transmission problem
9.0
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,365.00
Average Mileage:
76,935 miles
Number of complaints:
69 complaints
Most common solutions:
- replace entire transmission (40 reports)
- not sure (11 reports)
- Honda to pay cost as this tranny was a previous recall (7 reports)
- Honda paid most of the cost to replace transmission (4 reports)
- i would like a recall and money returned. (4 reports)
- rebuild transmission (2 reports)
2008Apr 01
Accord EX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 60,675 miles
I was just driving down the road and while the car was shifting into 3rd gear, with no warning, it just went into neutral. I coasted to the side of the road, shifted into park, then tried to put the car into gear again. It took a few tries before it started shifting again. It happened four or five time while trying to make it back home. Everytime it happened, it was when the car was shifting in and out of third gear. I was worried it would happen again and not run anymore so I parked about a mile from home and called a tow truck to have it taken to a transmission shop. I only had 60675 miles on it. Honda was no help at all with the problem and wanted approximately $5000 to replace the transmission.The transmission shop was a independent shop, replaced the transmission which was ordered from the Honda factory, and was about a thousand dollars cheaper than the Honda Dealer. The transmission shop charged $3991.00 for the replacement including labor and tax. I doubt very much I will ever buy another Honda. I have had other problems with it also. We called the Honda Good Faith Line. They acted like they have never heard about the problem ever existing and showed no interest.
2008Apr 04
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
In February 2008, my radio/clock/HVAC display failed and went completely dark. American Honda did not recall this part because it's not a "safety issue," but recognized the problem by issuing an extended warranty on the part to 7 yrs/100,000 miles. Two weeks after I picked the car up, the 6 CD changer/player failed. Other than showing 5 CDs were in the machine, you'd never be able to tell that I had a CD player. It wouldn't switch to "CD mode" or load/eject CDs. American Honda agreed to fix the CD player under a "one time goodwill warranty" for customer loyalty. I'm still waiting to receive a shipment of the 5 CDs that were stuck in the player. One week later, the transmission failed without warning due to an "internal error." This IS a safety issue as the car cut out in traffic. It slipped at 75th Street and was toast by 80th Street. Despite an obvious problem with the transmission in this make/model (see the off-the-chart complaints listed on this site), Honda has not issued a recall. It did, however, stand behind the car by agreeing to cover most of the cost of the transmission out-of-warranty.
Honda has taken very good care of me on all of these issues so far. With that said, these kinds of problems should not be happening on any Honda with only 60,000 miles. I've driven Hondas for over 20 years and never had any problems come close to the ones I've had with this car (starting with replacement of an O2 sensor in '05). I'd steer clear of the '03 Accord and try an '05 Accord instead. Or a Camry.
2008Apr 18
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 104,435 miles
I don't know about everyone else, but I had heard about Honda's problems with their transmissions in the model years prior to 2001. They were supposedly worked out for all the models starting in 2002, which is why there was no extension of the warranty by Honda.
99% of all of my miles driven were on the highway as I commute to work and school. I have always been meticulous in keeping up with all the required maintenance and rotation of tires, etc. I had Honda's 90K mile service performed at 88K, were they changed the transmission fluid and gave the car a thorough inspection, and I was going to do the 105K tune-up service this month.
I had two days warning that my transmission was in trouble: the night before when I was driving home and my engine raced up to 6k rpm's twice on the way home; and the next day on the way back from a conference at UCLA when the transmission repeatedly slipped out of drive and I had to ride in the right lane with my flashers on for the last 5 miles as I limped into the dealership.
This experience has left a very bad taste in my mouth concerning Honda and their automatics because a good automatic should go at least 200k or more (provided you keep up the maintenance) before you should have anything approaching a catastrophic failure. The fact that Honda knows that they have a problem with their transmissions and are still making their customers pick up the tab makes me wonder if they give a damn about customer loyalty or are we so stupid that we will continue to buy their cars anyway.
If anybody is creating a class action lawsuit or would like to -- please let me know!
2008Apr 01
Accord LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
Like most people here transmission slipped on one day. Dealer tried to fix computer software update. But problem returned with more severity. By the time I got to the dealer it was not even shifting. Service rep at dealership is doing his best to get assistance. I called Honda and got a case number. I did perform the recall in '04. All maintenance was at dealership. So hoping for a favorable response from Honda. I cannot believe Honda put such junk in their cars. Will keep this updated.
2006Oct 18
Accord LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
I had the same problem as most people here back in 2006. I was driving on the interstate at 65mph and the car shifted into 3rd gear all of a sudden. The RPM shot way up, and I slowed down to the 30's or 40's pretty quickly. Restarting the engine would fix the issue for a few minutes, but eventually I got it to the dealer and got a rental.
I had the extended warranty and the dealer replaced the transmission within a week. So it only cost me $100 total.
A year and a half and 25k miles later, my drive indicator light is flashing. I've also seen the TSA light come on randomly as well. Apparently the transmission replacement had a 3 year 36k mile warranty from Honda, so I'm covered if the transmission needs replacing again. No out of pocket cost again, but I'm not sure what I'm going to do after this warranty expires. I really don't want to have to pay for another transmission.
2008Mar 28
Accord LX V4
- CVT transmission
- 81,638 miles
No gripe here - When this first happened I read everyone's nightmare. So, I prepared all of my paperwork and called Sloan Honda in Philadelphia, where I purchased the car. My car was 3,000 miles outside of the extended warranty. When the Service Manager called back he never hesitated. He told me he would cover 90% of the cost to install a new transmission. Out of pocket costs to me were $252.00. That included a 3 year / 36,000 mile warranty on the transmission. The key, they said, was that I had never missed an interval service in the 5 years that I have had my car. Not a bad deal and all I had to do is make 1 call to set up service. I'll buy all my cars from Sloan from now on.
2008Mar 21
Accord LX
- Automatic transmission
- 61,789 miles
I buy honda because of reliability. Now I second guess honda!
2008Mar 26
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 63,000 miles
I planned on taking the kids out for lunch, when suddenly my Honda felt like it down shifted to neutral on the hwy. I thought maybe I accidentally shifted to neutral because I drive with one hand on the wheel & the other resting on the shifter. So, I took my hand off the shifter and it did it again! This time it started revving high and clunking anytime I stepped on the accelerator. I safely exited the hwy and was glad traffic was light, it was still drivable, so I took it to the nearest Honda dealer which fortunately was not too far from where I exited. It was not my Honda dealer but I did not want to risk driving the vehicle any further & risk more damage.
I pulled up to the service bay area but the door was not opening, so I figured the garage was full and decided to park it in one of spaces next to it. Thats when I discovered my car would not REVERSE!!! It just revved and would not back up. I had enough room to drive it forward and make a tight turn to avoid hitting the building. I then parked and told the service tech what happened. They seemed shocked to hear that car would not reverse because that is a clear sign of transmission failure. I told them to test drive the vehicle & they were able to back out of the parking space but when they put in drive, the car lurched and clunked forward. They pulled it into the service bay and tried reverse again, it did not reverse!!!
I never had any problems with this car, I purchased it new, it only has 63000 miles, and I did all regular scheduled maintenance at the Honda dealerships. How could this happen, I told all my friends that Hondas were the best cars out there and was proud of this car, it never failed me until now. I was planning on buying a new 2009 Honda pilot for my wife but now am deciding maybe that's not a good idea anymore.
The service tech said they were going to replace the clutch solenoid because the computer said it was locked in the open position. This would cost me $630, but they said it would not guarantee it would fix the problem, it's just a starting point. They needed to special order the part and it would get there tomorrow.
2008Mar 18
Accord LS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
Failed on the expressway. Just like so many others.
2008Feb 04
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 85,755 miles
Last week on I noticed the that I would step on the gas, the car would not
accelerate, and the rpm needle would push to the red. This happened several times
over the next week and determined it was time to take my car to the Honda Dealer
to diagnose the problem. By the way I have taken my car only to the Honda Dealer
for any service or maintenance since I bought it new 5 years ago. On my way to the
dealership the car stopped 4 times over a 5 mile stretch almost causing an accident
each time. I was fairly upset since I had found this website a few days prior and
noticed that transmission failure was probably the obvious diagnosis. The day after
I drove / coasted my car into the dealership, I received a call from the service
representative saying that I would need a whole new transmission, rack and pinion
system and a brand new pump. The total cost with tax was going to be $5,354
which they were willing to pay for the parts but I would have to pay for the labor.
