When you need a car that does everything well, the 2010 Honda Accord is a standout choice. This model represents a perfect 2010 Honda Accord – A Blend of Performance and Reliability. It’s a sedan that built its reputation on being sensible without being boring.
For nearly a decade, this generation of Accord delivered what buyers wanted most: a comfortable ride, plenty of space, and Honda’s famous durability. It’s a car you can trust for the long haul, whether you’re commuting daily or taking a family road trip. Let’s look at what makes this particular year so special.
2010 Honda Accord – A Blend of Performance and Reliability
The 2010 Accord sits in the middle of its model generation, which ran from 2008 to 2012. This is a good place to be. Honda had time to work out any early kinks, making the 2010 a refined and solid bet. It came as both a sedan and a coupe, offering something for different tastes.
You could choose from several trim levels: LX, LX-P, EX, and EX-L. Each step up added more features and comfort. The top EX-L trim even offered a smooth V6 engine and a navigation system, which was a big deal back then.
Key available features included:
* A powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine (271 horsepower)
* A standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine (177-190 horsepower)
* A 5-speed automatic or manual transmission
* A premium audio system
* Leather seating and heated front seats
* A sunroof
Under the Hood: Performance Specs and Driving Feel
The 2010 Accord gives you two main engine choices, and they cater to different priorities. The base engine is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. It’s paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. This engine is all about efficiency and adequacy.
It provides enough power for daily driving and merging onto highways. You won’t win drag races, but you’ll appreciate the good fuel economy. The 4-cylinder models are known for being practical and inexpensive to run.
For those who want more excitement, the available 3.5-liter V6 is the answer. This engine delivers a robust 271 horsepower. It makes passing and highway entry effortless. The V6 comes with a 5-speed automatic that includes manual shift control via steering wheel paddles (on EX-L V6 models).
The driving experience is tuned for comfort.
* The suspension soaks up bumps nicely.
* The steering is light and precise, making parking easy.
* Road noise is well controlled, creating a quiet cabin.
* It feels stable and confident on long journeys.
A Look Inside: Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the 2010 Accord, and you’ll find a well-designed cabin. The materials are good for its class, with soft-touch plastics on the dashboard. Everything is laid out logically—buttons are large and easy to find while driving. It’s a cockpit designed for use, not just show.
Front seats are supportive and comfortable for long periods. The back seat offers exceptional legroom for a midsize sedan, easily fitting adults. The trunk is massive, with 14 cubic feet of space that can swallow luggage, groceries, or sports gear with ease.
Technology in 2010 was different, but the Accord was well-equipped. Even base models got a multi-information display and a CD player. Higher trims added more.
Available tech features included:
* A 6-disc CD changer
* An auxiliary audio input jack
* Bluetooth for phone calls (but not always for music streaming)
* A voice-activated navigation system with rearview camera
* Dual-zone automatic climate control
Why Reliability is Its Middle Name
This is where the 2010 Accord truly shines. Honda’s reputation for building long-lasting cars is epitomized by this model. With proper basic maintenance, many of these Accords are still on the road today with well over 200,000 miles. That’s not an accident.
The engines and transmissions are generally robust. The V6, in particular, is known for its smooth operation and longevity. The key is sticking to the maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and timing belt replacements (for the V6) are crucial.
Common issues to be aware of:
* Excessive Brake Wear: Some owners report that the brake pads and rotors wear out quicker than expected. It’s a good idea to check them during tire rotations.
* Power Steering Hose Leaks: A minor but somewhat common issue where the power steering hoses can develop leaks. Listen for whining noises when turning.
* Bluetooth Connectivity: The older Bluetooth system can sometimes have trouble pairing with modern smartphones.
* Dashboard Cracking: In some warmer climates, the dashboard plastic may develop cracks over time.
Despite these minor points, the 2010 Accord’s reliability ratings from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports remain strong. It’s consistently praised for its low cost of ownership and dependability.
Fuel Economy: What to Expect
The 2010 Accord’s fuel economy is competitive, especially with the 4-cylinder engine. Your actual mileage will depend on your driving style, but here are the official EPA estimates for reference:
4-Cylinder Automatic:
* City: 22 MPG
* Highway: 31 MPG
* Combined: 25 MPG
4-Cylinder Manual:
* City: 22 MPG
* Highway: 31 MPG
* Combined: 25 MPG
V6 Automatic:
* City: 19 MPG
* Highway: 29 MPG
* Combined: 22 MPG
The 4-cylinder is clearly the efficiency champ. The V6 sacrifices some MPG for that extra power, but its highway number is still respectable for a larger engine.
Safety Ratings and Features
Safety was a strong point for the 2010 Accord. It earned top marks in its day, giving you peace of mind for you and your passengers. It came with a strong suite of standard safety equipment.
