2019 Honda Accord Problems

If you own or are considering a 2019 Honda Accord, you’re likely aware of its reputation for reliability. However, even the best cars can have their quirks. Knowing about common 2019 Honda Accord problems helps you stay ahead of potential issues and maintain your car’s value and performance for the long haul.

This generation of Accord is largely very dependable, but a few specific areas have shown up in owner reports and service bulletins. We’ll look at the most frequent complaints, explain what causes them, and give you clear solutions—whether it’s a simple fix or a warranty-covered repair.

1. Infotainment System Glitches and Freezes

One of the most reported issues involves the 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen. Owners experience unresponsive screens, random reboots, or a complete system freeze. This can affect your access to the backup camera, climate controls, and audio.

The root cause is often software related. Honda has released updates to adress these stability problems.

Symptoms: Touchscreen not responding, system restarting on its own, audio cutting out, or a permanent “Please Wait” message.
Potential Solutions:
1. Soft Reset: Hold the audio/power button for about 10 seconds until the system reboots. This often fixes temporary glitches.
2. Check for Software Updates: Visit your local Honda dealership. They can check your VIN and install the latest software update for the head unit, which is usually free under warranty.
3. Factory Reset: As a last resort before dealer service, perform a factory reset through the settings menu. Note this will erase all your saved preferences and paired phones.

2. Premature Brake Wear and Rotor Warping

Some drivers notice their Accord’s brakes wearing out faster than expected, sometimes with vibrations felt in the steering wheel or brake pedal when stopping. This is often described as warped rotors.

The vibration is usually caused by disc thickness variation (DTV), often from material deposits on the rotors or uneven tightening of lug nuts.

Symptoms: Steering wheel shimmy during braking, pulsating brake pedal, squealing or grinding noises, or reduced braking efficiency.
Potential Solutions:
1. Proper Bedding-In: When installing new brakes, follow a proper bedding-in procedure to transfer pad material evenly onto the rotor.
2. Check Lug Nut Torque: Ensure your wheel lug nuts are torqued to the correct specification (80 ft-lbs for the 2019 Accord) in a star pattern.
3. Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement: If vibration is present, a mechanic can measure the rotors. They may be resurfaced if thick enough, or replaced alongside new pads for a complete fix.

3. Noisy or Faulty Fuel Injectors

The 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged engines in the 2019 Accord can develop loud ticking or clicking noises from the fuel injectors. While injectors are naturally somewhat noisy, an excessively loud sound can be concerning.

This is typically a normal characteristic of high-pressure direct injection systems, but it can also indicate a failing injector in rare cases.

Symptoms: A pronounced, rapid ticking noise from the engine bay that increases with RPM. Performance may or may not be affected.
Potential Solutions:
1. Diagnosis is Key: Have a technician confirm the noise is from the injectors and not from valves or other components. They can use a stethoscope to isolate the sound.
2. Fuel System Cleaning: Sometimes, a professional fuel system cleaning can reduce noise by removing deposits.
3. Replacement: If an injector is truly faulty (causing misfires or poor fuel economy), replacement is necessary. This should be covered under the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty if your car is still within those limits.

4. Battery Drain and Electrical Gremlins

Some owners have returned to a dead battery after the car sat for a few days. This parasitic drain can be frustrating to trace.

It’s often linked to the infotainment system not fully going to sleep, a faulty USB port, or an accessory drawing power. Aftermarket devices like dash cams are a common culprit.

Symptoms: Battery repeatedly dying, dimming lights, or strange electronic behavior.
Potential Solutions:
1. Disconnect Aftermarket Gear: Unplug any non-factory devices (GPS, dash cams, chargers) and see if the problem stops.
2. Test for Parasitic Drain: A mechanic can perform a parasitic draw test to identify the circuit causing the drain.
3. Software Update/Module Replacement: As with the infotainment, a dealer may apply updates or replace a control module that isn’t powering down correctly.

5. Wind Noise from Driver’s Side Window

A whistling or buffeting wind noise at highway speeds, typically from the front driver’s window area, is another noted issue. It compromises the otherwise quiet cabin.

