Honda Accord 2013-2024
Complete Transmission Repair Guide
Expert insights on common transmission problems, repair costs, and maintenance for your Honda Accord. Trusted by Sonoma County drivers since 1978.
Common Honda Accord Transmission Problems
Based on our 45+ years of experience, these are the most common transmission issues we see with this vehicle model.
CVT Juddering and Hesitation
Early Honda CVT transmissions suffer from juddering caused by start clutch wear or fluid degradation. Honda extended warranty to 100,000 miles for some models due to widespread issues.
Common Symptoms
- •Shaking or juddering during acceleration
- •Hesitation when starting from stop
- •Rubber band feeling when accelerating
- •Vibration at 20-40 mph
CVT Fluid Degradation
Honda CVT fluid (HCF-2) degrades faster than traditional ATF, requiring more frequent changes. Using wrong fluid type can cause immediate damage.
Common Symptoms
- •Dark or burnt smelling fluid
- •Whining noise that changes with speed
- •Sluggish acceleration
- •Overheating warnings
10-Speed Automatic Harsh Shifting
The 10-speed automatic in newer Accords can develop harsh shifting. Usually resolved with software updates or valve body service.
Common Symptoms
- •Hard shifts between gears
- •Clunking noise during shifts
- •Delayed gear engagement
- •Rough downshifts when braking
CVT Start Clutch Failure
Start clutch failure is catastrophic and requires CVT replacement or rebuild. Honda issued warranty extension for affected vehicles.
Common Symptoms
- •Complete loss of forward movement
- •Engine revs but car doesnt move
- •Grinding noise when in Drive
- •Check engine light with CVT codes
Immediate attention required! This issue can lead to complete transmission failure if not addressed.
Transmission Control Module Failure
TCM failures can cause various transmission issues. Requires module replacement and programming.
Common Symptoms
- •Erratic shifting patterns
- •Transmission stuck in limp mode
- •Multiple transmission codes
- •No communication with TCM
CVT Belt/Chain Wear
Belt or chain wear in CVT requires complete transmission replacement. Regular fluid changes critical for prevention.
Common Symptoms
- •High-pitched whining noise
- •Slipping sensation during acceleration
- •Metal debris in CVT fluid
- •Loss of drive at high speeds
Immediate attention required! This issue can lead to complete transmission failure if not addressed.
Not seeing your specific issue? Our ASE-certified technicians can diagnose any transmission problem.
Contact Our ExpertsHonda Accord Transmission Repair Cost Calculator
Select the repairs needed to get an instant estimate. Prices include parts and labor.
Select Repair Services:
CVT Fluid Service
$200 - $400Complete CVT fluid exchange using Honda HCF-2 fluid. Critical for CVT longevity.
CVT Software Update
$150 - $350Update CVT control software to latest Honda specifications.
Start Clutch Replacement
$2,500 - $3,500Replace worn CVT start clutch assembly. May require CVT removal.
CVT Replacement
$3,500 - $5,000Complete CVT replacement with remanufactured or new unit.
10-Speed Service
$250 - $450Fluid service for 10-speed automatic transmission.
TCM Replacement
$800 - $1,500Replace and program new transmission control module.
Valve Body Service
$800 - $1,800Clean or replace valve body to resolve shifting issues.
CVT Cooler Service
$300 - $600Clean or replace CVT cooler to prevent overheating.
Labor Rate: $150/hour • Free Diagnosis • 2-Year/24,000 Mile Warranty
Honda Accord Transmission Maintenance Schedule
Follow this factory-recommended maintenance schedule to prevent costly transmission repairs and extend the life of your vehicle.
Professional Tip from Rohnert Park Transmission
Regular transmission fluid changes are the single most important maintenance item for preventing costly repairs. We recommend checking your fluid level and condition every 3,000 miles or during regular oil changes.
Schedule Maintenance CheckHonda Accord Recalls & Technical Service Bulletins
Stay informed about important safety recalls and manufacturer service bulletins for your vehicle.
Active Recalls
CVT Drive Pulley Shaft
Recall ID: 16V-395
Drive pulley shaft may break causing loss of power. Honda extended warranty for repair.
Action Required: Contact your dealer or our shop for free recall service.
Low Pressure Fuel Pump
Recall ID: 20V-440
Can affect transmission operation due to engine stalling. Not directly transmission related.
Action Required: Contact your dealer or our shop for free recall service.
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
What are TSBs? Technical Service Bulletins are manufacturer advisories about known issues and recommended repair procedures. They are not recalls but provide valuable repair guidance.
CVT Judder Fix
TSB #TSB 15-086 • Issued: 2015-12-15
Software update and fluid change procedure to address CVT juddering on acceleration.
Related Symptoms:
CVT Software Update
TSB #TSB 17-057 • Issued: 2017-09-20
Improved CVT control logic to reduce start clutch wear and improve performance.
Related Symptoms:
10-Speed Shift Quality
TSB #TSB 19-091 • Issued: 2019-11-10
Software calibration for 10-speed automatic to improve shift quality.
Related Symptoms:
CVT Cooler Flow
TSB #TSB 21-045 • Issued: 2021-06-15
Improved CVT cooler design and flushing procedure for better heat management.
Related Symptoms:
Need Help with a Recall or TSB?
Our certified technicians are familiar with all Honda Accord recalls and service bulletins. We can perform recall repairs and TSB-related services quickly and professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change CVT fluid in my Honda Accord?
Honda recommends CVT fluid changes every 30,000 miles, but we suggest every 25,000 miles for maximum longevity. Always use genuine Honda HCF-2 fluid - using the wrong fluid can cause immediate damage.
Why does my Accord CVT judder when accelerating?
CVT juddering is often caused by worn start clutch or degraded fluid. Honda extended the warranty to 100,000 miles for 2013-2015 models. Try a fluid change first, but persistent juddering usually requires start clutch replacement.
Is the Honda CVT reliable?
Honda CVTs have improved significantly since 2016. Early models (2013-2015) had widespread issues, but with proper maintenance (regular fluid changes), newer CVTs can be reliable. The key is following the maintenance schedule strictly.
Should I get the CVT or 10-speed automatic Accord?
The 10-speed automatic (2018+) is generally more reliable and provides better performance. The CVT offers slightly better fuel economy but requires more frequent maintenance. For longevity, we recommend the 10-speed.
What happens if I use the wrong CVT fluid?
Using anything other than Honda HCF-2 in the CVT can cause immediate damage including juddering, overheating, and premature wear. Never use regular ATF or universal CVT fluids. The repair cost from wrong fluid can exceed $4,000.
How much does it cost to replace a Honda Accord CVT?
CVT replacement typically costs $3,500-$5,000 including parts and labor. Remanufactured units are slightly less expensive than new. We provide a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty on all CVT replacements.
Have more questions about your Honda Accord?
Talk to Our ExpertsTrusted Honda Accord Transmission Repair in Sonoma County
For over 45 years, Rohnert Park Transmission has been the go-to shop for Honda owners throughout Sonoma County. Our ASE-certified technicians specialize in Accord transmission repair and maintenance.
Why Choose Rohnert Park Transmission?
- ✓Factory-trained technicians specializing in Honda transmissions
- ✓State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment for accurate problem identification
- ✓Transparent pricing with free estimates and no hidden fees
- ✓Same-day service for most transmission repairs
- ✓Convenient location serving Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa, and Petaluma