8.0
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$7.00
Average Mileage:
44,065 miles
Total Complaints:
148 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (113 reports)
- I heard that Honda replaced worn rings and engine short block (5 reports)
- replace engine (5 reports)
- software update (5 reports)
- rebuilt the engine (4 reports)
- Honda TSB #11-033 (2 reports)
This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Honda dealer.
2011Feb 01
Accord EX-L 4
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
Where to start? About a year ago I took my 2008 Accord into the shop for a grinding noise at cold start up. Found out Honda was having issues with the VCT Actuator. My car was out of warranty however the dealer fixed the problem for free. 6 months later the problem has come back. After some research discovered the problem is caused by low oil. My Accord has burnt small amounts of oil since day one. Honda states 1 quart/1,000 miles is acceptable usage so they have never fixed the problem.
Just this week I took the car in for the grinding noise and also brought up the oil consumption issue. Honda claimed again 1 quart/1,000 miles is normal. I expressed to them in a polite manor that is crazy. Hell you wouldn’t ever need an oil change again. Just dump a half quart in every fuel fill up. I started to make a scene at the service counter and they sat me down with the service manager.
He told me to be patient. There is a lawsuit in action that will require Honda to fix all affected cars. He said the 1 quart/1,000 miles was an old spec in the early 80’s. He mentioned he traded his 08 Accord for an 11 because of the issue. He claims the issue is in the valve seals and not the piston rings. He said just like the rear brake issue (google it if you don’t know what I’m talking about) Honda address the problem but it will be a year after they should have.
I may be getting the run around but the point I am making is Honda knows this is an issue. I recommend calling Honda Corporate Customer Care number and file a complaint. I honestly call them once a month.
2011Dec 13
Accord EC-L 2.4L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
The oil consumption issue on my wifes car started in December 2011. She was about 3,500 miles into her last oil change when the oil light came on. The engine was making a reving sound without the engine acctually reving. We checked the oil level and there wasnt an ounce left. Brought it to the dealer the next day, they said it just needs a software update... WRONG!!! Driving the car last Monda (4/9/12) my wife calls me saying the ending is making the same noise and the oil light is back on... she checked the oil and again not an ounce. She put in 3 quarts of oil and the next day I brought it back to the dealership. The service manager discussed with Honda and got final approval to re-ring the pistons. 10 days later I get the call that my car is ready to be picked up (around 2:30 I got the call). I head to the dealer after work and get there about 4:30-5:00. Return the loaner car I had and picked up my car. I made it approximately 3 miles down the road before the oil light came on and about 10 seconds later the car stalled out. Turned it off and turned it back on pressed the gas and it stalled again. Meanwhile I am in the middle of a busy street, so I try one last time before I was going to push it out of the street and I was able to drive it 20 feet before it stalled the final time. I called the tow and by the time it got there the Accord had a puddle of oil under it. The 3 miles back to the dealership on the bed of the tow there was another puddle on the tow bed. The car is currently with the dealer and I dont want it back with the current engine. I am going to give them three options A. Replace the current engine and payoff the car for me, B. Give me a completely new Honda Accord, C. see you in court
2012Apr 25
Accord EXL 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 49,000 miles
I am in the same boat as everyone else here, figured I would tell my story just to add to the list. Bought a brand new Honda Accord so that I didn't have issues like this. As of yesterday, I have started the ever popular consumption test after losing/burning about 3 quarts of oil over 3,000 miles. While I am at 49k miles and still under warranty, it doesn't sound like there is much hope of truly resolving the issue. The car is paid for and I was planning to drive it for another 6-8 years, but now I am really considering trading it in for something else, because who knows what other problems this will create (probably after the warranty expires). Has anyone actually had this resolved to their satisfaction or should I just get rid of this car while I still can?
2012Apr 09
Accord LX-P I 4
- Automatic transmission
- 52,009 miles
Bought this used car April 2011. It was checked out by a dealer May 2008 and i was told had no problems. Took on 2500 trip Summer 2011 no problem.
At oil change Aug 2011, the software update for vtc cold start oil ring problem was done. Nov 2011 drove car from GA to FL and it ran the oil level OFF the end of the dip stick
twice??
Dec 2011 , Started a FOUR MONTH ridiculous waste of time process - doing an oil consumption test. Like I had a reason to waste my time talking about a car using strange amount of oil. This test proved the car uses a bunch of oil every 1000 miles ( .3 , .8 , 1.0 , .7 ). Honda dealer and American Honda in CA , both tell me this is NORMAL????? "It's within specs".
