2009 Honda Accord

If you’re looking for a used car that gets the balance right, the 2009 Honda Accord is a standout choice. The 2009 Honda Accord offers a blend of performance and reliability that’s hard to beat, making it a smart pick for anyone from new drivers to growing families.

This model year hit a sweet spot in the Accord’s long history. It provided a comfortable ride, plenty of space, and Honda’s famous dependability, all without breaking the bank. Let’s look at what makes this car such a persistent favorite on the road.

The 2009 Accord came in two distinct body styles: a sleek four-door sedan and a versatile two-door coupe. Both offered a range of features across several trim levels: LX, LX-P, EX, and EX-L. This meant buyers could choose the perfect combination of value and luxury for there needs.

Engine Options and Performance Specs

You had two excellent engines to choose from:

2.4-liter 4-cylinder (I4): Standard on most trims, this engine produced 177 horsepower (190 hp in the coupe). It was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. This was the efficiency king, offering a great balance of pep and fuel economy.
3.5-liter V6: Available on higher trims, this robust engine delivered 271 horsepower. It came with a 5-speed automatic (6-speed manual was a rare option on the coupe). This transformed the Accord into a genuinely quick car, with smooth power for highway merging and passing.

Fuel Economy You Can Count On

One of the key parts of its reliability is not needing to visit the pump too often. Here’s what you could expect:

4-cylinder (Auto): Approximately 21 mpg city / 31 mpg highway.
V6 (Auto): Around 19 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.

These numbers remain competitive even by todays standards, especially for a car of its size.

Interior Space and Comfort

Honda made the 2009 Accord larger than its predecessor, and it showed inside. The cabin felt spacious and airy, with high-quality materials for its class.

Seating: The sedan comfortably seated five adults, with exceptional legroom in the back. The coupe’s front seats were supportive and comfortable, though the rear was best for shorter trips.
Cargo: The trunk was massive, offering 14 cubic feet of space. The rear seats folded down in a 60/40 split, allowing you to carry longer items.

Technology and Features for 2009

For a 2009 model, the Accord was well-equipped. Available features included:

A premium 6-disc CD changer with MP3/auxiliary input.
Available satellite-linked navigation with voice recognition.
Dual-zone automatic climate control on EX-L models.
Leather-trimmed seats and a power moonroof.
Bluetooth HandsFreeLink for phone calls.

Driving Dynamics and On-Road Feel

The 2009 Accord was tuned for comfort first. The ride was smooth and absorbent, soaking up bumps and road imperfections with ease. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in parking lots.

While not a sports sedan, the chassis was competent. The V6 model, in particular, offered surprising thrust. The car felt stable and confident on long highway journeys, which is where many owners spent there time.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

This is where the 2009 Accord truly shines. Honda’s reputation for building durable, long-lasting vehicles is firmly embodied in this generation.

Common Issues to Inspect

No car is perfect, and the 2009 Accord has a few known areas to check when buying used:

Excessive Oil Consumption: Some 4-cylinder engines from 2008-2010 may burn oil between changes. Listen for knocking or check for blue smoke from the exhaust.
Power Steering Hose Leaks: A relatively common issue where the high-pressure power steering hose develops a leak. Look for fluid drips under the front of the car.
Brake Wear: The Accord was somewhat heavy, so front brake pads and rotors could wear quicker than expected.
Air Conditioning Problems: The A/C clutch or compressor could fail, leading to warm air from the vents.

Maintenance Schedule Highlights

Following the factory schedule is key to longevity. Major service intervals include:

Every 30,000 miles: Replace engine air filter, inspect drive belts, and service the transmission fluid.
Every 60,000 miles: Replace spark plugs (on V6 models), change coolant, and inspect valve clearance (on 4-cylinder models).
Every 105,000 miles: Timing belt replacement is CRITICAL on the V6 engine. Failure will cause severe engine damage. The 4-cylinder uses a timing chain that doesn’t require scheduled replacement.

Safety Ratings and Features

The 2009 Accord earned top marks in its day:

NHTSA Overall Frontal Crash Test Rating: 5 Stars
IIHS Top Safety Pick (with optional electronic stability control)
Standard safety features included dual-stage front airbags, side-curtain airbags, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Electronic Stability Control (VSA) became standard on all models later in the model year.

Buying a Used 2009 Accord: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to find your own? Follow these steps to make a smart purchase.

Step 1: Set Your Budget and Preferences

Decide if you want the fuel-sipping 4-cylinder or the powerful V6. Choose between the practical sedan or the stylish coupe. Trim levels significantly affect price; an EX-L with navigation will cost more than a base LX.

Step 2: Research Listings and Prices

Use online marketplaces to gauge current prices. Factors affecting price include mileage, trim, condition, service history, and geographic location. A well-documented service history is often worth paying a bit more for.

Step 3: The Pre-Purchase Inspection (Non-Negotiable)

Always, always get a used car inspected by a trusted mechanic before you buy. They can spot current and potential future problems, giving you peace of mind or leverage for negotiation. This small cost can save you thousands.

Step 4: Test Drive Checklist

When you drive the car, pay attention to these things:

Start the engine from cold. Listen for unusual noises.
Test all gears (if automatic, ensure shifts are smooth).
Check that the air conditioning blows cold air.
Test all power features: windows, locks, seats, mirrors.
Drive on different road types. Listen for suspension clunks or steering pulls.
Brake firmly from moderate speed; the car should stop straight without vibration.

Step 5: Negotiation and Final Paperwork

Use any issues found during the inspection or test drive to justify your offer. Ensure the title is clear (not salvage or rebuilt) and that the seller has the right to sell it. Get a bill of sale and make sure the title transfer is done correctly at your local DMV.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the 2009 Honda Accord a good car?

Yes, it is widely considered one of the better used car choices from that era. Its combination of space, comfort, and proven reliability makes it an excellent value.

How many miles can a 2009 Honda Accord last?

With proper maintenance, it’s not uncommon to see these Accords reach 200,000 to 250,000 miles. The key is following the maintenance schedule and addressing small issues before they become big ones.

What is the difference between the 2009 Accord 4-cylinder and V6?

The main differences are power and fuel economy. The 4-cylinder is more efficient and cheaper to maintain (timing chain vs. belt). The V6 offers significantly more acceleration and power, making it feel more premium.

Are 2009 Honda Accords expensive to maintain?

No, they are generally inexpensive to maintain compared to many rivals. Parts are widely available, and most mechanics are familiar with them. The major cost is the V6 timing belt service around 105,000 miles.

What should I look for when buying a used 2009 Accord?

Focus on service records, check for oil consumption issues on the 4-cylinder, inspect the power steering hoses for leaks, test the A/C thoroughly, and, as always, get a pre-purchase inspection.

Final Thoughts

The 2009 Honda Accord stands as a testament to smart, sensible car design. It doesn’t try to be the flashiest or the fastest. Instead, it delivers exactly what most drivers need day after day, year after year: dependable transportation that’s comfortable, efficient, and affordable to own.

Its strong reputation means it holds its value well and is easy to sell when your ready to move on. For a used car buyer seeking a no-nonsense vehicle that simply works, the 2009 Accord remains a top-tier contender. It’s a decision you’re unlikely to regret, offering a straightforward ownership experience that’s become increasingly rare.