Problems for specific Honda Accord years:
Problem Reports
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1996 Honda Accord Problems
Vibration When Braking Due to Rotor Problem
The front brake rotors can warp and cause a vibration when braking. The rotors will need to be machined or in cases where they are worn to thin, replaced to correct this issue.
Misaligned Shift Fork May Cause Transmission to Grind on Upshift
Some models with the manual transmission can grind while shifting up into fifth gear due to the misalignment of the fifth gear shift fork. The transmission will need to be removed, and fifth gear, the synchronizer sleeve set, and the fifth gear shift fork will need to be replaced.
Head Gasket May Fail if Engine Overheats
The head gaskets are prone to fail if the engine overheats. When the temperature climbs above the normal operating temperature, turn the heater on the hottest setting, pull over, and shut the engine off to allow the engine to cool down.
Transmission Failure Common
Automatic transmission failures are common, Automatic transmission failure on these vehicles will generally require overhaul or replacement of the transmission. In the event of a failure, it may be worthwhile to check with Honda to see if they may offer assistance for this repair. As these vehicles age, Honda has become less likely to help out with these transmission related repairs.
Fuel Gauge Will Not Read "Full" Due to Sending Unit Fault
On certain models the fuel gauge will not read full due to excessive resistance in the sending unit. Replacing the sending unit in the fuel tank will commonly repair this issue.
ABS Light Due to Modulator (Hydraulic Unit) Leak
The ABS modulator valve assembly (hydraulic unit) may develop a brake fluid leak. This can result in illumination of the ABS warning light and in certain cases, loss of braking ability.
Oil Leak From Front of Engine
The balance shaft seal tends to fall out causing a large oil leak. There is a retaining device available to prevent the seal from falling out, which can be put in place during routine timing belt maintenance.
AC Not Cold Due to Evaporator Leak
The AC evaporator can develop a refrigerant leak. The AC system will not blow cold air if this happens.
Plugged Moon Roof Drains May Cause Water Leak
Plugged moon roof drains can cause a water leak inside the car. The water will usually leak onto the driver's or passenger's head when the car turns a corner.
Water Leak Due to Plugged AC Drain
A water leak on the passenger floor can be caused by a clogged AC evaporator drain.
Vibration, Roughness, and Rattle Due to Damaged Engine Mounts
Damaged engine mounts can lead to vibration and roughness felt in the steering wheel. A rattle in the dash and engine area may also be heard. Replacement of damaged mounts will commonly correct these issues.
Power Door Locks to Activate Intermittently
Power door locks can activate intermittently due to a faulty door lock actuator in the driver's door.
Distributors on High Mileage Vehicles May Leak Oil onto Heater Hose
The distributors on higher mileage vehicles can leak oil onto the heater hose causing the hose to soften and break. Heater hose breakage will cause a coolant leak.
Moisture in rear wheel bearing may cause noise
On some models moisture could make its way into the rear wheel bearing, which would lead to noise. Rear wheel bearing and dust cap replacement will be needed for this repair.