If you own a Honda Accord, troubleshooting tips might help you save some trips to the car garage. At the very least, learning a little more about what can go wrong with your vehicle can help you save money on repairs and maintenance.
About the Honda Accord
Honda has been selling the Accord to American car consumers since 1976, and in the past few decades, it has received a reputation as a reliable family vehicle. Over the years, the Accord has gone through several major redesigns. With each new generation, the car has gotten a bit larger, and it's now considered a full-size automobile by the Environmental Protection Agency.
At times in its history, the Honda Accord has been the most popular vehicle in its class, and it has received numerous awards for its reliability and design. But despite this excellent reputation for reliability, the car is not without problems. If you find that you're facing one of these common issues, there may be a simple solution.
Common Issues: Honda Accord Troubleshooting
Does one of these situations sound familiar? If so, you might be able to fix it yourself.
Your Honda Accord Has Trouble Starting
If you're having difficulty starting your Accord, consider trying the following car engine troubleshooting tips:
- If you stopped the car with the steering wheel turned, you may be unable to turn the key in the ignition. While turning the key, pull hard on the steering wheel to straighten the car's wheels.
- Check the battery connections. Make sure the terminals are clean and dry and that the battery is properly installed.
- If the engine turns over but there is a jerking feeling, you may be low on fuel. Check the fuel gauge and add fuel as needed.
If these tips don't help you start your Accord, consider taking your car to a local auto mechanic whom you trust. Be sure to tell the mechanic that you've tried troubleshooting the problem.
Your Accord Has Problems with Power Windows
If you are having difficulty raising or lowering your power windows, try one of these tips:
- Check to make sure the window lock is not on. This button is available on some models, and it prevents passengers from controlling the power windows.
- Use your owner's manual to check the fuses for your power windows. You can find a fuse diagram in the owner's manual, along with instructions for changing fuses.
- Consult an auto mechanic about other power window issues with your Accord. These issues may include a faulty power window motor.
Your Accord's Windshield Wipers Don't Work
If you're having problems with your windshield wipers not working, you aren't alone. This is usually a minor issue, and happens somewhat frequently. Try these steps to troubleshoot the problem:
- Try all settings for the wiper to make sure the problem isn't with a specific wiper speed or setting. Determine if both wipers are affected.
- Take the casing off the wiper arm on the outside of the car. Examine the place where the wiper arm connects to the wiper motor. If you see any broken or disconnected areas, reconnect them.
- If you are unable to easily reattach the arm of the wiper, take your car to a mechanic. Your wipers are an important part of your car's safety equipment.
Other Accord Issues
For the following Honda Accord issues, you should take your car to a mechanic right away if you are not experienced in do-it-yourself auto repair:
- Check engine light is illuminated
- Fluid is leaking under your car
- You hear unusual sounds or feel strange vibrations
- You have problems steering your car
- Your brakes feel spongy or different than usual
Your Owner's Manual
If you're having a minor problem with your Honda Accord, troubleshooting tips in the back of your owner's manual may offer some solutions. The owner's manual is almost always the best source for troubleshooting common issues in your car.