Me, and all other people stuck with this car problem, know that this is not normal. Short trips, less than an hour for four months gets the the proof of abnormal oil use. When I take this car on a trip am I to stop every hour and check the oil level???? What other car do you have to do that with????? We had a 1998 Volvo that didn't use any oil. We have a 2002 Altima that uses no oil. They both have 180,000 miles on them = that is more normal.
We spent four months studying which car we should get. Accords were on top of reliability ratings. So were Ford Fusions ; guess which one I should have got.
American Honda will not stand behind its product. My warranty will expire in 8000 miles. So when you ask them if the car runs itself out of oil and engine is damaged or stops, after warranty expires will they still fix it??. They state " they have my comments on file" and "will consider this". What the heck does that mean ????? If they won't fix a defective vtc actuator and probable defective oil rings, that are proably damaging the engine, WHILE UNDER WARRENTY, what would make anyone believe they would fix the same defect after the WARRANTY expires???
I asked if they will change the software back = pre August 2011, the answer was "no we wouldn't want to backwards". Doesn't that sound suspicious? Asked if i can talk with a technical expert, answer was no.
Asked if a Honda dealer can trade me for a non-defective motor, answer, this would be up to the local dealer. I'll make sure I ask as many Honda dealers as I can, if they want my excessive oil consuming 2008 accord that you can't take on road trips, without constantly checking the oil level.
This is amazing. This car should have next to no problems for at least 200,000 , and it turns out, it can't even keep oil in the engine ????
2011May 13
Accord EX 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 48,000 miles
click to see larger images
Here is the deal with this 2008 Accord EX
-Around 48k engine started consuming almost a quart of oil
*Went to Honda and was told that as long as it does not exceed 1 quart of oil every 1000 miles, this was within their tolerance and was considered normal...for normal driving!
-Around 60k, the engine started to consume a little over 1 quart
*Went back to Honda and they said it was not over 1 quart and still within specs
Decide to have the oil changed and monitored independently...this was done and found that the car was burning over a quart of oil every 1000 miles.
-Went back to Honda and they said there was a recall and flashing my software would fix the issue.
*The flashing lowered my gas mileage and did not fix a thing.
-Returned back to Honda and they said that an oil consumption test needed to be done. So I paid for a oil change and began the process ...around 80K miles.
-The Honda on Grand Dealership here in Illinois along with the district manager there told me that the oil consumption test takes a little bit of time and the first Saturday, made me aware that there was nobody available to do the test. I saw mechanics and asked for the manager. I was then told to come back in a few hours and they would perform the test. I sat in the waiting area for a hour and a half with my kid. At that time, I was told the car was only down less than a pint of oil.
***Look at the picture I enclosed to show you what it looked like after the car sat all night and before I took it there***
I saw the mechanic standing there with the bottle of oil and the dipstick had nice golden oil dripping down the stick. I am a union tradesman for over 30 years and understanding how to check oil is not that complicated. I explained to the manager that the pic I had is the way the dipstick looked prior to my arrival and that I suspected him of adding oil to the car while I was waiting. Of course he was insulted and then there was a discussion of the matter. End result, I had to come back in 1000 miles.
When I arrived home, I did some research to see what a oil consumption test was and why it needed to be performed by a manager. Upon my discovery, it is just a simple oil change test...they let the car sit for 10 minutes and check the oil and then document it.
Let's say that I was outraged that I went there Saturday morning to be told to come back later and then kept waiting for 1.5 hours just to be insulted about the level of the oil..
-Before taking the care back to Honda, I went to 2 independent oil change shops and had them give me documentation about the oil level. Then I went to Honda and had the test done. This time I waited there til he completed the test. He still said there was not a quart missing and topped it off. It was at that time I asked to speak to the district manager, whom NEVER returned my call.
-I went back the next 1000k miles and then finished the oil consumption test with the same results from the manager. He did not care what my pictures showed or what 2 other independent shops said, he was just saying it is burning normal oil.
Next I sent some letters and called Honda of America for help. I explained the situation and they referred me to another dealer....McGrath City Honda. I had to go through the oil consumption test process again. The only difference is these guys were honest and found that the car was actually consuming 2 quarts of oil every 1000 miles.
You would think that after all the lies and deception that was pulled on me that a honest repair was going to made .....especially since I was at 99K miles and been fighting over this since under 50k, boy was I wrong. The problems just continued.
-I authorized them to tear apart the engine to see what the problem was. It was explained to me that the rings would be changed and if there was damage to the cylinder, then that would be replaced. I was fine with that and left the car and took a loner car.
