I myself own a new Accord. A lot of people here don't want to agree with me and I understand, but THE HONDA ACCORD DOES NOT HAVE GOOD QUALITY.

Checkout this site:
http://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Accord/2008/

Now on that site go see other cars. Search like the Fusion, Malibu, Camry, and any other car.

If you still don't believe the site, then search a car that is known for its quality issues like the Ford Explorer in 2002 (When I know was a bad car).

I believe my car has something wrong with the tranny. I was on the site and one guy was explaining his issue and thats EXACTLY what I am having. The tranny has 5 years of warranty and I doubt I will keep the car for that long.

Where can I find the number to call HONDA. I want to file a complaint regarding an issue I am having. I am sure the dealer won't solve it or will play stupid, so first I want to see what HONDA got to say about it.

Umm, do you know how many '08 units were produced? And did you notice the amount of complaints and did you actually read any of them?

Alot of complaints came from people that don't know anything about their cars or cars in particular. Majority of the engine complaints were about bad gas mileage. And of a majority of those complaints most were from people who had barely eclipsed 1,000 miles on the odo.

There will never be a mass produced product without issues, especially cars. They are complex pieces of machinery. I don't expect perfection.

You will also notice the top cars on the problem list are the Ford Explorers. Ford produced a ton of them because the Explorer was a top seller.

There are some complaints that are legitimate but to list a website with so few complaints compared to how many units were built does not support your statement.

Umm, do you know how many '08 units were produced? And did you notice the amount of complaints and did you actually read any of them?

Alot of complaints came from people that don't know anything about their cars or cars in particular. Majority of the engine complaints were about bad gas mileage. And of a majority of those complaints most were from people who had barely eclipsed 1,000 miles on the odo.

There will never be a mass produced product without issues, especially cars. They are complex pieces of machinery. I don't expect perfection.

You will also notice the top cars on the problem list are the Ford Explorers. Ford produced a ton of them because the Explorer was a top seller.

There are some complaints that are legitimate but to list a website with so few complaints compared to how many units were built does not support your statement.

I appreciate the comments, but I am a manufacturing engineer. I work on interiors. I have worked on the new Malibu, new Aura, new Dodge Ram, Acura TL, ACura MDX, should I stop or you want me to continue?
By looking at the interior of the Accord, its poor in quality. Especially the gaps. Did you see the gap on the left side between the IP and the door? Go look at a Toyota Camry or even a Civic and see the difference.
push on your glove box when its locked and see how many mm's you can push it in. This due to a "not very good" position of the striker. Look at the gaps in the dash and see how misaligned they are. Why I am saying all this, because just to tell you that a mass production vehicle doesn't have to have these issues. Mass production vehicles will have problems (I understand and respect that). If my tranny is bad, then you can say "Its a mass production car". But those gaps and misalignment don't.
My friend got a new Camry and his give him 26-27 on the highway and it has like 1,765 to be exact. Toyota has it getting 28. None of that engine break in period crab. I have never ever gotten over 26 on the highway and the ECO is always on. The dealer told me when I hit 5,000 miles, yeah my behind 5K.
I hope you are not mad or at least don't feel offended, but lots of people here act like Honda is their mother. They don't care and if you don't believe me take your car in for a simple fix and watch how they will fight you.

Where can I find the number to call HONDA. I want to file a complaint regarding an issue I am having. I am sure the dealer won't solve it or will play stupid, so first I want to see what HONDA got to say about it.

here ya go http://lmgtfy.com/?q=honda+customer+service

here ya go http://lmgtfy.com/?q=honda+customer+service

lol I love that and yes that was easy.
Thanks man.

I don't intend any offense when asking this, but did you not check into any of these things before you bought the car? I agree with you that the new Accord has some build quality problems...the 7th gen has a few of them, too. I'd still put my money on the Accord outlasting the Malibu in the long term. The Malibu's interior might be a bit nicer or better built (although the Malibus I've seen have had some pretty serious build quality issues, as well...pull on one of the A- or B-pillar covers and see what happens), but Honda's accessory/electrical system/engine/transmission designs generally seem to be superior to GM's. I can say from experience (of a few family members) that Honda will often chip in on repairs out of warranty if they know the repair in question is due to a design flaw (many '98-'01 4-speed automatics; early 5-speed automatics). I can also say from experience that GM feels its obligation to you ends at 36,000 miles. If a car needs its third ____________ replacement at 36,001 miles, it's your problem.

You should also really try to get a good dealer on your side before calling Honda corporate. Honda corporate isn't likely to do much without hearing the resolution process one of their dealers attempted. If you've got a bad dealer, you should try another. I haven't had many issues with my Accord (the ones I've had were all trim-related, for what it's worth), but the dealership I go to now has dealt with all of them to my satisfaction. I had to go through a few dealerships to find a good one, so you might need to do the same.

Would you care to describe this transmission problem you're having for us? Honda automatics have some odd characteristics to them...if you share the issue you're having, we can help you figure out if it's a problem or if it's just normal operation. For example, I was coming from a GM 4T65-E that you couldn't feel shift when I bought my Honda. The Accord's transmission is pretty abrupt compared to the GM automatic, although it hasn't needed to be rebuilt twice in 110,000 miles like the 4T65 did.

In the end, it might be discouraging to read complaints about your new car on some Internet site. Keep in mind, though, that most all respectable publications that gather reliability data rate the Accord (and Honda in general) as top-notch. That includes Consumer Reports, MSN Autos, and TrueDelta, and I'd trust their research. I'd also keep in mind that the bulk of people who use automobiles don't know the first thing about them, so I take everything I read on sites like you're describing with a grain of salt.

Good luck. Give your Accord a chance...they're good cars in general. I'm not saying this because I'm a Honda fanboy or anything else...check out my post history and you'll see that I've mentioned that I intend to check out a variety of brands when it's time to replace my Accord. I say this because my Accord has given me zero mechanical problems in 110,000 miles, so I can say with confidence that the basic engineering is pretty solid.

