The 7 Worst Honda Models To Buy Used & The 7 Best Ones

Last month, I found myself scrolling through endless listings for used Hondas, completely overwhelmed by choices. Honda’s reputation for reliability doesn’t mean every model deserves your hard-earned cash.

Some models have weathered the test of time beautifully, while others have developed notorious issues that make them money pits waiting to happen.

Here’s my breakdown of which used Hondas to embrace and which to avoid at all costs.

WORST #1: 2001-2005 Honda Civic

Transmission troubles haunt these Civics like automotive ghosts. Owners report sudden failures around 90,000 miles, often requiring complete replacements costing thousands.

The automatic transmissions are particularly problematic, with jerky shifting and eventual total failure. Even Honda acknowledged the issue with extended warranties that have long since expired.

WORST #2: 2008-2010 Honda Accord V6

Excessive oil consumption plagues these otherwise handsome sedans. Many owners report burning through a quart every 1,000 miles without warning lights or obvious leaks.

The VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system causes additional headaches, leading to engine vibrations and premature wear. Repair costs often exceed $3,000 when these issues compound around the 100,000-mile mark.

WORST #3: 1999-2004 Honda Odyssey

Transmission tragedy defines the first-generation Odyssey. Glass-like transmission parts shatter without warning, usually just after the warranty expires.

Electrical gremlins randomly disable power doors, windows, and even instrument clusters. The interior materials haven’t aged well either, with peeling surfaces and broken seat mechanisms common even in well-maintained examples.

WORST #4: 2012 Honda Civic

Rushed to market and universally panned, the 2012 Civic represents Honda’s low point. Cheap interior materials scratch easily and develop rattles within months of ownership.

The underpowered engine and sloppy suspension make for a disappointing drive. Honda actually issued an emergency refresh for 2013 after scathing reviews, making the 2012 model the black sheep of the Civic family.

WORST #5: 2007-2008 Honda Element

Quirky looks hide serious issues in these boxy utilities. Rear differential failures happen with alarming frequency, creating grinding noises before complete breakdown.

Leaking sunroofs damage interior electronics, causing mysterious electrical failures. The plastic body panels fade dramatically in sunny climates, making even well-maintained examples look neglected and worn out long before their time.

WORST #6: 2015-2016 Honda CR-Z

Honda’s sporty hybrid experiment delivered neither sportiness nor impressive efficiency. The anemic powertrain struggles to deliver excitement while returning fuel economy barely better than conventional cars of the era.

Battery degradation issues plague older examples, significantly reducing the already modest performance.

Limited practicality with poor rear visibility and tiny cargo space make this a hybrid that satisfies neither environmentalists nor driving enthusiasts.

WORST #7: 2003-2004 Honda Accord V6

Transmission failures became so common in these Accords that class-action lawsuits followed. The automatic transmissions typically fail between 70,000-100,000 miles, often without warning signs.

Severe oil consumption issues compound the problems, with some engines requiring rebuilds. Interior electronics frequently malfunction, with climate control displays fading out and power window switches failing after moderate use.

BEST #1: 2007-2011 Honda CR-V

Practical perfection defines these squared-off CR-Vs. The intelligent AWD system handles light off-roading and severe weather without the complexity that often leads to expensive repairs.

Cargo space rivals vehicles a class above, with clever storage solutions throughout. The fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine strikes an ideal balance between adequate power and impressive longevity, regularly exceeding 250,000 miles without major issues.

BEST #2: 2011-2016 Honda Odyssey

Family-hauling excellence reached new heights with these Odysseys. Honda finally solved the transmission issues that plagued earlier generations, creating a genuinely durable minivan.

Clever features like the built-in vacuum cleaner actually prove reliable long-term. The V6 engine delivers surprising performance when needed while returning respectable fuel economy during highway cruising.

BEST #3: 2016-2018 Honda Fit

Magic describes the interior packaging of these subcompact wonders. The configurable rear “Magic Seats” fold completely flat or flip up, accommodating cargo that shouldn’t logically fit in such a small vehicle.

Spirited handling makes daily driving genuinely fun. The simple, naturally-aspirated engine avoids the complexity and potential issues of turbocharged alternatives while delivering excellent fuel economy and proven reliability.

BEST #4: 2000-2009 Honda S2000

Engineering excellence defines this legendary roadster. The high-revving naturally aspirated engine regularly achieves 200,000+ miles when properly maintained, despite its performance nature.

Minimal electronics mean fewer potential failure points as these cars age. The six-speed manual transmission is nearly indestructible, and even the soft tops prove surprisingly durable compared to contemporary convertibles.

BEST #5: 2012-2015 Honda Pilot

Family-friendly reliability makes these boxy SUVs excellent used buys. The improved VCM system in these models eliminated the issues that plagued earlier generations.

Three genuinely usable rows of seating accommodate growing families. Timing belt service represents the only major scheduled maintenance, with many examples easily exceeding 250,000 miles when this simple maintenance is performed.

BEST #6: 2017-2021 Honda Ridgeline

Truck capability meets car comfort in these innovative pickups. The unibody construction delivers a smoother ride than traditional trucks while still handling most tasks owners throw at them.

The dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk provide unique utility. Honda’s reliable V6 powertrain has proven remarkably trouble-free, with the sophisticated AWD system requiring minimal maintenance compared to conventional 4WD truck systems.

BEST #7: 2018-2022 Honda Accord

Sophisticated engineering makes the latest-generation Accord a standout used purchase. The turbocharged engines have proven surprisingly reliable despite initial skepticism from Honda purists.

Spacious interiors rival luxury brands costing twice as much. Advanced driver assistance features work with impressive consistency, while the optional 2.0T engine delivers genuinely exciting performance without sacrificing the legendary Honda reliability.