The good thing is that the parts cost $3,500 however I still need to pay the $1,854
for the service and labor. I called the Honda's Corporate office which I got from one
of the other postings from this site. Honda Corporate opened up a case for me and
now I am waiting to hear back to see if they can pick up any of the bill for the
service and labor. Basically they are saying that the transmission is terrible and
are willing to pay for it however the consumer is still obligated to pay for the service
and labor on a transmission that they know is terrible. To me this does not make
sense. If Honda is agreeing that the part was constructed horribly they should pay
for the part,service and labor of making my car whole again. The new and more
durable part should have been in the car initially. This is my second Honda and I
have always told everyone how good these cars were. I was wrong and have now
determined that this will be my last Honda. In my situation it would have been
much cheaper to lease a car every 3-5 years then continue to dump money into
a questionable product.
2008Feb 08
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,100 miles
MESSAGE:
Heather , sounds to familiar. do you have any solutions. I have 03 accord v-6 with automatic as well, the tranny stays in 3rd when in drive, no reverse,repetitive TCS light problem as well in past. it is a defect ! THANKS Mike
This was my reply!
Mike,
I am so sorry to hear about your problem. This has been an ongoing problem since about 1 yr in to the purchase of the brand new car. I complained several times about the TCS light coming on when I am driving accompanied by a grinding of what sounded like gears?????. The dealership failed to document all the times I complained about the problem until after the vehicle was out of warranty. I believe in 2004 there was a transmission recall on this car. However when I took my car in for the recall they told me that my car was fine and was not effected by the recall. The transmission recall called for a repair or replacement of the transmission. From everything I have read from other people and through research the repair of the tranny and the replacements are not correcting the problem either. In fact the repair, rebuild, or replacement of the transmission is not the problem it is the entire transmission that was designed for the Honda Accord V6 from what I hear. I have read similar problems and when the service dealerships are handling the complaints they act as if they are not aware of the problem, but just recently found out that upon the purchase of my car the dealership provided me with an extended 5 year/100,000 mile Power Train warranty, because they were aware of the problems with the tranny. The dealership has had my car for about 3 weeks now because we contacted Honda Corporation which provide no help what so ever. We took the car in because it felt as if the transmission was slipping. The service department said they found the problem and that is was a solenoid that shifted the car between 1st and 3rd gear, they charged me $445.82 and sent me on my way I drove the car about two blocks and the service engine light came on again. They assured me that there was nothing wrong with the car and that the problem was repaired. I took the car straight home parked it and drove it about 30 miles to have lunch with my husband. On the way the car appeared that the transmission was slipping again. Once we towed the car back to the dealership they informed us that the computer showed that the car was fine, but they did notice a shifting problem. After debating back and fourth for about three days, they told us that they did not know what was wrong with the car, but they would replace the transmission if we would pay 15%. We felt it was a problem that should have been repaired in 2004 or a good market value trade should have been offered knowing that they are not going to be able to do anything to repair the transmissions on the Honda Accord 2003 V6. After looking in to this further it looked as if they were offering the same option to others" a replacement transmission with a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty. Knowing that the transmission is only good for approximately 40,000 miles. When we talked to Honda Corporation they told us that they would pay 85% of the transmission and cover it with a 36,000 mile warranty. However when we went to the dealership they told us it would be a tranny replacement with the normal 12 month / 12,000 mile warranty. At this point my husband had to step in because my blood pressure was off the charts. He told them that we talked to Honda Corporation and of the difference in the warranties and after talking to whoever the service managers boss was, they agreed to 3 year 36,000 mile warranty, which we made them PUT IT IN WRITING!!!! My husband did advise them that there would not have been a problem had they actually repaired the problem we complained about to begin with. He told them that after the repair was complete we would be taking it up with the Better Business Bureau and more than likely we would see them in small claims court. That is where we are now, I was wanting to trade the car in about 4 months ago for a Honda CR-V, but have since decided that I will never own another Honda or deal with Urse Honda again. Good luck to you!!!!
Heather
2008Feb 27
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 56,000 miles
My 2003 Honda Accord almost killed me and i am terrified to travel with my kids in the car. I was head home from work when entering the 91s connector to I95 s when i gave the engine gas to get into the right lane to avoid a accident with another car the transmission slipped out gear and the car basically just made it over in front of the on coming car. This almost resulted in a rearend collision at a high speed. When i called the dealer ship to explained the problem to the service manger and mentioned this site with all the other complaints on it the shrugged it off and said that is not the case. My car is still currently at the dealer ship and i'm awaiting the results of their findings. I will keep everyone in this site informed of the out come. I have also logged a complaint with Honda USA. Hope my image of Honda is save by a replacing my transmission with minimal costs.
2008Feb 28
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
I too had transmission failure. Intermittent gear slipping 2 months prior. Took car into Honda and they dealer claimed they could not find a problem. They recommended to change trans fluid. after one week intermittent slipping again. Took car on interstate and after about 60 miles of highway driving the trans downshifted from what felt like 5th to 2nd at 65mph. If not for seatbelt I would have been thrown at windshield. I exited interstate and parked car. Would not go into reverse. After turning off car and restarting it went into gear. Took a chance and nursed car back home on back roads trying to keep the car from shifting. The dealer again said they could not find anything wrong.??? Honda Service rep recommended to strain fluid... they found metal particles. Ended up paying for labor only $900 and recvd refund on $200 trans fluid change from a month ago. My recommendation if you want to save a life..... if you feel your trans slipping do not have your car leave dealership until they replace transmission. Honda is one fatal crash away from major lawsuits as they continue to deny there is a problem with this transmission. Side note: I did get recall in 2004 for trans oil tube. Fix performed at 35,000 miles. My guess is they know of a design problem and all the recall did was delay the failure of trans until you get to the 80,000 mile range.
2008Feb 20
Accord ES V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,500 miles
Tranny failure on 2003 Accord w/67,500 miles.
Had it towed to dealer.....52 miles from home.......they are going to look at it today.
Fluid full, but burnt. After the tow truck w/the car on it left,I Googled 03 Honda trans failure, and was AMAZED at how many others have had the same problem. I called Honda USA,,800-999-1009, and asked about "GOODWILL REPAIR", and was given a case reference#. Car was bought used, w/25k. So I told them that I was never notified of the recall in 04. They claim that they didn't have my address, so they couldn't send me a notice. Anyhow, I got the ball rolling, and am yet to hear from the service dept. at the dealership. I'll keep you posted as things develop.
2008Feb 15
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
we buy a Honda because it will give us no headachessss .
Any resources for my 2003 accord tranny problem please contact me. Thanks and good luck
2007Dec 13
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
I own a 2003 Honda Accord and lately, I too have noticed that at 30mph, the RPMs will rev up to 4 and then kick back normally. I took the car into the dealership and they diagnosed the problem as a transmission slip at 2nd to 3rd gear. I didn't know there were so many problems with the transmission. My dealership has agreed to replace the transmission but are requested that I pay $800 in labor cost. I have contacted American Honda asking for a goodwill repair. They will have a representative contact me within 2 days. I'll post what the final repair costs will be.
There's definitely a problem with V6 transmissions and Honda should stand behind their transmission failure!! Where's the class action lawsuit?! I'm in!
2008Feb 07
Accord EX Coupe 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 79,000 miles
I received the recall notice back in 2004 (I think). I immediately brought the car into the dealership to have the transmission inspected. The dealership told me that the transmission was OK and that the cooling lines had been fixed. Apparently, the fix did not work as the transmission started slipping and eventually would not shift into 2nd gear. I brought the car into the dealership where they reviewed the repair history of my car. They saw that the recall work had been completed and would investigate the problem. To my surprise, they replaced the faulty transmission with a new one (not remanufactured) at no charge even though the car was way out of warranty.
A big thanks to Keyes Honda Woodland Hills for a job well done!!