Standard safety features included:
* Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
* Stability and traction control
* Front-side airbags
* Side-curtain airbags for all outboard passengers
* Active head restraints for the front seats
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2010 Accord its highest rating of “Good” in frontal-offset, side-impact, and rear crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also gave it a 5-star rating for frontal and side-impact crash protection for passengers. These are excellent scores that hold up well.
Buying a Used 2010 Accord: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re considering a used 2010 Accord, following a smart process will help you find a good one. Here’s what to do:
1. Set Your Budget: Include not just the purchase price, but also taxes, registration, and an immediate fund for any needed maintenance or repairs.
2. Choose Your Trim: Decide if you want the efficient 4-cylinder or the powerful V6. Consider which features (like leather, sunroof, or navigation) are must-haves for you.
3. Search Listings: Look on major used car websites. Pay attention to the vehicle history report. A clean title and consistent service records are golden.
4. Contact the Seller: Ask specific questions. Why are they selling? Can they provide recent service receipts? Has the timing belt been changed on a V6 model (due every 105,000 miles)?
5. Inspect the Car: If possible, see the car in daylight. Look for uneven paint (sign of repair), check tire wear, and inspect the interior condition.
6. Check for Recalls: There was a recall for airbag inflators (Takata recall). Ensure this critical safety recall has been completed. You can check by VIN on the NHTSA website.
7. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: This is the most important step. Hire a trusted independent mechanic to put the car on a lift. They can spot leaks, worn components, and potential problems you might miss. It’s worth every penny.
Ownership Costs and Maintenance Schedule
Owning a 2010 Accord is generally affordable, but you must stay on top of maintenance. Here is a simplified schedule based on Honda’s recommendations:
* Every 5,000-7,500 Miles: Change the engine oil and oil filter. Rotate the tires. Check all fluid levels and tire condition.
* Every 30,000 Miles: Replace the engine air filter and cabin air filter. Inspect the brake pads, rotors, and drive belts.
* Every 60,000 Miles: Replace the spark plugs (4-cylinder). Change the transmission fluid and coolant.
* Every 105,000 Miles (CRITICAL for V6): Replace the timing belt and water pump. This is a major service but skipping it can lead to catastrophic engine damage if the belt breaks.
Budget for occasional repairs like brakes, batteries, and tires. Overall, parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive compared to many other brands.
Comparing the Sedan and Coupe Body Styles
The 2010 Accord Coupe shares its mechanicals with the sedan but offers a different experience. It’s built on a slightly shorter wheelbase and has a more aggressively styled exterior. The coupe feels a bit sportier to drive, with slightly sharper handling.
Inside, you lose the two rear doors, obviously. The back seat is less accessible and has slightly less room, though it’s still usable for short trips. The trunk is a bit smaller too. The coupe’s dashboard is unique and driver-focused, which some people prefer.
Choose the sedan if: You prioritize maximum passenger and cargo space, need easy access to the back seat, or want the most family-friendly version.
Choose the coupe if: You want a sportier look and feel, don’t regularly carry rear passengers, and enjoy a more distinctive style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the 2010 Honda Accord a good car?
Yes, it is widely considered one of the best used midsize sedans from that era. Its combination of space, comfort, and proven reliability makes it an excellent value.
How many miles can a 2010 Honda Accord last?
With proper and timely maintenance, a 2010 Accord can easily reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles. There are many reports of these cars running strong well beyond that.
What are the main problems with a 2010 Honda Accord?
Watch for excessive brake wear, potential power steering hose leaks, and ensure the Takata airbag recall was fixed. The V6 engine requires a costly timing belt service around 105,000 miles.
Is the 4-cylinder or V6 engine better?
The 4-cylinder is better for fuel economy and lower maintenance costs. The V6 is better for power and smoother acceleration. Your choice depends on your priorities—efficiency versus performance.
What is the fuel economy of the 2010 Accord?
The 4-cylinder gets about 22 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. The V6 gets about 19 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. Real-world driving usually results in slightly lower numbers.
Is the 2010 Accord safe by today’s standards?
It earned top safety scores in its time and has essential features like stability control and side-curtain airbags. While it lacks newer tech like automatic emergency braking, its core crash protection remains solid.
Final Thoughts on the 2010 Accord
The 2010 Honda Accord earns its stellar reputation. It isn’t a flashy car, but it excels at the fundamentals. It provides a comfortable, quiet, and spacious environment for its occupants. It offers you a choice between sensible efficiency or satisfying power. Most importantly, it’s built to last, offering years of dependable service.
For a used car buyer seeking a trustworthy daily driver, the 2010 Accord is a hard option to beat. It delivers exactly what it promises: a balanced, reliable, and competent vehicle that focuses on getting you where you need to go, year after year. Just remember to get that pre-purchase inspection and keep up with its maintenance needs, and it will likely serve you faithfully for a long time to come.