Do 2005 Honda Accords Have Transmission Problems?

The 2005 Honda Accord is a well-known and generally reliable midsize sedan. However, some models of the 2005 Honda Accord do have notable transmission problems. This article will provide a detailed overview of the key 2005 Honda Accord transmission problems that impacted certain models that year.

Do 2005 Honda Accords Have Transmission Problems?

The Honda Accord has long been regarded as one of the most dependable midsize family sedans on the market. However, even typically reliable vehicles can have problem areas, and the 2005 Honda Accord is no exception. So do 2005 Honda Accords have transmission problems?

The short answer is yes, some 2005 Honda Accord models do have 2005 Honda Accord transmission problems. While not every 2005 Accord is affected, certain models from this year are known to exhibit issues like delayed shifting, shuddering between gears, and even complete transmission failure in some cases.

Below we’ll take a deeper look at the origins of these 2005 Honda Accord transmission problems and identify the specific models most susceptible to them.

Background On The 2005 Honda Accord

First, some background on the 2005 Honda Accord. This was the first model year of the seventh generation Accord, featuring an all-new chassis and bodywork.

There were several powertrain options available:

• 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission
• 3.0L V6 with 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission
• 2005 Honda Accord hybrid model with electric motor and 3.0L V6

Additionally, the Accord was offered in VP, LX, EX and EX V6 trims.

So while mechanically related, not all 2005 Accords are the same under the hood. The transmission problems seem most prevalent with 4-cylinder models equipped with the automatic transmission.

2005 Honda Accord Automatic Transmission Problems

The main automatic transmission used in 4-cylinder 2005 Honda Accords is a 5-speed gearbox known as the 5AT. This was an all-new transmission designed by Honda specifically for the seventh generation Accord. Unfortunately, the 5AT ended up having several inherent flaws that impacted its reliability and durability.

Design Flaws Of The 5AT Automatic

The 5AT automatic transmission suffered from some fundamental design issues that led to problems:

• Insufficient sealing allowed too much fluid loss over time. This resulted in eventual hydraulic failures and wear inside the transmission.
• The torque converter clutch was unable to withstand the stresses of regular driving. Early failure of the TCC was common.
• Poor quality control during manufacturing resulted in debris and defects inside new transmissions. This caused premature wear.
• The transmission computer’s logic was too aggressive and often misjudged shift timing. This resulted in harsh shifts and flares.
• These design flaws impacted all 2005 Honda Accord models equipped with the 5AT automatic transmission. Next we’ll look at the typical symptoms and failures caused as a result.

Common Symptoms And Failures

Here are some of the most prevalent 2005 Honda Accord automatic transmission problems seen with models that have the 5-speed 5AT:

Transmission Failure

• The most serious issue is complete internal failure of the transmission. This usually occurs between 70,000-100,000 miles.
• Failure causes the transmission to stop shifting properly and eventually lose all drive gears.
• Repair requires a full rebuild or transmission replacement. Costs often exceed $2000.

Delayed And Harsh Shifting

• The transmission hesitates and harshly shifts between gears.
• Shifting feels delayed and blunt rather than smooth.
• The computer struggles to correctly judge when to shift, causing flare-ups.

Shudder Between 1st And 2nd Gear

• The car shudders and vibrates when accelerating from 1st up into 2nd gear.
• Shuddering grows more pronounced over time as the torque converter clutch fails.
• Usually the result of failing TCC components inside the transmission.

Won’t Shift Into 3rd Gear

• The transmission gets stuck in 2nd gear and won’t upshift into 3rd when accelerating.
• Drivers are forced to manually downshift to 1st gear to get the car moving again.
• Indicates a hydraulic failure inside the transmission valve body.

Transmission Fluid Leaks

• The 5AT transmission is prone to leaking fluid from multiple seal and gasket surfaces.
• Leaks can signal damage and result in further degradation if not repaired promptly.
• Low fluid levels will accelerate internal wear and eventual failure.

These issues stem from problems with the transmission’s hydraulics and torque converter clutch components. Honda did extend the original powertrain warranty on these models to 7 years/100,000 miles to compensate. However, once past that coverage, repairs can be very expensive.