2008Feb 07
Accord LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
Started off slipping when shifting slightly into third gear which I hardly even noticed. A few weeks later it started slipping shifting into first and second first thing in the morning, but after it shifted once it was fine for the rest of the day. Then finally it wouldn't shift above 2nd gear and the Drive light started blinking and Check Engine light came on. After turning the car off and on it would shift above 2nd finally and made it home, but it kept slightly slipping while shifting gears.
Took it to a transmission specialist and it failed so many of the electronic tests they had to take it apart to see exactly what was wrong. Now I'm looking at $2884.30 to have it rebuilt with a 2 year / 24,000 mile warranty (which I'll be taking advantage of several times I'm sure, at this rate). They say Honda refuses to sell this model of transmission new by itself.
Honda refused to help pay for it because the previous transmission recall in 2004 did not affect LX's and I did not have an extended warranty. They said I'd have to have the car towed to a dealership and only if I had the dealership replace the transmission they could open a case and I might quality for some sort of reimbursement, but it wasn't likely. Not a fan of dealerships.
I'm going to be sending them a copy of my bill and a nice angry letter once this is done though. This is my third Accord and will be my last unless I am reimbursed. This site clearly shows more and more transmission problems every year, I hope a class action lawsuit gets started.
2007Sep 22
Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 79,000 miles
Same problem as everyone else. Massive transmission failure at highway speed nearly resulting in major traffic accident. Dealer made some adjustment to repair price but still cost me over $2500. Even wrote to President of Honda Canada he feels this is not a serious problem and is normal failure. We need to get a class action suite going to address this issue. I had the transmission replace a drove directly to a GM dealer and traded for a 2007 Grand Prix with a 5 year 160,000 km. drive train warranty. NO MORE JAPANESE CRAP for me. I understand Toyota now has the same problems with the transmission on their V-6.
2007Dec 04
Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 93,000 miles
This is an interesting story about 2003 Accord transmission failures. I bought my 2003 Accord Navi EX V6 new in 2003. Overall, it has been a very good car. Runs great, handles well, excellent navigation system, very good audio system. It has averaged 24.5 MPG over the last 9,000 miles according to the trip computer. Today with 97,000 miles on it, it still doesn't leak a drop of anything on the driveway. All in all, a good showing.
I have had the car maintained as outlined in the owners manual, with the exception of the transmission. Instead of changing the fluid at 105,000 miles as the manual says, I had it changed every 30,000 miles at the dealership where I bought the car, Goodson Honda in Houston, TX.
At 93,000 miles I noticed that the transmission began making sluggish 2nd to 3rd gear shifts, taking about 3 seconds, which was unusual. I took the car to Goodson Honda to have the problem diagnosed. Goodson checked it out and told me that the transmission was failing and would need to be replaced. The service writer contacted Honda America on my behalf and convinced them to replace the transmission with a Honda remanufactured transmission at no cost to me. I was very pleased because the car was no longer in warranty.
Goodson ordered the replacement transmission and arranged for me to have a rental car at no cost for the time that my car was in the shop. About 4 days later, the job was completed and I picked the car up. As I drove away, I noticed that the replacement transmission made a very noticeable whining noise in the first three gears. I immediately returned to the dealership and had the service writer take a ride with me. He said that I was correct, the transmission was unusually noisy. Goodson contacted American honda again and ordered a second replacement transmission the following day. Another rental car was provided while my car was in the shop.
The second Honda remanufactured replacement transmission arrived a few days later and it was installed in the car. I picked up the car and the second replacement transmission also made a whining noise in the first three gears and it also made noise when coasting along with no throttle applied. I took the car back again & had the service writer ride with me and listen to the transmission. He agreed that the transmission was noisy but was concerned that Honda would not replace the transmission again. He said that Honda says that Honda automatic transmissions do make some noise and that some noise is normal. The noise I wa hearing was not normal. He suggested that I drive the car for 1,000 miles and that the noise would likely go away. I drove the car for 1,200 miles. The noise got worse. The transmission had starting making noise when it downshifted as I approached a stop sign or red light. You could hear it whine each time it downshifted through a gear one at a time.
Meanwhile, I received a call from Goodson Honda's quality assurance person wanting to know how my last service visit went, whether or not the problem was resolved, and if I was pleased with the results. I told her that the problem was not resolved and at that time I was not happy with the results.
That same day, I received a call from Goodson's Service & Parts Director who asked about the status of my car. I told him that the second replacement transmission was still making noises and the noise was getting worse as I added mileage to the car. He said that he would be interested in hearing the transmission himself. I immediately left work & took the car to the dealership so he could take a ride with me. We went for a ride & he agreed that the transmission was noisier than usual, but said that Honda says that their transmissions do make some noise. He did however offer to call American Honda & ask them to send us a third replacemernt transmission. He made the call and convinced Honda to replace the transmission a third time with another remanufactured transmission at no cost.
I asked the Service Director who remanufactures the transmissions for Honda. He said that they are remanufactured by Honda technicians at a Honda repair facility. I asked him what the odds were of getting a good replacement transmission this time were. He said that we would have to wait and see.
The third replacement transmission was oedered, it arrived and was installed in my car. Quite frankly, I was dreading picking the car up and finding the the third replacement transmission was noisy also. As I drove out of the dealership's parking lot, I was pleased to find that this transmission was quiet as it should be. I've been driving the car for a couple of weeks & it seems to operating normally.
In my opinion, this ordeal has pointed out four things:
1. Honda needs to address the reliability of its automatic transmissions. I say this because my wife's Honda Odyssey minivan also had a transmission failure at 33,000 miles. It was replaced by Streeter-Smith Honda in Conroe, TX under warranty. The remanufactured replacement transmission that was installed in the minivan was also bad and made a grindng noise in third gear. Streater-Smith replaced that transmission n with a second replacement transmission which has been OK.
2. Honda's transmission remanufacturing process needs improvement. Why should it take three different replacement transmissions to repair my car when two of the three were bad?
3. When you buy a new car from a dealership, you hope that they will be there for you if you have problems and that they will treat you properly when problems arise. In my case, Goodson Honda in Houston contacted American honda on my behalf three times and was able to have American Honda replace the transmission in my Accord three times at no cost to me. By reading some of the posts on this web site, I would say that Goodson's support was truly excellent. I would like to thank Goodson Honda, and particularly Dan Kraft & Alvin Blaker for their assistance in this matter. If you are looking for a new Honda in the Houston area, go see Goodson Honda on I-45 North.
4. Although I was fairly disenchanted with American Honda, in the end, they did come through and they stuck with the program to resolve the problem, even if it did take three transmissions. The repairs were made at no cost to me, and for that, I am grateful.
2008Jan 07
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 109,000 miles
Very bad, actually it is kind life and death situation. I was on New Jersey 615, less than one second car speed dropped from 60 mph to 45 mph. After another 5 minutes drive at 45 mph, all of sudden, it dropped to 25 mph. I see quite few people got same horrible experience (#6, #44, etc.). If I remember correctly, one say there is 18 wheel truck behind him. I strongly suggest we all report that issue to NHTSA. I did Honda emergency recall at 2004 due to transmission problem, obviously recall didn�t fix it. Either damage already done or the preventive approach doesn�t work.
I dropped my car at Honda dealer�s (VIP Honda, New Jersey) last Friday, because the check engine light is not on, it was difficult to figure out what�s wrong until today their mechanic drive with me again. Actually check engine light was on one time years ago (mileage 60000), and Princeton Honda fixed it by replace a sensor. But I have no idea if the transmission is OK or not at that time. Now I�m waiting VIP Honda talk to Honda Corp see what I can get. I replaced wiper motor once, window motor twice on that 2003 Accord. But transmission is different issue, 5 year old car shouldn�t have this kind problem, we all know Honda owner�s manual require transmission fluid change at 10 years or first 120000 mileage. Beside that, I think Honda should do a recall again because it�s really a safety issue.
2008Jan 07
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 109,000 miles
Very bad, actually it's life and death issue. I was on New Jersey county highway at
60 mile speed, one second it's dropped to 45 mile. After 5 minutes drive on 45 mile it all of sudden it dropped to 25. I see one complaint say when it happened there was a 18 wheel truck behind. I strongly suggest everyone in this thread report the issue to NHTSA,
2008Jan 16
Accord EX
- Automatic transmission
- 116,000 miles
I purchased a Honda because of it's legendary reputation for quality and reliability. The Transmission failed with 116,000 miles, all highway miles commuting. What happened to quality and reliability!! I will be dishing out approximately $2500.00 for a factory rebuilt. I will be calling Honda North America and sharing with them my thoughts even though I know I'm wasting my time. For whats it's worth I also let them know my next purchase will probably be a Toyota Camry.