This is usually due to a slight misalignment of the window glass within its seal or a worn weatherstrip.

Symptoms: Annoying whistling or rushing air sound from the window seal area at speeds over 50 mph.
Potential Solutions:
1. Window Recalibration: The power window motor may need to be recalibrated so the glass seats perfectly at the top of its travel. You can sometimes do this by holding the window up switch for 5 seconds after the window is fully closed.
2. Seal Inspection and Replacement: Inspect the rubber weatherstripping for tears or deformation. A dealer can adjust the glass alignment or replace the seal under warranty if a defect is found.

6. Hesitation or Jerking During Acceleration

Especially in the 1.5L CVT models, some drivers report a slight hesitation or jerking sensation when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds.

This can be related to the CVT programming, fuel system performance, or even a dirty throttle body adapting to driving habits.

Symptoms: A brief pause or lurch when you press the gas pedal, not a smooth application of power.
Potential Solutions:
1. Throttle Body Cleaning: Over time, carbon builds up on the throttle body. A professional cleaning can restore smooth airflow.
2. CVT Fluid Check: Ensure the CVT fluid is at the correct level and in good condition. Honda recommends specific fluid changes for the transmission.
3. ECU Update: Dealerships have updated software for the engine control unit (ECU) to refine throttle response and transmission behavior. It’s worth inquiring if one applies to your VIN.

7. Paint Quality and Chipping Concerns

While not a mechanical failure, some owners feel the paint on the hood and front bumper is thin and prone to chipping more easily than expected.

Modern water-based paints are environmentally friendly but can be softer. The Accord’s sloping hood also presents a large surface area for road debris.

Symptoms: Small paint chips on the front fascia, hood, or fenders, especially after highway driving.
Potential Solutions:
1. Paint Protection Film (PPF): The most effective solution is a clear bra applied to high-impact areas. This is a proactive investment.
2. Touch-Up Paint: For existing chips, use Honda’s official touch-up paint to prevent rust and make the chips less noticeable.
3. More Following Distance: Simply increasing your distance from trucks and vehicles on gravel roads can reduce the amount of debris hitting your car.

Proactive Maintenance Tips to Avoid Common Issues

Staying on top of service is your best defense. Follow the Honda Maintenance Minder system in your dashboard. It gives you personalized service intervals based on your actual driving conditions.

Use high-quality fuel and consider periodic fuel injector cleaner. Keep your battery terminals clean and check the battery’s heath, especially as it approaches 3-4 years old.

Finally, address small issues promptly. A strange noise or warning light is easier and cheaper to fix now than a major failure later.

Is the 2019 Honda Accord Still a Good Buy?

Absolutely. The reported problems are relatively minor compared to its strengths in safety, fuel economy, and driving dynamics. Most issues have known fixes or were addressed in later production runs.

When shopping for a used 2019 Accord, check the vehicle history report. Look for a car that has had its software updates applied and has a complete service record. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always a wise investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most common problem with the 2019 Honda Accord?
The infotainment system glitches are the most frequently reported annoyance, though they are often fixable with a software update.

Does the 2019 Honda Accord have transmission problems?
The CVT transmission is generally reliable, but some drivers note a hesitation. Major mechanical failures are rare. The 10-speed automatic in 2.0L models has had very few issues.

Are there any recalls on the 2019 Honda Accord?
Yes, there have been recalls for issues like faulty battery sensors and rear camera displays. Always check the NHTSA website or Honda’s recall lookup tool with your VIN to see if any recalls apply to your specific vehicle and if they’ve been completed.

Is the 2019 Accord a reliable car?
Overall, yes. It consistently earns high reliability ratings from major reviewers. The problems listed here are notable but affect a minority of vehicles and are often covered under warranty.

How long will a 2019 Honda Accord last?
With proper maintenance and addressing minor issues as they arise, a 2019 Accord can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Honda’s reputation for longevity is well-earned.

Being informed puts you in the driver’s seat. Regular care and attention to these common points will help ensure your 2019 Honda Accord remains a satisfying and dependable car for many miles to come.