The 2017 Honda Accord is an overall reliable sedan but does have some 2017 Honda Accord problems owners should look out for. The most common issues are with the engine, electrical system, and tires.
The 2017 Honda Accord is one of Honda’s best-selling sedans and is known for its reliability and value. However, as with any vehicle, it is not without its flaws. In this article, I will outline the most common 2017 Honda Accord problems reported by owners based on my extensive automotive expertise and research.
What Are The Most 2017 Honda Accord Problems?
Problem | Cause | Solution |
Engine stalling/power loss | Faulty fuel pump, inconsistent fuel pressure | Fuel pump replacement (may be covered under recall 19V060000), check fuel pressure, tune-up |
Transmission hesitations/noises | Low fluid, contaminated fluid, overheating, software issues | Fluid flush, inspect fluid quality, software update, shop inspection |
Premature battery drain | Weak battery, parasitic draw, corrosion | Load test & replace battery, inspect parasitic drains, clean terminals |
Headlight failures | High voltage, short bulb life | Replace headlight unit, avoid excessive night driving |
Tire/wheel noises | Poor tire beading, improper fit | Tire rotation and balance, replace tires |
Forward collision failures | Radar sensor issues | Sensor replacement, disable collision features |
Engine knocking noise | Piston/ring wear | Diagnosis for warranty coverage, use recommended oil |
Infotainment glitches | Software bugs, overheating | Software update, inspection of unit |
Oil consumption | Internal wear | Consumption testing, reduced change intervals |
Paint defects | Factory paint flaws | Spot touch-up, professional repaint |
Sunroof leakage | Clogged drains | Drain inspection & cleaning, resealing |
Mechanical Issues
Mechanical problems can leave drivers stranded and lead to expensive repairs if neglected. Here are the most reported mechanical 2017 Honda Accord problems.
Engine Stalling and Power Loss
One of the most concerning issues reported in the 2017 Honda Accord is random engine stalling and power loss. Owners describe the idle as rough, and RPMs fluctuate as if the engine is about to stall, especially when coming to a stop. In some cases, the engine stalls completely when idling.
Root Cause
This stalling and near-stalling is most often caused by a faulty fuel pump that can’t deliver consistent fuel pressure. It primarily affects Accords equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine.
Without consistent fuel pressure, the engine gets “starved” at low speeds and loads. This leads to the surging and stalling symptoms many drivers experience.
Troubleshooting and Diagnosis
Here are some tips for diagnosing stalling issues:
- Monitor fuel pressure with a gauge – pressure should hold steady around 51 psi.
- Check for fuel pump related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
- Listen for signs of a failing fuel pump – excessive noise can indicate wear.
If fuel pressure is fluctuating and fuel pump failure is suspected, further diagnosis may require a trip to the dealership or auto shop. However, this issue was common enough that Honda issued a recall in 2019.
Recall and Extended Warranty
Honda recalled certain 2017 Accords for fuel pump failure, recall ID 19V060000. The fuel pumps were replaced free of charge under this recall.
The powertrain warranty also covers this issue for up to 5 years/60,000 miles from the original sale date. So, if you experience stalling or power loss, it may still be covered under warranty.
Transmission Hesitations and Noises
The CVT transmission equipped in the 2017 Accord can also develop some problematic symptoms for drivers. Owners report hesitations, jerky shifting, and droning noises, especially at high RPMs.
Root Cause
The Accord’s CVT transmission is highly sensitive to fluid quality and operating temperature. Contaminated fluid and overheating are the leading causes of transmission issues.
Software glitches in the transmission control module (TCM) can also lead to problems like the car revving high as if “stuck” in one gear. This points to issues with the “step function” that simulates gear shifts.
Troubleshooting Tips
Here are some tips for diagnosing transmission problems in the 2017 Accord:
- Test drive and listen for slipping hesitation or odd noises.
- Check transmission fluid – should be clear, red, and free of contaminants.
- Scan for transmission related trouble codes like P0740, P0730, and P0843.
- Consider a transmission fluid flush if the fluid is old or contaminated.
