The 2010 Honda Accord EX-L is generally a solid used-car choice, offering reliability, a comfortable ride, and strong resale value. The 4-cylinder version is efficient for daily driving, while the V6 provides notably brisk acceleration. Overall, it’s a sensible pick if you maintain it well.
In this article, we outline what the EX-L trim brings, compare the engine options, assess reliability and maintenance considerations, explain what to look for when buying a used one, and offer a practical verdict for today’s market.
What the 2010 Accord EX-L offers
Below is a snapshot of the key strengths and features that define the EX-L trim.
- Leather-trimmed seats and interior appointments, with a premium feel for the era
- Sunroof or moonroof option, depending on configuration
- Heated front seats and often memory-adjustable/exclusive seating controls
- Equipped with advanced (for the time) safety features such as multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control
- Solid ride quality with comfortable seating, ample passenger space, and a refined highway demeanor
- Good resale value and a large aftermarket ecosystem for parts and maintenance
In short, EX-L models balance comfort and convenience with the reliability that Honda buyers expect from the brand.
Performance and engine options
Four-cylinder efficiency
The base powertrain for many 2010 Accords is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers sufficient, smooth performance for daily driving and commuting. It pairs with a five-speed automatic transmission, offering respectable fuel economy for a midsize sedan of its era. Expect comfortable around-town acceleration and steady highway cruising, with better efficiency than the V6 option.
- Approximate power around 177 horsepower, with torque suitable for everyday driving
- Typically paired with a five-speed automatic transmission
- Better fuel economy relative to the V6, making it a practical long-term choice
Overall, the four-cylinder engine is the sensible pick if you value efficiency and lower running costs over sporty acceleration.
V6 performance
For buyers seeking stronger acceleration and confident highway passing, the 3.5-liter V6 available in EX-L models delivers noticeably brisker performance. It provides more torque and a smoother, more refined power delivery, at the cost of higher fuel consumption and potential maintenance considerations as the car ages.
- Power around 271 horsepower with strong mid-range torque
- Typically paired with a five- or six-speed automatic transmission, depending on the exact configuration
- Quieter, more responsive feel on highways and in merge situations
If you regularly drive on highways or value quick acceleration, the V6 is appealing; otherwise, the 4-cylinder offers a more economical ownership experience.
Reliability and maintenance
Honda Accords from this generation are widely regarded for longevity, but any 12+ year-old car benefits from careful pre-purchase checks and ongoing maintenance. The EX-L’s leather/interior condition, drivetrain health, and suspension wear are common areas to inspect on a used example.
- Long-standing reputation for reliability when well maintained; many examples surpass 200,000 miles with proper care
- Suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings) and brake wear are common wear items on aging examples
- Automatic transmissions in higher-mileage vehicles can show hesitations or shifts if fluid changes have been neglected; verify service history
- Oil consumption is not universal but has been reported in some V6-equipped cars; monitor oil level and look for a consistent maintenance pattern
- Rust and corrosion are more region-dependent; check underbody, pinch welds, and wheel arches, especially in areas with road salt use
Overall, the Honda Accord's reputation for durable engines and solid engineering helps, but verify a full service history and a thorough inspection to understand any wear or potential future maintenance costs.
What to look for when buying a used 2010 Accord EX-L
Before you decide, use this buying checklist to spot potential red flags and ensure you’re getting a good deal.
- Complete maintenance records, especially for oil changes, transmission service, coolant, and brake components
- Inspection of the engine for oil leaks around the valve covers and the rear main seal; check for unusual noises or rough idle
- Transmission behavior: smooth shifting with no slipping or hard engagement on both city and highway drives
- Suspension health: listen for clunks or excessive bounce, and look for uneven tire wear that could indicate alignment or worn shocks
- Brake condition: even wear on all four rotors and brake pads; check for pulsation or noise during braking
- Interior condition: leather wear, cracking, and signs of sun exposure; verify that power seats, climate control, and the sunroof function properly
- Rust checks: inspect sills, wheel arches, and undercarriage for rust, especially on higher-mileage cars or those from snowy regions
- Evidence of past accidents: look for mismatched panels, paint overspray, or inconsistent gaps around doors and trunk
With a careful inspection and a clean maintenance history, a 2010 Accord EX-L can still be a dependable and comfortable choice.
Bottom line: is it a good buy today?
Yes, with caveats. A well-maintained EX-L with the four-cylinder engine typically offers a strong balance of efficiency, reliability, and comfort. The V6 adds performance but comes with higher fuel costs and potentially greater maintenance needs as the car ages. The key to a good purchase is a thorough pre-purchase inspection, a solid maintenance history, and realistic expectations about upcoming wear items on a 14+ year-old sedan.
Summary
The 2010 Honda Accord EX-L remains one of the better-used midsize sedans for buyers who value reliability, practicality, and comfort. The four-cylinder model is the sensible choice for most owners, delivering efficient daily driving, while the V6 offers stronger performance for those who want quicker acceleration. As with any older vehicle, success hinges on a detailed pre-purchase check, consistent maintenance, and realistic budgeting for eventual wear items like suspension components, brakes, and potential transmission care. When well cared for, the Accord EX-L can continue to serve as a dependable, comfortable, and affordable option on today’s used-car market.