I don't intend any offense when asking this, but did you not check into any of these things before you bought the car? I agree with you that the new Accord has some build quality problems...the 7th gen has a few of them, too. I'd still put my money on the Accord outlasting the Malibu in the long term. The Malibu's interior might be a bit nicer or better built (although the Malibus I've seen have had some pretty serious build quality issues, as well...pull on one of the A- or B-pillar covers and see what happens), but Honda's accessory/electrical system/engine/transmission designs generally seem to be superior to GM's. I can say from experience (of a few family members) that Honda will often chip in on repairs out of warranty if they know the repair in question is due to a design flaw (many '98-'01 4-speed automatics; early 5-speed automatics). I can also say from experience that GM feels its obligation to you ends at 36,000 miles. If a car needs its third ____________ replacement at 36,001 miles, it's your problem.

You should also really try to get a good dealer on your side before calling Honda corporate. Honda corporate isn't likely to do much without hearing the resolution process one of their dealers attempted. If you've got a bad dealer, you should try another. I haven't had many issues with my Accord (the ones I've had were all trim-related, for what it's worth), but the dealership I go to now has dealt with all of them to my satisfaction. I had to go through a few dealerships to find a good one, so you might need to do the same.

Would you care to describe this transmission problem you're having for us? Honda automatics have some odd characteristics to them...if you share the issue you're having, we can help you figure out if it's a problem or if it's just normal operation. For example, I was coming from a GM 4T65-E that you couldn't feel shift when I bought my Honda. The Accord's transmission is pretty abrupt compared to the GM automatic, although it hasn't needed to be rebuilt twice in 110,000 miles like the 4T65 did.

In the end, it might be discouraging to read complaints about your new car on some Internet site. Keep in mind, though, that most all respectable publications that gather reliability data rate the Accord (and Honda in general) as top-notch. That includes Consumer Reports, MSN Autos, and TrueDelta, and I'd trust their research. I'd also keep in mind that the bulk of people who use automobiles don't know the first thing about them, so I take everything I read on sites like you're describing with a grain of salt.

Good luck. Give your Accord a chance...they're good cars in general. I'm not saying this because I'm a Honda fanboy or anything else...check out my post history and you'll see that I've mentioned that I intend to check out a variety of brands when it's time to replace my Accord. I say this because my Accord has given me zero mechanical problems in 110,000 miles, so I can say with confidence that the basic engineering is pretty solid.
:notworthy:notworthy:notworthy

I don't intend any offense when asking this, but did you not check into any of these things before you bought the car? I agree with you that the new Accord has some build quality problems...the 7th gen has a few of them, too. I'd still put my money on the Accord outlasting the Malibu in the long term. The Malibu's interior might be a bit nicer or better built (although the Malibus I've seen have had some pretty serious build quality issues, as well...pull on one of the A- or B-pillar covers and see what happens), but Honda's accessory/electrical system/engine/transmission designs generally seem to be superior to GM's.

You should also really try to get a good dealer on your side before calling Honda corporate. Honda corporate isn't likely to do much without hearing the resolution process one of their dealers attempted. If you've got a bad dealer, you should try another. I haven't had many issues with my Accord (the ones I've had were all trim-related, for what it's worth), but the dealership I go to now has dealt with all of them to my satisfaction. I had to go through a few dealerships to find a good one, so you might need to do the same.

Would you care to describe this transmission problem you're having for us? Honda automatics have some odd characteristics to them...if you share the issue you're having, we can help you figure out if it's a problem or if it's just normal operation. For example, I was coming from a GM 4T65-E that you couldn't feel shift when I bought my Honda. The Accord's transmission is pretty abrupt compared to the GM automatic, although it hasn't needed to be rebuilt twice in 110,000 miles like the 4T65 did.

In the end, it might be discouraging to read complaints about your new car on some Internet site. Keep in mind, though, that most all respectable publications that gather reliability data rate the Accord (and Honda in general) as top-notch. That includes Consumer Reports, MSN Autos, and TrueDelta, and I'd trust their research. I'd also keep in mind that the bulk of people who use automobiles don't know the first thing about them, so I take everything I read on sites like you're describing with a grain of salt.

Good luck. Give your Accord a chance...they're good cars in general. I'm not saying this because I'm a Honda fanboy or anything else...check out my post history and you'll see that I've mentioned that I intend to check out a variety of brands when it's time to replace my Accord. I say this because my Accord has given me zero mechanical problems in 110,000 miles, so I can say with confidence that the basic engineering is pretty solid.

edwilson, thank you for the comment. I will try to answer you honestly.


Like I said I work on interiors almost all day and design machines that makes any part you see (Interiors). Know that interior problems mean nothing to me. I can fix almost everything that is wrong with any car when it comes to interiors. Even wind and road noise, it bothers me a little. However, on the other hand I have a vehicle that is 1) reliable and 2) has a good resale value and this is why I went with Honda....plus it looks nice :)


I just pointed those issues just to tell the person above that mass production vehicles don't have to have these issues.
For the Malibu, I agree with you a Honda is a smarter purchase. I think the Accord interior design looks better than the Malibu by the way. The Malibu has serious interior issues, but customers will find out in 2 years :) I am sure they will find out. Plus if you take a Malibu IP out you will see A LOT of foam leaks and how the applique (Swoosh) is attached (BAD) and if you know someone who has one, then tell them to wear a mask when the airbag deploys, because they will see the air vent flying out :)


Honda's are good cars, no doubt. But put yourself in my position, I am just human. I paid $30some grands for this car. Brakes starting to squeak with only 2,800 miles on it, but no problem I know to to fix brakes and got no problem paying even $300 to change them. I am not even complaining about the brakes.


But here, my tranny makes this hmmmmmmm noise right around 25 mph when it shifts (either 2nd to 3rd or 1st to 2nd). If I am driving in the city, you know slowly going faster from 0-30 it gets to around 25 and them it makes this humming noise like its fighting a resistenace then it shifts and then everything after that is good.
I feel it too in the pedal. Its like a vibration but very slight so don't think the car just shakes.
This might be weird, but it sounds like (in Gear)nnnnnnnnn(Before it shifts)HHHHHMMMMMM(Shift is done)nnnnnnnnnn.
I want to drive another V6 Accord and see how it is. If they are all like that, then I will be happy. But no one here EXCEPT one person has that problem, so that makes me worry.


