2021 Honda Accord Safety Report
2021 Honda Accord: Top Crash Test Scores Offset by Driver-Assist Glitches, Engine Concerns, and Multiple Recalls
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Honda Accord
Reliability Score
The 2021 Honda Accord receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Honda Accord
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Honda Accord:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunctions System randomly brakes or flashes warnings without obstacles, leading to potential rear-end collisions or unexpected deceleration. |
High | Common | all miles |
| Head Gasket Failure (1.5l Turbo Engine) Engine misfires, white smoke, loss of coolant, and complete engine failure reported, often leading to significant repair costs. |
High | Common | 70000-100000 miles |
| Infotainment System 'Ghost Touches' / Glitches Touchscreen operates erratically, making unsolicited calls, changing settings, or freezing, causing driver distraction. |
Medium | Common | all miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure Engine stalling while driving due to fuel pump malfunction, addressed by a widespread recall. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Cvt Transmission Problems Abnormal noise, vibration, and harsh driving conditions reported, sometimes after dealership service. |
High | Occasional | 30000-60000 miles |
| Air Bag Sensor Malfunction Occupant classification sensor issue leading to potential unintentional air bag deployment, subject to recall. |
High | Rare | all miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Honda Accord:
Frequent complaints about the system falsely activating or braking without cause.
A variety of miscellaneous issues not fitting specific categories, often related to general electrical or sensor malfunctions.
Issues ranging from dashboard warning lights, infotainment glitches, to body control module failures.
Complaints related to air bag system warnings or potential deployment issues, including a recall.
Reports of unexpected braking, sometimes linked to the forward collision avoidance system.
Concerns including head gasket failures, misfires, and loss of power, particularly with the 1.5L turbo engine.
Issues with the lane departure warning or assist systems.
Complaints specifically mentioning transmission problems, including CVT performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Honda Accord
Is the 2021 Honda Accord safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Honda Accord received excellent 5-star crash safety ratings across all categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover), indicating strong occupant protection in collisions. However, it has 180 total complaints, including 8 injuries, and three recalls addressing critical components like airbags, fuel pump, and seat belts. Specific safety concerns arise from frequent complaints about the Forward Collision Avoidance system's false activations.
What are common problems with the 2021 Honda Accord?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Honda Accord are related to the Forward Collision Avoidance system (31 complaints), electrical system malfunctions (12 complaints), and engine problems, particularly head gasket failures in the 1.5L turbo engine. Infotainment system 'ghost touches' and CVT transmission issues are also frequently mentioned.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Honda Accord?
Yes, the 2021 Honda Accord has three recalls. These include issues with the front passenger occupant classification sensor for the airbags, a potential fuel pump failure that could cause engine stalling, and a rear seat belt retractor issue that could prevent proper child restraint securing.
How reliable is the 2021 Honda Accord?
While NHTSA doesn't provide a direct reliability score, the 2021 Honda Accord's 180 complaints, including significant issues like head gasket failures and driver-assist system malfunctions, suggest some notable reliability concerns, particularly with the 1.5L turbo engine and electrical components, despite its strong safety ratings.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 Honda Accord?
When considering a used 2021 Honda Accord, pay close attention to the service history, especially for the 1.5L turbo engine (checking for head gasket or misfire repairs) and any electrical system work. Test the Forward Collision Avoidance system and infotainment screen for proper function, and ensure all three recalls have been addressed by a Honda dealership.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Honda Accord boasts excellent crash test scores, potential buyers should be aware of common complaints regarding the Forward Collision Avoidance system, 1.5L turbo engine head gasket failures, and electrical/infotainment issues; ensure all three recalls have been completed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Honda Accord
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Honda Accord. The data includes 180 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Honda Accord an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.