2008Jan 12
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
I'm just going to add my name to the list.
After 75000 miles the transmission on my accord started failing. In 2nd and 3rd gear the transmission would suddenly drop out causing the RPMs to rev accompanied (of course) by a sudden loss of power.
Since it's out of warranty the cost to replace the transmission will top $4,000.00.
My whole reason for purchasing a Honda in the first place was to own car with a reputation for reliability. One that I could keep for years *without* needing major repairs early in its life. I have to say I'm feeling a bit ripped off at this moment.
2007Dec 15
Accord LX CPE V6
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
I bought this car new with only 102 miles in December 2005 from Atlantic Honda in Bay Shore NY. They advised me that this vehicle happened to be a hold over from 2003. I though it was a steal. Boy was I wrong. I get my car serviced from the same dealership every single time my car needed service on time. Never was I told about the transmission recall on the vehicle when I bought it. One day while driving on the Southern State cruising at 65MPH, my car shifted down and my car jerked almost to a complete stop. Luckily the car behind me had room to change lanes. I drove the car going 30MPH, while the RPM's were at 5000, immediately to the dealership. They did a diagnostic test and said there was no problem with the tranny. Since I was due on maintenance, I got the it serviced and had the tranny fluid flushed and refilled.
I thought everything was fine with the vehicle until 3 days later it happened again, this time with my son in the car. I brought the vehicle back to the dealership. At that time service rep Barry advised me that it sounds like the recall that was back in 2004. He advised me he will have it diagnosed again. He said the computers were down and I would have to wait until Monday (it was saturday) to get my car looked at. He said he couldn't give me a loner because I was not under warranty. I was forced to rent a vehicle for two days until I called him back because I couldn't afford a rental any further. He said being that the trouble was due to the recall he'd give me a loner. I thought everything was fine until 3 days after that he called me and told me the tranny was shot and it had nothing to do with the recall. He then said I had to pay $3000 if a wanted a new tranny or $2400 for a remanufactured one which I had no money for. He then said he'd let me keep his loner until he called corporate honda to see what they can do. They said they'd pay 70% of the cost for a remanufactured one and I have to pay the rest which was $800. When I went there to review everything, they had in their system that they were charging for a new tranny. I called corporate honda myself and they had no record of my case on file. They put a case in which I'm waiting for. Barry is now threatening to charge me storage fees and rental costs for still having their loner. What an a--hole.
2007Dec 23
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 97,000 miles
So it looks like my story is just like everyone else's. About a month ago, I noticed the transmission slipping once or twice. Then while driving home for the holidays, the car really started acting up. I'd ease on the brake and suddenly the car would slow down really quickly. Basically it was dropping into first gear. Then after I pulled over for a few minutes, and I pulled back out on the road, the car would not shift out of 1st. Pulled over again, couldn't get the car into reverse. Had it towed. Transmission specialist stated I needed a new transmission. Still dealing with the solution. My friend has the same car and my advice to her was get rid of it before it gives you problems!
2007Dec 20
Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
Experienced what appears to be a similar problem as several others on this web page. When pulling out onto a busy highway in Chattanooga, the car shifted from 1st to 2nd gear as usual. The shift from 2nd to 3rd gear not so smoothly. The engine simply revved to 5K and I realized the car had a problem. After letting off and making sure I hadn't knocked the car into neutral the second attempt to press the gas and the car began to pull as normal. Later that same evening, while running ~50 mph the car suddenly down shifted to 2nd gear without warning. The car would then begin to rev up as it failed to shift back into 3rd gear.
Had car towed to dealer and the verdict was transmission failure and that it needed to be replaced. I contacted Honda of America at 1-800-999-1009 and was assigned a case number. After several (4-5) days of leaving voice mail messages without response I finally spoke with a case mgr. After ~15 minutes of debating the AT fluid change schedule and whether it should fall under normal driving conditions (120K miles before AT fluid change) or severe driving conditions (60K miles before AT fluid change) I was able to convince the case mgr. that the transmission shouldn't have failed at 70K miles in either case. The case mgr. agreed and offered to pay 75% of the cost to replace the tranny with a remanufactured one (old housing with all new components) with a 3 year warranty. I will be out $675 maximum, but all in all I'm pleased since the car was past the 3 year/36K mile warranty. It is slow but definitely worth calling Honda of America and let them know you have read of several similar problems to get help from them.
2007Nov 15
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
If I didn't have the extended warranty this would have come out of my pocket. I had previously complained about the downshifing while exiting a highway it wiould suddenly downshift and slow the car down dramatically. They could not find the problem when it was under the standard warranty. So I was lucky I had purchased the extended warranty or I would have been out over $2,000.
2007Dec 24
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 99,000 miles
I bought my Honda thinking it would last forever. At least until I had the money to buy a better car. You hear that Honda's are long lasting cars but boy did I happen to pick to exact model that didn't live up to that hype.
First there was a transmission recall back in 2004. My transmission had already shown some signs of wear and was bothering me. So I was glad when I heard there was a recall and that they would take care of the transmission at no cost to me. I wouldn't have paid for it even if they made me. The car at that point had a little over 20,000 miles on it so instead of repairing the transmission they replaced it. Good, I thought.
December 2007. For the first few weeks I noticed that when I would put the car in drive after reversing the car would hang for a moment before engaging in drive. I shrugged it off. But it really started to happen on Christmas Eve. At first the car wouldn't engage the gears in drive but reverse would still work. To make a long story short the car died on the freeway as I was trying to go home. I waited 3 hours before I was home. I had the car towed to my dealership, Stevens Creek Honda. Jim Duffer the service technician said that he would do his best to see what he could do and what Honda Corporate could do. I was really upset and a little bit afraid because I knew a new transmission would cost a lot of money and that's something I don't have right now. Especially since I had 99,000 miles on it I thought there was no way Honda would cover it But I found this board and read some of the complaints. And from one of the posts I knew I could get Honda to foot the bill. So I waited and called back everyday to ask about my car and to see if they had heard from corporate. They said no. So the weekend goes by, and so does New Years. Still nothing. I called today, January 2nd 2008, and I was told that they still hadn't heard from the local Honda rep yet so they can do a thing. That means they can't even give me a loaner car. I had all week off last week so I didn't really mind but now I have work and it's a real pain to have to ask for rides and whatnot. So I decide to give Honda Corporate a call. I talked to a lady who opened a case for me and said they'd look into it but I shouldn't be expecting a call until this Friday or next Monday because everyone is coming off a vacation. But the next thing I know, five minutes after I hung up with Honda Corporate, Jim from my Honda dealership calls me and said that he got a call from Honda and that they were going to take care of 100% of the cost. Now I"m just waiting to get a loaner car.
To sum it up, Honda has disappointed me with the bad build of this cars transmission. Even though Honda pulled through at the end this will be my last Honda. Once the transmission gets fixed I'm trading this car in for something else. I can't and will not deal with this further down the line. No way no how!
2007Dec 10
Accord V-TEC V6
- Automatic transmission
- 50,331 miles
Overall, we are disappointed in the Honda, due to this major failure and the cost factor. I have previously had Toyotas (3) over a period of 26 years and never had a major issue.
