The 2015 Accord is a solid car — but high mileage hides real costs
The 9th-generation Honda Accord (2013–2017) is one of the most popular used cars on the market for good reason: it's reliable, comfortable, and parts are cheap. But at 120,000+ miles, several known failure points start compounding. A $10,000 asking price can quietly become $13,000–$15,000 once you account for deferred maintenance and wear items that are statistically due.
This guide covers the 6 most common issues buyers encounter, what they cost to fix, and exactly what to check before you sign anything.
The 9th-gen Accord (2013–2015) is a strong pick for anyone who wants a comfortable, spacious midsize sedan with a track record of lasting well past 150,000 miles. It suits daily commuters, small families, and buyers who prioritize a smooth highway ride and a refined interior without spending on a luxury badge.
Overall reliability is good, but not quite Camry-tier. The 2.4L 4-cylinder is the safer engine choice — aim for examples under 120,000 miles with documented oil changes. The V6 is enjoyable to drive but more expensive to maintain. Avoid anything with an unknown service history past 80,000 miles.
6 problems to inspect before you buy
Timing Chain Rattle (2.4L K24 Engine)
At high mileage, the timing chain tensioner wears and produces a cold-start rattle. Left unfixed it can jump timing and destroy the engine. Start the car cold and listen for 30 seconds before anything else. This is the #1 issue on this generation.
Catalytic Converter Failure (P0420)
Extremely common on 9th-gen Accords. The P0420 code indicates the cat has dropped below efficiency threshold — it will fail emissions and needs replacement. If the seller cleared codes, you won't see it until you run a scan yourself.
VTEC Solenoid Failure
The VTEC solenoid develops oil sludge buildup past 100k miles if oil changes were skipped. Results in a check engine light and rough idle. Check oil change history — if it's spotty, budget for this. Sometimes it's just the screen needing a clean ($50), sometimes it's a full solenoid ($300–$700).
Oil Consumption Above Average
The K24 engine on this generation consumes slightly more oil than Honda's spec — roughly 1 quart per 2,000–3,000 miles on high-mileage examples. Pull the dipstick at inspection. If it's low and nobody mentioned it, that's a red flag about how the car was maintained.
Front Struts & CV Axle Wear
Struts typically last 80,000–100,000 miles. By 140k, they're statistically due on most examples. Listen for clunking over bumps and check for uneven tire wear. CV boots crack and grease leaks — inspect the axle boots for splits at the wheel end.
Transmission Fluid (If Never Changed)
Honda recommends ATF change at 60,000–90,000 miles. Many private sellers skip this. Dark, burnt-smelling transmission fluid at 140k is a warning sign. Ask for receipts. A fluid change is cheap ($120–$180) but if it's been neglected for 100k+ miles, the damage may already be done.
10-point checklist for your physical inspection
Here's what a LemonScanner report looks like for this exact car
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