2003 Honda Accord

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 1,987 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the transmission. It has been recalled 24 times.

Avoid One of the Honda Accord years to avoid: 3.7× the complaints of a typical Accord year. Which Honda Accord years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
88,000 milesMedian miles at failure

1,583 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 2003 Honda Accord problems

880 of the 1,987 complaints (44%) are about the transmission.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission567
1519
Power Train · transmission299
316
Air Bags · airbags239
58273
Steering58
340
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor · brakes52
100
Electrical System52
120
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration42
1409
Unknown or Other33
201
Engine32
111
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes30
402

2003 Honda Accord transmission problems

44% of all complaints

880 of the 1,987 complaints are about the transmission. This is what owners describe:

  • slips or will not engage a gear22% · 192
  • jerks, lurches or bucks14% · 125
  • shifts hard, late or not at all10% · 86
  • drops into neutral7% · 63
  • turns on the check engine light5% · 45
  • sets off warning lights on the dash5% · 45

Share of the 880 transmission complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
98,000 mi
median of 817 reports
Peak year of filing
2010
179 transmission complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
18 · 2 · 15
in these complaints
Recalls on the transmission
“While driving on the highway at around 65 MPH, all of a sudden the car seemed like it was braking by itself without me pressing the brakes. I took it to the shop and after spending hundreds of dollars, found out that the transmission is damaged and beyond the second gear, it is slipping. This is what caused that dangerous behavior on the highway.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 6, 2018 at 156,000 miles
“Transmission was recalled (NHTSA reference #04v176000) in 2004 for over heating problem. There was no follow up to see if repairs specified in the recall were effective over the expected life of the transmission. Symptoms started about two weeks ago. Transmission pauses before going into gear. Then transmission slips and engine revs.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 18, 2017 at 120,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2002: 2 complaints, 0 about the transmission'022003: 182 complaints, 10 about the transmission2004: 175 complaints, 21 about the transmission2005: 62 complaints, 19 about the transmission2006: 66 complaints, 13 about the transmission'062007: 56 complaints, 23 about the transmission2008: 134 complaints, 76 about the transmission2009: 176 complaints, 145 about the transmission2010: 272 complaints, 179 about the transmission'102011: 209 complaints, 164 about the transmission2012: 126 complaints, 67 about the transmission2013: 106 complaints, 61 about the transmission2014: 95 complaints, 44 about the transmission'142015: 109 complaints, 22 about the transmission2016: 46 complaints, 9 about the transmission2017: 45 complaints, 9 about the transmission2018: 32 complaints, 3 about the transmission'182019: 38 complaints, 7 about the transmission2020: 14 complaints, 2 about the transmission2021: 11 complaints, 3 about the transmission2022: 7 complaints, 0 about the transmission'222023: 12 complaints, 2 about the transmission2024: 3 complaints, 1 about the transmission2025: 5 complaints, 0 about the transmission2026: 4 complaints, 0 about the transmission'26Recall 04V176000 (transmission)Recall 06E023000 (headlights)Recall 06E025000 (headlights)Recall 07E004000 (headlights)Recall 07E031000 (headlights)Recall 08V169000 (visibility)Recall 08E050000 (headlights)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 09E025000 (headlights)Recall 10V364000 (electrical system)Recall 12V222000 (steering)Recall 14V353000 (airbags)Recall 14V700000 (airbags)Recall 15V320000 (airbags)Recall 15V370000 (airbags)Recall 17V220000 (airbags)Recall 18V268000 (airbags)Recall 19V182000 (airbags)Recall 19V499000 (airbags)NHTSA investigation EA21002
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2003 Accord peaked in 2010, with 272 filed that year. Owners had filed 14 complaints about the transmission before the first recall that covers it, 04V176000 in April 2004; 866 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 4 so far.

24 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal19E068000
Filed Oct 10, 20193,744 vehiclesDorman Products, Inc.

Defect. Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain Accelerator Pedal Assemblies part numbers 699-114 and 825-5029-1, sold as replacement parts for 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2004-2008 Acura TL and TSX, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2007-2011 Honda Element, 2005-2008 Honda Pilot and 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. The rotating portion of the accelerator pedal assembly may bind. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 124, "Accelerator Control Systems."

Risk. If the accelerator pedal binds, the engine may not quickly return to idle after the pedal is no longer pressed, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dorman will notify owners, and qualified service facilities will replace the affected accelerator pedal assemblies, free of charge. The recall began December 9, 2019. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, using option 5. Dorman's number for this recall is AS1019XXXX.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module19V499000
Filed Jun 27, 20193,947 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2003-2006 MDX, 2001-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot and 2006 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are Q5A and Y58.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module19V501000
Filed Jun 27, 20191,657,752 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2012 RL, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are E5D and X5C.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module19V182000
Filed Mar 6, 20191,101,534 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.

Risk. An explosion of an inflator within the driver frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver, front seat passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began April 10, 2019. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is O41. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is U40.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V268000
Filed Apr 26, 20181,335 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 CR-V, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.