Like I said, it pisses me off. The sound system can make it disappear, but I paid money for this, what guarantees me it won't turn to a real problem.
I will go through the dealer first. I will actually go 2 times or may be 3 to get it resolved, then I will call HONDA if my problem is not resolved.
Believe me I am mad that I will give the keys to a mechanic to check on it and if they work on it then I don't know how I will feel towards it.

Funny i just got the rear brakes fixed not soo long ago

OP, I agree that the Accord has more than just a few flaws. Having driven many cars in similar class, like the ones mentioned by you and others throughout the thread, I still strongly believe that the Accord stands out among the competition, regardless of those little things us (passionate) drivers see as imperfections.

Having said that, I do not agree with the double-standard that Honda has set for itself with its products. My new TL doesn't whistle, whine, rattle, clink, or any of that crap. It feels as solid as a rock, even though most the features are the same as the Accord's. Speaking of your transmission problem, the TL not only seamlessly shifts up and down AND has F1-inspired paddle-shifters (with sports-mode), it also gets better gas mileage than the new Accord V6 engines that have VCM. My point is that the build-quality of the Acuras are 100x better than that of Hondas, and it almost feels like someone sat in the car before it was released for production and actually worked out all its flaws.

I feel your pain, but if you want to appreciate your Accord, I suggest that you rent a similar-class vehicle for a week. It'll be worth your time and money.

Cheers,

I'll respond in bold.

.... The Malibu has serious interior issues, but customers will find out in 2 years :) I am sure they will find out. Plus if you take a Malibu IP out you will see A LOT of foam leaks and how the applique (Swoosh) is attached (BAD) and if you know someone who has one, then tell them to wear a mask when the airbag deploys, because they will see the air vent flying out :)

I can imagine. I was pretty impressed by the '08 Malibu when it was first released. It's a huge step forward for GM. However, a good friend of mine has one, and it's not very polished in person. The Accord has nicer materials and while both have a few misaligned panels, the Honda's are at least solidly attached. I hate to see it because I think the Malibu was GM's last best shot to regain some market share, but they still did their cost cutting in all the wrong places. It's not enough to rival the Accord; the Malibu must beat it in spades, and it doesn't.

Honda's are good cars, no doubt. But put yourself in my position, I am just human. I paid $30some grands for this car. Brakes starting to squeak with only 2,800 miles on it, but no problem I know to to fix brakes and got no problem paying even $300 to change them. I am not even complaining about the brakes.

I completely understand that. You're talking to someone who asked the dealer to replace the "black tape" window garnish on the driver's door because it had a wrinkle in one corner (and mine didn't even cost $30,000). The brake problems wouldn't be excusable on a $15,000 Kia, much less on a $30,000 Accord. Find yourself a good dealership (even if it takes a few tries...ask people on this forum who are in your area...they'll point you toward a good one) and lean on them until they make it right by you; Honda owes you that.

But here, my tranny makes this hmmmmmmm noise right around 25 mph when it shifts (either 2nd to 3rd or 1st to 2nd). If I am driving in the city, you know slowly going faster from 0-30 it gets to around 25 and them it makes this humming noise like its fighting a resistenace then it shifts and then everything after that is good.
I feel it too in the pedal. Its like a vibration but very slight so don't think the car just shakes.
This might be weird, but it sounds like (in Gear)nnnnnnnnn(Before it shifts)HHHHHMMMMMM(Shift is done)nnnnnnnnnn.
I want to drive another V6 Accord and see how it is. If they are all like that, then I will be happy. But no one here EXCEPT one person has that problem, so that makes me worry.

I can't speak for the 8th generation, but I don't hear any noise when the transmission shifts in my 7th gen. I do feel a bit of "bump shift" at the 2-1 shift, and it's done that since day one. It can be a bit unnerving if you're coming from something other than a Honda automatic...they're all a little harsh, but they tend to last a long time when properly maintained (that is 20-30k fluid change intervals, despite what the manual says). If I were you, I'd definitely ask to drive another new one at your dealership. That should either confirm your suspicions or put them to rest.

Like I said, it pisses me off. The sound system can make it disappear, but I paid money for this, what guarantees me it won't turn to a real problem.
I will go through the dealer first. I will actually go 2 times or may be 3 to get it resolved, then I will call HONDA if my problem is not resolved.
Believe me I am mad that I will give the keys to a mechanic to check on it and if they work on it then I don't know how I will feel towards it.

Good luck. Keep us posted.

EDIT: As an aside, it really does seem to be true that your mileage will increase significantly once you hit the 5,000 and 10,000 mile marks. My '05 (4-cylinder) would only get about 28mpg on the highway for the first 4,000 miles or so. After that, it seemed to increase steadily up until around 8,000 miles. Now, with mostly (around 80%) highway driving, I can easily get 32mpg and have gotten as high as 39mpg on 100% highway trips. I'd imagine you'll have a similar experience with your V6.

Walhaddi, a respect you are an engineer and most lilely have a deeper understanding of the car world than most of us and I do believe you probably have some legitimate issues with your car. Saying this, I don't believe Honda is the only manufacturer that has quality control issues. It's the same across the board for all the car manufacturers. But what sets a manufacturer apart is how they deal with the issues.

Lexus used to be the top dog in customer satisfaction and it wasn't because their product was problem free. It was their customer service and how they dealt with problems and solutions.

I hope your your complaints are heard and addressed to your satisfaction.

I appreciate the comments, but I am a manufacturing engineer. I work on interiors. I have worked on the new Malibu, new Aura, new Dodge Ram, Acura TL, ACura MDX, should I stop or you want me to continue?
By looking at the interior of the Accord, its poor in quality. Especially the gaps. Did you see the gap on the left side between the IP and the door? Go look at a Toyota Camry or even a Civic and see the difference.


