Is the 1998 Honda Accord reliable?

It can be very reliable with good maintenance, especially the 4-cylinder models and manual transmissions, but automatic transmission condition and service history are critical to long-term dependability.

What are the most common 1998 Honda Accord problems?

Frequently reported issues include automatic transmission slipping/harsh shifting, EGR-related check engine lights and hesitation, oil leaks from aging seals/gaskets, and front suspension wear like ball joints and control arm bushings.

How much does it cost to maintain a 1998 Honda Accord?

Maintenance is usually affordable compared to many midsize cars, thanks to widespread parts availability; costs rise if it needs a major transmission repair, timing belt service on the V6, or full suspension refresh.

What are the best years of the Honda Accord to buy?

Many shoppers favor well-maintained Accords from the late 1990s and early-to-mid 2000s, but the “best” year is often the one with complete records, rust-free structure, and evidence of proper transmission and timing-belt service where applicable.

What should I check before buying a 1998 Honda Accord?

Verify transmission behavior (cold and fully warmed up), confirm timing belt history on V6 models, scan for stored codes (especially EGR-related), inspect for oil leaks and rust, and check suspension for clunks, uneven tire wear, and sloppy steering. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, fluid capacities, and the recommended maintenance schedules to keep a 1998 Honda Accord running at its best.

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

1998 Honda Accord Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

82/ 100

MODERATE RISK

Grade: B

A budget-friendly choice that excels in most areas, but requires due diligence on the automatic transmission.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 1998 Honda Accord?

The 1998 Honda Accord is a remarkably robust and economical used car, standing out for its durable engines and overall build quality. While it generally offers years of trouble-free service, prospective buyers absolutely must be wary of potential automatic transmission failures, which can turn an otherwise excellent value into a costly endeavor. Choose wisely, and you'll have a faithful companion.

Biggest Strengths

Engine longevity and fuel efficiency
Simple, proven mechanical design
Abundant and affordable parts availability

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 1998 Honda Accord. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Automatic Transmissioncritical

Power Steering Systemmoderate

Rust and Corrosionmajor

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

NHTSA Recalls

19 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 1998 Acura 2.2CL, 1998-1999 Acura 2.3CL, 1998-1999 Acura 3.0CL, 2001 Acura 3.2CL and Acura MDX, 1998-2000 Honda Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Sedan, Odyssey and Acura 3.5RL, 1999-2000 Acura 3.2TL, 1996-2000 Civic Coupe, 1997-2000 CR-V, 1997-1998 EV Plus, and 1998-1999 Isuzu Oasis vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

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."

What breaks on the 1998 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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