Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry Guide
For the past 5 or 6 decades, two of the most popular and impactful cars on the international automotive market are the Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry. Both models have made created a legacy due to their success throughout the world. The Honda Accord had its first generation introduced in 1976 and has since claimed its ranks amongst some of the best-selling sedans in the U.S. since 1989.
The Toyota Camry has an infamous legacy surrounding its overall success as well. The Camry has been available internationally since 1982. Since its global introduction, the Camry has skyrocketed into the best-selling ranks alongside the Accord. Both models are considered the premium larger-sized cars offered by their manufacturers.
With so many similarities, what are the true differentiating values between the Accord and Camry? Throughout this guide, we will examine and evaluate some of the pros and cons associated with each model, including their overall reliability and some of their most commonly associated problems. First, let’s take a look at some of the different configurations and price points offered in 2022 for the Accord and Camry in the following section below.
Toyota Camry vs Honda Accord Configurations & Prices
As of 2022, Honda offers the Accord in a total of 6 different configurations:
- LX 1.5T -$26,120
- Sport 1.5T -$28,580
- Sport SE -$30,070
- EX-L 1.5T -$32,440
- Sport 2.0T -$33,260
- Touring 2.0T -$38,050
The configurations listed for the Accord have horsepower ranging from 192 to 252 horsepower depending on engine options. Before further discussing the engine options below, let’s take a look at the configurations and associated prices for the Camry below. The Toyota Camry is offered in a wider variety of configurations, with a total of 8 available in 2022:
- LE -$25,395
- SE -$26,935
- SE Nightshade -$27,635
- XLE -$30,145
- XSE -$30,695
- TRD V6 -$32,460
- XLE V6 -$35,270
- XSE V6 -$35,820
As of 2022, the Camry has a ranging horsepower from 202 to 301, again depending on trim and engine options. Therefore let’s now jump into a more detailed look at the available engine options for both the Accord and the Camry below.
Camry vs Accord Engine Options
The 2022 Honda Accord has a base 1.5L turbocharged engine option, that comes with 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. Other available engine options include a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder with 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both of these options for the Accord have a front-wheel drivetrain. The CVT transmission (controlled variable automatic) is available for the 1.5L engine, as the 2.0L only comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission. There isn’t necessarily a bad pick between either engine option for the Accord. The 1.5L is ample enough to zip through city and highway speeds without problems, leaning on the refined CVT transmission. The 2.0L does have more base and sporty power, however, that comes with a compromise in terms of less fuel efficiency. Read our post on top mods of Honda Accord here to know more about it.
The 2022 Toyota Camry is also available in two different engine options. The base 2.5L 4 cylinder is efficient and economical for most daily commuters. The larger more robust 3.5L V6 adds more power and performance to the Camry overall. Although, again, the compromise for better performance is less fuel efficiency. Customization and modding enthusiasts both appreciate the base that the Accord and Camry engines offer. Therefore, power can often be considered shifting in these models, as many drivers prefer to boost these engines with mods and tuning.
Regardless, both of these engines are reliable and durable for their offered prices. With that said, let’s dive further into the overall reliability of both models including some of their most commonly associated problems.
Toyota Camry vs Honda Accord Overall Reliability
Both the Honda Accord vs Camry are nearly synonymous with the term reliable. Sure, certain configurations and years of production are considered stronger than others. Yet, both of these models specifically have raised the standards for durability and quality throughout the international automotive market. For 2022, RepairPal gave the Accord an overall score of 4.5/5 ranking it as first among all mid-size cars currently on the market. The Camry received a score of 4.0/5 placing it 3rd out of all the 24 mid-size cars currently available. Therefore, both of these models have still sustained an exceptional reputation of reliability.
The estimated average annual repair cost of the Camry is listed at an impressive $388. The Accord comes in a close second with an annual estimate of $400. It’s hard to scrutinize two of the most durable and reliable cars on the market today. Yet, no car is bulletproof. Therefore, let’s take a look at some of the most commonly reported issues for both the Accord and the Camry below.
Common Engine Problems
Again, it’s important to reaffirm how stellar the reliability is for both the Camry and the Accord. However, both models do have their comparable strengths and weaknesses. With that said, let’s jump into a list of some of the most common problems for the Honda Accord. It is important to remember that many of these issues may never occur for some drivers, and may be nagging reoccurrences for others. Proper upkeep, maintenance, and timely repairs are always recognized as the best deterrent to any anticipated problems and a sure way to extend engine longevity. Finally, let’s kick off our list of the most common problems for the Honda Accord, followed by the Camry.
Accord’s Most Common Problems
As with the Camry, Honda Accord problems can vary depending on the year, model, and engine in question. Regardless, the Honda Accord is known to deliver excellent reliability. It’s also a fairly cheap car to own and maintain making the Accord a desirable car. Still, no car or engine is perfect and that applies to these cars too. Below are a few common Honda Accord issues to consider prior to buying.