Also just to clarify as an engineer I cannot believe you would engineer in gaps and misalignments so to assume that it's an engineering issue as you are implying due to your above statement would be inaccurate. It would be in the assembly of the vehicle where these problems would occur and as you would know should be corrected on the assembly line. Engineering is one thing execution is another.

But here, my tranny makes this hmmmmmmm noise right around 25 mph when it shifts (either 2nd to 3rd or 1st to 2nd). If I am driving in the city, you know slowly going faster from 0-30 it gets to around 25 and them it makes this humming noise like its fighting a resistenace then it shifts and then everything after that is good.

OP,

Funny - a coworker was in here yesterday talking about what you described. He drove four new 09/I4 Accords this past weekend - two made the whine/hmmm noise you describe, the other two didn't.

You mentioned the Civic as an example of a car with a higher qual interior. I've lurked at an 8thGen (2006+) Civic site since I was thinking about buying one. The most popular complaint by far at the site is the poor quality of the interior - rattles galore, pieces coming apart, big gaps, etc.

What's the point of the original post...

OP. Few random comments.
- Panel gap is 'engineered' on purpose, to cheapen manufacturing costs. Tighter gaps mean tighter tolerances everywhere, plus more time installing/aligning, which costs money. Therefore, wider gaps translate into misalignment (within reason), since that's the purpose of them. As you pointed out, most can be realigned easily; I also do that (hood, trunk, doors, glove box, etc) right away. But that's a COST issue, not necessarily an engineering issue.

- Build quality and material quality are 2 different things, but usually a cheap interior means cheap build quality for the reason described above, but not always. Honda, IMO, has better build quality than the competition, but it has been declining IMO; same with the cheaper interior materials. The biggest problem is what I call the 'model gap': top-of-the-line Accords ($30K+) are very similar to the $20K+ 'base' models, so while build quality is considered good for the LX-S, it borders on crap on EX-L Navi cars, like road/wind noise, cheap plastics, etc. But some are inexcusable on any trim level, like squealing brakes.

- Honda trannies work different than all others, in case you didn't know. Rather than planetary gears, they have 'sliding' gears, hence the 'double lurch' when put in D, and some of the behavior already stated. Drive another car to make sure you're experiencing a problem, and not an 'idiosyncrasy'. Good luck.

The quality of the accord (mine) does not meet the claims that Honda makes. The clear coat is paper thin. You can't even wax the swirls out of it. The interior is below average quality. My roof liner is already falling down. I am assuming the dealer will warranty it without question. etc. etc. etc. IMO I got what I paid for. The new accord cut cost in quality and made up for it in styling/appearance (even with the said gaps). It is a trade-off. I personally think the new accord blows the 7th gen away in the looks department. Considering it is a car I only plan to keep for a couple of years I cannot complain too much....as long as Honda steps up and warranties the crap that goes wrong

I've had mine for almost a year now, 10 months/4028 miles, and I'm not experiencing any "quality issues". Interior seems "tight" too. No complaints from me! (except the damn brakes):paranoid:

*Edit*
Actually, the brake noise has gone away on my Accord!

Also just to clarify as an engineer I cannot believe you would engineer in gaps and misalignments so to assume that it's an engineering issue as you are implying due to your above statement would be inaccurate. It would be in the assembly of the vehicle where these problems would occur and as you would know should be corrected on the assembly line. Engineering is one thing execution is another.

Well, I am not trying to brag or talk like I know everything, but trust me when I say MISALIGNMENTS ARE ENGINEERING PROBLEMS. Go to any R&D office and ask and you will see.
The part has one way to be assembled (or at least that's how it should be). If I snap a part in and there is room for me to move it around causing the misalignment, then that means the opening was too big (Engineering). If the opening is too small and the part is not fully seated then again engineering issue.
If I design a part made out of plastic then I have to take in consideration the shrink factor of the plastic when that happens and other things. Its too long for me to explain it, but believe me its always an engineering issue. The operator is NEVER responsible because I need to hand him/her parts a dummy can assemble. Its called POKA-YOKE which is like error/mistake proof.
By the way, if its not a design issue then its a manufacturing issue and if its not that then its a quality issue and all of those are part of the ENGINEERING department.

OP,

Funny - a coworker was in here yesterday talking about what you described. He drove four new 09/I4 Accords this past weekend - two made the whine/hmmm noise you describe, the other two didn't.

You mentioned the Civic as an example of a car with a higher qual interior. I've lurked at an 8thGen (2006+) Civic site since I was thinking about buying one. The most popular complaint by far at the site is the poor quality of the interior - rattles galore, pieces coming apart, big gaps, etc.

Well to be honest with you the only reason why I said the CIVIC is because I sat in one last week at the dealer. The gap between the door and the dashboard was almost 1/3 the size of the gap in my Accord. But I really don't know how the quality of the interior is man.
Like I said before to me interior issues are nothing. Except when we are speaking about cheap material where it can be scratched. Look at the new Highlander, that dash in my opinion with the gray painted center control is garbage. It will get scratched during the first month and will look like crab and the only way to fix it is to CHANGE it. Nissan is popular for using that material because its very cheap. In case you didn't know Nissan/Infiniti are some of the cheapest interiors I have seen where you are paying decent money for.

OP. Few random comments.
- Panel gap is 'engineered' on purpose, to cheapen manufacturing costs. Tighter gaps mean tighter tolerances everywhere, plus more time installing/aligning, which costs money. Therefore, wider gaps translate into misalignment (within reason), since that's the purpose of them. As you pointed out, most can be realigned easily; I also do that (hood, trunk, doors, glove box, etc) right away. But that's a COST issue, not necessarily an engineering issue.

