Honda Accord Issues: Know What to Expect

Your Honda Accord has always been your trusty sidekick. Smooth, reliable, comfortable. But like every hero, it’s got its kryptonite. From slipping transmissions to brake nightmares, even the mighty Accord has a few weak spots. So, what are these common problems haunting Honda Accords, and how can Cowden Automotive in San Francisco save the day? Let’s dive in, Daly City.

Transmission Slipping? It’s Not Your Imagination
Model Years: 2003-2007, 2013-2017
You’re cruising down the 280, feeling the wind in your hair. Then—bam—your Accord hesitates. That smooth ride just got a little bumpy. Sounds familiar? Honda Accords from 2003-2007 are infamous for transmission failures. Shifting feels off, gears slip, and before you know it, you’re in neutral when you should be accelerating. And it doesn’t end there. Even 2013-2017 models have their share of transmission hiccups.

The Fix:
At Cowden Automotive, we’ve rebuilt more Honda transmissions than we can count. It starts with a full diagnostic—checking fluid levels, inspecting solenoids, and looking for internal wear. Sometimes, a transmission flush or solenoid replacement can bring it back to life. But if your Accord’s giving you the full cold shoulder? A complete rebuild or replacement might be the answer. Feeling those slips yet?

Power Steering: Silent Whine, Major Problem
Model Years: 2008-2012
Ever wrestled with your steering wheel, like your Accord’s testing your strength? That stiff steering you’re feeling isn’t just a quirk. It’s a known problem in 2008-2012 Accords. A power steering fluid leak—thanks to worn-out O-rings and aging hoses—leaves you fighting the wheel. Plus, that high-pitched whine? Yeah, that’s your car’s way of crying for help.

The Fix:
The solution is simple, but it’s urgent. Cowden Automotive swaps out those cracked hoses, replaces those sad O-rings, and refills your system with the right fluid. We make your steering smooth again. No more arm wrestling. Are your arms feeling the strain yet?

Starter Motor Drama: Will It Start, Or Will It Stall?
Model Years: 2013-2015
Picture this: You’re running late. You jump in your Accord, turn the key… nothing. Not a sound, not a flicker—just dead silence. If you own a 2013-2015 Honda Accord, you’ve probably experienced this starter motor curse. One day it works, the next it doesn’t. The worst part? It’ll tease you. Click. Click. And still, no start.

The Fix
Here’s the deal: Your starter motor is shot. At Cowden Automotive, we know how to get your engine purring again. We replace the faulty motor, check the connections, and test it before you leave our shop. You’ll be back on the road, no more starting games. Ready for a reliable start?

Brake Pads and Rotors: They’re Crying for Help
Model Years: 2008-2012, 2018-Present
Brakes. They’re your lifeline. But when you feel that annoying pulsing under your foot, you know something’s wrong. It’s not just about stopping power—warped rotors and thinning pads are a ticking time bomb. In 2008-2012 models, it’s a frequent complaint. And guess what? 2018-present Accords aren’t in the clear either. Brake squeal? Vibration? You’re overdue for a checkup.

The Fix
Our experts at Cowden Automotive know what to look for. Warped rotors? We’ll resurface or replace them. Worn-out pads? We’ll swap those in no time. You’ll be stopping on a dime again, no more white-knuckle stops at traffic lights. How do your brakes feel?

Fuel Pump Failure: Starving Your Engine
Model Years: 2015-2020
Your Accord’s cruising down the highway, then suddenly… stutter. Rough idling, engine surges, or flat-out stalling. These are all signs of a failing fuel pump, especially in 2015-2020 models. The fuel isn’t getting where it needs to go, and your engine’s choking on the shortage.

The Fix
Fuel pump issues are serious business. At Cowden Automotive, we’ll replace that worn-out pump and ensure your fuel system is flowing properly. No more sputtering. Just smooth sailing. Has your Accord’s performance taken a hit lately?

Your Honda Accord is built for the long haul, but even the best needs a tune-up. Whether you’re dealing with slipping transmissions or finicky fuel pumps, Cowden Automotive in San Francisco has you covered. We’ve been serving Daly City drivers for years, handling everything from the minor to the catastrophic. Don’t wait for a small problem to turn into a big one—let us help keep your Accord running smoothly.

Need a fix? Our San Francisco auto shop is here for Daly City drivers and beyond. Book your appointment today. Ready to get your Accord back on track?