If you’re considering a used 2017 Honda Accord, you’re looking at one of the most popular midsize sedans of its era. But like any car, it has its known trouble spots. What are the Problems with 2017 Honda Accord? Knowing the common issues can help you make a smart purchase or address problems early on.
The 2017 Accord is generally reliable, earning strong marks from critics and owners. However, some model years and specific components have a track record of causing headaches. This guide will walk you through the most frequent complaints, from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical concerns, so you know exactly what to watch for.
What are the Problems with 2017 Honda Accord?
While praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and smooth ride, the 2017 Accord isn’t perfect. The main areas of concern typically involve the vehicle’s electronics, certain engine components, and some transmission behavior. These problems aren’t universal, but they pop up often enough in owner forums and technical service bulletins (TSBs) to be noteworthy.
Let’s break down the specific issues you might encounter.
1. Electrical Gremlins and Infotainment Headaches
The 2017 Accord’s cabin tech was modern for its time, but it’s a common source of frustration. The issues range from simple glitches to more disruptive failures.
* Unresponsive Touchscreen: The center display can freeze, become laggy, or fail to respond to touch inputs entirely. A complete reboot (often by holding the power button) sometimes fixes it, but not always.
* Bluetooth Connectivity Problems: Many owners report the system failing to consistently connect to their phones or dropping the connection during calls or audio streaming.
* Random System Reboots: The entire infotainment screen may go black and reboot on its own while driving, which can be distracting.
* Backup Camera Glitches: The feed from the rearview camera can display a blue screen, a fuzzy image, or fail to appear at all. This is often tied to the main display unit’s software or hardware.
What you can do: Check for any available software updates from Honda. If problems persist, the head unit itself may need to be replaced, which can be an expensive fix out of warranty.
2. Battery Drain and Premature Battery Failure
This is a surprisingly widespread complaint. Owners find their car’s battery dying prematurely, sometimes in as little as one to two years.
The culprit is rarely a faulty battery itself. Instead, it’s often linked to:
* The complex electrical system and infotainment unit not fully “sleeping” when the car is off.
* Faulty battery sensors or charging system components.
* The factory-installed battery may not have enough capacity for the car’s many electronic features.
A weak battery can lead to other problems, like difficulty starting or strange warning lights on the dash. If you buy a 2017 Accord, testing the battery’s health should be a top priority.
3. CVT Transmission Concerns
The 4-cylinder models use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While Honda’s CVTs are generally more robust than some competitors, they have their quirks.
* Jerky or Rough Shifting: Some drivers notice a jerking sensation, especially during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. This can sometimes be improved with a software update or transmission fluid change.
* Transmission “Shudder” or Vibration: A more serious concern is a shuddering feeling, often under acceleration between 30-50 mph. This could indicate internal wear or issues with the transmission fluid.
* Whining Noise: A high-pitched whine from the CVT under acceleration is normal to some degree, but if it becomes excessively loud, it warrants inspection.
The V6 models use a conventional 6-speed automatic, which is largely trouble-free, though some have reported rough shifts in certain conditions.
4. Direct Injection Engine Carbon Build-Up
The 2017 Accord’s 1.5L and 2.0L turbo engines (introduced in 2018) are not in this model year. The 2017 uses port-injected engines, which are less prone to this issue. However, the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine does have direct injection in some configurations, and all direct injection engines are susceptible to carbon accumulating on the intake valves over time (60,000+ miles).
This build-up can lead to:
* Rough idle
* Reduced fuel economy
* Loss of power and hesitation
* Check Engine lights
Cleaning the valves is a involved process that typically requires walnut blasting, which isn’t a cheap service. Using top-tier gasoline and occasional highway driving can help slow the process.
5. Brake System Issues: Wear and Noise
Brake complaints are common but often relate to normal wear or minor issues.
* Premature Brake Pad/Rotor Wear: Some owners feel the factory brakes wear out faster than expected, sometimes before 30,000 miles. Aggressive driving style and city driving can accelerate this.
