# Honda Accord 2003–2007 Pre-Purchase Checklist | CarCaseFile

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> Printable pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2003–2007 Honda Accord: the generation-specific checks that separate a good one from someone else's problem.

Case file · HONDA-ACCORD-2003-2007 · Field document

# Honda Accord 2003–2007 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes, not generic used-car advice.

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Check 01

On any automatic, especially 2003–2004 V6, drive it hard enough to hit every gear. Flaring RPM between 2nd and 3rd, harsh or delayed engagement, or slipping under load means walk away or price in a transmission.

Check 02

Ask for transmission history: a replaced/updated unit or regular Honda ATF drain-and-fills are strong points in the car's favor.

Check 03

Run the VIN through Honda's recall lookup. Takata airbag inflators (multiple recalls, 2003–2007) and the V6 power steering hose recall must show as completed.

Check 04

Turn the wheel lock-to-lock with the engine cold and listen for power steering whine or groan; check the reservoir for foamy fluid.

Check 05

Check the radio and climate-control display works. A dark display is the known audio-unit failure, and all the console lighting runs through it.

Check 06

Test the A/C on a warm day; if the compressor clutch won't engage, it may only be the relay, or it may be a compressor.

Check 07

Look down the sides of the car in sunlight for peeling clear coat, common on this generation and expensive to make right.

Check 08

On V6 cars, ask when the timing belt and water pump were last done (roughly every 105k miles).

Walk-away signals

2003–2004 automatics (transmission-failure risk, worst on V6) · 2003 specifically, CarComplaints' worst 7th-gen year (transmission + dead radio display)

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