If you own or are considering a 2014 Honda Accord, you’re likely interested in its long-term reliability. While known for durability, the 2014 model year has a few specific 2014 Honda Accord Problems that owners should be aware of.
This popular midsize sedan earned strong reviews, but no car is perfect. We’ll look at the most common issues reported by owners and mechanics, from minor annoyances to more serious concerns. Knowing these potential problems helps you maintain your car better and make informed decisions.
2014 Honda Accord Problems
The 2014 Accord is generally a reliable vehicle, but several patterns have emerged over the years. These problems tend to cluster around a few key systems. We’ll break them down by category, explaining symptoms, causes, and what you can do about them.
Engine and Transmission Concerns
The powertrain is usually a Honda strong suit, but there are a couple notable exceptions for this year.
1. Direct Injection Engine Carbon Buildup
The 2014 Accord’s 4-cylinder engines use direct fuel injection. A common issue with this design is carbon accumulation on the intake valves. Unlike older port injection, fuel no longer washes over the valves, so deposits from the PCV system stick and build up.
Symptoms you might notice:
* Rough idling or shaking at a stop
* Loss of power and sluggish acceleration
* Check Engine light coming on (often for misfires)
* Worse fuel economy than usual
Fixing this requires a procedure called a “walnut blasting” to physically clean the valves. It’s not typically part of regular maintenance, so be prepared for this expense around 60,000-100,000 miles.
2. CVT Transmission Judder or Shudder
Many 2014 Accords use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). A frequent complaint involves a jerking or shuddering sensation, usually during light acceleration between 20 and 40 mph. It can feel like the car is driving over rumble strips.
This is often caused by a worn-out or contaminated transmission fluid. Honda issued a technical service bulletin (TSB 16-020) for this very issue. The first step is usually a complete fluid drain and refill with genuine Honda HCF-2 fluid. In more severe cases, the transmission control module may need a software update.
Electrical and Infotainment Glitches
Modern cars rely on complex electronics, and the 2014 Accord has its share of quirks.
Bluetooth and HandsFreeLink Connectivity Issues
One of the most reported problems is with the Bluetooth system. Owners often experience:
* The system failing to connect to their phone automatically.
* Dropped calls or poor audio quality during calls.
* The system freezing or rebooting randomly.
A common fix is to update the system software. You can sometimes do this yourself via a USB download from Honda’s website, or a dealer can perform it. In stubborn cases, disconnecting the car’s battery for a few minutes can reset the system.
Battery Drain and Premature Battery Failure
Some owners find their battery dies unexpectedly, even in relatively new batteries. This can be linked to:
* The infotainment system not fully “sleeping” when the car is off.
* Faulty alternators not charging properly.
* A weak factory battery.
If you’re experiencing repeated dead batteries, have your charging system tested. Upgrading to a higher-capacity battery is a common and often effective solution.
Steering and Suspension Troubles
These issues affect the drive feel and safety of the vehicle.
Power Steering Rack Leaks
There have been reports of leaks in the electronic power steering rack. Signs include:
* A low power steering fluid warning light on the dash.
* Difficulty turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
* Visible fluid on your garage floor or on the rack itself.
This is a serious repair, as the entire steering rack often needs replacement. It’s not super common, but it is costly if it happens outside warranty.
Noisy or Worn Struts and Bushings
As the car ages, suspension components wear. Front struts can start to make clunking noises over bumps. Additionally, control arm bushings and sway bar links can wear out, leading to a looser feel or extra noise from the front end. A mechanic can easily diagnose which part is worn during an inspection.
Body and Interior Annoyances
These problems won’t leave you stranded, but they can be frustrating.
Premature Paint Chipping and Clear Coat Peeling
Some owners, particularly in areas with strong sun or harsh weather, have reported the paint chipping easily on the hood and front bumper. More notably, clear coat failure (peeling) on the roof, trunk, and upper body panels has been a issue. This is mostly a cosmetic problem, but a full repaint is the only real fix, which is expensive.
Rattling from the Dashboard or Doors
Interior rattles are a common annoyance. Typical sources include:
* The plastic trim around the dashboard and instrument cluster.
