Don’t Blow Your Money
Honda has earned a lot of trust over the years, and we’re not here to denounce its followers! We are, however, gently pointing out that not every model warrants a loyal following—especially in a used market. While some still deserve to have their praises sung, others were duds right out of the gate, let alone with a lowered price tag. Come with us as we explore the best and worst options on the lot.
1. 2003 Honda Accord V6
The 2003 Accord V6 can look like a sensible used sedan, but its automatic transmission history makes it a risky pick. Owners have reported slipping, delayed engagement, and outright transmission failure, all with an average repair cost of several thousand dollars. You might save up front, but this turns a bargain into a service-bay regular.
2. 2002 Honda Odyssey
The 2002 Odyssey has the family-friendly layout people love, which you think would’ve made it a no-brainer. However, its transmission reputation is anything but comforting. For this model year, transmission failure was among the most commonly made complaints, costing a pretty penny before you even hit 100,000 miles.
3. 2003 Honda Pilot
Honda’s first-generation Pilot was practical, roomy, and useful. Everything you could want, right? Well, the 2003 model actually brought some early trouble along for the ride. Transmission failure is a known issue, and average repair costs can soar into the thousands. If you’re shopping for a used three-row SUV, this one deserves extra caution.
4. 2006–2009 Honda Civic
Before you go thinking any old Civic is safe, pay special attention to the 2006 through 2009 models! Unfortunately, these years are tied to a defect that can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, and engine failure. Honda even extended the engine warranty for affected vehicles.
5. 2008 Honda Accord
The 2008 Accord gave buyers plenty of space and a more grown-up feel, but it also picked up headaches that don’t age well. Excessive oil consumption and premature brake wear are commonly cited trouble spots, so you’ll want proof that neither of these issues has been swept under the floor mats.
6. 2017 Honda CR-V 1.5T
The 2017 CR-V seemed like it did something great for everyday motorists: bringing turbocharged efficiency to a compact SUV lineup. The thing is, that 1.5-liter turbo engine came with oil-dilution concerns. Long story short, if you’re eyeing one, check for oil-change history and any funky smell in the oil before peeling off.
7. 2018 Honda Accord 1.5T
The 2018 Accord 1.5T is modern, comfortable, and genuinely nice to drive—and that makes its downfalls easy to overlook. The same 1.5-liter turbo oil-dilution issue has actually been named in several complaints; a spotless cabin won’t help if the engine has spent years dealing with fuel-contaminated oil.
8. 2016 Honda Pilot Touring and Elite
Like it or not, the 2016 Pilot deserves a careful second thought. Reports have focused on a lot of issues, like rough shifting and other problems tied to models using the ZF 9-speed transmission. No, you don’t need to run from every Pilot, but you should be picky.
RL GNZLZ from Chile on Wikimedia
9. 2006–2011 Honda Civic Hybrid
Sorry, the Civic Hybrid isn’t off the chopping block, either! These models point to IMA battery degradation, with replacement costs commonly landing in the thousands, depending on which route you take. Basically, unless the seller can show recent replacement docs, this fuel-sipper is worth leaving behind.
10. 2006–2008 Honda Ridgeline
The early Ridgeline is refreshingly different, but some 2006 to 2008 examples have a nasty radiator-related risk. Reports describe radiator failure, which can destroy the transmission and turn your beloved truck into a lemon. Before you buy one, ask specifically about radiator replacement and whether preventive work has already been handled.
Used Hondas can be tricky because the badge carries a lot of goodwill, but the best buys are about more than the name. Let’s dive into some models well worth your time and money.
1. 2013 Honda Accord 2.4
The 2013 Accord is one of those used sedans that still feels grown-up without being boring. It boasts just about everything you could ask for: a roomy cabin, improved interior, and well-sorted four-cylinder/CVT pairing. As with any used car, you should always check recalls and maintenance history, but a clean LX or EX sedan can be a smart call.
2. 2014 Honda Civic Sedan
The 2014 Civic sedan came in after Honda already corrected the criticism aimed at the 2012 redesign, so you can’t go wrong. It keeps the simple, fuel-efficient formula people expect, but also surprises you with a better cabin and more polish than the premature ninth-generation cars.
3. 2015 Honda Fit
The 2015 Fit is small on the outside, but don’t let that fool you. Big things come in small packages, as they say, and this one has all kinds of cargo space. You’ll also score plenty of reliability and value, making it a great pick if you want something practical and cheap to run.
4. 2014 Honda CR-V
The 2014 CR-V is a safer used choice than some later turbocharged versions, so don’t turn your back on it so fast. You’ll get the CR-V basics you’re after, but if you also want a compact SUV without flashy features, a well-kept model from this year makes a lot of sense.
5. 2018 Honda HR-V
Want crossover height but don’t need a large SUV? Say hello to the 2018 Honda HR-V. It shares some of the Fit’s practical thinking while also carrying its own identity in all-wheel drive and a more SUV-like driving position. It’s not quick, but that’s a fine trade for low-stress ownership.
6. 2011 Honda Element EX
The 2011 Element EX is unusual, but that’s exactly what makes it appealing. You’ve got everything from durability, wide-opening doors, and an upright cargo area—perfect for any family on the go. Just remember that prices can be oddly strong, so the trick is finding one that hasn’t been beaten up.
7. 2013 Honda Odyssey EX-L
The 2013 Odyssey EX-L is a better family-van target than the early-2000s models, with thankfully fewer complaints compared with older vans. It’s not one to count out, but you should still inspect important aspects before biting. Once you’re in the clear, a clean example can be a very comfortable family hauler.
8. 2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL
The 2020 Ridgeline RTL is the truck to get if you want pickup capabilities without settling for a riskier first-gen. It gives you a comfortable cabin and clever features, too, which make it more livable than many traditional midsize trucks. (Bear in mind that some V6 Honda years have drawn a few side-eyes, so check service records carefully.)
RL GNZLZ from Chile on Wikimedia
9. 2008 Honda S2000
The 2008 S2000 isn’t the cheapest model, but it’s one of the most rewarding if you want something practical. You’ll pay more for an unmodified example, but contrary to popular belief, that’s usually the one you want—neglected S2000s can get expensive quickly.
10. 2019 Honda Insight Touring
The 2019 Insight Touring feels more like a normal compact sedan than anything else, bringing all the good stuff like solid fuel economy and familiar Honda controls. Long story short, for a commuter after efficiency, this one’s easy to recommend with a clean battery and service history.
