Not the most practical car for my needs, but I am willing to overlook that because I really like the way the car looks compared to everything else in the same class and year. My main concern is the notorious transmission issues with the 98-2002 V6 models. I'm currently looking at one that's been thru roughly 170KM; it looks, drives, and feels mechanically sound (friend test drove it hard last night and couldn't find any faults) and according to the owner the car has never had any major mechanical issues aside from normal maintenance. Engine and transmission have never been touched, timing belt/water pump never replaced. It sounds too good to be true (knowing my luck, as soon as I buy the car it will crap out) but I'll bring it to a shop for safety inspection just to make sure.

My question is - what are the chances this car will die? 1 in 2, 1 in 4, 1 in 5, 1 in 10, 1 in 100, 1 in 1000?

 

If the transmission is original and lasted this long, I don't think you have anything to worry about. Just fluid changes, gas, wash and wax.

 

I bought a 98 v6 accord with 169k miles and it started acting up shortly after that. I have changed the fluid with honda atf 3 times so far and it seems to be surviving even though it stutters every once in awhile. The car currently has 183K

My brother has a 99 v6 and it had major problems around 190k. I rebuilt the trans and it seems to be doing good now. Clutch pack two was completely dry when i opened it up.

I have just come to the conclusion that I will have to rebuild mine in the next 20k miles but am ok with that. Other than the trans it is a great car.

I would definitely change the timing belt and water pump first thing though. I did that with mine.

 

Sounds scary. Disaster waiting to happen for me I suppose.

 

Check out a Nissan Maxima from the same era, very reliable midsize car. Or get a 4-cyl Accord. IMO.

 

Okay lets put your mind to ease or at least try! lol I own and drive daily a 2000 accord V6 EXL with just over 271,000 KM on original Transmission, not real common but not rare at all either my good friend and accord club member has 267,000 on his! If you get it take it to honda have tranny fluid changed, do not use any other transmission fluid but Hondas....trust me! next thing is the car is overdue for timing belt and water pump it should be done at 168,000KM! besides that there is only a couple other issues such as EGR valve! There is also the 6 speed swap for our cars, which I'm in the process of collecting the parts for!