Risk. An incorrectly installed air bag may deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began June 22, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are K1P, and M1O.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module17V220000
Filed Mar 30, 201737,421 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003 Honda Accord Coupe vehicles, equipped with a four-cylinder engine. If the passenger frontal air bag module has been replaced, such as after a crash necessitating frontal air bag deployment, the replacement air bag module may include a Takata air bag inflator. These inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to lower absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle and replace any Takata inflator used in the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 1, 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is KF0.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module15V370000
Filed Jun 15, 20153,498,481 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic vehicles manufactured March 21, 2000, to January 20, 2005, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX vehicles manufactured June 14, 2000, to August 19, 2004, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid vehicles manufactured February 24, 2002, to January 18, 2005, 2003-2007 Honda Accord vehicles manufactured February 21, 2002, to August 28, 2007, 2002-2004 Honda CR-V vehicles, 2002-2003 Honda Odyssey vehicles manufactured June 19, 2001, to July 12, 2003, 2003 Acura MDX vehicles manufactured September 19, 2002, to June 19, 2003, 2003 Honda Element vehicles manufactured June 25, 2002, to July 31, 2003, and 2003 Honda Pilot vehicles manufactured November 26, 2001, to August 21, 2003. The affected vehicles have a passenger side frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture upon its deployment.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the passenger seat occupant or other occupants possibly causing serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are JU4, JU5, JU6, and JU7. Note: Vehicles that have already received a replacement passenger air bag inflator as part of the recall remedy for an earlier campaign such as 14V353 or 14V700 (Honda recall numbers S95, JH6, JH7, JH8, JH9, JJ0, JJ1, JJ2, JJ6, JM5 and JM6) are not included in this recall. However, this recall does supersede 13V132 and 14V349. Note: On December 18, 2015 Honda informed NHTSA of an expansion of this recall to include certain model year 2004 Honda CR-V vehicles in addition to additional model year 2003 CR-V vehicles.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module15V320000
Filed May 28, 20156,281,043 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2007 Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2006 Ridgeline, 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2003-2006 Acura MDX, and 2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion and other factors, including manufacturing variability that, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238, select option 4. Note: Vehicles that have had their driver frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy prior to September 12, 2014 need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Vehicles that, on or after September 12, 2014, received a remedy for a prior driver frontal air bag inflator recall already received an inflator of a different design, and therefore are not included in this recall and do not require additional servicing. Note: This recall fully supersedes recalls 08V-593, 09V-259, 10V-041, 11V-260, 14V-351 and 15V-153. Honda's numbers for this recall are JQ9, JR0, JR1, JR2, JR3, JR4, JR5, JR6, JR7, and JR8.

Air Bags14V700000
Filed Nov 4, 2014Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic, 2003-2004 Civic CNG and Element, 2002-2005 CR-V, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2005 Accord, Pilot, Civic Hybrid, and Acura MDX, 2005 Acura RL and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa are addressed by this recall. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger’s frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.

Air Bags14V353000
Filed Jun 20, 2014133,207 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. American Honda Motor Company, Inc.'s (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2003-2005 Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot and Acura MDX, model year 2003-2004 Odyssey and Element, and model year 2005 Acura RL, and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in California, and equipped with Takata-brand air bag inflators. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger’s frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflators in all affected vehicles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during August 2014. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.

Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, and Connections12V222000
Filed May 17, 2012625,762 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda is recalling certain model year 2007 and 2008 Acura TL and model year 2003-2007 Accord V6 vehicles. In May 2012, Honda filed a defect report to recall certain model year 2007 and 2008 Acura TL vehicles. In September 2012, Honda informed the agency that it was including an additional 573,147 vehicles including certain model year 2003 through 2007 Accord V6 vehicles. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 625,762. Prolonged under-hood and power steering fluid temperatures may cause the power steering hose to deteriorate prematurely, resulting in cracks and power steering fluid leakage.

Risk. If this occurs, power steering fluid can leak onto a hot catalytic converter, leading to smoke and possibly an under-hood fire.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will install a new heat resistant power steering hose, free of charge. The original recall began in June 2012, and owners of those vehicles may obtain the free remedy. Sufficient parts are not yet available for owners of the vehicles covered by the September 2012 expansion, but are expected to be available in early 2013. Honda will notify owners of these vehicles beginning on October 26, 2012, and will notify these owners again when parts are available so those vehicles can be brought to dealers for applications of the free remedy. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.

Electrical System › Ignition10V364000
Filed Aug 5, 2010551,498 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003 HONDA ACCORD, CIVIC TWO AND FOUR DOOR, AND MODEL YEAR 2003-2004 HONDA ELEMENT VEHICLES. THE INTERLOCK LEVER OF THE IGNITION SWITCH MAY UNEXPECTEDLY DEFORM, WHICH CAN ALLOW THE INTERLOCK FUNCTION OF A VEHICLE WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION TO BE DEFEATED.

Risk. REMOVAL OF THE IGNITION KEY WHEN THE GEAR SELECTOR OF A VEHICLE WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HAS NOT BEEN SHIFTED TO THE PARK POSITION CAN ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL AWAY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE ORIGINAL INTERLOCK PIN AND LEVER WITHIN THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND REPLACE THEM WITH NEW, DESIGNED COMPONENTS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.

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 Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 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. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

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.

Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer › Motor08V169000
Filed Apr 11, 2008351,000 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. HONDA IS RECALLING 351,000 MY 2003 ACCORD VEHICLES. IF WATER ENTERS THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR BREATHER PORT, WHICH IS DESIGNED TO ALLOW THE MOTOR TO VENT WARM AIR DURING NORMAL OPERATION, IT CAN RESULT IN CORROSION INSIDE THE MOTOR HOUSING. THIS CAN CAUSE A FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT BREAKER INSIDE THE MOTOR HOUSING.

Risk. IF THE CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILS, IT WILL CAUSE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR TO BECOME INOPERATIVE, WHICH CAN INCREASE THE LIKELIHOOD OF A CRASH IN CERTAIN CONDITIONS.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR FOR SIGNS OF CORROSION. IF NO SIGNS OF CORROSION ARE PRESENT, A COVER WILL BE INSTALLED OVER THE WIPER MOTOR TO PREVENT WATER FROM ENTERING THE WIPER MOTOR HOUSING. IF SIGNS OF CORROSION DAMAGE ARE OBSERVED ON THE WIPER MOTOR, THE MOTOR WILL BE REPLACED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights07E031000
Filed May 17, 2007848 vehiclesMaxzone Auto Parts Corporation

Defect. CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 317-1131L-AS, 317-1131R-AS, 317-1131L-US, AND 317-1131R-US, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION A SLIGHT DISTORTION OF THE BEZEL CHANGED THE LUMINOUS INTENSITY OF THE TURN SIGNAL. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

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

Remedy. MAXZONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 17, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAXZONE AT 909-822-3288.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights07E004000
Filed Jan 16, 200714,089 vehiclesGenera Corporation

Defect. CERTAIN TYC HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES P/NS 20-6361-00 AND 20-6362-00 SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR 2003-2006 HONDA ACCORD PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE PHOTMETRIC WERE MISALIGNED WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. MISALIGNMENT OF THE LIGHTS DEMINISHES FRONTAL ILLUMINATION WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. GENERA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 26, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT GENERA AT 714-522-6688.

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 Lighting06E038000
Filed May 8, 2006724 vehiclesAlfaotto Auto Accessories

Defect. CERTAIN ALFAOTTO 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. ALFAOTTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ALFAOTTO AT 626-656-2992 OR VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW.ALFAOTTO.COM.

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 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.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission04V176000
Filed Apr 15, 20041,099,796 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. ON SOME MINI VANS, SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES, CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS CAN RESULT IN HEAT BUILD-UP BETWEEN THE COUNTERSHAFT AND SECONDARY SHAFT SECOND GEARS IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, EVENTUALLY LEADING TO GEAR TOOTH CHIPPING OR GEAR BREAKAGE.

Risk. GEAR FAILURE COULD RESULT IN TRANSMISSION LOCKUP, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy. ON VEHICLES WITH 15,000 MILES OR LESS, THE DEALER WILL UPDATE THE TRANSMISSION WITH A SIMPLE REVISION TO THE OIL COOLER RETURN LINE TO INCREASE LUBRICATION TO THE SECOND GEAR. ON VEHICLES WITH MORE THAN 15,000 MILES, THE DEALER WILL INSPECT THE TRANSMISSION TO IDENTIFY GEARS THAT HAVE ALREADY EXPERIENCED DISCOLORATION DUE TO OVERHEATING. IF DISCOLORATION EXISTS, THE TRANSMISSION WILL BE REPLACED IF DISCOLORATION IS NOT PRESENT, THE DEALER WILL PERFORM THE REVISION TO THE OIL COOLER RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 21, 2004, FOR PILOT, ODYSSEY, AND MDX OWNERS. OWNERS OF THE ACCORD VEHICLES WILL START RECEIVING LETTERS ON JUNE 28, 2004, AND ON JUNE 29, 2004, FOR OWNERS OF THE TL AND CL VEHICLES. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.

All 24 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 5 name the 2003 Accord.

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA21002Open
Opened Sep 17, 2021airbags

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at …

Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA15001Open
Opened Feb 24, 2015Led to recall 14V668airbags

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field …

Air Bag Inflator RupturePreliminary evaluation PE14016Closed
Opened Jun 11, 2014Closed Mar 2, 2015Led to recall 13V172000airbags

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field …

Ignition Shift InterlockEngineering analysis EA09001Closed
Opened Jan 5, 2009Closed Oct 14, 2010Led to recall 10V364000electrical system

On August 4, 2010, American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA regarding a ignition interlock defect in approximately 384,220 model year (MY) 2003 Honda Accord and Civic and MY 2003 and 2004 Honda Element vehicles with automatic transmissions (Recall 10V-364).In a September 22, 2010 supplemental DIR, Honda expanded the scope of the recall population based on manufacturing and complaint data.The total population for the complete recall is approximately 551,498 vehicles.The information listed in this closing report refers only to the subject vehicles, …

IGNITION PARK-SHIFT INTERLOCKRecall query RQ08006Closed
Opened Sep 8, 2008Closed Jan 5, 2009Led to recall 10V364000electrical system

Odi has received 16 complaints alleging failures of the ignition park-shift interlock that allowed the ignition key to be removed from the ignition switch without the transmission being shifted to park in model year (my) 2002 and 2003 honda accord vehicles with automatic transmissions.eleven of the complaints allege that the failure of the interlock resulted in a rollaway crash.one owner alleged that she was almost into her house when she noticed the car rolling out of the garage and down the driveway and that when she tried to stop the car it almost ran over her, before crashing into a cable …

Technical service bulletins

382 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 Accord. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

airbags 67engine 60electrical system 56equipment 51transmission 42body and frame 28visibility 22brakes 17
A20-015Warranty extensionMay 3, 2022airbags

Service bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement front passenger's airbag inflator only.

