What are the most common problems with the 2021 Honda Accord?

Exceptional reliability with a 9.8 public score and no recalls or complaints.

How many recalls does the 2021 Honda Accord have?

The 2021 Honda Accord currently has 0 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2021 Honda Accord a good buy used?

Verdict: Recommended. 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. Front-wheel drive ensures predictable handling in various conditions. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2021 Honda Accord?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2021 Honda Accord.

2021 Honda Accord Report

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

Updated Jun 6, 2026Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

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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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

Recall Campaigns0

Service Bulletins3

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

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

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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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

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

Is the 2021 Honda Accord reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Honda Accord is 9.5/10. Reliability score is 9.5/10. 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.