THIS WILL BE OUR FIRST AND LAST HONDA
2007Aug 11
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
Obviously, this is an ongoing problem for everyone that owns this year/make and model but I will complain anyway. I own a 2003 Honda Accord EX V-6 coupe I bought new in Florida. I moved up to North Carolina for school in July '07. I had been living in Durham for one month when one day I decided I needed to go to Sam's Club for supplies. So I hop in my car and head towards 15/501. Just as I cross Mt. Moriah Rd, my car all of the sudden slams into second gear and almost sends my head into the steering wheel. I was going up a hill at the time so I foolishly thought, "Well, it's a Florida car, it's not used to hills". You'll believe anything when the alternative is a $3,000 transmission replacement. Well, I go to the top of the hill and the car went back to fourth gear and I thought, "Whew". Well, I soon as descended down the hill the car slammed back into second gear and every light on the dashboard came on. At that point I knew I was finished. So I pulled into Mark Jacobson Toyota dealership, turn the car off, and start it back up hoping this will help. Well, the transmission was dead. All I had was second gear. The car wouldn't even shift into reverse, it would grind gears. You could hear metal pieces bouncing around in the housing. So, I go into the service area requesting any kind of help. Well, their service guys are total assholes and refused to help me one bit. They wouldn't even help me push the car out of the parking spot, they just sat there watching me. So I push the car out myself and drive to Crown Honda of Southpoint in 2nd gear. At this point, I don't even care if I destroy the engine. So I pull in and they told me they would check the car on Monday. Well, Monday rolls around and they tell me I need a new transmission (for $3,100), but also that it's ridiculous that a transmission could die at 67,000 miles. So they take it upon themselves to call the main office and figure out this situation. They call back two days later telling me that Honda will cover all but $450 of the repair. At first I thought they should pay the whole thing, but the car is well out of warranty so I will take whatever I can get. It's been about 4 months and so far so good, although I am starting to notice some of the same warning signs that the transmission is probably going to die again. So what is the moral of this story:
1) This is an ongoing problem for Honda and make sure you call the main Honda office before shelling out $3,000 for a new transmission.
2) Apparently, a new transmission is not the answer as the warning signs of a dying transmission are returning
3) The service guys at Marc Jacobson Toyota are lazy jerks who won't help you unless there is money in it for them
4) The service department at Crown Honda of Southpoint is the best I have ever seen and I will always rely on them for all repairs. Thanks guys. It is not their fault if the transmission dies again. They can only place what Honda sends them.
5) Buy a Toyota (not from Marc Jacobson obviously). My dad has owned Toyotas all his life and they are problem-free cars. I have owned three Honda Accords in my life and this is the second transmission I have had to replace.
2007Nov 16
Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
So I have a 2003 V6 Accord Coupe. I purchased her used (only 1 year old) with 15k miles and with the intention most Honda buyers have… to have her last almost a lifetime. Over the past 3 years I commuted to work for over an hour for the first year and a half and only a half our for the last)… I now have just over 91,000 miles on the car.
Story:
Day 1 (Friday night)
So I’m driving a couple hours south to my parent’s house for Thanksgiving. About 40 minutes into the drive, my car starts with the same signs mentioned below… sudden jerking as if I slammed on my brakes and then floored the throttle… then the RPM’s revved up past 5-6 and I was only going 30 mph. After I pulled off the highway and received some advice to turn back and see a mechanic… I was unable to go in reverse. After I got a push from the station attendant I headed back north with my flashers never going over 30 mph.
Day 2 (Saturday)
Since my Honda Dealership was not open and I had hopes of heading home for the holiday week, I took it to Meinieke (the only open mechanic shop I could find). Even after dropping it off at 9 am… they were unable to figure out the problem before they closed.
Day 3 (Monday)
Meinieke: Diagnostic, flushing my transmission, diagnostic, checking electrical communication, repairing a sensor, diagnostic, deciding the transmission needs to be replaced… ~$900
Honda Corporate: After reading numerous message blogs about this situation call the 1-800-999-1009 number for Corporate Service. I speak with someone and plead my case. I am informed that I need to bring my car to a Honda Dealership and have them identify the issue for them to consider it. I contact my local dealership (I have received 1 service at) and they are pretty busy given the shorter week and most likely won’t get to it till Friday).
Day 4 (Tuesday)
Pick up car from Meineke and drive 20 mph to drop off at Miller Honda. Take a 7 and a half hour bus ride to my parents for something that normally takes 3 hours.
Day 5 (Wednesday)
Miller Honda calls and believes the Transmission definitely needs to be replaced. They still haven’t heard from Honda Corporate. I call Honda Corporate to investigate the situation. They claim they have not been contacted by Miller Honda. The representative is kind enough to have me give Miller Honda their number and have the ball start rolling. I also inform them of my prior services at Rossi Honda (when I lived in NJ).
Day 7 (Friday)
Miller Honda calls and said the case is moving. He has spoken with the rep at corporate. Honda Corporate Calls and said they are reviewing the case but I am beyond my warranty extension period and the case will be solely based on “goodwill”.
Day 11 (Tuesday)
I receive a call from Miller Honda who had been working with Corporate. While Corporate seemed reluctant, Miller informed me they had a strong relationship with the area rep and was adamant on providing me with this transmission at a discount. I had missed one service to have my transmission flushed and Miller was kind enough to insist it could be covered by the one done at Meineke. He informed me that Honda would be covering 100% of the cost of a re-built transmission ($3,900) but I would have to cover the labor for the installation. I was ecstatic. Sadly the labor and the initial diagnostic came to almost $800. Bringing my total to almost $1,700. Much much better then $5,600.
Day 14 (Friday) 2 weeks later
I picked up my car with the re-built transmission that HONDA COVERED FOR FREE!!!!!
Moral of the Story:
*As much as you feel it is expensive to have your car serviced at a Honda Dealership, the goodwill return of the company is WELL WORTH IT.
*When working with a dealership and corporate, STAY ON TOP OF THE SITUATION. Don’t wait for them… keep the ball rolling.
*Even if your dealership isn’t open on weekend, wait till Monday, I would have saved myself a lot of money by skipping the Meineike part.
Thank you Miller Honda!
2007May 18
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
I have just finished my 60K tune up. I have kept up with all the maintenance, oil change, ...... One week after my 60K, out of the blue when I was driving. I experience a slight shake from the car. Then it didn't happened. I was so close to house, I thought it would be fine. The next day I drove to work when I exiting the highway, all of sudden, there was another knock. This time was more serious. I called the bought that to to machine. On the way, it was almost a complete stop on the highway for a second. My safety belt pulled me back. Then the car went again. I was few blocks form the shop.
The problem is my transmission was in the recall list and Honda didn't do anything to replace it. It said that it was fine after examine the transmission at 30K.
I still believe the Transmission is defected. However, I know why they don't want to replace the transmission $$$$$$$$$
2007Nov 12
Accord EX 3.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
This is a follow up on my complaint form November 12th 2007.
We purchased our 2003 Honda Accord brand new from Schroeder Honda in Benton Harbor, MI and that is where the car was always maintained. I contacted the GM, sales rep and service rep and I hit a stone wall. Doug in service advised me that the car has 120K on it and it is not their responsibility to help in this situation. Apparently, all this time that we were advising Rick in service on the jerking issue between the 2nd and 3rd gear, it was never noted in their system and basically told us to get lost. The sales rep advised me to contact Honda myself but on his end there was nothing that they could do. I never heard from the GM.
I took the car to Fox Honda in Grand Rapids, MI. Pat in service told me that her manager, Brian Davidson, will contact Honda USA directly and get back to us to see if there is anything Honda can do for me. 24 hours later, Pat called me back and advised me that Honda USA will cover 75% of the cost of the transmission and labor and the new transmission will carry a warranty for 36, 000 miles. Total out of pocket $600 only.
I am very impressed that Fox Honda went out of their way to help me out while Shroeder Honda left me hanging dry. This is what I call service. Thank you Fox Honda and Honda USA.
Fox Honda: you just gained my business.
Shroeder Honda: My car will never be serviced at your dealership again and my next purchase will definitely not be from your dealership
Honda USA: I am very happy that you are taking care of your customers. We'll keep being loyal to the Honda/Acura brand.
It was a disappointment that tranny went out at 120, 000 miles but Honda made it right and I am a happy customer.
2007Oct 21
Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,700 miles
This is a follow up on my original complaint. My Honda dealer replaced the transmission in my 03 Accord and covered 90% of the cost. All was well for the first week then the indicator light on the dash that let's you know what gear you're in would start to flash when in DRIVE. No matter what gear you shifted to the DRIVE light would continue flashing until you shut the car off and restarted. One day no indicator lights came on. The next day the traction control light came on and stayed on.
I took it back to the dealer and they said it was just a loose connection. I'm not so sure and I'm not taking any chances. I pick up my new Nissan Maxima tonight.
Good bye Honda, never again.