A20-010Warranty extensionMar 10, 2020airbags

Service Bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement driver's airbag inflator only.

A20-015Warranty extensionMar 10, 2020airbags

Service Bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement front passenger's airbag inflator only.

A18-065Warranty extensionMay 25, 2018airbags

Service bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects to the replacement front passengers airbag inflator only.

A21-054Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 28, 2021transmission

Service Bulletin - Case v. American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Case No. BC 424169 (Third Clutch Transmission Settlement - $25 Credit Vouchers).

DLR MSG - 2003-2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 25, 2014transmission

Dealer message - On September 27, 2012, Honda notified NHTSA of a Stop Sale order and Safety Recall for some 2003-2007 Accord V6 units to address power steering feed hoses that may deteriorate due to high under-hood and fluid temperatures, potentially leading to leaks, smoke, and possibly under-hood fire.

SB-03-072Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 11, 2011transmission

HONDA: ON VEHICLE, THE A/T SHIFT POSITION INDICATOR, A/C, AND CRUISE CONTROL FAILS TO WORK PROPERLY. *PE

SB-06-041Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 21, 2011transmission

HONDA: THE VEHICLE MOVES FASTER THAN EXPECTED WITH THE TRANSMISSION IN GEAR, FOOT OFF THE BRAKE, AND FOOT OFF THE THROTTLE. SOFTWARE IS CAUSING EXTRA ENGINE TORQUE AFTER A COLD START. *RM

1205Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 16, 2005transmission

TRANSMISSION GRINDS AT SHIFTS, SKIP SHIFTING. *TT

705Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 16, 2005transmission

1-2 UPSHIFT SHUDDER, JUDDER, VIBRATION AT 2,000 RPM. *TT

Showing the newest 6 of 42 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 27, 2026WA

The vehicle was rear-ended on I-5 in Seattle Washington. The impact drove the subject car into the car in front of it. The front passenger airbag deployed (no occupant). The front driver airbag did not deploy, resulting in the driver hitting their nose and forehead on the steering wheel. The driver sustained relatively minor nose bruising and possibly a mild concussion. (Note, airbag recall had been performed on this vehicle)

Air Bags
Filed May 26, 2026108,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the contact noticed an unusual sound and the front passenger's side air bag deployed. In addition, the contact stated that the front windshield cracked. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed SRS control unit. The contact was informed that the SRS control unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 6, 2026CA

I brought my vehicle to a Honda dealership for a safety recall repair (airbag/SRS related). After the repair, the SRS warning light appeared on my dashboard, indicating a potential safety issue with the airbag system. This issue was not present before the recall repair. It appeared shortly after the dealership completed the service. I contacted the dealership multiple times, but they have not responded or provided any assistance. This is a serious safety concern because the airbag system may not function properly in the event of an accident. I believe the recall repair was performed improperly, creating a new safety risk. I am requesting an investigation into this issue.

Service Brakes
Filed Feb 23, 2026TX

My break starts seizing up for no reason just out of the blue and a mechanics can't seem to find them problem, which led to my brake light constantly being on.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 15, 2025PA

Car was idling in our driveway with the defroster and heater on to melt the ice from the front windshield. After about 20 minutes the Side Airbag on the Drivers side exploded. I do believe this should be a Free Repair by a Honda Dealership as it is obviously a manufacturing defect. Your website indicates” O unrepaired defects”,(for the VIN) but we are not the original owners so we have no idea if it was ever addressed. It appears your website only goes back 15 years It is a 2003 Honda Accord and is now 22 years old.I would like some guidance, before contacting Honda. Thank You for your consideration in this matter.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 7, 2025238,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and occupied, the contact started the vehicle, and the vehicle shut off independently. The “Maintenance Required” message was displayed. The contact stated there was smoke coming from the hood of the vehicle, and several minutes later, the smoke dissipated. The contact stated that a technician from the Auto Care Department at Walmart inspected the vehicle and informed the contact that the positive and negative battery terminals were burned and damaged, as well as a wire near the engine. The technician from Walmart used a diagnostic machine to diagnose the vehicle however, the result was unknown. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 238,000.

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Sep 26, 2025337,000 milesGA

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2003 Honda Accord. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 156,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 337,000.