- Build quality and material quality are 2 different things, but usually a cheap interior means cheap build quality for the reason described above, but not always. Honda, IMO, has better build quality than the competition, but it has been declining IMO; same with the cheaper interior materials. The biggest problem is what I call the 'model gap': top-of-the-line Accords ($30K+) are very similar to the $20K+ 'base' models, so while build quality is considered good for the LX-S, it borders on crap on EX-L Navi cars, like road/wind noise, cheap plastics, etc. But some are inexcusable on any trim level, like squealing brakes.

- Honda trannies work different than all others, in case you didn't know. Rather than planetary gears, they have 'sliding' gears, hence the 'double lurch' when put in D, and some of the behavior already stated. Drive another car to make sure you're experiencing a problem, and not an 'idiosyncrasy'. Good luck.

I agree with you on most things, but I will tell you this: Go sit in a Ford Fusion or a VW Passat or Jetta.
Yes you are right about the bigger the gap the larger the tolerances are and the cheaper and easier to assemble and faster. You are 100% right, but there is a balance and I am 100% positive this balance wasn't accomplished with the Accord. Not just myself think so, but other engineers I took my car to see.
It really goes back to "WE ARE THE BEST, NOW ITS TIME TO JUST COLLECT THE MONEY" This is what its all about, not just that, but "LETS SAVE MORE MONEY AND MAKE MORE CARS TO MAKE EVEN LARGER AMOUNT OF MONEY." They all do that. The ones at the bottom take their time and when they come up they do the same. Thats why Ford quality went down, GM, Toyota and Honda went all down. Hell, even Benz. But its also a culture, the Europeans for example care too much and pay close attention to how the vehicle looks. Thats why vehicles like VW, Audi, Benz look close to perfect (Not issue-free). I worked once with an engineer from France and he said "Audi is the worst company to work with when you are a supplier." Because they pay too much attention to things like that.
Lets be honest HONDA is known for its engines. I am not going to say they don't care about their interiors, because I am sure they do but other things take most of their time.
Its funny, I have worked with different OEM and I can tell the difference. Nissan cares a lot about how "things look" GM, I don't know what they are smoking, Toyota wants to be efficient, Chrysler......those are the nicest people you want to work for because everything to them is fine.

The only thing that ticks me off about this car is really the tranny. I want to go drive another V6, but at the same time I don't want to. I want all of them to drive like mine. It doesn't bother me if they are all like that, but if only mine then I will be pissed.
I drove it today and I am begining to think it has something to do with the VCM engine. By the way, I think that VCM is just a marketing thing.
The reason why I say it might be the engine is because sometimes (2/10) it makes the same HMMMMMM sound when the ECO light goes on, but sometimes it doesn't. You know its funny, I can really do this like a work project and actually take data and stuff, but THIS IS NOT WORK.
I noticed first if I step on it and go the sound or that drag before the shift is not there 100% of the time.
I know its easier to point out when the car has been on the road for over 30 minutes.
I am thinking may be as the car approaches the 25 mph, the car is thinking "Should I shut down some cylinders? Should I or not?" and thats when it humms. But even that theory doesn't work 100% of the time.
All I know if that humming noise sometimes is present with the ECO light is on and the car is running even if its not getting ready to shift.
I need to drive one. I will do that this Thursday and see what I find. I will let you guys know for sure.

Walhaddi, could it be the Active Noise Cancelation system that you are hearing? Just a thought.

but believe me its always an engineering issue.

This statement I wish was true then it would make my job alot easier. To say that quality control has no responsibility in the finished product is absurd. Design and engineering can only take it so far The question really comes down to are the problems you are experiencing design and/or engineering related or production related?

I don't have the issues that you have mentioned so far. Was your car produced early on in the model run? Is it possible for a manufacturer to make little tweaks to a car as it is run down the assembly line to put out a better product or simplify assembly?

My car was manufactured April 2008. I am wondering if a majority of the problems people are experiencing are on build dates that occured at the end of 'o7 and the first of '08.

I appreciate the comments, but I am a manufacturing engineer. I work on interiors. I have worked on the new Malibu, new Aura, new Dodge Ram, Acura TL, ACura MDX, should I stop or you want me to continue?
By looking at the interior of the Accord, its poor in quality. Especially the gaps. Did you see the gap on the left side between the IP and the door? Go look at a Toyota Camry or even a Civic and see the difference.
push on your glove box when its locked and see how many mm's you can push it in. This due to a "not very good" position of the striker. Look at the gaps in the dash and see how misaligned they are. Why I am saying all this, because just to tell you that a mass production vehicle doesn't have to have these issues. Mass production vehicles will have problems (I understand and respect that). If my tranny is bad, then you can say "Its a mass production car". But those gaps and misalignment don't.
My friend got a new Camry and his give him 26-27 on the highway and it has like 1,765 to be exact. Toyota has it getting 28. None of that engine break in period crab. I have never ever gotten over 26 on the highway and the ECO is always on. The dealer told me when I hit 5,000 miles, yeah my behind 5K.
I hope you are not mad or at least don't feel offended, but lots of people here act like Honda is their mother. They don't care and if you don't believe me take your car in for a simple fix and watch how they will fight you.

you work as an engineer to some other car company but you still manage to buy a honda accord....?

you work as an engineer to some other car company but you still manage to buy a honda accord....?

Did you read the vehicles I work on? I said ACURA MDX and ACURA TL. Those are HONDA's. I hate the new TL (Exterior is ugly) and the MDX is a SUV and $$$. I can afford it, but just not my cup of tea.

This statement I wish was true then it would make my job alot easier. To say that quality control has no responsibility in the finished product is absurd. Design and engineering can only take it so far The question really comes down to are the problems you are experiencing design and/or engineering related or production related?

I don't have the issues that you have mentioned so far. Was your car produced early on in the model run? Is it possible for a manufacturer to make little tweaks to a car as it is run down the assembly line to put out a better product or simplify assembly?

My car was manufactured April 2008. I am wondering if a majority of the problems people are experiencing are on build dates that occured at the end of 'o7 and the first of '08.

