The 2003 Honda Accord is a popular and reliable vehicle, but like any car, it can have its share of problems. Some common issues reported by owners of the 2003 Honda Accord include transmission failure, engine problems, and electrical issues.
Other problems that have been reported include problems with the suspension, brakes, and air conditioning system. It is important for owners of the 2003 Honda Accord to be aware of these potential issues and to address them promptly to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
In order to keep their Accord running smoothly, it is also important for owners to maintain their vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and to have it regularly serviced by a qualified mechanic.
2003 Honda Accord Problems
1. “No Start” Due to Ignition Switch Failure
This problem can occur when the ignition switch in the 2003 Honda Accord fails, preventing the vehicle from starting. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, electrical issues, or a problem with the ignition switch itself.
2. Check Engine and D4 Lights Flashing
The check engine light is a warning indicator that appears when there is a problem with the vehicle’s engine or emission control system. The D4 light is a transmission indicator that shows the transmission is in fourth gear.
If both of these lights are flashing, it could indicate a problem with the transmission or engine that needs to be addressed.
3. Radio/Climate Control Display May Go Dark
Some owners of the 2003 Honda Accord have reported that the display for the radio or climate control system may go dark or become difficult to read. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including problems with the display itself, the wiring or connectors, or the climate control system.
If this problem occurs, it may be necessary to have the display or climate control system checked and repaired by a mechanic.
4. Faulty Door Lock Actuator May Cause Power Door Locks to Activate Intermittently
The door lock actuator is a component that controls the movement of the door lock mechanism. If the door lock actuator becomes faulty, it can cause the power door locks to activate intermittently, which can be frustrating for the driver and passengers.
This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, electrical issues, or a problem with the actuator itself.
5. Warped Front Brake Rotors May Cause Vibration When Braking
The brake rotors are a critical component of the braking system, and if they become warped, it can cause the brakes to vibrate or pulse when applied. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including excessive heat, improper installation, or incorrect brake pad selection.
If the brake rotors are warped, it is important to have them replaced in order to restore smooth and effective braking.
6. Air Conditioning Blowing Warm Air
If the air conditioning system in a 2003 Honda Accord is blowing warm air, it could indicate a problem with the system. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including low refrigerant levels, a faulty compressor, or a problem with the air conditioning system’s controls.
If the air conditioning system is not functioning properly, it is important to have it checked and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
7. Front Compliance Bushings May Crack
The compliance bushings are a type of suspension component that helps to absorb shock and reduce vibrations. If the front compliance bushings on a 2003 Honda Accord crack, it can cause problems with the handling and stability of the vehicle.
This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, improper installation, or excessive stress on the bushings. If the front compliance bushings are cracked, it is important to have them replaced in order to restore the proper performance of the suspension system.
8. Porous Engine Block Casting May Cause Engine Oil Leaks
The engine block is the foundation of the engine, and if it is poorly cast or becomes porous, it can cause engine oil to leak. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including manufacturing defects, improper installation, or problems with the engine’s cooling system.
If the engine block is porous and causing oil leaks, it may be necessary to have the engine repaired or replaced in order to fix the problem.
9. Driver’s Door Latch Assembly May Break Internally
Some owners of the 2003 Honda Accord have reported problems with the driver’s door latch assembly breaking internally. This can cause the door to become difficult to open or close, and can also pose a safety hazard if the door cannot be securely latched.
This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, improper installation, or problems with the latch assembly itself.
If the driver’s door latch assembly is broken, it is important to have it repaired or replaced in order to restore the proper functioning of the door.
10. Bad Engine Mounts May Cause Vibration, Roughness, and Rattle
The engine mounts are a critical component of the vehicle’s suspension system, and if they become damaged or worn, it can cause problems with the performance of the engine.
If the engine mounts on a 2003 Honda Accord are bad, it can cause vibration, roughness, and rattle, which can be annoying and potentially harmful to the engine.
This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, improper installation, or problems with the engine itself. If the engine mounts are bad, it is important to have them replaced in order to restore smooth and proper engine performance.
11. Problems Shifting Into 3rd Gear
Some owners of the 2003 Honda Accord have reported problems shifting into third gear. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including problems with the transmission, the transmission control module, or the shift solenoid.
If this problem occurs, it is important to have the transmission checked and repaired by a qualified mechanic in order to fix the issue and restore proper shifting performance.
12. Bad rear hub/bearing unit
The hub and bearing unit is a critical component of the vehicle’s suspension and steering system, and if it becomes damaged or worn, it can cause problems with the handling and stability of the vehicle.
Some owners of the 2003 Honda Accord have reported problems with the rear hub/bearing unit, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, improper installation, or problems with the suspension system.
If the rear hub/bearing unit is bad, it is important to have it repaired or replaced in order to restore proper performance.
13. Clock Light May Burn Out
Some owners of the 2003 Honda Accord have reported that the light for the clock may burn out, making it difficult to read the time. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, electrical issues, or problems with the clock itself.
If the clock light burns out, it may be necessary to have the clock repaired or replaced in order to restore its functionality.
14. Leaking Gaskets May Allow Water into Tail Light Assembly
The gaskets in a vehicle are used to seal various components and prevent leaks. If the gaskets in the tail light assembly of a 2003 Honda Accord become damaged or worn, it can allow water to enter the assembly and cause problems.
