CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2002 Honda Accord suffers from widespread transmission failure, subframe rust, & problems with the airbag system (SRS). We recommend avoiding this model year like the plague.
The transmission begins slipping & eventually has to be replaced, typically soon after 90,000 miles & with a repair cost of over $2,000. Transmission failure has been a huge problem for the Accord & several other Honda models all through the early 2000s model years. Honda extended the transmission warranty to 93 months/109k miles for the 2000-2001 Accord as a class action lawsuit settlement, but owners of other Accord model years with transmission problems are out of luck.
Subframe rust near the front passenger side wheel has become a problem recently, due to the poorly positioned A/C drain hose directly above that area. Repair cost to the subframe is over $2,000.
The SRS warning light likes to come on due to a defective seat belt sensor -- typically the driver's side. This sensor is covered under Honda's lifetime seat belt warranty, but some dealers charge a $100+ "diagnostic fee" or tell customers the entire SRS unit ($800) is bad.
I left work yesterday, filled up with gas, drove 15 miles to my home, got out, used my keyfob to lock my doors, and walked toward my house. The next thing I know my car cranks itself!!!! I turn around and my parking lights are on, radio blaring, and engine running. I am holding the keys in my hand. I do not have a remote starter on my car (I even checked the owner's manual to make sure)! My husband got in and used my key to turn it off. Weirdest thing we ever saw... its like a possessed "Christine" car! We can't get it to do it again. With gas prices like they are, I hate to think this thing would start up on its own and run my gas out. I could have a mechanic check the electrical system but don't want to spend the $$ unless it becomes chronic.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I left work yesterday, filled up with gas, drove 15 miles to my home, got out, used my keyfob to lock my doors, and walked toward my house. The next thing I know my car cranks itself!!!! I turn around and my parking lights are on, radio blaring, and engine running. I am holding the keys in my hand. I do not have a remote starter on my car (I even checked the owner's manual to make sure)! My husband got in and used my key to turn it off. Weirdest thing we ever saw... its like a possessed "Christine" car! We can't get it to do it again. With gas prices like they are, I hate to think this thing would start up on its own and run my gas out. I could have a mechanic check the electrical system but don't want to spend the $$ unless it becomes chronic.
- little lady, Section, AL, US