Electrical System › Ignition
Filed Sep 22, 2025230,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated that there were several mechanical failures with the vehicle. The contact stated that there was a failure with the ignition switch, and the key could not be removed from the cylinder, and the shift lever failed to shift into drive(D), park(P), or into reverse(R). The contact stated that while the vehicle was in drive(D), the drive(D) indicator was flashing. Additionally, the contact had been having a failure of the power steering assist. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn to the left or to the right. The contact was unaware of any warning lights during the power steering failure. The contact stated that the power steering failure was recurring. There was also a failure with the transmission. The contact stated that after being able to shift to drive(D), and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated before responding. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was shaking abnormally and hesitating. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and found several recalls related to the failures. The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and the contact was advised that two previous recall repairs were completed for the air bags and the ignition, but the VIN was no longer under recall. The failure mileage was approximate

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jan 10, 2025WV

My 2003 Honda Accord Coupe was struck by an SUV/crossover, after the other driver ran a red light, and I tried, but was unable to avoid the accident. My car was stuck at or in front of my driver's side front wheel. My car was totaled by my insurance company, and "no fault" was decided by both insurance companies because they and the police were unable determine who was at fault. My driver's seat and side curtain airbags deployed, and the front passenger airbag deployed. Although, I did not have a passenger. The driver's side curtain airbag did not come down far enough (only about 12-18 inches) to protect my head, and I hit my head on the glass of my driver's side window. I had a bump on and pain on the side of my head, along with headaches. I'm fine now. I believe my injuries could have been far worse had I been driving at a higher speed, on a highway or interstate. Given the faulty airbag deployment, I believe the 2003 Honda Accord Coupe should be added to the airbag recall list in place for other vehicles. As I recall, the airbag recall includes other Honda vehicles and other companies' vehicles.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 2, 2024259,725 milesMD

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated while driving 60-70 MPH, the driver's and passenger's side front air bags deployed without warning or impact. The contact pulled over, and the second stage of the air bags deployed. The seat belt air bags also deployed. The air bag and seat belt warning lights illuminated after the failure. There were no reported injuries. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The contact was referred to the local dealer for diagnostic testing. The failure mileage was approximately 259,725.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Aug 26, 202486,822 milesVA

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH on Interstate 64 East, traveling through a construction zone, an unknown vehicle passed him and asphalt flew in the air, striking and cracking the front windshield. After fifteen to twenty minutes, the side air bags deployed. Then, a few seconds later, the steering wheel and front air bags deployed without impact or warning. There were no warning lights illuminated. There was an unknown abnormal alarm that was engaged. The contact was able to pull over safely. The contact disconnected the battery. The contact sustained a chemical burn to the left arm, but medical attention was not provided. There was no fire, crash, or police report filed. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who opened a case, but no additional assistance was provided. The insurance company determined that the seat pre-tensioner failed to lock up. The failure mileage was approximately 86,822.

Power Train
Filed Jul 13, 2024TN

Tie rods, brakes

Power Train
Filed Dec 12, 2023NM

The contact's sister-in-law owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the transmission failed to shift properly; however, the engine revved abnormally. The driver pulled to the side of the road and turned off and restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle responded as needed after being restarted on several occasions; however, the failure persisted on other occasions. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while attempting to drive from a complete stop, the transmission failed to shift into the intended gear. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously taken to a dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V176000 (Power Train); however, the recall repair was performed on the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unknown.

Suspension
Filed Jul 20, 2023TX

(Please check the attached full complaint letter) I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to bring to your attention a concerning matter regarding my experience with the American Honda Motor Company. As a loyal consumer and a law-abiding citizen, I believe it is crucial to address issues that impact consumers and the general public. Since 2013, I have been trying to resolve a critical issue with my brand-new Honda Accord car I bought from Honda. Unfortunately, American Honda company didn’t resolve the issue that affected my car and hundreds of thousands of the same cars’ owners that they sold in NJ and in 22 salt belt states. My argument with the American Honda company is that they have a major design issue with their front left and right axles for Honda Accord cars that have been manufactured since 2003.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 2, 2023NM

My key will not go into the ignition. It also starts to get hot. The steering column also starts to get hot. It also periodically smells like something is burning. The dealership wants to charge me $140 to look at it. I don't have the money. I have not been able to have anybody look at it because I don't have the money. This first happened back in February of 2023 but I got worse around June 1, 2023

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed May 19, 2023118,000 milesNY

The contact owned a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated that her vehicle had previously been repaired under unknown recalls for her driver's and passenger's airbags. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered and violently pulled to the right, causing her to lose control of the vehicle and crash into a wall. The driver's side air bag did not deploy; however, the passenger air bag did deploy. The contact sustained injuries to her face and back. The contact received medical attention. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The insurance company deemed the vehicle totaled. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

Structure › BodyCrash1 injured
Filed May 1, 2023CO

Rear sub frame allowed for rear suspension arms to be bolted to. One of the locations where those arms have ways to be attached to is no longer safe to do so because of corrosion and rust. I noticed there was a recent safety concern for a generation of Honda CRV having a similar, or indeed the same complaint.

Power Train
Filed Apr 19, 2023CA

Theirs a humming or whining sound and burning odors on the transmission. Slipping on transmission gear.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Mar 14, 2023170,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 70 MPH both the driver-side and passenger-side air bags were erroneously deployed. Moments later both the driver-side and passenger-side curtain air bags erroneously deployed. The contact indicated that during the incident the vehicle was not crashed and did not make contact with any object or structure to cause the air bags to deploy. The driver sustained a small laceration to the left arm during the air bag deployment which did not require medical treatment. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure and a service appointment was scheduled. The manufacturer was not contacted regarding the incident. The failure mileage was 170,000.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 28, 2023253,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the contact opened the trunk to the vehicle; the contact exited the vehicle and the front driver’s side air bag deployed without warning or impact. There was no injury from the erroneous deployment. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 253,000.

