Japan
Honda builds some of the most refined and enjoyable-to-drive cars in any price range. Their engines are legendary for smooth power delivery and longevity. While not quite at Toyota's reliability levels, Honda vehicles are known for exceeding 200,000 miles with regular maintenance and delivering a more engaging driving experience along the way.
4/5
Reliability Rating
$428/year
Avg. Annual Repair Cost
4
Models Covered
Honda vehicles are known for above-average reliability. Owners typically experience fewer breakdowns and lower long-term maintenance costs.
Honda's 1.5L turbo engine in CR-V and Civic can experience fuel diluting the oil, especially in cold climates with short trips. Honda extended the warranty and released software updates.
Years affected: 2017-2020
Honda's automatic transmissions in this era (Accord, Odyssey, MDX) are known for premature failure. This was a widespread issue that led to class-action lawsuits.
Years affected: 1999-2004
AC compressors in several Honda models tend to fail prematurely, often spreading metallic debris through the system and requiring a full AC system flush.
Years affected: 2006-2015
1973-present
The Honda Civic is one of the most versatile vehicles ever made.
1976-present
The Honda Accord is the thinking person's midsize sedan.
1997-present
The Honda CR-V is one of America's best-selling SUVs, known for its spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and Honda reliability.
2003-present
The Honda Pilot is a three-row family SUV that's more car-like to drive than most competitors.
Most Toyota and Honda engines use long-life iridium plugs that last 100,000+ miles. Don't change them too early — it's a waste of money.
Honda's V6 engines use timing belts that must be replaced every 105,000 miles. The 4-cylinder engines (2018+) use chains.
Honda thermostats are simple, reliable, and cheap — typically $15-$25 for the part. Easy DIY replacement on most models.
Honda head gaskets are generally reliable. The exception is the 2006-2009 Civic 1.8L, which had some head gasket issues related to overheating.
Many newer Toyota and Honda models also use cartridge-style filters mounted on top of the engine for easy access.
Most Japanese and Korean cars have easily accessible air filter boxes that take 2 minutes to swap. Always decline the $40 'premium' air filter at the dealer — a $10 Wix filter is identical quality.
Japanese cars use harder brake pad compounds that last 50,000-70,000 miles but may squeal slightly. Affordable at $30-$60 per axle for quality aftermarket.
Japanese car rotors are harder and last longer (60,000-80,000 miles). Quality aftermarket rotors from Centric, Bosch, or ACDelco work great and cost $30-$60 each.
Toyota and Honda calipers are generally very reliable and rarely need replacement before 150,000 miles.
Most Japanese cars use DOT 3 brake fluid. Many owners skip brake fluid service entirely — don't. Moisture-contaminated fluid reduces braking effectiveness.
Standard shocks/struts on Japanese cars are very affordable — $50-$100 each for quality aftermarket units. KYB and Monroe are excellent choices.
Japanese car tie rods are very reliable and affordable. Moog and TRW are excellent aftermarket options at $25-$50 per end.
Japanese cars use standard automotive batteries that are widely available and inexpensive. Group sizes 35, 51R, and 24F are common.
Honda alternators are generally reliable but can develop a whining noise from worn bearings. Replacement is straightforward and affordable — $250-$500 total.
Japanese car starters are extremely reliable and often last 200,000+ miles. Replacement is straightforward and affordable — $200-$400 total.
Honda transmissions require Honda DW-1 ATF (for automatics). Do NOT use generic Dexron/Mercon ATF — it will cause shift quality issues and premature wear.
Honda CV axles are generally long-lasting. Aftermarket complete axle assemblies are affordable ($60-$100 each) and work well.
Some Honda models use two shorter belts instead of a single serpentine belt. Check your specific model.
Toyota and Honda catalytic converters are prime theft targets (especially Prius and Honda Element) because they contain more precious metals. Consider a catalytic converter shield ($200-$400).
Denso sensors (OEM supplier for both brands) are the recommended replacement. They're affordable at $30-$60 each.
Honda radiators with internal transmission coolers are known for the transmission cooler failing internally, mixing transmission fluid with coolant and vice versa. This can destroy the transmission. Check coolant color regularly.
Cabin air filters are typically behind the glove box and take 2 minutes to replace. Don't pay the dealer $60 — buy a $12 filter from any parts store and do it yourself.
2018-2020 models from multiple Japanese manufacturers are covered under the Denso fuel pump recall. The fuel pump impeller can crack, causing stalling. Check NHTSA.gov for your specific vehicle.
Many Japanese and Korean cars use affordable direct TPMS sensors ($30-$50 each). Replace all 4 when getting new tires.
Honda makes excellent cars, but avoid 1999-2004 models with automatic transmissions (especially Odyssey and Accord V6). The 2016+ Civic is one of the best small cars ever made. The CR-V is a perennial bestseller for good reason. For turbocharged models, check for oil dilution by smelling the dipstick — if it smells like gas, the issue hasn't been resolved. Honda vehicles are generally less expensive to maintain than European brands but slightly more than Toyota.