This can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, improper installation, or problems with the gaskets themselves.
If the tail light assembly is leaking water, it is important to have the gaskets repaired or replaced in order to fix the problem and restore the proper functioning of the tail lights.
15. Check Engine Light for Running Rough and Difficulty Starting
If the check engine light comes on in a 2003 Honda Accord and the vehicle is running rough or having difficulty starting, it could indicate a problem with the engine or emission control system.
This can be caused by a variety of issues, including problems with the spark plugs, fuel system, or catalytic converter. If the check engine light comes on and the vehicle is experiencing these problems, it is important to have the vehicle checked and repaired by a qualified mechanic in order to fix the issue and restore proper engine performance.
Possible Solutions
| 2003 Honda Accord Problems | Possible Solutions |
| “No Start” Due to Ignition Switch Failure | Replace ignition switch |
| Check Engine and D4 Lights Flashing | Diagnose and repair transmission or engine problem |
| Radio/Climate Control Display May Go Dark | Repair or replace display or climate control system |
| Faulty Door Lock Actuator May Cause Power Door Locks to Activate Intermittently | Replace door lock actuator |
| Warped Front Brake Rotors May Cause Vibration When Braking | Replace front brake rotors |
| Air Conditioning Blowing Warm Air | Repair or recharge air conditioning system |
| Front Compliance Bushings May Crack | Replace front compliance bushings |
| Porous Engine Block Casting May Cause Engine Oil Leaks | Repair or replace engine block |
| Driver’s Door Latch Assembly May Break Internally | Repair or replace driver’s door latch assembly |
| Bad Engine Mounts May Cause Vibration, Roughness, and Rattle | Replace engine mounts |
| Problems Shifting Into 3rd Gear | Diagnose and repair transmission problem |
| Bad rear hub/bearing unit | Repair or replace rear hub/bearing unit |
| Clock Light May Burn Out | Repair or replace clock |
| Leaking Gaskets May Allow Water into Tail Light Assembly | Repair or replace gaskets in tail light assembly |
| Check Engine Light for Running Rough and Difficulty Starting | Diagnose and repair engine or emission control system problem |
2003 Honda Accord Recalls
| 2003 Honda Accord Recalls | Recall Date | Affected Models | Description |
| Recall 19V501000 | Jul 1, 2019 | 10 models | Newly Replaced Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 19V499000 | Jul 1, 2019 | 10 models | Newly Replaced Driver’s Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 19V182000 | Mar 7, 2019 | 14 models | Driver’s Frontal Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 18V268000 | May 1, 2018 | 10 models | Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Potentially Installed Improperly During Replacement |
| Recall 17V220000 | Apr 3, 2017 | 1 model | Passenger Air Bag Inflator Ruptures During Deployment Spraying Metal Fragments |
| Recall 15V370000 | Jun 15, 2015 | 7 models | Front Passenger Air Bag Defective |
| Recall 15V320000 | May 28, 2015 | 10 models | Driver’s Front Air Bag Defective |
| Recall 14V700000 | Nov 4, 2014 | 9 models | Front Airbag Inflator Module |
| Recall 14V353000 | Jun 20, 2014 | 9 models | Front Airbag Inflator Module |
| Recall 10V364000 | Aug 5, 2010 | 3 models | Honda Recalls 2003-2004 Vehicles Due to Defective Ignition Switch |
| Recall 08V169000 | Apr 14, 2008 | 1 model | Honda Recalls 2003 Accords Due to Corrosion Inside Windshield Wiper Motor Housing |
| Recall 04V176000 | Apr 20, 2004 | 6 models | Honda and Acura Recall Various 2001-2004 Vehicles Due to an Internal Transmission Fault |
| Recall 12V222000 | May 18, 2012 | 2 models | Potential Power Steering Leak |
Recall 19V501000:
This recall affects certain 2003-2007 Honda Accord models and was issued due to a potential issue with the passenger air bag inflator. If the inflator ruptures during deployment, it can spray metal fragments, which can cause serious injury or death to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 19V499000:
This recall affects certain 2003-2007 Honda Accord models and was issued due to a potential issue with the driver’s air bag inflator. If the inflator ruptures during deployment, it can spray metal fragments, which can cause serious injury or death to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 19V182000:
This recall affects certain 2003-2007 Honda Accord models and was issued due to a potential issue with the driver’s frontal air bag inflator. If the inflator ruptures during deployment, it can spray metal fragments, which can cause serious injury or death to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 18V268000:
This recall affects certain 2003-2007 Honda Accord models and was issued due to a potential issue with the front passenger air bag inflator. If the inflator is installed improperly during replacement, it can deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the occupants.
Recall 17V220000:
This recall affects certain 2003 Honda Accord models and was issued due to a potential issue with the passenger air bag inflator. If the inflator ruptures during deployment, it can spray metal fragments, which can cause serious injury or death to the vehicle occupants.
Recall 15V370000:
This recall affects certain 2003-2007 Honda Accord models and was issued due to a potential issue with the front passenger
Problems and Complaints Sources
https://repairpal.com/2003-honda-accord/problems
All Honda Accord years we talked –