* Squealing or Squeaking Brakes: This is a frequent annoyance, often caused by vibration, dust, or the composition of the brake pads. It’s usually not a safety issue but can be irritating.
* Brake Pulsation/Vibration: A pulsating feeling in the brake pedal when stopping usually indicates warped front brake rotors, which may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
Regular inspection of your brake components is key to staying ahead of these issues.
Less Common But Serious Problems
While not as frequent, these are problems you should be aware of during a pre-purchase inspection.
* Power Steering Hose Leaks: There have been reports and a TSB for power steering high-pressure hose leaks on some 2013-2017 Accords. This can lead to a loss of power steering fluid and difficult steering.
* Air Conditioning (A/C) Failures: Some owners face A/C compressor failures or refrigerant leaks, leading to a complete loss of cold air. Repair costs can be significant.
* Excessive Oil Consumption: A small number of drivers with the 2.4L engine report the engine using more oil than normal between changes. This is not a widespread epidemic for this year like it is for some earlier models, but it’s worth checking the oil level regularly.
What to Check When Buying a Used 2017 Accord
A thorough inspection can save you from buying a problematic car. Here’s a quick checklist:
1. Test All Electronics: Spend time with the infotainment system. Test the touchscreen responsiveness, pair your phone via Bluetooth, and cycle through every menu. Check all speakers, and ensure the backup camera works clearly.
2. Get a Battery Load Test: Have a mechanic or parts store perform a load test on the battery to check its health and charging system output.
3. Inspect the Transmission: On a long test drive, pay close attention to how the CVT behaves. Listen for unusual whining and feel for any shuddering or harsh jerking during slow-speed driving and acceleration.
4. Check Service History: Look for records of regular oil changes, transmission fluid service, and brake work. A well-documented history is a good sign.
5. Look for Leaks: Check under the car and around the engine bay for any signs of fluid leaks, particularly near the power steering pump and A/C components.
6. Listen for Noises: Drive with the radio off. Listen for any unusual rattles, squeaks from the brakes, or engine noises.
Is the 2017 Honda Accord Still a Good Buy?
Absolutely. Despite these known problems, the 2017 Accord remains a top choice in the used sedan market. Its overall reliability, low cost of ownership, and excellent driving dynamics outweigh its potential flaws for most buyers.
The key is to go in with your eyes open. Focus on finding a well-maintained example, preferably with a clean vehicle history report and service records. Budget for potential repairs, especially related to the battery and infotainment system, and you’ll likely enjoy many miles of dependable transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most common problem with the 2017 Honda Accord?
A: The most frequent complaints involve the infotainment system (unresponsive screen, Bluetooth issues) and premature battery failure. These are widespread enough that you should test them thoroughly.
Q: Does the 2017 Honda Accord have transmission problems?
A: The CVT transmission in 4-cylinder models can exhibit jerky shifting or a shuddering sensation, especially as it accumulates miles. It’s not prone to catastrophic failure, but it can be a source of annoyance. The V6’s 6-speed automatic is more robust.
Q: How long will a 2017 Honda Accord last?
A: With proper maintenance, a 2017 Accord can easily last 200,000 miles or more. Honda’s reputation for longevity is well-earned, and the engines in this model year are known for their durability if cared for.
Q: Is the 2017 Accord better than the 2018 model?
A: This depends on your priorities. The 2018 is a full redesign with newer tech, turbo engines, and updated styling. The 2017, however, uses more proven, naturally-aspirated engines and may offer better value as a used car. Some prefer the simpler mechanics of the 2017.
Q: Are there any recalls on the 2017 Honda Accord?
A: Yes, there have been several recalls. The most significant involved the battery sensor, which could short circuit and increase fire risk, and fuel pump failures. Always check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website to see if any recalls apply to a specific car and if they’ve been completed.
Q: What should I do if my Accord’s screen is frozen?
A: Try a soft reset by holding the power button for several seconds until the system reboots. If that doesn’t work, you may need to disconnect the car’s battery for a few minutes (note: this will reset other settings). Persistent issues likely require a dealer visit for a software flash or hardware replacement.