1998 Honda Accord Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 1998 Honda Accord
- Has 19 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator module.
- Scores 8 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1996 Honda Accord earns a 90.
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (critical severity).
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.
While the 1998 Honda Accord offers fantastic value and strong reliability in many areas, the pervasive automatic transmission issues of this generation are a significant caveat. A manual transmission model transforms this into a 'BUY WITH CONFIDENCE' recommendation. For automatics, be prepared for a potential major…
Best Model Years
1998-2002 (Manual Transmission)
Years to Avoid
1998-2002 (Automatic Transmission, without proven, extensive service history)
Biggest Strengths
- Engine longevity and fuel efficiency
- Simple, proven mechanical design
- Abundant and affordable parts availability
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1998 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.
Known for premature failure, typically characterized by slipping gears, harsh shifts, or complete loss of drive. This is largely due to design flaws affecting the torque converter clutch and internal fluid passages leading to overheating…
Common leaks from the power steering pump (often the O-ring), high-pressure hose, or rack and pinion. This leads to fluid loss, noise (whining), and eventually loss of power assist if ignored.
Significant rust can develop on rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframe, and suspension components, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. This is an age and climate-related issue, affecting structural integrity and resale value.
1998 Honda Accord Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1998 Honda Accord most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Accord is typically operating flawlessly, requiring only routine oil changes and tire rotations. Any issues would likely be minor factory defects.
Maintenance Zone
Key maintenance milestones such as transmission fluid changes (if automatic and you're feeling lucky), brake service, and spark plugs for the V6 should be addressed. Keep an eye out for early signs of power steering leaks.
Elevated Risk Zone
This is a critical juncture for V6 models requiring timing belt replacement, a non-negotiable service. Automatic transmission issues may begin to surface, and suspension components will likely need inspection.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the risk of automatic transmission failure significantly increases. Age-related issues like power steering leaks, major suspension component wear, and rust become more prevalent. Regular inspections are vital.
1998 Honda Accord Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1998 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 (e.g., suspension, power steering)
How Long Does the 1998 Honda Accord Last?
Focus on overall condition and documented service history over raw mileage. A 150,000-mile Accord with a comprehensive service history and a healthy manual transmission is often a better buy than a lower-mileage automatic with unknowns.
What 1998 Honda Accord Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional fuel economy for its class and age.
- Surprisingly comfortable ride quality for daily commuting.
- Legendary engine durability and ability to reach very high mileages.
- Low maintenance costs for most wear items and common parts.
Common Frustrations
- Constant worry about automatic transmission failure.
- Noticeable road noise at highway speeds.
- Outdated interior design and lack of modern amenities.
- Rust can be a significant cosmetic and structural issue in northern climates.
Who Should Buy the 1998 Honda Accord?
Best For
- Budget-conscious first-time car buyers.
- Individuals seeking basic, reliable transportation for daily commuting.
- DIY enthusiasts willing to tackle minor repairs and maintenance.
Not Ideal For
- Drivers unwilling to budget for potential major transmission repairs.
- Those who desire modern comfort features and advanced technology.
How the 1998 Honda Accord Compares to Rivals
The Accord generally outpaces most domestic sedans of its era in terms of longevity and overall reliability, often feeling more refined. However, the Toyota Camry of the same vintage typically holds a slight edge due to its more robust automatic transmission.
More Reliable Than
- Ford Taurus (1998)
- Chevrolet Lumina (1998)
- Dodge Stratus (1998)
Comparable To
- Nissan Altima (1998)
- Mazda 626 (1998)
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 KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Accord. Click any year for its full report.
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