Honda Accord (9th Gen) Buyer's Guide — 2013-2017
Honda · Accord · 9th gen · 2013–2017
Detailed used buyer's guide for 2013-2017 Honda Accord 9th generation. Covers CVT judder, VCM issues, piston ring oil consumption, infotainment failures, and more. Know the risks before buying.
Mirko3 min read
On this page4 sections
The 2013-2017 Honda Accord (9th generation) enjoys a strong reliability reputation, but specific powertrain and component flaws create distinct risks for used buyers. The most significant concerns involve CVT judder on 2.4L models and variable cylinder management issues on V6 variants.
GENERATION OVERVIEW
The ninth-generation Accord debuted in 2013 as a complete redesign, offering a 2.4L four-cylinder with a CVT (first for Accord) and a 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic. A 2016 mid-cycle refresh added updated front styling, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and revised suspension tuning. This generation shed weight compared to the eighth gen, improving fuel economy, but the CVT and VCM systems introduced new failure points. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants were also available but less common.
KNOWN ISSUES
CVT Judder
A shudder or vibration during light acceleration, especially from a stop or at low speeds, caused by degraded transmission fluid or software calibration. Primarily affects early 2013-2015 2.4L models. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: Test drive at low speed with gentle throttle; feel for hesitation or vibration between 10-30 mph.
Piston Ring Oil Consumption
Some early 2.4L engines (2013-2014) burn excessive oil due to insufficient piston ring tension. If severe, it can foul spark plugs and damage the catalytic converter. Affects 2013-2014 2.4L models. Severity: Medium to High. What to watch for: Check oil level frequently; look for blue exhaust smoke on startup or acceleration.
Infotainment Screen Failure
The touchscreen can delaminate (air bubbles under the glass) or become unresponsive, often requiring replacement of the entire display unit. Common on pre-2016 models with the 7-inch screen. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: Test all touch functions; look for bubbles or discoloration around the screen edges.
Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear
Rear bushings on the front lower control arms wear prematurely, causing clunking noises over bumps and vague steering. A known weak point on higher-mileage examples. Affects all models. Severity: Low to Medium. What to watch for: Listen for a clunk when driving over speed bumps or turning at low speeds; inspect bushing for cracks.
SUB-VARIANT ISSUES
VCM Issues (V6 models)
Variable Cylinder Management deactivates cylinders to save fuel but can cause excessive engine mount vibration, spark plug fouling, and oil consumption on the rear bank. Active mounts degrade, leading to cabin shake. Affects all 3.5L V6 models. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: Test drive at highway speeds with cruise control; feel for vibration when the system activates.
Starter Failure (V6 models)
The starter motor on V6 Accords has a higher failure rate, often failing without warning. Replacement cost ranges $400-$700. Affects 2013-2017 V6 models. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: Listen for slow cranking or click-no-start; rule out battery and alternator first.
If you're looking at a V6 model, these issues add another layer of risk.
FAQ
What are the most common problems with the Honda Accord (9th Gen) (2013-2017)?
Piston ring oil consumption is the most serious issue, concentrated in early production. CVT judder, infotainment screen failure, and front lower control arm bushing wear are the other known problems.
Is the Honda Accord (9th Gen) (2013-2017) reliable?
Overall yes, but the oil consumption issue on early 4-cylinder models is real and worth checking specifically — ask for service records showing oil level checks and confirm consumption hasn't required frequent top-offs.
Are there Honda Accord (9th Gen) years to avoid?
2013-2014 models show up most often in oil consumption complaints, before running production changes addressed the piston ring design. Later 2015-2017 cars carry less of that specific risk.