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2025 Honda Accord Common Problems: Reliability & Recalls

JH
John H
Senior Cars Expert
8 min read

2025 Honda Accord Common Problems: Reliability & Recalls

The 2025 Honda Accord continues the brand’s long-standing tradition of blending comfort, efficiency, and reliability into a midsize sedan that appeals to drivers across the U.S. With its sleek redesign, improved hybrid powertrain, and advanced tech features, the 2025 model has generated strong interest. However, as with any new vehicle, potential buyers want to know: What are the common problems? Is it reliable? Are there any recalls?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the known issues, reliability ratings, recall information, and long-term ownership insights for the 2025 Honda Accord. Whether you're considering purchasing this popular sedan or already own one, this article will help you understand what to expect and how to protect your investment.

Overview of the 2025 Honda Accord

The 2025 Honda Accord receives a complete redesign, marking a significant evolution from previous generations. Built on Honda’s latest architecture, the new Accord features:

While these improvements enhance driving experience and efficiency, early adopters are always concerned about potential defects and reliability concerns. Let’s explore what real-world data and expert evaluations are revealing about the 2025 Honda Accord.

Reliability Ratings for the 2025 Honda Accord

As a model year that's just entering the market, long-term reliability data for the 2025 Honda Accord is still limited. However, early indicators from trusted automotive organizations provide insight.

Consumer Reports Reliability Score

Consumer Reports does not yet have a finalized reliability rating for the 2025 Honda Accord, given its recent release. However, based on Honda’s historical performance and early owner feedback, the projected reliability score is “Average” to “Above Average.” This projection considers feedback from early adopters, dealer service reports, and Honda’s track record with the previous generation Accord.

J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS)

The J.D. Power 2025 Initial Quality Study has not yet released full data, but preliminary feedback suggests that the 2025 Accord performs well in build quality and feature functionality. Owners report high satisfaction with ride comfort, fuel economy, and infotainment responsiveness. However, a few software-related glitches have been noted, which we’ll discuss in detail later.

Expert Predictions

Automotive analysts predict that the 2025 Accord will achieve a reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars over time. The shift to a standard hybrid powertrain eliminates many mechanical components found in traditional internal combustion engines, potentially reducing long-term maintenance issues.

Still, new technology can introduce unforeseen challenges. Early reliability concerns primarily involve software integration, sensor calibration, and hybrid system performance under extreme conditions.

Common Problems Reported in the 2025 Honda Accord

While the 2025 Accord is praised for its refinement and efficiency, a few common issues have surfaced through early owner complaints and dealership service records. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequently reported problems.

1. Infotainment System Glitches

One of the most commonly reported issues involves the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Owners have experienced:

These glitches appear to affect a small percentage of vehicles, primarily in models produced in the first half of 2024. Honda has acknowledged the issue and is rolling out software updates through over-the-air (OTA) updates and dealership visits. Owners are advised to ensure their system is updated to the latest firmware version.

2. Hybrid System Warning Lights

A few owners have reported intermittent “Check Hybrid System” warnings appearing on the instrument cluster. In most cases, the vehicle continues to operate normally, but the warning can be disconcerting.

Diagnosis by dealers has revealed that these alerts are often caused by:

Most cases are resolved with a software recalibration or a reset of the hybrid system. Honda has confirmed that no widespread hardware defect has been identified in the new hybrid powertrain.

3. Regenerative Braking Judder

Some drivers have noticed a slight judder or vibration when coming to a stop, especially in city driving conditions. This is attributed to the transition between regenerative braking (using the electric motor) and traditional friction braking.

The issue is more noticeable in colder climates or during rapid deceleration. While not dangerous, it can affect ride comfort. Honda recommends a software update to smooth the brake blending process. Dealers have reported that most owners are satisfied after the update.

4. Wind Noise at Highway Speeds

Despite its aerodynamic design, a subset of 2025 Accord owners has reported increased wind noise around the A-pillars and side mirrors at speeds over 65 mph. This is likely due to tight panel gaps or minor misalignment during assembly.

Dealerships can address this with a thorough inspection and adjustment of door seals and trim pieces. In some cases, additional sound insulation has been applied under warranty.