* Loose components inside the door panels when playing music.
* The center console or storage compartment lids.
Tracking down rattles can be time-consuming. Often, it requires removing panels and adding felt tape or foam to cushion contact points.
Brake System Problems
Brakes are a critical safety item, and two issues pop up.
Premature Brake Rotor Warping
Many owners find their brake rotors warp quickly, causing a pulsation or vibration in the brake pedal when slowing down from highway speeds. This can happen even with gentle driving. The solution is to have the rotors resurfaced or, more reliably, replaced with higher-quality aftermarket rotors.
Rusty Rear Brake Calipers
In regions that use road salt, the rear brake calipers are prone to seizing due to corrosion. This leads to:
* Uneven brake pad wear (the inner pad wears much faster).
* The car pulling to one side when braking.
* A burning smell from a stuck caliper.
Regular brake service and cleaning the slide pins can help prevent this. If a caliper seizes, it must be replaced.
Maintenance Tips to Avoid Common Problems
Proactive care can prevent or delay many of these issues.
1. Transmission Fluid: Change the CVT fluid every 30,000-40,000 miles with genuine Honda HCF-2 fluid. This is crucial for preventing shudder.
2. Use Top-Tier Fuel: For direct injection engines, using high-quality gasoline can slightly reduce carbon deposit formation.
3. Battery Vigilance: Have your battery and alternator tested annually after the 3-year mark. Consider a proactive replacement around the 4-year point.
4. Listen for Noises: Address new squeaks, rattles, or clunks promptly. What starts as an annoyance can be a sign of a component wearing out.
5. Software Updates: Periodically check with a dealer for any available software updates for your infotainment and transmission control modules.
Is the 2014 Honda Accord Still a Good Buy?
Despite these potential problems, the 2014 Accord remains a solid choice in the used car market. Its overall reliability statistics are still strong. The key is to go in with your eyes open.
If you’re looking at a used 2014 Accord, be sure to:
* Get a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic.
* Check the vehicle history report for accidents and regular maintenance.
* Test drive it carefully, focusing on low-speed acceleration (for CVT shudder) and brake pedal feel.
* Test all Bluetooth and electronic features completly during the test drive.
* Look closely at the paint, especially on horizontal surfaces, for clear coat issues.
Most of the common problems are manageable with proper maintenance. The car’s virtues—great fuel economy, spacious interior, and generally dependable mechanics—often outweigh these known flaws.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most serious problem with the 2014 Honda Accord?
The most serious (and costly) potential issues are a leaking power steering rack or a failing transmission. However, these are not widespread epidemics. The CVT shudder is more common but often manageable with fluid changes.
How long can a 2014 Honda Accord last?
With proper maintenance, a 2014 Accord can easily last 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report reaching high mileage with only routine repairs. Adhering to the maintenance schedule is critical.
Is the 2014 Accord better with the 4-cylinder or V6 engine?
The 4-cylinder is more common and has the direct injection carbon issue. The V6 uses port injection, avoiding that problem, and pairs with a conventional automatic transmission instead of the CVT. However, the V6 gets lower fuel economy. Both are reliable engines overall.
Are there any recalls on the 2014 Honda Accord?
Yes, there have been several recalls. Key ones include:
* Fuel pump failure (Recall 20V-355).
* Battery sensor short circuit (Recall 18V-895).
* Incorrect airbag rivets (Recall 14V-351).
Always check the NHTSA website using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if all recalls have been performed on a specific car.
What should I do if my Accord’s Bluetooth isn’t working?
First, try “forgetting” the car from your phone’s Bluetooth settings and deleting your phone from the car’s system, then re-pair. Next, check for a software update on Honda’s owner site. If that fails, a dealer can update the software or diagnose a deeper hardware fault.
In conclusion, being informed about these 2014 Honda Accord Problems puts you in the driver’s seat. You can maintain your car proactively or shop for a used model with confidence, knowing what to look and listen for. For its age, the 2014 Accord continues to offer a compelling mix of comfort, efficiency, and sensible ownership costs, as long as you stay ahead of its few, well-documented weak spots.