....5-6 days past and I called to see what the situation was. At that time I was told a used engine was being put in and it would be ready the next day. I asked for info about the engine and was told they only knew that it had 40K plus on it. The next day I called Honda warranty to see what I can find out and why a different repair was being made other than the one I authorized.
I was told that Frank, McGrath City Honda Rep, was off and that a Honda inspector came by and said they were going to replace the engine and that he had one shipped there. When I asked about the engine, I was told that it came from a salvaged car. It had 44k miles. Never was looked at by Honda and would come with a 1 year 12,000 miles warranty.
My wife drives from Chicago to California and Boston to work and puts on a lot of miles. She is pregnant and expecting with the month and is currently on disability. This repair was not acceptable for the following reasons:
1 - The engine is from a salvaged car with no repair history on it
2 - Upon further investigation, the car engine is under the same recall for the oil consumption test. The problem was never repaired by Honda. This information can be verified by any Honda dealer and Carfax by looking up the VIN 1HGCP26489A184336
3 - Alan. extension 117728, at Honda of America says that this is an acceptable repair and has increased the value of the car
4 - Upon trying to trade it in now, we were offered $7400. Prior to the repair, we were offered $13,000 on a trade-in. This can be verified by Jose Hinohosa at McGrath City Honda
5 - Is replacing a damaged engine with another potentially damaged engine and then trying to justify it by not telling me at first, stating the value has increased, as well as telling me the computer caused the problem on the car and since that was fixed the engine would be fine now. But this was not done to the other engine and has not even been re-manufactured, rebuilt, or even check out.
6 - If this engine burns oil, I will be in the same situation as I am in now because I was specifically told that unless the engines burns over 1 quart in 1000 miles, that there is nothing I can do. Is this really a repair then?
This information about the engine can be verified by Carl at Honda Warranty ....Senior Claims agent who refuses to connect me with a Supervisor to discuss the situation.
I do understand cost and stuff, but to be told:
-A certain repair was to be made, then something like this is done is disturbing
-If they are confident about this engine, why not stand behind it and extend the warranty, better yet, just fix my original engine instead of trying to put somebody's problem into mine just to continue with the stress and aggravation over this whole situation.
-I understand they can put in a like engine, but who wants a damaged engine installed into their car. The purpose of a warranty is to repair the issue.
Honestly, as a loyal Honda customer, I am VERY disappointed by the way I have been treated. I am disappointed at the way the car has been built and how the customer has to suffer because of it. Most of all, I am disappointed in the Honda brand and how they built such a strong reputation on building quality cars and standing behind then, to turning into a company who could care less about you or your investment in them.
I will make sure I have my documented story told everywhere I can, from my Union Local, to the employees of Commonwealth Edison, to the nurses at the hospitals I currently work at, the church members, and any news provider who will want to hear my story and the story of many who have been wronged by Honda. How dare we let a foreign company due this to our citizens and do nothing about it! The Honda name has gone down as apparent by not only this make and model of car, but also to others. Look at the recalls and class action suits they have had to deal with. Now as customers, we have to suffer for their mistakes.
2012Apr 04
Accord EX-L
- Automatic transmission
- 51,100 miles
My car has been excessively consuming oil for almost a year. Despite being checked out at least three times, there was no evidence of a leak. Honda finally admitted that I did maintain my car properly but I will need new piston rings.
Update from Apr 25, 2012: I must note that there was a recall in late 2011 on the car's computer that helps with oil consumption. I had this work done at a dealership around Thanksgiving 2011 to no avail. I went to a different dealership to tell them that it didn't work. They recommended that I come in for oil consumption tests at no cost to me every time I filled up my gas tank. I brought the car in on 4/4/12 for the oil consumption test. The average car consumes oil at a rate of 1 quart per 1,000 miles. My car burned oil at the rate of 1 quart per 720 miles. Clearly there is a problem that they thought would be fixed by replacing the piston rings. When they went in to replace them, it turned out that wherever the piston rings are installed were scored so badly that Honda recommended that I get a new short block; which is a $4,000+ job. They asked me all kinds of questions to keep Honda from admitting that the car is a piece of crap; such as had my car ever been in an accident (no), did I maintain my car properly (yes), etc. I raised hell with both Honda corporate and the dealership since all these problems with my car that is less than 4 yrs old aren't normal. By the mercy of God, they eventually agreed that the short block was covered under my 60,000 mile powertrain warranty so they replaced it at no cost to me. Again, THANK YOU Prime Honda of Dedham!!!
