Faults:
Replaced the radiator.
Both front suspension springs cracked and replaced.
Had rust repaired on backside of both rear wheel wells.
Ended up replacing entire exhausts system from manifold to back (expensive).
Automatic antenae bent and now replacement keeps coming out, I drive without it and plan on disabling motor and installing simple manual antenae.
Engine wouldn't start when hot and replaced main relay.
Distributor bolt froze and snapped in distributor - pain to get out.
The above are said to be very common repairs on this type of Accord.
Replaced heat control cables (had to remove dash).
Stupid mechanic also replaced the ignitions control module instead of main relay.
Replaced slave cylinder on clutch.
General Comments:
Over all a reliable car, but it seems things like radiators, front springs, main relays, rust behind rear wheels and antennas are weak points on this car. Parts are expensive also and it is recommended to use genuine Honda parts since the after market parts are poor.
The clutch may need to be overhauled. Shifting is not smooth and car shudders when starting off in 1rst unless I rev up the engine.
Pretty good acceleration and cornering. Handles snow OK now that I've got tires with good blocky treads and manual helps. Car is a little noisy. I have a hitch and tow a little trailer for garden manure etc, and the manual is good for that too.
I am disappointed in the fuel economy. I get about 24/28 even with a fresh tune up and driving conservatively. My old VW Quantum got that with AWD transmission.
Car is a little too low to the ground for my tastes.
I wish there was more cargo room behind rear seat. My VW Quantum had more room and weighed about the same even with AWD.
I don't think reliability and ease of maintenance is as good as Toyota. I owned an 86 Corolla and 79 Corona wagon and seemed to be easy and cheap to repair. I test drove a 95 Camry Wagon at the time which drives like a boat in comparison, but I would now wish I had bought it for its better reliability and greater cargo space (fuel economy is the same even with the V6).
27th Sep 2006, 22:31
Hey, I'm looking at a 1991 Accord with about 350,000 kms on it. How long do you think that would last me? It seems to be in pretty good condition.