The 1998 Honda Accord remains a solid used-car choice: dependable, comfortable, and relatively economical to run, provided you accept aging components. With a proven design and wide parts availability, a well-maintained example can still serve as a reliable daily driver.
Overview of the model year
In the 1998 model year, the Accord was in its sixth generation (1998–2002) for the North American market. Buyers could choose a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter V6, paired with either a four-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual. The car is widely praised for durability and straightforward mechanicals, though interior features and cabin materials feel dated by modern standards. Fuel economy is solid with the four-cylinder and softer with the V6, which offers stronger acceleration but higher running costs.
Engine options and performance
Understanding the two engine options helps set expectations for power, efficiency, and maintenance costs today.
- 2.3-liter four-cylinder: reliable, relatively efficient for its era, typically offering around 130–150 horsepower depending on configuration, with better fuel economy than the V6.
- 3.0-liter V6: more power and smoother acceleration, generally around 190–200 horsepower, but with higher fuel consumption and potentially higher maintenance costs.
Bottom line: the four-cylinder is the practical choice for daily driving and cost-conscious buyers, while the V6 provides more effortless power at the expense of higher fuel use.
Reliability and maintenance considerations
As a 25+ year-old car, the Accord’s reliability hinges on maintenance history and prior care. The following areas are commonly important for aging examples:
- Timing belt and water pump: typically replaced around 90,000–100,000 miles on the 4-cylinder; best practice is to replace the water pump when the belt is due, to avoid multiple service events.
- Transmission health: the 4-speed automatic used in some 1998 Accords can develop shifts or leaks if not serviced; ensure transmission fluid is clean and changed at recommended intervals, and beware any slipping or harsh shifting during a test drive.
- Suspension and steering wear: front control arms, bushings, ball joints, and struts/shocks may show wear with age, affecting ride quality and handling.
- Rust and corrosion: inspect for rust on the underbody, wheel arches, door bottoms, and trunk area, especially in regions with road salt or high humidity.
- Electrical and interior wear: aging power window regulators, sunroof seals, and other electrical components can fail; check for flickering lights, failing regulators, or non-functional switches.
- Cooling and hoses: radiator hoses, coolant leaks, and thermostat wear are common as systems age; ensure the cooling system holds pressure and doesn’t overheat.
Conclusion: a well-maintained example with documented service tends to be more reliable than one with patchy history; budget for possible aging repairs common to any 25-year-old car.
Ownership costs and current value
Today’s ownership costs for a 1998 Accord depend on mileage, condition, and location, but the model is generally economical to own relative to many peers of its era. Here are the key factors to consider when budgeting.
- Purchase price and resale value: typical market prices vary widely by condition and mileage, but many clean examples hover in the low-to-mid thousands, with exceptionally well-preserved cars commanding higher prices.
- Fuel economy: four-cylinder models usually achieve roughly 25–30+ mpg combined, depending on transmission and maintenance; V6 versions are heavier on fuel, often in the 20–28 mpg range.
- Maintenance and repairs: routine items (brakes, tires, fluids) are inexpensive due to plentiful parts; major items (timing belt-related work, transmission service, or A/C components) can be pricier, but are still manageable with a mechanic familiar with older Hondas.
- Insurance and registration: generally affordable, particularly for experienced adult drivers; premiums vary by driver history and location.
Conclusion: owning a 1998 Accord is typically cost-efficient for an older car, provided you budget for periodic maintenance and potential age-related repairs.
What to check when buying a 1998 Accord
To maximize value, use a thorough checklist before purchasing. This helps identify cars that’ve been cared for and avoids expensive surprises later.
- Service history: look for regular maintenance, especially timing-belt/water-pump work and transmission service records.
- Rust inspection: check the underbody, radiator support, wheel arches, and floor pans for corrosion.
- Engine and drivetrain: listen for smooth starts, even idle, no excess smoke on startup, and no obvious leaks.
- Transmission behavior: test both the auto and manual if available; ensure shifts are smooth and clutch engagements are gradual without slipping (for the manual).
- Cooling system: verify the radiator, hoses, and thermostat are in good condition and that the cooling fan operates properly.
- Electricals and interior: test power windows, A/C, heater, radio, and dash instruments for consistent operation.
Recommendation: have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to quantify any looming issues and to gauge overall condition.
Summary
The 1998 Honda Accord remains a historically reliable and practical choice among aging sedans. With careful selection—favoring a well-documented maintenance history and a corrosion-free body—the car can provide dependable daily transportation for many miles. Expect aging components to require routine attention, and budget for periodic maintenance that aligns with a vehicle of its vintage. Overall, it is hard to beat for value, comfort, and ease of ownership when a buyer chooses a car with a solid service record.