Yes. The 2017 Honda Accord is generally considered a good used-car choice, known for reliability, efficiency, and practicality. With proper maintenance, it can deliver many miles of dependable service.
In this article, we examine why the 2017 Accord remains appealing, what to watch out for in a used example, and how ownership costs typically add up. We’ll also help you decide which trim and powertrain suits your needs.
What makes the 2017 Accord a strong choice
Key strengths that have driven the Accord’s popularity include reliability, resale value, comfort, and efficiency. Here are the main advantages:
- Reliability and long-term durability: Honda’s reputation for building durable engines and transmissions.
- Comfortable, spacious interior: roomy rear seats and a generously sized trunk; well-designed cabin materials for the class.
- Strong safety record and features: solid crash-test ratings and available driver-assistance tech in higher trims.
- Balanced ride and handling: composed ride with confident steering and good road manners for a midsize sedan.
- Competitive fuel efficiency: typically upper-20s to upper-30s mpg combined for non-hybrid variants, depending on configuration.
- Resale value: retains value well in the used-car market, aided by reliability and brand reputation.
In practice, these factors have made the 2017 Accord a frequent pick among used-car shoppers who want a practical, low-stress ownership experience.
What to watch for before you buy
As a mid-cycle design, the 2017 Accord is generally reliable, but there are a few issues to verify before purchase:
- Transmission and drivetrain: If the car uses the CVT, verify smooth operation and check for any hesitations or shuddering. Ensure the transmission fluid was serviced per Honda’s schedule.
- Infotainment and electronics: Test the touchscreen, Bluetooth, CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation (if equipped) for responsiveness and stability; check for any recall-related updates.
- Airbag recall history: Many older Hondas were affected by Takata airbag recalls; confirm all recalls were completed through a Honda dealer with service records.
- Interior wear and noise: Listen for wind or road noise; check for rattles in the dash; inspect seats, trim, and upholstery for wear.
- Suspension and brakes: Check for uneven tire wear, squeaks, or clunks that could indicate worn bushings or struts; brake pads and rotors should be within normal service life.
When shopping, prioritize evidence of regular maintenance, a clean service history, and a test drive that reproduces any noted issues.
Which trims and powertrains to consider
Engine options and trade-offs
The 2017 Accord offered a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine for most trims and a 3.5-liter V6 in higher-end trims, with the former often paired to a CVT or manual transmission and the latter paired with a 6-speed automatic. The hybrid variant used a separate hybrid system. In general, the 2.4L is more economical and widely available, while the V6 offers stronger acceleration at the cost of fuel economy.
Before making a choice, consider your priorities: daily commuting efficiency versus highway performance, expected maintenance costs, and insurance premiums, which can be higher for V6 models.
In addition, higher trims (EX-L, Touring) add more driver-assistance features and upgraded interior materials, which can influence ownership experience and resale value.
Ownership costs and long-term value
Understanding ongoing costs helps gauge whether a 2017 Accord fits your budget. Here is a quick look at what to expect:
- Maintenance and repairs: routine services (oil changes, tire rotations) are generally affordable; plan for brake wear and occasional suspension components as the car ages.
- Fuel expenses: real-world fuel economy tends to be in the high 20s to low 30s mpg for non-hybrid models, depending on driving style and powertrain.
- Insurance and taxes: insurance premiums for a midsize sedan like the Accord are typically moderate; costs vary by driver profile and location.
- Resale value: Hondas tend to hold value well, especially when well maintained and with clean service records.
To optimize ownership, keep up with recall/service campaigns, schedule regular maintenance, and address any issues promptly to preserve reliability and resale value.
Bottom line and what to do next
For many buyers, the 2017 Honda Accord remains a solid, well-rounded choice in the used-car market. It blends practicality, efficiency, and a reputation for reliability that often translates into lower ownership stress and strong resale value. If you’re shopping for a 2017 Accord, look for well-documented maintenance, a clean history, and a transmission that shifts smoothly, and consider negotiating based on any remaining warranty or recall repairs.
Summary
The 2017 Honda Accord delivers a compelling package for a used midsize sedan: strong reliability, comfort, and efficiency, with a broad range of trims to suit different needs. While there are common issues to verify, a well-maintained example can offer years of dependable service and solid value in today’s market.