I think you misunderstood me, QUALITY CONTROL is the same as QUALITY ENGINEERING. AT least all the companies I worked for are like that. Thats why we have QUALITY ENGINEER and he does the SIX SIGMA and STATISTICS and the other data analysis.
Engineering is not just someone with a ruler and punching in a bunch of numbers.

Oh, the only issues I got are the following:
1) Wind noise. Everybody and their mothers are having these issues, but it doesn't bother me that much.
2) Brake aquaking. Again everybody and their mothers are having issues with their brakes. Again not bothering me a lot. I can fix them myself.
3) Vibration before the car shifts from 2nd to 3rd. Not much of a vibration but a humming noise where you can feel it in the pedal too and you feel like the tranny wants to shift, but kind of fighting or resisting. Its weird. I am only afraid that something can be wrong with the car. But its not like the noise is loud or something. I can feel/hera it when going from 0-25 mph slowly. When it gets to 25 it happens then its gone. I have a V6

Walhaddi, could it be the Active Noise Cancelation system that you are hearing? Just a thought.

No way, because I can feel. Its almost like if I was speaking to my tranny I will be like "Ok, its time to shift. Go shift.....shift" then it shifts.

By the way, how do you cancel this noise cancelation because I have no problem doing it. It won't cost me anything.

I myself own a new Accord. A lot of people here don't want to agree with me and I understand, but THE HONDA ACCORD DOES NOT HAVE GOOD QUALITY.

Checkout this site:
http://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Accord/2008/

Now on that site go see other cars. Search like the Fusion, Malibu, Camry, and any other car.

If you still don't believe the site, then search a car that is known for its quality issues like the Ford Explorer in 2002 (When I know was a bad car).

I believe my car has something wrong with the tranny. I was on the site and one guy was explaining his issue and thats EXACTLY what I am having. The tranny has 5 years of warranty and I doubt I will keep the car for that long.

If you have a transmission problem, why don't you get it fixed???????? :dunno:

As we Americans say, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink." :selavie:

If you have a transmission problem, why don't you get it fixed???????? :dunno:

As we Americans say, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink." :selavie:

Well, 1st I am not sure I have tranny problems. Until I drive one, I am just suspecting that I have tranny problems. I can't even call them problems because I can drive my car. Its just a humming noise and delay when shifting, but is that how this car suppose to drive.......I don't know. WHen I drive one I will then let you know.
But thank you for the useful information and the saying. I learned a lot from that.

Chrysler......those are the nicest people you want to work for because everything to them is fine.
I believe you when you make this statement, because I owned 2 of their products in the last 2 years, and that's why I have an Accord now!

I believe you when you make this statement, because I owned 2 of their products in the last 2 years, and that's why I have an Accord now!

Yeah I remember this Chrysler engineer and he was funny. We were working on the climate unit that goes in the middle of the dash and it was off. You can tell the upper gap is like twice as big as the lower gap.
He told me "I wish we can just shift the gaps and have the big gap on the bottom. That way its hard to see. I told him "We can do that if you want." He said "Ok" and we did it. Instead of fixing the problem we just fooled the customer.
By the way, know that these parts I am speaking about are CHRYSLER parts which means they are responsible for them not us. The parts that we make we fix. But what Chrysler gives us most of the time we have to "Make them WORK"

BTW, I think what you're experiencing, is a characteristic of the "VCM" in the V6 Accords. Look it up, lot's of V6 owners discussing this.

BTW, I think what you're experiencing, is a characteristic of the "VCM" in the V6 Accords. Look it up, lot's of V6 owners discussing this.

Can you please post a link to a thread or two where people are speaking about this VCM.
Honda really pissed me off with this VCM. First of all, I would have been ok with a regular engine than this VCM stuff. Tell me the vehicle will give me 25 mpg on the highway and I am ok with it, but at least give me the option to pick between a VCM option and without this feature.
I hope you are right and its the damn VCM.
For people that have no experience with VCM, don't believe anyone that tells you "You can't even feel it." I can close my eyes and tell you when it goes on. Is it taking away from the the "driving experience"? NO, but you can feel it.


Please feel free to link any threads where VCM is being discussed by drivers who got it.

I found this online:
http://www.hondaoldies.de/Korbmacher-Archiv/Technik/vcm.htm

It says it was designed for rapid switching at low engine speeds. Does that explain why I am hearing those noises when I am driving it slow? I think so, because if I just punch the car I can't really feel it that much.

But I can't believe people with V6 and this VCM tell me they feel nothing.

For people that have no experience with VCM, don't believe anyone that tells you "You can't even feel it." I can close my eyes and tell you when it goes on. Is it taking away from the the "driving experience"? NO, but you can feel it.

Please feel free to link any threads where VCM is being discussed by drivers who got it.
http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/direct/view/.f169a0d
Enjoy! You may want to start at the first post.

DELETED post

I have the V6 AT. No complaints. I specially enjoy the response I get whenever I want it. No Humming, vibrations or any unwanted or noticeable sounds. Just smooth like a very good scotch. JW Blue?

Can you please post a link to a thread or two where people are speaking about this VCM.
Honda really pissed me off with this VCM. First of all, I would have been ok with a regular engine than this VCM stuff. Tell me the vehicle will give me 25 mpg on the highway and I am ok with it, but at least give me the option to pick between a VCM option and without this feature.
I hope you are right and its the damn VCM.
For people that have no experience with VCM, don't believe anyone that tells you "You can't even feel it." I can close my eyes and tell you when it goes on. Is it taking away from the the "driving experience"? NO, but you can feel it.


I think this is Honda's way of proving that they are greener. The same engine that is used in the Accords is used in the new TLs without VCM, yet there is no significant change in mpg than the Accord. 26 mpg vs 29 mpg... hardly worth losing performance when you already own a V6 IMO.

Hey guy, if you dont like the car than get rid of it and buy a camry!

Hey guy, if you dont like the car than get rid of it and buy a camry!

...or something else. The 07+ Camry has had trans issues.

I think this is Honda's way of proving that they are greener. The same engine that is used in the Accords is used in the new TLs without VCM, yet there is no significant change in mpg than the Accord. 26 mpg vs 29 mpg... hardly worth losing performance when you already own a V6 IMO.

