEED OF APPROXIMATELY 15 TO 20 MPH. VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY IN THE BACK OF MY VEHICLE HAD TO TAKE EVASIVE ACTION TO PREVENT REAR END COLLISION. PREMATURE TRANSMISSION FAILURE CREATED A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY HAZARD TO MYSELF AND OTHER VEHICLES TO MY REAR. PLEASE NOTE, HONDA ACCORD WITHIN SEVERAL YEARS BEFORE AND AFTER THE 1997 YEAR MODEL HAS A SIGNIFICANT HISTORY OF EARLY TRANSMISSION FAILURES IN WHICH HONDA HAS FAILED TO INITIATE A PRODUCT RECALL, DESPITE NUMEROUS WEBSITE POSTS.. *TR

Suspension
Filed May 18, 2012130,000 milesCT

THE LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATED --THE FRONT SUSPENSION COLLAPSED, BREAKING THE AXLE AND RIM OF FRONT LEFT TIRE AND TURNED THE LEFT TIRE SIDEWAYS. UPON RESEARCHING THE COST OF THE BALL JOINTS ON THE INTERNET I FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL DATED 5/10/99 FOR 1997 HONDA ACCORDS FOR THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM...MY VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. *TR

Power Train
Filed Mar 12, 201265,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD HESITATE WHEN SHIFTING GEARS. THE VEHICLE WOULD ALSO LUNGE FORWARD SPORADICALLY AND WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 87,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Complaints 1-50 of 460, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2003
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202614000Routine
202597010Routine
2024153320Routine
202388520Routine
2022262400Above average
2021246410Above average
2020368521Fatalities reported
2019698620Above average
20181,897640Above average
2017540392Fatalities reported
2016613450Above average
2015601570Above average
2014982490High concern
20131,427591Fatalities reported
2012373841Fatalities reported
2011296930Above average
20105811362Fatalities reported
20097271152Fatalities reported
20081,5219131Fatalities reported
200752410152Fatalities reported
20064331784Fatalities reported
200565624113Fatalities reported
20041,01822143Fatalities reported
20031,98724181Fatalities reported
20021,05016103Fatalities reported
20019221932Fatalities reported
20001,1832182Fatalities reported
19991,1351750High concern
19981,2001932Fatalities reported
1997 — this page46015109Fatalities reported
19964721331Fatalities reported
19955431450High concern
19943691343Fatalities reported
19931861121Fatalities reported
19922061221Fatalities reported
19912121360Above average
19901921280Routine

Compare every Accord year →

1997 Honda Accord: questions buyers ask

Is the 1997 Honda Accord a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Accord years to avoid: an unusual share of its 460 complaints describe fires, crashes or deaths for a car of its age. The most common complaint is about the airbags (23%).

What is the most common problem with the 1997 Honda Accord?

The airbags: 107 of the 460 complaints (23%) are about it. Owners most often say it shows an airbag warning light (56%), sets off warning lights on the dash (36%) and did not deploy its airbags in a crash (8%). The typical report comes at 78,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 1997 Honda Accord have?

15 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 11, 2009. The largest, 02V120000, covered 1,000,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 1997 Honda Accord problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 107,000 miles. For the airbags the midpoint is 78,000 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 1997 Honda Accord?

The manufacturer filed 75 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (14), the transmission (10) and the electrical system (9). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

9 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 11, 2009. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.