Service BrakesCrash1 injured
Filed Feb 21, 2023CA

After car had leaking valve cover gaskets replaced the TCS and BRAKE indicator lights illuminated. Couldn’t reset. All fuses and light bulbs were good. E-brake limit switch OK, brake pedal switch ok but had small crack so REPLACED. TCS, BRAKE light went off then returned within 3 mins now with ( ! ) indicator light illuminated. Made appt with Honda Dealer however 2 days before appt vehicle lost traction at 50 mph brakes went to floor vehicle began to fishtail and driver was unable to correct steering or brake. This lead to a solo vehicle accident off the side of road.

Steering
Filed Feb 13, 2023NJ

There was a recall for this car 2003-2007 Honda Accord 3.0L v6 engine for the Power Steering lines, the line cracked and is spewing fluid all over the engine compartment as well as the ground. This recall was specifically detailed to address this exact issue. My Daughter was almost involved in an accident as the fluid had leaked out the she couldn't steer the car.

Steering
Filed Feb 12, 2023NJ

Steering

Air Bags
Filed Jan 23, 202354,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated that the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the instrument panel had been replaced, and that the warning light appeared soon after the replacement. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and the contact was given an estimate for a diagnostic test. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and provided a case number. The contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V182000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 54,000.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 9, 2022CA

According to what I read in the news, Honda Accords 2001-2003 should be recalled for airbag repair. I think Honda may have neglected to recall my car when it should have. I have attempted to ask Honda about this and they are non-responsive.

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 18, 2022GA

Honda Accord paint completely fades after 10-15 years of owning the car, very embarrassing to drive the car. This did not happen to Ford Mustang and Cadillac Escalade I own that are at same age. I would like this issue be resolved during recall.

Steering
Filed Jul 26, 2022100,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated while attempting to park the vehicle, she placed the vehicle in reverse to straighten the vehicle however, the steering wheel was making a clicking sound. The contact was able to turn the steering wheel however, the vehicle failed to respond. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated the front passenger’s side wheel was making a clicking sound. The contact stated that the wheel was fractured from the lug. The vehicle was not diagnosed; however, the wheel was replaced. The contact notified the local dealer of the sound coming from the steering wheel; however, the contact was informed that if the steering was removed, there air bags might not function properly. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 15, 2022NY

Doors locked from inside and cannot get out unless I put my window down. Safety issue. Second time I replaced my door since I was in a car accident a few years ago. Same problem came back again after replacing the door handle it used to work for years at the driver side until recently. Also doors are unable to unlock from the switch.

Air Bags
Filed Jun 13, 2022CA

The contact owned a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 19V182000 (Air Bags) and 19V501000 (Air Bags) and requested to be removed from the recall distribution list as the vehicle was totaled. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted.

Seat Belts1 injured
Filed Mar 20, 2022CO

My son is an approved seatbelt claimant in the Takata Bankruptcy class action suit. (#4842) He became a paraplegic when his 2003 Honda Accord rolled once after encountering a road surface change from asphalt to gravel. His seatbelt pre-tensor failed as did his airbags. His T-13 L-1 spinal cord injury is conducive to seat belt failure. . A bone spur from his vertebre broke off and went into his spinal cord. By the time our head cleared from the whole ordeal, we were one month out of the statue of limitations. (which is 2 years in the state of Colorado) Shortly thereafter we received a card in the mail informing us of the Takata class action suit. We were glad we still had an avenue for an injury claim. Fast forward 4+ years and we have recently found out that the 33 approved Takata seatbelt claimants have $1,140,000 to share amongst themselves. Some claimants lost loved ones from the faulty seatbelt sensors and seatbelt malfunctions. Based on this current fund amount, Lee will likely only receive between 20,000 to 40,000 for his injury. Very little for the inability to walk, go to the bathroom, loss of sexual function and having to deal with consistent nerve pain. I recently became aware of the ZF-TRW Class action complaint and realize the parameters of the nonfunctioning airbag and seatbelt pre-tensor fit the parameters of my sons accident. The Honda Accord 2014-2015 vehicles are listed as having problematic ZF-TRW parts. My sons 2003 Honda Accords ACU was replaced in January

Steering
Filed Jan 19, 2022KS

Unknown I'm guessing do to the recall on the powersteering hose it has caused the hose to.melt I just bought the car and came across this recall so I'm honestly not sure if the recall has been addressed already or not but I'm addressing it to make sure

Power TrainCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 4, 2021GA

My transmission ffails while deiving causes it to go into limp mode and stops on contact

Air Bags
Filed Oct 3, 2021CA

The airbag light is on and has been over on since last year. The electrical system has issues and if the vehicle is left sitting for 2 days without any movement the car will die and you will be forced to jump the vehicle the battery has been replaced and so has the alternator. When In motion the vehicle will stall and the gears won’t switch, the car is an automatic.

Power Train
Filed Aug 27, 2021287,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the transmission erroneously downshifted into 3rd gear causing the vehicle to abruptly reduce speed to approximately 25 mph. The contact indicated that the transmission remained stuck in 3rd gear. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was 287,000.

