# Honda Accord — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Honda Accord on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/honda-accord

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2012
- **Ideal trim**: EX
- **Target mileage**: 90,000–105,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 3
- **Target price**: £5,500

## Why this model

The Honda Accord is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a dependable, comfortable, and well-built family car. Hondas are renowned for their bulletproof reliability, and the Accord is no exception. It's a car that can easily handle high mileage if it's been looked after, offering a smooth ride and a practical interior. While it might not be the flashiest car on the road, its sensible nature and low running costs (for its class) make it a smart used buy.

## What you should pay

For a 2012 model, prices have largely stabilised, meaning you're buying into a car that has already taken its biggest depreciation hit. Expect to pay between £4,500 and £7,000 for a well-maintained example, depending on mileage and trim. Diesel models tend to hold their value slightly better due to their efficiency for longer journeys.

## Which trim to buy

The EX trim is definitely the one to go for. It comes loaded with features like leather upholstery, satellite navigation, a premium sound system, heated front seats, and a reversing camera, making it feel much more luxurious than its price suggests. You get a lot of car for your money without a significant jump in price over the lower trims.

## What to check before you buy

- Clutch and dual-mass flywheel wear (especially on diesels)
- DPF issues if mainly city driven
- Minor electrical glitches (e.g., parking sensors)
- Rear brake caliper sticking
- Some reports of rust around wheel arches on older, less cared for examples

## Running costs

Running costs for a 2.2 i-DTEC diesel Accord are pretty reasonable. You can expect around 45-50 mpg, which at current diesel prices (approx. £1.55/litre or £7.05/gallon) works out to about 14-16 pence per mile. Road tax (VED) for a 2012 2.2 i-DTEC will likely be in the £180-£250 per year bracket, depending on the exact CO2 emissions. Insurance will be moderate, typically in groups 20-25, so budget around £400-£700 annually depending on your personal circumstances.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Diesel
- **Horsepower**: 148-177 hp
- **Mpg**: 45-50 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2008)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| ES | £23,000 | £4,500 | Dual-zone climate control; Cruise control; Automatic headlights and wipers |
| EX | £26,000 | £5,500 | Leather upholstery; Satellite navigation; Heated front seats |
| Type S | £27,500 | £6,000 | Sportier body kit; 18-inch alloy wheels; Sports suspension |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £5,500 | 0% |
| 2027 | £4,950 | 10% |
| 2028 | £4,450 | 10% |
| 2029 | £4,000 | 10% |
| 2030 | £3,600 | 10% |

Buying a Honda Accord of this age is a smart move for depreciation. The steepest drops in value have already happened, so you're buying at a point where the car holds its value relatively well. While it will continue to depreciate, the annual monetary loss will be much smaller compared to a newer car, making it a cost-effective long-term ownership proposition.

Total value lost since new: 34.5%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Mazda 6](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mazda-6.md)
- [Toyota Avensis](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/toyota-avensis.md)
- [Volkswagen Passat](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/volkswagen-passat.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.