Is the 1987 Honda Accord reliable?

Yes, the 1987 Accord is generally reliable for its age, especially with consistent cooling, ignition, and fluid maintenance; most issues come from neglected service or decades-old components.

What are the most common 1987 Honda Accord problems?

Common issues include carburetor/vacuum-related rough idle and stalling, automatic transmission slipping or harsh shifts, cooling system leaks/overheating, and intermittent electrical accessory problems.

Are maintenance costs high for a 1987 Accord?

Typically no—parts are widely available and labor is straightforward, but costs can rise if you need a transmission rebuild, carburetor overhaul, or extensive catch-up work after long-term neglect.

What are the best years of this Accord generation to buy?

Many buyers like the third-generation years (1986–1989) for the redesign and parts support; the best choice is the specific car with the strongest maintenance history and least rust, regardless of exact year.

What should I check before buying a 1987 Honda Accord?

Check for rust (especially underbody and suspension mounting points), overheating history, smooth transmission operation, stable idle/cold starts, charging voltage, and evidence of recent timing and cooling system service.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

1987 Honda Accord Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

88/ 100

LOW RISK

Grade: B+

An incredibly durable and economical classic, provided rust has not taken hold.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 1987 Honda Accord?

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.

Biggest Strengths

Legendary A20A3 engine longevity
Robust 5-speed manual transmission
Simple, easy-to-diagnose mechanical systems

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 1987 Honda Accord. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Body & Chassis Rustmajor

Fuel System & Electricalmoderate

Suspension & Steering Componentsmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

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.

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Honda Accord by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Honda Accord. Click any year for its full report.

All Honda Accord years ranked →Honda Accord years to avoid →Honda Accord common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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