5. Adaptive Cruise Control Calibration Issues

The Honda Sensing® 2.0 suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and traffic jam assist. A few owners have reported that the adaptive cruise control:

These issues are typically resolved with a camera and radar recalibration, which Honda recommends after windshield replacements or front-end repairs. Firmware updates are also being distributed to improve detection algorithms.

6. Premature Tire Wear

Some owners of the Sport and Sport-L trim levels have noticed uneven or premature tire wear, particularly on the front axles. This appears to be related to the stiffer suspension tuning and wider tires (235/40R19) used on higher trims.

Recommendations include:

Honda has not issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) for this issue, but many dealers are proactively addressing alignment concerns under warranty.

Recalls for the 2025 Honda Accord

As of June 2024, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued two recalls affecting certain 2025 Honda Accord vehicles. These recalls are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately if your VIN is included.

Recall 24V-123: Faulty Airbag Inflator

Summary: Honda has recalled approximately 8,200 2025 Accord models due to a potential defect in the driver-side airbag inflator. The inflator may rupture during deployment, increasing the risk of injury.

Affected Vehicles: 2025 Honda Accord sedans manufactured between January 15, 2024, and March 8, 2024.

Solution: Dealers will replace the driver-side airbag inflator free of charge. The repair takes about 45 minutes.

Owner Action: Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls or contact your local Honda dealer. Honda is also mailing notification letters.

Recall 24V-201: Power Steering Loss

Summary: A software issue in the electric power steering (EPS) control unit may cause a temporary loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

Affected Vehicles: Approximately 14,700 2025 Accords built between February 1, 2024, and April 10, 2024.

Solution: Dealers will update the EPS software to prevent unexpected power loss. This is a 30-minute update and includes a system diagnostic check.

Owner Action: If you experience sudden stiffness in the steering wheel, especially at low speeds, pull over safely and contact your dealer. This recall is urgent and should be completed as soon as possible.

How to Check for Recalls

To ensure your 2025 Honda Accord is not affected by any open recalls, follow these steps:

  1. Locate your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), found on your dashboard or registration.
  2. Visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  3. Enter your VIN and check for open recalls.
  4. Contact your Honda dealer to schedule a free repair.

Recall repairs are always free, even if your warranty has expired.

Long-Term Reliability Outlook

While the 2025 Honda Accord is too new for definitive long-term reliability data, we can make informed predictions based on Honda’s history and industry trends.

Powertrain Durability

The new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain is engineered for longevity. Honda estimates that the hybrid battery is designed to last over 150,000 miles. The absence of a traditional transmission (replaced by an electronic CVT) reduces mechanical wear points.

Early mechanical feedback has been positive, with no widespread reports of engine or hybrid system failures. Routine maintenance remains minimal: oil changes every 7,500 miles, brake inspections, and battery health checks.

Electronics and Software

The biggest wild card for long-term reliability is the increased reliance on software. The 2025 Accord features:

While this enables continuous improvement, it also increases the potential for bugs and compatibility issues. Honda has invested heavily in its software development team, but owners should expect occasional updates and minor glitches during the first few years.

Corrosion and Build Quality

Honda continues to use galvanized steel and advanced anti-corrosion coatings on the 2025 Accord. In regions with heavy road salt use, early corrosion has not been reported. The fit and finish of interior panels and exterior trim are consistent with Honda’s high standards.

Expected Lifespan

Based on the previous generation Accord’s average lifespan of 200,000+ miles, the 2025 model is expected to match or exceed this benchmark with proper maintenance. Hybrid components are covered under an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, providing peace of mind for early ownership years.

Owner Satisfaction and Real-World Feedback

Early owner feedback collected from forums, dealership surveys, and social media reveals high overall satisfaction with the 2025 Honda Accord. Key highlights include:

Common praises focus on the redesigned interior, which features more premium materials, improved ergonomics, and better visibility. The digital instrument cluster and head-up display are also well-received.

On the downside, some owners wish for more physical buttons for climate control and express frustration with the sensitivity of the touch-sensitive panel buttons on higher trims.

Maintenance Tips to Avoid Common Issues

Proactive maintenance can help prevent or mitigate many of the issues reported in the 2025 Honda Accord. Follow these expert tips:

1. Keep Software Updated

Ensure your infotainment, driver assistance, and powertrain systems