2007Nov 12
Accord EX 3.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
We purchased our Accord brand new. It currently has 120, 000 miles, mostly highway since I commute 120 miles a day. All the recommended maintenance was done by the Honda dealership and the car was in great shape till the transmission gave up.
About a year ago, I noticed that the transmission was slipping between the 2nd and the 3rd gear. It started with a slight dip/jerk when the car was shifting from the 2nd to the 3rd gear. Each time the car goes into service, we advised the dealer to check on the issue but the Honda service dept could not locate anything wrong with the car. Last Monday, the transmission really took a turn for the worst. It was stuck in a gear and the RPM was hitting 6000 while the car was only going 40 mph. I would put the car in reverse and it would not move. It was as if the car was not even in gear. Once the car was shut off for 10 mins, it would reset itself but the same behavior would re-occur. I dropped off the car at the Honda dealership and unfortunately, it sounds like I need a need tranny. Cost of replacement: $3117.50. I am dumbfounded. Aren't these cars supposed to last forever or at least 200, 000 miles?
Anyway, the dealership is cooking a "deal" for me and I am waiting on the verdict. I also contacted Honda USA and advised them of the situation. I pleaded my case and looking for a goodwill from Honda. A case manager will be contacting me in 2 business days to let me know if Honda thinks I have a legit case.
It is very disappointing that the tranny went out on a car that has been dealer maintained since purchased. I love my Accord and I am hoping that Honda will do me right by covering most of the cost of the repairs since it seems to be a known issue. Time will tell....
2007Nov 06
(reported on)Accord EX V6 3.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
I have had my 2003 Honda Accord for only 8 months I brought it used. I thought I was getting a great car since Honda were suppose to be the best out there.My boyfriend thought my transmission was slipping 3 months After I had brought it, but when I drove the car I never felt it slipping because far as i could tell the car drove good. But to make a long story short my transmission went out 5 months later. I took it to the Honda dealership for the recall that I never knew about until I read this site and the man told me that the transmission had burnt out and it wasn't because of the recall. So they would not fix it and i had to pay out of my pocket. I believe that my transmission did burn out because of the recall on the second gear. I owned a 2001 Honda Accord before this one and i never had problems with it. The display light on the radio on the 2003 Honda Accord keeps gong out and this will be my third time replacing it. The next time I buy a car it wont be a Honda.
2007Oct 31
(reported on)Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 55,350 miles
Well, I just had my car serviced at Honda for its 55000 mile check up. Went in working fine and now 350 miles later the transmission completely slipped. I thought at first when I first heard the revving that I was imagining things as I just had it serviced. They gave it a transmission flush and a new throttle body. Well, wish I hadn't had it serviced because it left me sitting in a parking lot. Now I have a big bill coming.
2007Nov 02
(reported on)Accord ES V6
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
The extended warranty company added 10 days to the repair process.
I had to pay for 15 days of rental fees, the warranty co. paid for 5 days.
They did pay for a rebuild transmission to be installed.
Honda warranty covered up to 50000 miles. It took several days to hear where the noise was coming from, by the time I got to the dealer it had aprox 51000 miles.
I trust no car to last for ever, and that is the reason why I purchased the waranty for the Honda.
From now on I will only purchase the Manufacturers extended warranty.
2007Oct 24
(reported on)Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,700 miles
My wife first reported something wrong with our Accord about a month ago. She didn't describe it very well so I used the car the next two days and nothing seemed wrong.I had taken the car back for the 2004 quick fix recall and hadn't given it a second thought.
We just got back from a two week vacation on Friday, had driven about three thousand miles without a problem.
Last Sunday night on the NJ Turnpike in heavy stop and go traffic we had a problem. I would step on the gas to accelerate and the engine would rev and go nowhere. It would then slam into gear almost putting your face in the windshield. I managed to get home but it was definitely a scary ride.
I called for a service appointment on Monday morning and then Googled Honda Transmission Problems. I had no idea the problem was so wide spread.
I found a Honda Contact number on this or another website and gave it a call. I explained my problem and said I didn't think it would be fair for me to pay for any necessary repairs since Honda is well aware the problem exists. The woman I spoke with was very nice and said she would contact a regional service rep and have him contact the dealer and then get back to me.
I dropped the car off this morning and just got a call this afternoon saying, yes, I need a new transmission and Honda will pay 90% of the cost. My cost will be $269.00. I think that's a pretty fair deal.
I would urge anyone having the same transmission problem to call the 800 number and calmly explain your situation. It can't hurt.
2007Aug 27
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 66,487 miles
Car started revving high while I was driving at 80kph (50 mph). Problem stopped after turning engine off and letting it cool. This was on a Saturday. The car's performance profile had changed and it was dragging when I stepped on the accelerator. Took it to Honda on Wednesday and they could not find anything wrong. Honda asked that I return the next morning to show them how the car performed when the engine was hot. That evening my wife drove the car to the chiropractor. On her way home the car started "acting up" and jerked her neck. She is still in pain. Took the car to Honda the next morning (Thursday) and it had the check engine light on. Halfway to the shop the drive light started flashing and the car started jerking like a bumper car. Asked Honda to replace the transmission on warranty because it had just passed warranty by 7000 km (4349 miles). Furthermore, there had been a recall on the transmission which MAY have required a replacement. However, Honda added a pump instead of replacing the transmission. I contacted Honda head office because a transmission failing with such low mileage is ridiculous. I have been without a car since Thursday and the dealership has not made any attempt to provide a complimentary vehicle although I have asked several times. The service rep thought the problem was a failed solenoid that was stuck open. Really now? They replaced it and the vehicle was still not working. The cost was $500 and they claim that I must pay for the item. Really? How about replacing my original part seeing that there is nothing wrong with it and only charging me the $100 for the diagnostic labour? The service rep started offering an used transmission. I stopped him and asked for the price of a new one because this on is on Honda. It will take a week to get the new transmission from Japan and 12 hours to install the transmission. The cost is approximately $6000CDN (5500USD)
I notice that there are no transmission complaints on this site for the 2004 Honda Accords... hmmm. It looks like a case of bad engineering on the first batch for the new model which debuted in 2003.
2007Oct 13
(reported on)Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 99,430 miles
my wife and I bought a 2003 honda accord V6 fully loaded with NAV etc. We bought it with 69,000 miles a now a year and a half later at 99,430 miles the transmission failed. So we have to pay over $2500 to replace the whole unit. If honda toke so much so called pride in their cars they would have a longer warranty. It's such a shame! As far as I'm concerned the car is trash, I will never buy a used or new honda again.
2007Sep 10
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 75,500 miles
I bought my Honda based on the thought it would be reliable. Well have I been wrong! My transmission went out at 75500 miles right after the standard warranty expired. Luckily, I was able to get a REBUILT transmission through Honda (with some out of pocket expenses of course). That transmission went out within about 5 months!! What a piece of crap. We have had other problems with this vehicle as well (radio backlight and gas tank leak, which we have to pay for out of pocket, $400 and $1600) Needless to say we are not happy with this vehicle.
2007Sep 07
(reported on)Accord EX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 107,000 miles
My wife went to Philadelphia for a class in CT, and the transmission went out leaving her stranded on the turnpike at 11:30PM. After towing it to the dealer, we were told that the transmission needs to be replaced and that would cost $4000. She has to rent a car until this is settled. Does anyone know what position Honda takes on this? This was supposed to be a great car that lasts 200,000 miles. We took good care of it. This is my first foreign car, and expected better than this from Honda, but after reading the reports, they should issue a recall. I think a lady stranded on the turnpike at 11;30 at night is a safety concern.
2007Sep 06
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
I read the messages as well as others on other sites. There was one comment on this site that listed everything, small and major that happened to my car I felt like i wrote the comment my self. My car is the EX 03 Honda Accord Coupe V6. It is no coincidence that all of the same cars, same years with low mileage are having the same problem. Honda has this Rep to be the best car you can buy. They last so long people all say. In 2003 they made a whole line of cars with bad transmissions. Every one that has bought a car was always told that a transmission problem is the worse thing that could happen to a car. If Honda would have done a national recall on all of these cars their REPUTATION would have been out the window. So what they did was recall the cars for what they called was a product update to the transmission this was to prevent this problem from happening. What it really did was prolong the problem so that the transmission would at least last through out the 36,000 mile or three year warranty. Now, the warranties are going out and within less than 5 year but longer than 3 the TRANSMISSIONS are completely failing. Something is not right....... My mileage is at 59,000 and I got my fluids change as per the recommendation of the HONDA service Techs. Two days later my car is jerking not going in reverse, getting stuck in the 2nd gear and slipping out of the 3rd gear without notice. This is very dangerous when traveling the highways of Houston. Honda needs to be exposed they would rather risks their customers lives and peoples financial stability than risk and ruin there REP for selling GOOD and LONG LASTING cars. WHAT A JOKE!