1) Transmission Failure
One of the most prominent problems reported, specifically within older years of the Accord, is transmission failure. Both the 2003 and 2004 years received thousands of complaints and more than 20 plus recalls. Transmission failure can be one of the more costly repairs for drivers, and unfortunately is not often deterred by practicing proper maintenance and upkeep. Sure, the usage of high-quality oil might prolong a transmission’s lifespan. However, many of these problems seemed to be present directly off the lot. Fortunately, newer era Accords have much fewer problems surrounding transmission failure than previous models.
2) Premature Brake Wear
Premature brake wear can be a serious issue for any car, considering the potential driving hazards it may present. Again this problem seems to be much more consistently aligned with Honda Accords produced before 2010. Alongside these older reports of brake ware, many drivers also note a symptomatic reoccurrence of excess oil consumption. Therefore, if experiencing grinding or squeaking noises while braking, a sponge-like brake pedal response, or a longer distance needed to make a full stop, it is crucial to fix any issues surrounding brake wear in your Accord before experiencing any unfortunate results or hazardous conditions.
3) Faulty Ignition Switch
A faulty ignition switch can be extremely annoying considering that the problem may arise in an untimely manner. An ignition switch is responsible for supplying power to the vehicle and its collective electronic systems. Not only will this problem lead to the inability to start your Accord, but it may also cause the car to stall rendering drivers unable to be mobile and leaving them in a dangerous state. Again, this is just another problem that requires an immediate repair otherwise risking driver and passenger safety. Although many eras of the Accord may not experience faulty ignition switches, we have found this issue to be prominent and consistent enough to make our list.
Camry’s Most Common Problems
We previously mentioned some reliability ratings for the Accord vs Camry. It’s important to further note that there are dozens of different sources that rank reliability. One common theme is that the Toyota Camry is almost always ranked towards the top. These cars offer great reliability and a low cost of maintenance. However, as with the Accord, no engine or car is perfect and we still can’t make any exceptions for the Toyota.
1) Oil Leaks/Excess Oil Consumption
Many drivers may report that their Toyota Camry has issues with excess oil consumption or oil leaks. This problem seems to be most common for Camry’s produced between 2006 and 2011. The fact that many drivers experience this issue without easily identifiable oil leaks may point to an engine design flaw. Therefore, Camry drivers with oil leaks may be grateful for the fact that the source and symptoms of excess oil consumption will likely be easier to diagnose. Regardless, oil problems can often be symptomatic of more severe engine issues and should be rectified quickly before undergoing more costly and time-consuming repairs. This may be an issue that requires a solution as simple as a sealant replacement, or a leaking oil pan. Yet, this can also be indicative of something more severe potentially requiring an engine rebuild.
2) Transmission/Shifting Problems
Transmission problems have been too common amongst Camry’s for the past 2 decades or more. Although Camry’s have maintained their impeccable reputation of overall reliability, transmissions still seem to be a source of various issues for some drivers. Various symptoms may be experienced, such as transmission slipping, difficult or clunky shifting, abnormal vibrating at lower speeds, or even stalling. Unfortunately, transmission issues have made out the list for both models, and most drivers know that even minimal transmission issues can lead to pricey repairs.
3) Malfunctioning Brakes
Various brake problems have been reported consistently enough for the Toyota Camry for to make note of. Different issues may arise surrounding brake problems including: repeating ABS/brake light warnings, soft or hard break pedal response, shaking while braking, and overall intermittent brake failure. Due to the variety of different potentially catalysts for the Camry’s associated brake issues, it is important to diagnose this problem as it may mask more severe engine system issues. Brake problems are more prominent within older model Camry’s or those that have reached higher mileage (past 150,000 miles.) It is essential to replace brake pads in a timely manner and stay keen on any differences in your braking system to avoid hazardous driving conditions.
Toyota Camry vs Honda Accord Guide Summary
Both the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry have created an extremely impressive impact on the international automotive market. Both models aim to be the best selling models respectively while simultaneously sustaining their standards of quality and reliability. Each model offers a variety of different values, yet from a distance seem extremely similar. When considering each configuration, the Camry has an edge in total horsepower maxing out at 302 stock. The Accord only offers a maximum of 252 horsepower direct from the dealership. Yet, as we mentioned, the Accord is a great base for engine modification projects that can further boost its power and performance capabilities.
The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry have both earned a top ranking from reputable consumer review reports. Therefore, its hard to scrutinize the overall quality and reliability of both models. We examined some of the most common problems for each model ranging from brake issues to faulty transmissions. Yet, many of these problems are most common in older models, especially those with poor maintenance and high mileage. All things considered, both the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are great choices for a daily driver seeking longevity from their car.
In conclusion, the differences in these two models may be marginal enough for buyers to have to dissect aesthetics, trims, and configurations thoroughly before deciding between the two. Let us know in the comments below your experiences with the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry! Also, comment below if you have a strong opinion on which model is superior!
