2013 Honda Accord: Used Car Buyer’s Guide
Contents
Overview
A perennial favorite in the midsize sedan segment, the 2013 Honda Accord delivers a mix of qualities that continues to appeal to a broad range of buyers. Its reputation for reliability, combined with comfortable driving dynamics, a spacious interior, and efficient powertrains, makes it an excellent choice for a used car purchase.
This model year marks the start of the Accord’s ninth generation, boasting refreshed styling, improved fuel economy, and advanced safety features. Available in sedan and coupe body styles, with several trims and two engines to choose from, there’s an Accord to suit various tastes and budgets.
Changes for 2013
The 2013 Honda Accord kicks off the ninth generation with several key updates. A slightly smaller and lighter body contributes to increased fuel efficiency, while interior space is maintained, even slightly improved. Honda introduces an all-new direct-injection 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine for the LX, Sport, and EX trims, providing more power and better fuel economy. The V6 engine also sees improvements in power output and efficiency. Transmissions are updated across the lineup, with the introduction of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for four-cylinder models and a six-speed automatic for V6 versions. In technology, Honda introduces the HondaLink infotainment system and the available LaneWatch blind-spot display – a first in a mass-market car.
Trim Levels and Variants
The 2013 Honda Accord comes in six primary trims: LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, EX-L V6, and Touring. The base LX trim provides a solid feature list that includes dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a touch-screen display. The Sport trim adds performance-related enhancements, including a more powerful version of the four-cylinder engine, larger wheels, and a rear spoiler.
The EX trim introduces features like a sunroof and keyless entry/start, while the EX-L adds luxury-oriented features, such as leather upholstery, forward collision and lane departure warning, and a more premium audio system. The EX-L V6 gets, as the name suggests, the V6 engine and additional luxuries like a power passenger seat. The range-topping Touring trim, exclusive to the sedan, includes advanced features such as LED headlights and adaptive cruise control.
The Accord Coupe comes in LX-S, EX, EX-L, and EX-L V6 trims, with similar features to their sedan counterparts.
Performance and Handling
Honda Accord has always been lauded for its stellar driving dynamics, and the 2013 model continues this tradition. It offers a balance between comfort and sportiness that few competitors can match.
The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that powers the LX, Sport, and EX trims generates 185 horsepower (189 in the Sport), providing satisfactory acceleration for daily driving needs. The LX and Sport trims come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, a rarity in this segment, while a CVT is optional.
The 3.5-liter V6, available in the EX-L and standard in the Touring sedan, offers brisk acceleration with its 278 horsepower. It pairs with a six-speed automatic, although a six-speed manual is available on the coupe, showcasing its sportier positioning within the Accord lineup.
Regardless of the chosen engine or transmission, the 2013 Accord handles with grace. It smoothly navigates road imperfections while maintaining composed handling, striking a balance between comfort and sportiness. It feels agile and responsive, making it as enjoyable to drive in urban environments as it is on winding backroads.
Fuel Economy
The 2013 Accord’s fuel economy is impressive for a midsize sedan, contributing to its appeal as a practical daily driver.
The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with the CVT in the LX, Sport, and EX sedan trims returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. If equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, its numbers drop slightly to 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
The larger 3.5-liter V6 engine, standard in the EX-L V6 and Touring sedan trims, delivers 21 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with the six-speed automatic. On the coupe model with the same engine but paired with a six-speed manual, the numbers dip to 18 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
In comparison to its competitors, the 2013 Accord offers strong fuel economy figures across its range, adding to its overall value.
Utility and Cargo Space
Despite its slightly smaller exterior compared to the previous generation, the 2013 Accord provides a roomy and comfortable interior. It comfortably seats five, with ample legroom in both rows.
The Accord’s trunk offers 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which is above average for the midsize sedan class. The rear seats fold down to accommodate larger items, but they do not fold completely flat, which can limit the utility somewhat.
In contrast, the Accord Coupe sacrifices some practicality for style, offering a tighter rear seat and a slightly smaller trunk with 13.7 cubic feet of cargo space.
Interior and Comfort
The 2013 Honda Accord’s cabin benefits from a major redesign that brings higher-quality materials and a more modern layout compared to its predecessor. A more intuitive control layout, characterized by large knobs and buttons, enhances usability. The sedan’s roominess extends beyond just passenger space; it also boasts numerous storage cubbies and cup holders for everyday practicality.
