I've got a 1998 Accord EX v6 that I might be selling but am not sure how much to ask for. Only has 61K miles, extremely low for the age. Exterior is in very good shape and the interior is almost like new. Leather seats, sunroof, etc. New tires and new timing belt. Its been well maintained and runs great. Any thoughts on how much I should expect to get in a private sale?

 

Do KBB, edmunds and NADA value to get a baseline then search your local craigslist to see what people are asking for a comprable model. Set your price and pad it a little to help with negotiating.

INB4 "tree fiddy"

 

You can use KBB as a guide, not as a rule. What people in your area have to pay for your car really dictates what it will be worth at resale.

Your particular year was the highest failure rate year for 2nd gear in the transmission, and as such you have no updated parts installed to correct the failures that WILL occur over time. Just know that some people may research this. I personally do not like car that "sit". 60K miles in 16 years is less than 4000/yr. Why so few miles? People way ask you the same questions, be prepared to answer them.

The average private party cash value of an "excellent" 98-02 in my area is 3,100 Dollars up front. You may get significantly more in trade for it, but I don't deal with car loans. Excellent is a relative term. Some people envy the transmission problem as a way to get the car cheaper, while others may turn away at the slightest hint of rust.

Most of the 98-02's I see on the lot that are leather are being loaned out at around 6,500 give or take.

 

At what mileage does this model typically start having transmission problems? How much does that cost to repair in general? I've seen plenty on ebay with 150k miles with no history of issues.

 

"no history"

As in, the owner is likely experiencing the issue and isn't reporting it. Or has the issue and doesn't realize that's what is going on.

The mileage varies, if you do a search on your own you'll find it's anywhere from 80-100k miles and then the replacements last however long.

 

Later 2001 and 2002 model 4 speed 3 shaft units have less problems because of line pressure and pressure regulator valve modification. Anything that has the 1/2" PR valve requires an upgrade.

When it comes to longevity it depends a lot on the driver. For instance, a 2 door has a higher rate of 2nd gear failure. Likewise, the 2003-up 5 speed units installed in the 3.2TL and Pilot/Odyssey will have a higher failure rate.

Cost of parts for both of these units is:

250ish for full rebuild with steels
200-400 for a rebuilt/new converter (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED due to poor converter charge flow)
100 For a transgo or superior shift kit. This kit updates the CPC valves, PR valve, and 2nd accumulator springs. There are other minor modifications that should also be performed depending on how the kit operates.

Any hard parts such as bearings are on a case to case basis.

In a shop environment, expect a $2000+ repair build which would include removal and installation.

100,000 miles would be the average, between both 4 speed and 5 speed units. Again, this is usage dependent. I have seen some fail before 60,000, with the most recent failure at 160,000 miles.