I agree. The VCM technology used is a bandaid until they retire the J-seris.

Also,- Lexus is ugly, but you drive a new TL?

I think this is Honda's way of proving that they are greener. The same engine that is used in the Accords is used in the new TLs without VCM, yet there is no significant change in mpg than the Accord. 26 mpg vs 29 mpg... hardly worth losing performance when you already own a V6 IMO.

What performance are you talking about?

Hey guy, if you dont like the car than get rid of it and buy a camry!

I already tried to get rid of it. The dealer gave me $23K for it toward a new Toyota. My car has 2,900 miles on it and I paid $31K. So what duma$$ will go for that trade.

I already tried to get rid of it. The dealer gave me $23K for it toward a new Toyota. My car has 2,900 miles on it and I paid $31K. So what duma$$ will go for that trade.

Thats why you don't trade a car in, of course they are going to try and take you to the cleaners... 'For Sale By Owner'.

With all due respect, you are trying to diagnose if there is a problem and what that problem is, etc. Comparisons to interior fit is not a fair analogy. Rather than continuing to follow the path you have, you paid for a vehicle that has a warranty...take advantage of that. Take it to the dealer with your complaint and get them to diagnose or inform you of "no problem found". Ask them the questions about why it is doing this and what is causing it and what can be done to fix it. You then have documented proof of complaint history. Let them do the work then evaluate their analysis and plan your next step, which should be complain directly to Honda if you are not satisfied.

I onlt talked about the interior because lots of people talk about how perfect the Accord is. Looking at the interior should tell you or give you an idea how much time and hard work was put in the quality and design.
Lets be honest, we will findout how this generation of Accord is in 5-8 years. But for now we can talk about the interior. Interior tells you a lot of things, but to lots of people its just plastic and vinyl and look good/bad.

But you right about the warranty, but let me tell you what happened to me the last time I went to the dealer.
My signal was flickering too fast. I went out and checked the front and rear siganls and were working fine. I took it to the dealer. The mechanic looked at it, then started tapping or hitting gently the headlight, then the tailight. I watched him the wholetime. He didn't know what was wrong.
Then the manager had the nerve to tell me "But what is the problem? The lights are working though?" I told him "Are you serious, you can tell its flickering faster than the other one. The car thinks a bulb is burned. The resistance the car sees is different than what it supposed to be man. May be its the wire, socket, bulb, can you check them?" He changed the bulb and the problem was fixed.
So, believe me the dealer will do whatever to make you think "ITS OK." I usually do my own research before I visit any dealer and when I do I tell them exactly what I want done and my expectations.

What performance are you talking about?

If I understood correctly, one of walhaddi's problems is that he can't feel the speed of the car change when he punches the gas, which I though of as being performance related problem.


It says it was designed for rapid switching at low engine speeds. Does that explain why I am hearing those noises when I am driving it slow? I think so, because if I just punch the car I can't really feel it that much.


In any case, I don't agree that 2 engines of the same make, one with VCM, one without, should get near he same fuel efficiency if it means that one is going to be slower than the other, aka have less performance. In this case, a 3.5L Acura engine without VCM vs. a 3.5L Honda engine with VCM.

I've driven both cars (TL & V6 Accord), and I've come to the conclusion that if you really wanna punch it, you need so stand by a couple of split seconds until that green light on your dash turns off to get the power that the engine was designed to put out. In essence, my idea of performance could be summed up as fuel consumption in relation to acceleration speed.


Also,- Lexus is ugly, but you drive a new TL?

I would classify that as personal choice, mostly. My signature used to be "Toyota is ugly, and only dicks drive Nissans." Ever since I got the TL I though it'd be funny to change the brands to their luxury counterparts.

IMO Lexus makes unattractive cars. Admittedly, the TL takes some getting used to in the looks department, but the interior is flawless. As opposed to the IS250 AWD or even the Lexus ES350, both of which look strangely disfigured. I can clearly tell that someone took the Corolla/Camry interior and just added some wood-trim to it. Plus, nothing like a controversially designed car that not too many people own yet to grab the attention of other drivers downtown :thmsup:

Thats why you don't trade a car in, of course they are going to try and take you to the cleaners... 'For Sale By Owner'.

Trust me I will never do that. If the economy was better then I would have posted it. I went to Autotrader and saw similar cars to mine and around $2 less than what I want. So, I will keep it for now. I just don't feel its the smartest thing to lose $8K on a new car. I guess I just have to learn from my mistakes.

In any case, I don't agree that 2 engines of the same make, one with VCM, one without, should get near he same fuel efficiency if it means that one is going to be slower than the other, aka have less performance. In this case, a 3.5L Acura engine without VCM vs. a 3.5L Honda engine with VCM.


Keep in mind that the Accord V6 (19/29 MPG) takes only regular unleaded while the base TL V6 (18/26 MPG) takes premium, so despite the small difference in MPG, the fuel costs difference will be more significant.

VCM has really only been good for a few MPG improvement in any vehicle it was put on. It was first introduced on the previous gen Pilot. The 4WD version was rated at 15/20 MPG, while the 2WD (w/ VCM) was rated at 18/24 MPG)... not much of an increase considering the lack of 4WD.

IMO, the performance difference is about as significant as the MPG difference. People have different preferences, so I can definitely understand some people's desire to have the ability to disable VCM.

I think as time goes on, car companies will start adopting technology like this to squeeze every last MPG out of the engine to meet the federal government gas mileage standard.

If I understood correctly, one of walhaddi's problems is that he can't feel the speed of the car change when he punches the gas, which I though of as being performance related problem.



In any case, I don't agree that 2 engines of the same make, one with VCM, one without, should get near he same fuel efficiency if it means that one is going to be slower than the other, aka have less performance. In this case, a 3.5L Acura engine without VCM vs. a 3.5L Honda engine with VCM.