The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing a nice balance of cushioning and support that’s well-suited to longer drives. The rear seat is one of the roomiest in the class, offering generous legroom. Noise levels are impressively low, with the Accord doing a good job of isolating wind and road noise.
While the base LX trim’s interior is nicely appointed, moving up to the EX-L or Touring trims adds a touch of luxury with features like leather upholstery and heated front seats. Regardless of trim, the Accord’s interior is a pleasant and comfortable place to spend time.
Technology and Safety Features
The 2013 Accord introduces new standard and available technology features that make it a strong competitor in the midsize sedan class. Every Accord comes standard with a rearview camera and an 8-inch display screen, plus features like Bluetooth, a USB port, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
The available HondaLink system, part of the upgraded 7-inch touchscreen found in EX trims and above, offers smartphone integration and internet radio streaming. However, some reviewers have noted that this system, with its touch-sensitive controls and layered menus, can be more difficult to use than traditional knobs and buttons.
Safety-wise, the Accord impresses. In addition to the standard rearview camera, it introduces optional safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning, both new for 2013. The range-topping Touring trim also includes adaptive cruise control.
Reliability and Problem Areas
The 2013 Honda Accord is generally seen as a reliable used car choice. However, like any used vehicle, it’s not immune to issues. Certain Accord models from this year have had problems with the starter motor, with some owners reporting that it required replacement earlier than expected. There have also been some reports of issues with the battery draining prematurely.
Owners have also reported some problems with the CVT, such as juddering or vibration. Honda issued a service bulletin for this issue, and in some cases, the transmission may need to be replaced. This is worth noting if you’re considering a four-cylinder Accord, which comes standard with the CVT.
Despite these issues, the Accord’s solid reputation for reliability remains largely intact. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to avoid any potential problems.
Value Retention
The 2013 Honda Accord has demonstrated strong value retention compared to other midsize sedans. It was originally priced competitively with its peers, and thanks to Honda’s reputation for quality and reliability, it has maintained its value well over the years.
According to used car market data, a 2013 Accord’s current value ranges from about 50% to 60% of its original price, depending on the car’s condition, mileage, and the market demand. These figures can vary slightly, but they’re indicative of the Accord’s strong residual value.
Looking forward, the Accord is likely to continue this pattern. As long as it remains in good condition and regular maintenance is performed, future buyers should expect a slow and steady depreciation curve.
Top Competitors
The 2013 Honda Accord competes in a crowded and competitive midsize sedan segment. Its main rivals include the Toyota Camry, which offers comparable reliability and comfort but lacks the Accord’s sporty driving dynamics. The Ford Fusion and Hyundai Sonata are also strong contenders, with attractive designs, high-quality interiors, and a range of efficient engines.
The Nissan Altima is another top competitor, featuring outstanding fuel economy and a comfortable ride. However, its CVT can feel unresponsive compared to the Accord’s, and it doesn’t offer a V6 option. The Chevrolet Malibu is also in this class, offering a quiet and comfortable ride, but it falls short in terms of handling and rear-seat space.
In the end, the 2013 Accord’s blend of reliability, efficiency, and fun-to-drive nature make it a standout choice in the midsize sedan market.
Where to Buy One
If you’re shopping for a used 2013 Honda Accord, there are several places to look.
Online Marketplaces: Websites such as AutoTrader, Cars.com, and CarGurus host extensive listings from both dealerships and private sellers. You can easily customize your search based on factors such as mileage, price, trim, and location.
Dealerships: Many dealerships, whether purely online sellers such as Carvana, national retailers such as Carmax, or your local Honda franchise, have a healthy selection of used Accords for sale. However, most will likely be newer models.
Auction Sites & Classifieds: Auction sites, such as eBay Motors, Bring a Trailer, and Cars & Bids, are definitely worth checking out, while old-school classifieds giant Craigslist can also be a rich hunting ground, as can its more contemporary counterpart, Facebook Marketplace.
Not sure whether to buy from a dealership or a private seller? Check out our related article to for an explanation of the pros and cons of each.
Photos courtesy of Honda