Steering
Filed Jul 22, 2021MA

Honda Accord with V6 engine has had two recalls regarding power steering supply hose leak - Service Bulletin 12-066 and Service Bulletin 13 - 012. Recall 13-012 was issued May 14, 2013 (see link to recall here: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2012/RCRIT-12V222-9834.pdf) The vehicle record for this VIN shows repair for Recall 13-012 was made April 3, 2013 - a month and a half prior to he issuance of Recall 13-012. Mileage on April 3, 2013 was 27,783. This complaint is being filed with the NHTSA because the same power steering feed hose purportedly replaced April 3, 2013 with an upgraded more heat resident hose is leaking again. This is significant because the original hose lasted 10 years (2003 to 2013) and 27,783 miles while the purportedly upgraded recall replacement hose lasted only 8 years - with present mileage being 66,321. Honda dealer will not provide additional repair stating recall has been satisfied. Clearly power steering leak is continuing to pose a under hood fire safety issue with location over hot catalytic converter. Thank you for allowing this issue to be brought to NHTSA's attention.

Air Bags
Filed Jul 21, 2021OR

2003 HONDA ACCORD. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG INFLATOR SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED THERE HAVE BEEN AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF RECALL REPAIRS PERTAINING TO THE AIRBAG.

Engine
Filed Jul 8, 2021MD

I bought this vehicle at 130k miles and it had a regular maintenance. Since then it feels like there’s no power, it revs high when it shouldn’t, feels like the gears aren’t shifting when they should, hard shifting.

Air Bags
Filed May 10, 2021180,000 milesMS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA ACCORD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAG ERRONEOUSLY DEPLOYED AFTER DRIVING OVER A POTHOLE. DURING THE FAILURE, THERE WAS NO OCCUPANT SEATED IN THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SEAT. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS RECENTLY REPAIRED UNDER AN AIR BAG RECALL. NO FURTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE. THE LOCAL DEALER CANNON HONDA LOCATED AT 2057 N FRONTAGE RD, VICKSBURG, MS 39180 AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 21, 2021739,765 milesAR

I GOT STUCK IN THE SNOW AND TRIED TO GET OUT JUST SPENT MY TIRES A LITTLE BIT AND NOW I HAVE NO REVERSE.THATS ALL THAT HAPPENED. I WAS IN MY FRONT YARD

Engine
Filed Feb 15, 2021196,000 milesTN

I WAS DRIVING THE CAR AND THE POWER STEERING PUMP WENT OUT AND A WEEK LATER MY TRANSMISSION STARTED SLIPPING THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN MY CAR WOULDN'T GO INTO GEARS AND THE TRANSMISSION STOPPED WORKING COMPLETELY. IT WILL WORK FOR 5 MIN THEN IT COMPLETELY WON'T GO IN ANY GEAR. I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED HOME. IT WAS ON THE ROAD ON THE BYPASS AND I STARTED ACTING UP THEN IT STOPPED WORKING COMPLETELY WHEN I WENT TO GET OFF OF WORK AND WOULDN'T GO IN TO GEAR AT ALL AFTER THAT. SO I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED HOME. I HAD IT LOOKED AT BY A LOCAL MECHANIC AND HE SAID THE CAR HAD A RECALL ON MULTIPLE THINGS FOR ME TO LOOK INTO IT BECAUSE IT WAS GONNA COST AROUND 2000 TO FIX EVERYTHING.

Power Train
Filed Jan 18, 2021118,000 milesMO

I AM ORIGINAL OWNER OF THIS CAR AND IT HAS BEEN SERVICED REGULARLY. AT ABOUT 118,000 MILES THE TRANSMISSION FAILED. WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT ABOUT 55 MPH AND IT WAS LIKE SOMEONE SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES, HARD ENOUGH THAT THE TIRES SCREECHED. IT WAS VERY TERRIFYING AS WELL AS HAVING THE POTENTIAL TO BE VERY DANGEROUS. THERE WAS NO PRIOR INDICATION OF ANY PROBLEMS. AT THIS TIME, THE CAR IS IN THE SHOP HAVING THE TRANSMISSION REPLACED. FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND, THE TRANSMISSION IN THE 2003 HONDA ACCORD HAS BEEN PLAGUED BY PROBLEMS FROM THE ONSET. I AM JUST VERY FORTUNATE THAT NOTHING SERIOUS HAPPENED TO ME WHEN THE TRANSMISSION FAILED, OR I WOULD NOT BE HERE MAKING THIS POST.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 13, 2021CA

ME LLEG UNA CARTA QUE LAS BOLSAS DE AIRE ESTN DEFECTUOSAS EN STE MODELO

Power Train
Filed Dec 24, 2020164,000 milesTX

STEERING WHEEL LOCKED KEY WON'T TURN

Power Train
Filed Dec 2, 2020MO

TOOK MY VEHICLE TO A HONDA DEALERSHIP FOR A MAINTENANCE REPAIR TO GET A BRAKE LINE JOB DONE. AFTER THEY COMPLETED THE JOB I TOLD HONDA TO PUT MY VEHICLE ON THE DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM, TO CHECK FOR ANY OTHER ISSUES WHICH THEY DID. SAID EVERYTHING WAS FINE WITH IT NO ISSUES. DROVE HOME FINE NEXT DAY COMES, ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, THIS TIME I WENT AND GOT THE DIAGNOSTIC DONE ON MY VEHICLE MYSELF. COME TO FIND OUT IT'S A TRANSMISSION/TORQUE CONVERTER PROBLEM, WHICH HONDA DIDN'T CHECK OR TELL ME ABOUT, LOOK UP REVIEWS ABOUT THE MY VEHICLE, AND A LOT OF OTHER HONDA OWNERS OF MY EXACT MODEL SAYS THE SAME HOW BAD THE TRANSMISSION IS IN THIS VEHICLE.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 24, 2020135,650 milesCO

