1987 Honda Accord Reliability ReportB+ grade · low risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 1987 Honda Accord
- The system most likely to surface first: body & chassis rust (major severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline.
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1989 Honda Accord earns a 91.
Is the 1987 Honda Accord Worth Buying?
The 1987 Honda Accord stands as a testament to Honda's golden era, offering remarkable durability and simplicity that makes it one of the safest used compact cars you can buy from its vintage. Its proven mechanicals and straightforward design translate into dependable, budget-friendly transportation for those willing to perform diligent pre-purchase inspections and routine maintenance.
The 1987 Honda Accord is an incredibly smart buy for those seeking a reliable, economical, and charming classic. Its legendary Honda engineering ensures a long life, provided you diligently check for rust and commit to its few critical maintenance items. This vehicle will reward conscientious owners with years of de…
Best Model Years
1986-1989 (third generation), with the 1987-1989 models benefiting from slight refinements.
Years to Avoid
No specific years to avoid within the 3rd generation; condition and maintenance history are paramount over model year differences.
Biggest Strengths
- Legendary A20A3 engine longevity
- Robust 5-speed manual transmission
- Simple, easy-to-diagnose mechanical systems
What Tends to Fail First on the 1987 Honda Accord
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Honda Accord, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Perforating rust is common on rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframe components, and suspension mounting points, especially in areas exposed to road salt. This compromises structural integrity and can lead to costly, extensive repair…
The main relay, crucial for the fuel pump, is a common failure point due to age, leading to no-start conditions or stalling. Other electrical components like headlight switches and aging wiring harnesses can develop intermittent issues.
Original rubber bushings (control arms, sway bars), ball joints, and strut mounts degrade over time, leading to clunks, rattles, and loose steering. Power steering pump and line leaks are also common due to aging seals and hoses.
1987 Honda Accord Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Honda Accord most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the car is still very new. Focus on routine fluid changes, tire rotations, and general inspections to ensure everything is operating as designed. Minimal issues are expected beyond wear items.
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical interval for the timing belt service, which prevents catastrophic engine damage. Other major fluid changes (transmission, coolant) and accessory belt inspections are also due.
Elevated Risk Zone
Components affected by age and cumulative wear become more prominent. Expect to address suspension bushings, possibly clutch replacement on manuals, and continued attention to fluid health.
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, nearly all original wear items will be past their prime. Electrical gremlins, main relay failure, and significant rust progression are more likely. Budget for comprehensive inspections and potential component replacements.
1987 Honda Accord Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Honda Accord on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 1987 Honda Accord Last?
These Accords can easily exceed 150,000 miles with basic maintenance, and well-kept examples routinely reach 200,000+ miles, demonstrating remarkable endurance for a vehicle of its age.
What 1987 Honda Accord Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Starts reliably even after sitting for extended periods
- Excellent fuel economy for its age and engine size
- Surprisingly comfortable ride on long trips
- Simple to diagnose and repair for the DIY enthusiast
Common Frustrations
- Rust can be a continuous battle in affected climates
- Automatic transmission can feel sluggish and uninspired
- Lacks modern safety features (e.g., airbags, ABS)
- Road noise can be significant at highway speeds
Who Should Buy the 1987 Honda Accord?
Best For
- First-time classic car owners seeking reliability
- Budget-conscious commuters needing dependable transport
- DIY mechanics looking for an easy project car
Not Ideal For
- Drivers living in extreme salt-belt regions without a garage
- Those expecting modern conveniences and safety features
How the 1987 Honda Accord Compares to Rivals
The 1987 Accord stands near the top of its class for reliability and build quality among mainstream compact/mid-size cars of its era. It offered a level of refinement and durability that many domestic and some European competitors struggled to match.
More Reliable Than
- Chevrolet Cavalier (similar era)
- Ford Tempo
- Chrysler K-Car (Dodge Aries/Plymouth Reliant)
Comparable To
- Toyota Camry (1st/2nd Gen)
- Nissan Stanza
1987 Honda Accord Recall History
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
IF THE PLASTIC COATING OF THE FUEL FILLER AND/OR BREATHER PIPE IS DAMAGED, SALT WATER MAY ACCUMULATE BETWEEN THE PLASTIC COATING AND THE STEEL PIPES, AND THE ACCUMULATION COULD CAUSE CORROSION WHICH WOULD EVENTUALLY RUST THROUGH THE AFFECTED PIPES, ALLOWING GASOLINE FUMES AND FUEL TO LEAK.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
What breaks on the 1987 Honda Accord?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 1987 Honda Accord? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Other Honda Accord Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Accord. Click any year for its full report.
1987 Honda Accord Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Honda Accord
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Honda Accord
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Just bought a 1987 Honda Accord? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Honda Accord's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Honda Accord
Honda Accord Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Uncover the definitive ranking of Honda Accord model years, revealing which to avoid due to common issues and which offer superior reliability.
How Long Does a Honda Accord Last? (Real Owner Data)
Uncover the real lifespan of a Honda Accord with our in-depth analysis, using authentic owner data to show how long they truly last.
Honda Accord Common Problems and Repair Costs
Uncover the most frequent Honda Accord problems – from transmission issues to AC faults – and get clear estimates on the repair costs you can expect.