Catching problems early helps prevent costlier damage down the road. Have a shop inspect any persistent transmission issues.
Electrical System Issues
Electrical gremlins can be tricky to diagnose and lead to very frustrating symptoms for drivers. Here are the most reported electrical issues with the 2017 Accord.
Premature Battery Drain
One consistent complaint from 2017 Honda Accord owners is premature battery drain and failure. The battery will die unexpectedly, leading to no-start conditions.
Causes
There are a few factors that contribute to early battery failure:
- Lower-rated batteries installed at the factory
- Corrosion of battery terminals
- Parasitic drains from faulty components
Dealers often have difficulty pinpointing the source of the parasitic drain without setting fault codes. But something is causing the battery to die prematurely in many Accords.
Prevention Tips
To help prevent premature battery drain:
- Load test battery yearly and replace it if weak.
- Clean corrosion from terminals and cables.
- Check for parasitic drains (should be less than 50mA when the car is off).
- Consider installing a higher capacity battery.
Replacing the battery yearly or every 2-3 years can help reduce no-start issues in the 2017 Accord. Use caution when buying discount batteries, as quality matters.
Headlight Failures
Owners of 2017 Accords equipped with daytime running lights (DRLs) report the lights intermittently failing. The DRLs will cut out partially or completely while driving.
Root Cause
The higher electrical load from the DRL bulbs can lead to premature burnout. Vehicle systems provide more voltage than the bulbs are rated for, shortening their lifespan.
Since the headlights are completely sealed, replacing the entire unit is necessary when DRLs fail. Bulb access is not possible.
Common Factors
These factors contribute to early DRL failures:
- High voltage – up to 2 volts higher than bulb rating
- The expected bulb life is around 3,000 hours
- Average failure mileage is 35,000 – 45,000 miles
So, while irritating, it’s not entirely unexpected for DRLs to fail by 40,000 miles or sooner in the 2017 Accord. Other trims use replaceable bulbs that are unlikely to have issues.
Structural Complaints
While not as severe as drivetrain issues, structural problems can still create headaches for drivers. Here are some of the notes for the 2017 Accord.
Tire and Wheel Noises
Some owners complain of grinding or rubbing noises coming from the wheels and tires, usually at low speeds. This tends to happen early in the Accord’s service life.
Root Cause
The factory-installed Continental tires are often the culprit. Engineers trace the cause to poor “beading” of the tires where they meet the wheels.
This allows the tires to shift and rub slightly against the wheel wells at slow speeds. The friction and pressure cause noises.
Solutions
- Rotate and balance tires to even out wear.
- Ensure wheels are clean and clear of debris.
- Replace tires with a different brand when worn.
Unfortunately, no fix exists aside from eventually replacing the tires. Honda has not acknowledged any design flaws. The noises are annoying but not dangerous.
Safety System Complaints
Safety should always be the top priority for automakers. However, a few concerning complaints have surfaced regarding the 2017 Accord’s safety tech features.
Forward Collision Warning Failures
The 2017 Accord has a forward collision system rated “superior” by the IIHS. However, owners report instances of it malfunctioning or unexpectedly activating while driving.
What Owners Report
Drivers complain about the forward collision warning system:
- Fails unexpectedly with no warning light or code
- Activates unnecessarily, slamming on the brakes
- Contributed to at least three reported crashes
The underlying cause is not well understood in the absence of codes. The radar sensors seem prone to glitching without throwing diagnostic trouble codes.
Steps Drivers Can Take
If you experience issues with the forward collision system:
- Immediately schedule service and request sensor inspection
- Consider filing a safety complaint with NHTSA if errors lead to a crash
- Turn off collision mitigation features if problems persist and drive cautiously
While inconvenient, turning off malfunctioning driver aids is safer than unpredictable activation at high speeds. Press Honda service departments to properly diagnose rather than dismiss complaints. Thorough troubleshooting is needed to resolve safety system gremlins.
Engine Knocking Noise
Some owners of 2017 Honda Accords equipped with the 1.5L or 2.4L 4-cylinder engine report hearing a loud knocking or rattling noise from the engine, especially when cold. This is caused by premature wear of the piston rings, which leads to oil burning and carbon buildup.