SRS WARNING LIGHT IS ON CONTINUOUSLY. INDEPEND SHOP SAYS ERROR CODE IS FOR DRIVER FRONT SEAT BELT LATCH SENSOR. HONDA DEALERS SAYS SENSOR IS NOT PART OF LIFETIME WARRANTY FOR SEAT BELTS, EVEN THOUGH SENSOR IS FULLY INTEGRATE WITH SEAT BELT LATCH, AND PART OF THE VITAL SAFETY SYSTEM. INDEPENDENT SHOP IS RELUCTANT TO REPAIR FOR LIABILITY AND HONDA DEALER WANT HUGE PAYMENT FOR SIMPLE REPAIR. IT IS UNFAIR AND UNETHICAL FOR DEALER AND MANUFACTURER TO NOT HONOR THERE PRINTED WARRANTY.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Sep 10, 2020124,348 milesCA

WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AND LOST POWER. ADDITIONALLY, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT A FAULT CODE WAS NOT RETRIEVED. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES WHILE IN MOTION AND ALSO ON THE FREEWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 145,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 1, 2020158,000 milesNY

I HAVE CALLED THE DEALERSHIPS IN MY AREA FOR A RECALL REPAIR BECAUSE MY CAR INSPECTION INDICATED THAT MY VEHICLE HAS THREE DANGEROUS SAFETY RECALLS. I HAVE A YOUNG CHILD AND A FAMILY TO SUPPORT BUT I AM AFRAID, BECAUSE OF THE FIRE HAZARD THAT ONE OF MY RECALLS CONTAINS, TO EVEN DRIVE THE CAR WITH MY FAMILY IN IT TO FOOD SHOPPING AND WORK.

Engine
Filed Aug 26, 202091,200 milesCA

EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION 1 QUART ALMOST EVERY 300 MILES. THERE ARE A LOT OF FORUMS ONLINE WITH MANY PEOPLE REPORTING THE SAME ISSUE THAT EXPLAIN OIL CONTROL RINGS ON THE 2.4L ENGINES GO BAD AROUND 80K MILES. THIS AFFECTS THE 2003-2007 MODELS

Steering
Filed Aug 16, 2020325,000 milesME

THE CAR HAS AN EXISTING RECALL TO GET THE HIGH PRESSURE POWER STEERING HOSE REPLACED. AN APPOINTMENT WAS MADE, THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO DARLINGS HONDA OF BANGOR, ME, ON 8/15/2020 AND THEY REFUSED TO DO THE REPAIR BECAUSE WE REFUSED TO PAY FOR ADDITIONAL REPAIRS NOT REQUESTED. WE WERE FORCED TO DRIVE THE CAR BACK HOME, ABOUT 100 MILES WITH THE RISK OF THE CAR CATCHING FIRE, FROM THE POWER STEERING HOSE LEAK.

Steering
Filed Aug 14, 2020NJ

SUDDENLY DRIVING IT WAS HARD FOR ME TO TURN MY STEERING WHEEL. I PUT POWER STEERING FLUID IN AND I AM STILL NOT ABLE TO TURN MY SHEEN. AT TIMES I CAN'T GET INTO PARKING SPOTS BECAUSE IT'S EXTREMELY HARD. A NUMBER OF MECHANICS TOLD ME I SHOULD TRY DISPUTING WITH THE DEALERSHIP.

Complaints 1-50 of 1,987, 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
2003 — this page1,98724181Fatalities reported
20021,05016103Fatalities reported
20019221932Fatalities reported
20001,1832182Fatalities reported
19991,1351750High concern
19981,2001932Fatalities reported
199746015109Fatalities reported
19964721331Fatalities reported
19955431450High concern
19943691343Fatalities reported
19931861121Fatalities reported
19922061221Fatalities reported
19912121360Above average
19901921280Routine

Compare every Accord year →

2003 Honda Accord: questions buyers ask

Is the 2003 Honda Accord a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Accord years to avoid: owners filed 1,987 complaints, 3.7 times as many as a typical Accord year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (44%).

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Honda Accord?

The transmission: 880 of the 1,987 complaints (44%) are about it. Owners most often say it slips or will not engage a gear (22%), jerks, lurches or bucks (14%) and shifts hard, late or not at all (10%). The typical report comes at 98,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2003 Honda Accord have?

24 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Oct 10, 2019. The largest, 15V320000, covered 6,281,043 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2003 Honda Accord problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 88,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 98,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2003 Honda Accord?

Yes, 5 times. The latest, EA21002 ("Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture"), was opened Sep 17, 2021 and is still open. 2 investigations are open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Honda Accord?

The manufacturer filed 382 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the airbags (67), the engine (60) and the electrical system (56). They include a warranty extension, A20-015, filed May 3, 2022. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

1 death 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: Oct 10, 2019. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.