I've driven both cars (TL & V6 Accord), and I've come to the conclusion that if you really wanna punch it, you need so stand by a couple of split seconds until that green light on your dash turns off to get the power that the engine was designed to put out. In essence, my idea of performance could be summed up as fuel consumption in relation to acceleration speed.



I would classify that as personal choice, mostly. My signature used to be "Toyota is ugly, and only dicks drive Nissans." Ever since I got the TL I though it'd be funny to change the brands to their luxury counterparts.

IMO Lexus makes unattractive cars. Admittedly, the TL takes some getting used to in the looks department, but the interior is flawless. As opposed to the IS250 AWD or even the Lexus ES350, both of which look strangely disfigured. I can clearly tell that someone took the Corolla/Camry interior and just added some wood-trim to it. Plus, nothing like a controversially designed car that not too many people own yet to grab the attention of other drivers downtown :thmsup:

I wasn't saying that I can't feel the speed when I punch it.
This is what I am saying: If I drive the car SLOW, then I feel and hear humming and slight very slight vibration in the pedal. Its easy to feel/hear this when you are driving the car slow.
Now if I drive the car fast and really step on the gas pedal, then the car drives just fine and smooth and I don't hear the vibration nor the humming is there.
But also, the humming and vibrations take place when the engine shuts down some cylinders and VCM goes to work. How I know that because the ECO light is on.
Lexus vehicles are not ugly. I work on the TL and I think that car is nasty from outside. I actually waited until I saw the car because I was planning on getting on. The interior is nice, but I think it has too many buttons.
I (My personal opinion) think Lexus is one of the best brands you can get if you want QUALITY and LUXURY and SERVICE.
Acura is good if you want a mixture of quality and sporty look.
There is a reason why you know when you say "Not too many people own yet" I have heard it from top Honda managers that the exterior design is not attracting a lot of customers. Its up to you to believe that though.

So you think the GS is ugly? did you drive a GS 350AWD?
What about the LS (Expensive I know, but still one of the best looking sedans I think)
The IS drives a little better than an EVO (Rough), but no where close to ugly.
I think the only "not attracting" Lexuses are the ES and that small SUV. The rest, I got no problem driving :)

Trust me I will never do that. If the economy was better then I would have posted it. I went to Autotrader and saw similar cars to mine and around $2 less than what I want. So, I will keep it for now. I just don't feel its the smartest thing to lose $8K on a new car. I guess I just have to learn from my mistakes.

The problem is that your car is too new... when the value takes the biggest hit. You have the right idea to just hold onto it until it makes sense to sell it.

DELETED my post....it was a futile attempt at logical thought and reasoning

I am happy for you man. Your car is is top shape. I have always thought I knew cars very well. Then when I started working in interiors there is so much things now my eyes catches which are nothing to a regular driver. I wish you were in Detroit so I can come and sit in your car and go over your car. Oh, there is another strategy car companies are starting to use and its the "Hide it with a design feature." I really don't want to sound like a smarta$$, but believe me get a guy from interiors and have him/her go over your car. I can tell you no car I have seen I can say is TOP NOTCH good except for Audi, and Benz. Just say the quality is decent and very acceptable.
As for the dealer, this is the only dealer that is rated or gotten the PRESIDENT AWARD. I heard 50 or 100 get it in the whole country. Plus, the next closer dealer is around 22 miles away where this one is 5 miles away. But remember I have only been once to the dealer.
I am a handy person and I am planning on fixing my own brakes. I will spend the $200 or whatever and fix my car no problem.
As for the tranny, a lot of people are having the same issue and now my theory is becoming a reality: ITS THE VCM ENGINE AND THATS HOW IT RUNS and I am ok with it.
I told you that it doesn't bother me so much, but feeling that something is wrong and it can breakdown later makes me worry. If thats how the engine is then I am ok. But I am still going through my own "investigation". I will be done when I drive one.
If I drive a new Accord and its the same as mine, then I don't know what I will say to the people that say "You can't feel anything."
I have done some research last night and some Ridgeline drivers, some Oddesy drivers and some Accords are saying the same thing I am saying.
By the way, it really depends how you talk when you go to the dealership. Believe me when they think or know you know what you are saying, then they will try what you are saying. If you just go and complaint, then it will be hard.
I have worked in plants where you have to deal with the Union, so I can convince people sometimes :)

I am a handy person and I am planning on fixing my own brakes. I will spend the $200 or whatever and fix my car no problem.


Considering you have a new car that's still under warranty, you really shouldn't have to spend anything to fix any problems. Granted, if you don't like taking it to the dealer nearby, then it may be worth it to you to just do the work yourself to save you the hassle of driving there, getting a free loaner, then coming back to pick up your car.

Considering you have a new car that's still under warranty, you really shouldn't have to spend anything to fix any problems. Granted, if you don't like taking it to the dealer nearby, then it may be worth it to you to just do the work yourself to save you the hassle of driving there, getting a free loaner, then coming back to pick up your car.

I love working on cars anyways. Brakes should take me no more than 50 minutes (Fronts) + another hour for Rears and I know the quality of parts in there is just priceless.
Once the squeaking starts getting worse I will complaint though. May be ask them to give me the parts too if possible (I doubt though) and I will turn around and just sell them online.

I just wanted to say this and this is as good a place as any. On a recent trip to San Diego I had the unfortunately luck of getting an '08 Malibu for my rental. Since it was a rental I'm sure it was close to base model but that car was the biggest piece of crap I have driven in recent years. I was never so happy to get back to my '08 Accord.

I just wanted to say this and this is as good a place as any. On a recent trip to San Diego I had the unfortunately luck of getting an '08 Malibu for my rental. Since it was a rental I'm sure it was close to base model but that car was the biggest piece of crap I have driven in recent years. I was never so happy to get back to my '08 Accord.

Oh, let me tell you what GM called the Malibu. hahahahaha
This is 100% true and TOP EXECUTIVES AT GM called the Malibu......You guys are ready?

THE CAMRY FIGHTER

Here is a quick fact:
Malibu volume = 120K/Year
Camry Volume = 350-380K/Year