2007Sep 06
(reported on)Accord V6
- Automatic transmission
- 87,000 miles
I was with my wife and went to pull out into traffic. The car lurched forward then just reved but there was no transmission. The oncoming cars had to slam on their brakes. We were almost hit! I had to roll back off the road. Then at a stop sign I could not proceed. The engine would rev up but the car acted like it was in neutral.
I took the car to a Honda dealer, and opened a case with American Honda asking for a "goodwill coverage". They are paying about $600 and I am stuck paying $2000 out of my pocket.
There is no recall on these transmissions as there is no safety issue. I guess me and my wife getting killed is ok with Honda.
2007Jun 11
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 88,700 miles
My 88,700 mile 2003 EX V6 Automatic Transmission Accord started experiencing violent transmission problems, identical to many of problems described by others.
This started off as very rough shifting into third gear where the car would accelerate through second, the RPMs would flare to 5,000+ and then it would jerk and shake into 3rd gear. When in 3rd, the car would shudder as it accelerated.
The problem grew to shuddering and terrible shifting both into and out of third gear and then spread to all gears.
The worst point came when I was on the highway, cruising at a steady 65mph and the car downshifted several gears. The deceleration was so dramatic that my tires screeched and I was jerked forward, almost into the steering wheel. Thankfully, nobody was behind me, because if they were, they would've definitely hit me.
All of this happened in two days, over the weekend while I was driving to my destination, then home and on the way to the dealer. Prior to this, my car has been performing flawlessly and I had previously had a transmission fluid change around 42,000.
While I was experiencing these problems, I added SHICK 50 transmission treatment--this helped for 30 minutes. Then the next day I added 2 quarts of Transmission Fluid, this helped for a short while.
I was fortunate enough to have the problem reproduce itself when the service rep went for a ride with me. He felt the shuddering and violent downshift. With that alone, they were able to conclude that the trans was shot. The one comment the service rep did have is that when you turn off the car and turn it on again, you restart the computer which helps with the rough shifting. This is true. The car did perform better for the remaining 45 seconds that we rode together. Nonetheless, the problem would have likely come back had we driven around for a few more minutes.
Honda first offered to split the cost of the repair 50/50, but with only a small bit of negotiating, Honda agreed to pay for the entire transmission replacement. The replacement is a "RE-MANUFACTURED" transmission in which all parts are new, with the exception of the case. This comes with a three-year, 36,000 mile warranty on parts and labor.
Overall, I'm disappointed at the quality of the transmission. I NEVER thought I'd have trans issues with my Honda. Nonetheless, they made up for it with their quality service.
2007Jun 21
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 55,000 miles
I bought my Honda Accord Coupe V6 used from a dealer it had a clean title one owner and was a previous lease vehicle. I have had it less than 90 days when the transmission began to slip. I immediately took it to a certified mechanic who diagnosed the transmission as being bad and in need of a replacement. I then found out about the recall on the '03 Accord V6 transmissions. When I phoned Honda customer service about the recall they told me the vehicle's transmission had been serviced once before but not replaced due to this they said they were not able to cover any other repairs due on the transmission. I find this absurd due to the fact that Honda has recognized the transmission to be faulty and publicly issued a recall. The transmission should be replaced at the expense of Honda due to their faulty transmission. If any one else has had the same experience please contact me at bonnidee2002@yahoo.com thank you.
2007Jun 24
(reported on)Accord EX 2DR 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
bought the car through private party (big mistake) i thought i wouldn't have problem due to the history i've had with Honda's. owned two previous 1=212,000k, 2=220,000 and both of them i beat to crap and still asking "what else you got?!?" i did my research on the car before buying and didn't find any problems. After purchasing it the previous owner pulled the records to show me that the vehicle was maintain for it's whole life @ a Honda Dealership and was purchased as a certified used honda by him as well. after driving for A DAY i get off the highway and the car down shifted and jerked hard as if i slammed on the brakes while coming to a stop light. It was stuck in 1st gear and wouldn't shift out of it even when putting the selector into 1-2-d- or OD (automatic). after parking it, it wouldn't shift into reverse and thats when i knew for sure the tranny was shot. I had it towed into honda and needed to replace tranny for $3,300.00!! Honda of course says they never heard of this problem. i go home and type in "2003 honda accord transmission problems" and find this website. its too bad that you can only find this website when typing in those words because i know i will never feel secure with this car when the last thing you expect to break in a car is the tranny especially in a HONDA with 60k on it, i'm sure that a KIA would last longer. It may die after 100k but at lease it made it to 100k not much to say for the lemon i bought. very angry and Honda should feel embarrassed for putting such crap on the market, i wish i could put a '06 tranny in or something because there is an obvious prob with the '03-'04.
2007Jul 10
(reported on)Accord EX V8
- Automatic transmission
- 80,500 miles
Total transmission failure. What is scary to me is this happens with no notice. Car worked fine for 80k then the next thing you know the engine RPM Jumps to 5-6k and the car jumps in and out of gear. Luckily I was about 4 mi from the honda dealership. It made it there then died, no fwd or reverse. Extended care is picking up the whole thing.
2007Jul 11
(reported on)Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 198,000 miles
I guess I can join the crowd. Purchased the accord due to quality rep.... Had to have the first transmission replace under warranty at 32,000 miles. I travel on the road for a living, and after 160,000 miles on the "second" transmission; it failed and left me stranded in the middle of the mountains in TN. I was nearly run over by an 18 wheeler. They are quoting me $3200 to replace it, and are having problems finding a transmission. Does that tell you something??? No replacement parts to go around. Will never buy a Honda again. Do you think I'll have any luck w/Honda on some reimbursements???
2007Jul 21
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
Just got a call from my girlfriend that my car broke down in the mountains of Tennessee. Same complaint others are having. You get plenty of RPM but the car barely moves. It's already cost me $150 to tow it to Rusty Wallace Honda and another 200 or so for a rental so she can get back home. If it only broke down near home I would be happier. I am kinda scared from what people are saying it's costing to repair. I will definitely be calling Honda about this issue to see if they will split the costs.
2007Mar 29
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 71,000 miles
So far the honda dealership is requesting $90 to figure out whats wrong... the tranny is blown thats whats wrong. they are telling me so far its out of warranty and its not up to them its up to honda... they don't seem to stand behind their cars.
I'll let you know the outcome
2006Oct 11
(reported on)Accord EX
- 30,000 miles
Car wouldn't shift out of 2nd. I pulled out onto a major highway (with cars coming) and the car shifted into neutral. That could have been really bad. I do have to give Honda cudos on this one. They fixed it and gave me a rental to drive around. Although once again, performed poorly on communication.
2007Mar 08
(reported on)Accord EXL 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 49,000 miles
I previously owned a VW that had a bad habit of acting up and spending weeks in the shop. So, after consulting with a few Honda-owning friends, I decided to trade in my beloved Jetta in hopes that an oil-change-only Honda Accord would fair better. To my disappointment, I have had far more problems with my Accord in the 25 days that I've owned it than in the 7 years I owned my Jetta. Within 15 days of purchasing the Accord my brakes failed, my suspension "froze," and my transmission failed. AAA towed it to the dealership, where it took them a week to put in a "new" transmission (by the looks of it, the thing has been to hell and back) and refused to supply me with a rental car. They also found a problem with the suspension that they claimed to have fixed but no problems with the brakes.
In the 3 days since I've had my car back, the transmission is hinting at failing again, it pulls horribly to the right when the breaks are applied, I have gas in my oil pan, oil leaking out of my intake manifold, and it whines like a diesel bus when accelerating, among a few other problems that don't necessarily pose a horrible threat to safety. Those problems were all found by simply lifting the hood and looking - Lord only knows what I'll find when I actually have a mechanic pull the car apart and search.