2005 Honda Accord V6 Transmission Issues

The V6 models used different transmissions that do not seem to be as problematic overall. However, some issues have still been reported with the 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic options in V6 models:

• Shift solenoid failure – Preventing proper gear shifts.
• Harsh downshifts – Solid thunk or clunk when transmission downshifts.
• Shuddering in overdrive – Vibration in 4th or 5th gears and overdrive.
• Delayed engagement – Takes a few seconds to shift into gear from Park.

Fortunately, these problems appear much less common compared to the 4-cylinder automatic transmission woes. But it’s still something to be aware of if considering a 2005 V6 Accord.

2005 Honda Accord Hybrid Transmission Problems

The hybrid version of the 2005 Accord combines an electric motor with the 3.0L V6. This allows it to achieve impressive fuel economy for a midsize sedan. However, it also came with its own unique transmission problems:

• Harsh shifts – The hybrid transmission is jerky when shifting.
• Shuddering from takeoff – Car shudders after initial takeoff from 0 mph.
• Relearning issues – Problems relearning shift points after battery disconnect.

While not as severe as the 4-cylinder models, the hybrid powertrain does have some quirks to be aware of. The electric motor and battery pack also raise potential repair costs down the road.

Models Most Impacted By 2005 Honda Accord Transmission Problems

Based on owner reports, the models most susceptible to 2005 Honda Accord transmission problems are:

• 2005 Honda Accord LX 4-cylinder automatic
• 2005 Honda Accord EX 4-cylinder automatic
• 2005 Honda Accord SE 4-cylinder automatic

These mainstream trims with the 4-cylinder and 5-speed automatic combo account for the majority of transmission complaints. Honda did revise this transmission design for the 2006 model year which helped improve its durability.

In contrast, the 4-cylinder Accord coupes from 2005 with the manual transmission have very few reported transmission issues. So opting for a stick shift is one way to avoid the problematic 5AT automatic.

This summarizes the transmission reliability for the main 2005 Accord models. The 4-cylinder cars with automatic transmissions are most prone to problems.

Key Takeaways Of 2005 Honda Accord Transmission Problems

• The Accord is typically a very reliable used car, but the 2005 model year has some transmission defects.
• Mainly impacts 4-cylinder models equipped with the 5-speed automatic transmission.
• Problems include delayed shifting, shuddering, leaks and complete transmission failures.
• V6 models are better but still have some occasional shift quality issues to be aware of.
• Manual transmission Accords are largely trouble-free for this model year.
• Hybrid models have their own unique transmission quirks to consider as well.
• Extended warranty helps but expires after 7 years/100k miles from original purchase date.
• Repairs for transmission issues can become very costly out of warranty.

So in summary, while not every 2005 Honda Accord suffers from major transmission problems, there are certainly higher risks with certain models and configurations. Being informed of these trouble spots can help you seek out a more reliable example if considering a used 2005 Accord. Prioritizing manual transmission models can also help avoid headaches.

Conclusion

The 2005 model year represented an ambitious redesign for the Honda Accord. While mostly successful, Honda did drop the ball on the durability of certain transmissions in these cars.

In particular, the 5-speed automatic paired with the 4-cylinder engine has demonstrated an array of defects from delayed shifting and shuddering, to complete transmission failure in the long run. This spoiled what was otherwise a sharp handling, fuel efficient and appealing family sedan.

Also Read: 2014 Honda Accord Transmission Problems

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Ammar Masoud

I have had a long and fulfilling career in the automotive industry, primarily with Honda and Acura. With 15 years of experience as a Honda service technician, I became highly skilled in repair and maintenance, gaining a deep understanding of these vehicles. After many years in the automotive field, I decided to embark on a second career in industrial manufacturing. It was a significant change, but I found that the skills I had honed in the automotive industry were incredibly valuable in my new role. In my current position in industrial manufacturing, the demand for quality workmanship and meticulous attention to detail is paramount. Fortunately, these are traits that I have cultivated throughout my years in the automotive industry. I take pride in applying these skills to meet the high standards expected in the manufacturing sector.

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