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2021 Honda Accord Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2021 Honda Accord Report

Overall Score

8.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Exceptional reliability with a 9.8 public score and no recalls or complaints.
  • Top-tier safety ratings across the board, including a 5-star overall score.
  • Impressive fuel economy, achieving 33 MPG combined.
  • The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine offers a good balance of performance and efficiency.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Honda Accord

The 2021 Honda Accord continues its legacy as a benchmark in the midsize sedan segment, offering a compelling blend of practicality, refinement, and value for the used car market. This generation Accord delivers a sophisticated driving experience, comfortable interior, and a suite of modern features. Its strong reputation for reliability and excellent safety scores make it a sensible choice for daily commuting and family duty. The efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides ample power while achieving impressive fuel economy, further enhancing its appeal as an economical used vehicle.

Critical Failure Risk

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid requires regular replacement to maintain its lubricating properties and prevent premature wear. Neglecting this can lead to transmission shudder or failure over time.

Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$300 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
33
MPG
City
30
MPG
Highway
38
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.6/ 10

Practicality

6.3/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Enthusiasts seeking high-performance driving dynamics.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Honda Accord Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Honda Accord.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
33

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Most Common Issues

1. CVT Fluid Degradation

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Infotainment System Glitches

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Washer)

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

Full FAQ

Is the 2021 Honda Accord reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Honda Accord is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Honda Accord for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.3/10. EPA combined economy is 33 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Honda Accord?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Honda Accord is 8.7/10. Overall score is 8.7/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.9/10. Practicality 6.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Honda Accord?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Washer) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: CVT Transmission (typical at 120,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,500 • Max: $4,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Honda Accord?▾

Base MSRP is $24,970.

What engine is in the 2021 Honda Accord?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Honda Accord use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Accord, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Honda Accord?▾

EPA combined estimate is 33 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Honda Accord?▾

14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Honda Accord?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Accord, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Honda Accord?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Accord, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Honda Accord use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Accord, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Honda Accord?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Honda Accord?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Toyota Camry and 2021 Nissan Altima.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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