Solutions
- Have the engine inspected promptly by a dealer – piston, and ring wear may be covered under Honda’s extended warranty.
- Use only recommended engine oil and change at proper intervals.
- Add a fuel injector cleaner regularly to help minimize carbon deposits.
Faulty Infotainment System
The touchscreen head unit in EX trims and above is prone to glitching and freezing. This appears tied to faulty software and overheating rather than hardware failure.
Solutions
- Schedule a software update at the dealership to potentially resolve intermittent issues.
- Check for obstruction of ventilation holes and ensure tight installation of the unit.
- If problems continue, request a head unit replacement under warranty.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Higher mileage 2017 Accords can burn more than 1 quart of oil every 1,000-2,000 miles. This points to worn piston rings, valve seals, and other internal components. Consumption issues start appearing around 60,000-100,000 miles.
Solutions
- Have an oil consumption test performed at the dealer to diagnose the extent of the issue.
- Repairs may be covered under a powertrain warranty over five years/60,000 miles.
- Use thicker oil and reduce change intervals if out of warranty.
Paint Defects and Peeling Clear Coat
Owners in areas with hot climates report bubbling, peeling, and discoloration in the paint, typically appearing after 2-4 years. This indicates issues with the factory paint job and clear coat quality.
Solutions
- Spot paint touch-ups can temporarily mask affected areas.
- For larger areas, professional repainting may be necessary.
- Document issues and request goodwill assistance from Honda. Some have gotten repaints covered under an extended paint warranty.
Sunroof Leakage
Water leaking inside the cabin from the sunroof is another common annoyance. The drain tubes along the sunroof rails get clogged easily with debris and allow water to overflow.
Solutions
- Inspect and clear sunroof drains regularly to prevent clogging.
- Headliner stains indicate prior leakage -identify entry points for water.
- Dealers can check for drain obstructions and reseal the sunroof if needed.
What Is The Engine Problem On The 2017 Honda Accord?
In the 2017 Honda Accord, there was a specific engine-related issue that prompted a recall. Honda recalled certain 2015-2017 Accord vehicles equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine due to a problem where fuel residue could adhere to the internal components of the fuel pump, resulting in reduced performance. This issue had the potential to prevent the engine from starting or cause the vehicle to stall.
Is 2017 A Good Year For Accord?
The 2017 Honda Accord is generally considered a good year for this model. It is regarded as a top-performing family sedan, offering excellent acceleration and braking performance. The V6 model, in particular, stands out for its impressive speed, outpacing many base model luxury sedans. The Accord’s handling is responsive and composed, making it accessible to a wide range of drivers.
Is The 2017 Honda Accord Fuel Efficient?
The 2017 Honda Accord offers respectable fuel efficiency. Depending on the specific trim and engine configuration, you can expect to achieve up to 27 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with the 2.4L engine or 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with Sport models.
Are There Any Recalls On The 2017 Honda Accord?
There was indeed a recall associated with the 2017 Honda Accord. Honda recalled certain 2015-2017 Accord vehicles with a 3.5L V6 engine due to the fuel pump issue discussed earlier, where fuel residue could affect pump performance.
What Is The Most Common Problem With Honda?
Common issues reported with Honda vehicles include failing transmissions, engine problems, defective airbags, power steering hose failures, ignition interlock faults causing the car to move, risks of automatic transmission locking up, automatic transmission short-circuiting, and fuel pump performance loss. These problems may vary in severity and occurrence across different Honda models and model years.
Bottom Line
The 2017 Honda Accord, like any vehicle, has its share of potential issues to look out for. As an ASE certified master mechanic, I hope this detailed guide better equips Accord owners to handle common problems as they arise.
While the Accord is not immune to mechanical gremlins, its overall reliability remains impressive – especially compared to rivals. Stay diligent with maintenance, address problems promptly, and learn the origins of common issues facing the 2017 model year. With vigilance and care, your Accord can stay on the road for many more years and miles ahead.
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