The seventh-generation European Accord with the K24A3 engine was Honda's mid-size contender against the Passat, Avensis, and Mondeo. The 2.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder uses a timing chain and DOHC i-VTEC, producing 190 hp. It has earned a strong reputation for durability, with many examples exceeding 300,000 km on original internals. The platform is now 17-23 years old, so age-related wear is the primary concern rather than design flaws.
Durable K24 engine, timing chain
Strong parts supply, easy to work on
VTC actuator cold-start rattle
Age-related power steering issues
Buy if: You want a spacious, reliable mid-size saloon with a willing engine and can find one with documented service history and completed recalls.
Avoid if: You cannot budget for age-related repairs on a 20-year-old car, or need a car with modern safety and infotainment features.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Worn locking pin spring inside the VTC actuator causes a grinding rattle on cold starts lasting 1-30 seconds · more· less
The Variable Timing Control actuator on the K24 engine contains a small locking pin that holds the cam sprocket in the default position when oil pressure is absent. The spring that controls this pin weakens with age and mileage, allowing the sprocket to rattle freely until oil pressure builds. This produces a distinctive grinding or rattling noise for 1-30 seconds on cold start. Honda has stated the noise does not cause engine damage, but many owners and specialists recommend replacement as a precaution against timing chain wear. The VTC actuator itself costs approximately €100-200 for the part, but the repair requires removing the timing chain cover, adding significant labor (6-8 hours). At an independent specialist, expect €300-600 total. If the timing chain and tensioner are replaced simultaneously (recommended at this mileage), the total reaches €800-1,500. Using the correct 5W-30 oil and changing it regularly significantly delays the onset of this issue.
High under-bonnet temperatures cause the power steering pressure hose to crack and leak fluid, creating a fire risk · more· less
Honda issued a recall (2011) for CL9 Accord models because the high-pressure power steering hose can deteriorate prematurely due to heat from the exhaust manifold. If the hose cracks, pressurised fluid can spray onto hot exhaust components, creating a fire risk. Honda replaced affected hoses with a heat-resistant version free of charge under recall. If your car missed the recall, the hose replacement costs €100-200 for the part plus 1-2 hours labor. If the entire power steering rack has started leaking from the seals (common at this age), replacement costs €500-800 at an independent shop with a refurbished rack. Always check fluid level and look for wet spots on the steering components.
The VSA modulator leaks air into the brake lines, causing a soft or spongy brake pedal that returns after bleeding · more· less
Honda issued a Technical Service Bulletin for the CL9 Accord regarding the VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) modulator unit. Internal seals within the modulator degrade over time, allowing air to enter the brake hydraulic circuit. This produces a spongy brake pedal that temporarily improves after bleeding but returns within days or weeks. Normal brake bleeding does not fix the root cause. A new VSA modulator from Honda costs approximately €700-900 including installation and brake system bleeding. Specialist electronic repair services can rebuild the existing unit for €150-250, making this a more affordable option. This issue typically appears on cars over 10 years old regardless of mileage.
The catalytic converter loses efficiency with age, triggering the check engine light with code P0420 · more· less
On cars of this age and mileage, the catalytic converter substrate gradually degrades, leading to reduced efficiency. This triggers the P0420 diagnostic code (catalyst efficiency below threshold). Before replacing the converter, verify the cause: failing oxygen sensors (€80-150 each), exhaust leaks, or ignition issues can all produce a false P0420. If the converter genuinely needs replacement, aftermarket units cost €200-400 in Europe, while OEM replacements run €600-900. An independent exhaust shop can fit an aftermarket converter for €400-600 total. OEM replacement with Honda parts reaches €800-1,200. In some EU countries, a failed converter means an automatic MOT failure.
Starter motor contacts wear out, causing intermittent no-start conditions with clicking sounds · more· less
The starter motor solenoid contacts on K24-equipped Accords can wear down after 150,000+ km, producing a clicking sound when turning the key but no engine cranking. The issue is intermittent at first and progressively worsens. A rebuilt starter motor costs €80-150, while a new OEM unit costs €150-250. Labor is approximately 1-2 hours. Some owners have resolved the issue by replacing just the solenoid contacts (€20-30 in parts) rather than the entire starter motor, though this requires some mechanical skill.
The rubber gasket on the VTEC solenoid hardens and shrinks with age, causing an oil leak on the cylinder head · more· less
The VTEC solenoid is mounted on the front of the cylinder head and uses a rubber gasket that degrades over time. As the gasket hardens, oil begins to seep from around the solenoid. This is typically a slow leak but can become significant if left unaddressed, potentially contaminating the alternator belt or dripping onto the exhaust. The gasket itself costs €5-15 and replacement takes about 30 minutes. However, if the solenoid screen is clogged with debris (from neglected oil changes), the solenoid may need replacement at €80-150. This is one of the most straightforward K24 repairs and is almost always a simple gasket job.
Lower control arm bushings, stabilizer bar links, and rear trailing arm bushings wear out, causing knocking and poor handling · more· less
At the age and mileage typical of CL9 Accords still on the road, suspension bushings are a near-certainty to need replacement. Front lower control arm bushings wear first, producing knocking over bumps and vague steering. Rear stabilizer bar end links are another common failure point, causing rattling from the rear over uneven surfaces. A full front suspension refresh including control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and stabilizer links costs €200-400 in parts and 4-6 hours labor. Rear bushings and links add another €100-200 in parts. Total suspension overhaul at an independent shop runs €400-800. Quality aftermarket parts from brands like Lemforder or Meyle HD perform well and cost significantly less than Honda OEM.
Reliable powertrain, but age-related wear demands attention
The K24A3 engine is one of Honda's most durable four-cylinders. It uses a timing chain rather than a belt, has no turbocharger, and routinely exceeds 300,000 km with regular oil changes. The main ownership risks at this age are the VTC actuator rattle, power steering hose recall, VSA modulator degradation, and general suspension wear. None of these are catastrophic or particularly expensive individually, but they can accumulate on neglected examples. A well-maintained CL9 with completed recalls and documented service history is a genuinely reliable used car.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Power steering pressure hose deterioration and fire risk (2003-2008 CL9 models)
Critical safety recall - verify completed
Takata passenger airbag inflator replacement (2003-2008 models, multiple recall campaigns)
Critical safety recall - verify completed
Fuel pump relay coil contamination causing engine stalling (2005-2006 models)
Verify completed
Rear lamp harness damage causing light failure (2003-2004 models)
Verify completed
Contact a Honda dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The Takata airbag recall and power steering hose recall are critical safety items. Honda performs recall work free of charge regardless of vehicle age or mileage.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)
Expired on all CL9 models
Rust perforation warranty (6 years)
Expired on all CL9 models
Extended warranty
Not available from Honda for cars of this age
All Honda Accord CL9 models are well outside their original 3-year / 100,000 km factory warranty. Third-party warranties for cars over 15 years old are rarely available and typically exclude pre-existing conditions. All repairs are at the owner's expense.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.