2021 Honda Accord: reliability, problems and cost to own
Good choiceAbout average
It scores 53 out of 100 for reliability compared with other midsize sedans. Over the next 5 years we expect it to cost about $12,110 to own, including $2,402 in repairs.
These are estimates, not guarantees. They come from public NHTSA complaint and recall data and EPA fuel economy, assuming 5 years of ownership and 12,000 miles a year. Change the assumptions or see how it works.
Where repair money is likely to go
Engine & cooling$1,307
Transmission & drivetrain$370
Driver-assist & stability$227
Electrical system$196
Brakes$73
Steering$70
Expected over 5 years, by area of the car.
Recalls
Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front PassengerMay 22, 2026 · campaign 26V332000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021 Accord Sedan, Accord Hybrid, CR-V, Ridgeline, 2022 Insight and CR-V Hybrid vehicles. The automatic locking retractor on the second-row center seat belt assembly may deactivate improperly, which can result in an unsecured child restraint system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety S
Check whether a specific car still has open recalls with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Not especially. It scores 53 out of 100, about average for midsize sedans; the 2016, 2017 and 2023 scored better.
Is the 2021 Honda Accord reliable?
It scores 53 out of 100 against other midsize sedans from 2015 to 2024, which is about average. Based on 246 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, we expect about $2,402 in repairs over the next 5 years at 12,000 miles a year.
How much does a 2021 Honda Accord cost to own?
About $12,110 over 5 years: $3,526 in lost value, $2,402 in repairs and $6,182 in fuel at $3.40 a gallon. A typical one sells for about $16,901 today.
What are the best years of the Honda Accord?
Of the years we rate, the 2023 scores best (76/100) and the 2018 worst (7/100).