1992 Honda Accord LX Sedan 2.2 4 cylinder from North America
Summary:
Reliable but overrated, not very durable
Faults:
Front right suspension clunked.
Excessive hail damage to the body.
Rust building up at the rear wheels.
Aftermarket exhaust and muffler, original presumably had rusted away.
Aftermarket radio held in just by the wires, would not hold presets.
One of the rear bulbs was out, replaced.
Excessive shaking at idle.
Various interior wear and tears.
Rear passenger seat belt stuck.
Power mirror switch.
General Comments:
Owned as a winter beater; I wanted to see if the car was would be worth patching up after winter, but I lost interest. A proper test drive would've served me well.
Interior build quality was pretty good, but it was no Mercedes; thin cheap materials abound with a vinyl headliner that molded like Play-Doh, surprisingly few rattles.
Not exactly comfy with little leg room in the back and quite stiff seats; it'd be nice to have some lumbar support (you can get this in the EX).
Sheet metal on the body is as cheap as you'd expect; coupled with a low ride height, you'll have to think twice before going over speed bumps. It's not worth fixing a generic sedan with such a delicate body, thus, you find many running Accords in ratty shape.
Ride quality was fine with sharp steering and little body roll, only cut short by the cheap undersized wheels and gutless engine (supposedly EXs are quicker).
Turning radius is a joke for such a small car, and make sure not to scuff the small bumper covers as you're making another S-turn.
Initially I was tempted to install a factory radio, but removing/installing the radio properly requires one to remove the entire lower center console. In contrast, my Volvo only needed one screw and a small panel removed to remove the radio.
Gas mileage was 31 highway at best; should be better for such a small car.
Many of the wires under the engine had their wrapping wearing off, exposing their bare insides. I guess this is what you get in an Accord that was made in Ohio.
Was this car neglected before I bought it? Maybe, but it looked much better than any other Accord from its time with a fresh paint job, quiet aftermarket exhaust, and a clean interior. I dare say it was one of the finer examples.
Was this car reliable? Yes, but for $2000 there are many other reliable choices; other choices with tougher bodies, beefier engines, and cheaper parts.
For example, a 1992 Bonneville will get 31 MPG, stand up to rust better, last just as long if you maintain it, and you'll have much more power/torque at your disposal, even without buying some fancy package.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 12th December, 2014
27th Jul 2011, 07:50
I have a 92 Accord and couldn't agree more! I bought mine two years ago with only 138 000 kms on it. I have done extensive preventative maintenance, because I know it will easily last another 5 years. I plan on tackling the rust that has begun to appear around all 4 wheel wells.
Great drive, great reliability and decent looks.
Please update your review a couple of times a year, and keep us informed on how your Accord is doing.