All in all I want nothing more than to get rid of this car. I've had to put my life on hold and have had to add almost an hour to my morning commute just to ensure that I'll have time to pull over and deal with the car malfunctioning and still get to work on time. That's not exactly why I bought the car...
This is the 3rd car I've owned in my life and by far the worst. Not only am I disappointed that the all-mighty, reliable Honda has made such a horrible car, but I'm also disppointed that the dealership tells me I'm lying about these obvious problems.
2006Jul 12
(reported on)Accord EX
- 56,600 miles
After owning American cars my entire life and having many problems with quality, I decided that I had had enough. I chose a brand new 2003 Honda accord EX (known to be an icon of reliability). Up until this past weekend, (7/9/06) I have had good luck with this car. At 56,600 miles and all service records from the dealer complete I had been enjoying this car. Now comes the incident which could have taken my life!! While in Los Angeles, I was approaching the entrance to the 405 freeway(probably one of the busiest freeways in the world), when I felt the car hesitate and lurch a couple of times as if the engine was cutting out. I decided I had better get to my destination as soon as possible. While on the freeway, the car seemed to shift harder. As I was traveling at approx. 65 MPH, with no warning both front wheels LOCKED and I skidded to a stop in the middle lane of the freeway! My life flashed before my eyes. I don't know how I WASN'T involved in a major accident. I managed to limp to the exit where the car expired. It wouldn't start or move. I thought, thank goodness I purchased the extended warranty! If I had been hit by other cars, Honda would have been staring at MAJOR lawsuit! The Honda dealer has informed me that it was a "total transmission failure" and they would be installing a "remanufactured" transmisson. So now I am getting another persons old transmission that has been fixed up! This really makes me upset and uncomfortable about this car. How can I trust the Honda name and reputation. Does Honda know that lives are at stake here??
2007Feb 27
(reported on)Accord EX 3.0 V6
- Automatic transmission
- 58,000 miles
As with other people with the same car, I was driving on the Highway at 60 mph and the transmission went from 5th gear to second gear. This happened twice in one minute. My passenger thought I slammed on the breaks while driving for no reason. I realized after that we could of been killed by getting rear ended. I got off the highway going very slow. Then the car would not go in reverse and I realized it had to be the transmission. I had it towed to a Honda Dealer I work with. Unfortunately, the dealer couldn't find the problem at first. However, the service guys at this dealer are much better than others and kept the car for a week, taking it out daily until the problem happened again. Honda replaced the entire transmission at their expense. While my dealer was great, my concern is if Honda is aware of this? Will it happen on the new transmission? And the fact that how the transmission failed was absolutely so dangerous.
2007Feb 20
(reported on)Accord ES 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 64,000 miles
THERE WAS A RE-CALL WHEN THE CAR WAS 1 YEAR OLD. HONDA REPLACED SOME INTERNAL PART. THE GEARS WERE SLIPPING SOME MONTHS AFTER AND RUSTY WALLIS HONDA "DOWNLOADED A SOFTWARE UPDATE." GEARSBOX STARTED SLIPPING AGAIN AND FINALLY WENT OUT COMPLETELY, LEAVING ME STRANDED ON A DALLAS FREEWAY IN AN AWFUL NEIGHBORHOOD. THANK GOD FOR TRIPLE-A. NOW REALLY, 64,000 MILES AND THE TRANNY GOES TOTALLY OUT? THERE WAS A PROBLEM ON THE '03 MODELS AND THE DEALER, RUSTY WALLIS, HAD TO KNOW ABOUT IT. SOFTWARE UPDATE MY BUTT.
2007Jan 30
(reported on)Accord LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 97,000 miles
Driving north from Toronto the rpms jumped to 7000 and the car slowed down. Got to the shoulder of the highway luckily I was in the next fair sized city when this happened (Barrie, ON). Got CAA (AAA) to tow me to Barrie Honda and was back on the road in a rental in less than 1.5 hrs. If this had happened another 100 miles north (I was on my way to Sudbury for business) I may have turned into a popsickle by the time someone got to me. The temperature was -6 degrees last night in Northtern Ontario. I just got my LCD screen replaced as good will gesture by Honda Canada and have placed a phone call to them regarding this. I'm guessing this could cost $2000. All my service has been done at Honda and I just had my expensive service done with a transmission check. I love the car but it is becoming a money pit.....
2007Jan 03
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 35,000 miles
They replaced it under warranty.
2006Nov 15
(reported on)Accord EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
It's really frustrating that you buy a car that is supposed to be so reliable but turns out to be a clunker in a new body. May be I'm being a little extreme but from my experience it has been one thing after another even though you follow the suggested maintenance. I have never seen a transmission fail so fast. I had the recall fixed approximately one year ago. Now granted, I never had a problem before the recall. The first symptom was that the transmission slipped while driving, seeming as if you put the car in neutral, it eventually shifted back in gear. The next day, I planned to drive my car to the dealership to get it checked out, but my transmission did not last that long. I was fortunate that I was able to creep my way off the interstate but could go no further. I got my car towed to the dealership. I guess the service people didn't believe that my car was having problems even though it was dropped off on a flat bed tow truck. A few hours later, they took my car for test drive, as you can guess, the transmission failed on them. The only thing I can laugh about is that they had to push it back to the shop, feel a little of my pain. I asked the service manager if this has ever happened before. According to him, this was the first time. I guess he is not be aware of this web site. I strongly believe that the corporate office is fully aware of the problem but as much as possible trying to avoid the liability, leaving their customer screwed. As far as I am concerned, anything less than 100% of the cost to fix it is not enough. It would take a miracle for me to buy another Honda.
2006Nov 17
(reported on)Accord EX 3.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 34,000 miles
I bought a 2003 Honda Accord EXL from Superior Honda in Omaha, NE. When I went to pick up the vehicle after signing paper work, it had a nearly flat tire and the gas gage was below empty. Well done, Superior. But that's fine. In 3 months I have had the car serviced 4 times. Two thing were on the inspection checklist as having been checked but clearly were never checked. Still, that's fine. On my way to Minnesota from Omaha, the transmission started to go out. I was in the car with my wife and daughter and the temperature was freezing. We made it to our destination 6 hours away but we just barely made it. I drove the car the next day the the transmission went out completely. No gear would engage. Spent 3 hours on the phone with MN HOnda dealerships trying to get car fixed on a Saturday. No one was open for transmission repairs. I got the car into a dealer on Monday, missed a day of work, but I got a rental car which Honda has agreed to pay for and they finally agreed to pay to have the car towed to their shop. I haven't picked up my car yet so we'll see if they really pay. In any case, I called Superior Honda in Omaha, NE to see if they could get the car to me in Omaha so I wouldn't have to spend 12 hours in the car on Saturday. They literally laughed at me and said they were under no obligation to do this. This may be true, however, the customer service was very poor. The sales manager, Jay, was very rude and finally transfered me to the service manager, after telling me numerous times that I never should have been transferred to him and telling me that they were "under no obligation" to help me. Well done Jay. As I have only had the car 3 months and have had numerous minor issues with the vehicle, a broken horn, TCS light won't go off, etc. I was getting very mad but remained calm on the phone when transferred to the service manager. He had a bit of customer service skill, but was very interested in proving to me that I had no legal action against them. When I said that the very least customer service they could provide would be to pay my gas to and from MN to get my car, he said that he doubted they would do that but he'd ask his manager. That never happened. 3 days later, I'm stil waiting for the call.
I called MN and the transmission will be covered under the warranty. This whole experience has made me sick. I have considered getting a lawyer and demanding my money back; initial purchase price plus tax, title and license. But I really like the car. If anything else fails, I may persue legal action. In any case, I would stay away from Superior Honda in Omaha, NE.
2008May 11
Accord EX V6
Pile on another Accord transmission failure. Bought EX V6-MT less than a year ago as a lease-return, so it had a full maintenance history for it. No problems at all; even had the 2005 2nd gear transmission recall check done. After normal highway driving, transmission slipped out of gear and would had very high RPMs. Diagnosis is a full replacement of the transmission.
weezyalph
Beltsville, MD, USA
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