2011Nov 30
Accord EXL 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
This car has used a quart of oil every 1000 miles since the day I bought it. I have tried using 5w-30 instead of the recommended 5w-20 & it slows the consumption only slightly, but gets less gas mileage using the thicker oil. The ONLY way this problem will be fixed is a recall from Honda to fix the problem & we ALL know that isn't going to happen unless we get a petition signed by EVERY Honda owner with a 2.4 engine.
This was my 1st Honda & if the problem doesn't get takin care of by Honda it will be my LAST Honda & I'll gladly go back to Toyota vehicles that never used a drop of oil
2012Mar 14
Accord EX-L 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 64,700 miles
I have the same problem as everyone else in here,oil is low at every oil change at 3000 miles not 5000. why won't honda just do the right thing and replace parts until they figure out what the solution is if they are having a hard time figuring out what is causing this. it's called troubleshooting HONDA.
2012Mar 01
Accord EX-L 4L
- Manual transmission
- 80,000 miles
In some respects I guess I'm lucky that the oil consumption issue did not start till the engine had 80k on it (at least till it becaome a noticable issue). But, now and rather quickly it would appear its burning 3/4 quart of oil per 1k miles. First they "reflashed the VCM" and when that didn't work, I went through the "oil consumption test" at the dealer (who are total scam artists) and they basically either won't admit that burns enough oil to be a problem, or pull the whole "burning up to a quart per 1K is 'within tolerances'". Also, its past warranty, so I'm SOL on that end. Lets call a spade a spade... as with most oil burning issues, the rings are shot and no "reflashing" is going to fix the problem.
This car was supposed to last and it appears between the rear brake issues, oil burning, the 2-3 upshift issue, Honda SEVERELY cut corners on this car. If I wanted a headache, I would have bought a Jag, or a used Yugo.
I've heard that a heavier weight oil cuts down on the consumption. But, you can only do this during warmer weather as it won't protect the engine during a cold start up in cold weather and might actually worsen the condition. Now that the weather has turned, I'm going to give this a try till we get word on a class action suit.
The dealers will not own up to the problem and Honda is avoiding the issue. People buy Hondas for thier supposed reliability and the company needs to be held accountable for the total POS vehicles they are putting out. This is the first and last Honda I will ever buy.
2011Apr 01
Accord EX-L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
Has anyone had any success getting the excessive oil consumptions issue fixed?
Its obvious we're all experiencing the same problem and and I haven't seen any posts about a successful fix so I wonder if the only option for me is to move on w/ a new make and model.
2008Mar 01
Accord LX 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 5,000 miles
I finally did a search on this issue and see that I am not alone - however my problem appeared at the first oil change (about 5000 miles I think). I had not checked the oil (did not think I had to on a new car) and they said I was extremely low. I have had to monitor it ever since. Lately, now that I have about 65K miles, it is going through much more oil. This is ridiculous. Given all the frustration and lack of solutions I see on this site, I probably will just keep adding the oil, but certainly will not be promoting Honda to anyone I know. I spent more on this car than comparable models assuming that I would avoid any scenario of this type. Can't afford another car, so I will just stick it out. NOTE: Honda wanting the VIN to validate this complaint is ridiculous too - I am not running out to my car to get that...
2009Oct 07
Accord EX 2.4L
- Manual transmission
- 30,000 miles
I guess I am happy to see that others have had the same problem. Oil consumption is off the charts. I add 2 quarts every 1000 miles or so. I mentioned the problem when the car had about 30,000 miles, but I was told (like everyone else) that adding 1 quart every 1000 miles is "within Honda specs". I have no confidence that my engine will continue to run properly in the future. I currently have 75k miles on the car.
2011Jul 31
Accord EX 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 31,069 miles
I too have the oil consumption issue with my 2008 accord. I purchased my Honda because I was led to believe they were great, durable and reliable cars. This couldn't be any further from the truth. Honda should be ashamed of themselves for putting this product on the market. With all the complaints Toyota must be laughing their assess off at Honda. I will never purchase another Honda as long as I live. I should have kept my Kia at least it didn't burn any oil. Honda's so called software fix for the oil consumption is a joke. This so called solution has come to little to late, the damage has already been done to my engine. Good by Honda hello Toyota
2012Mar 03
Accord EX 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 35,418 miles
I went to Honda requesting an oil consumption test. They were very cooperative in initiating the test although I had to pay for the oil change and they said they were using bottled oil whatever that means? My oil change was performed on March 1/12. On Mar 3/12 I decided to check my oil. After parking the car on level ground and allowing it to sit for 2hours I pull out my dipstick and find the engine is overfilled with oil. My question is what kind of scam is Honda trying to pull, no wonder there are very few cars failing this oil consumption test. If they overfill the engine will oil how fair of a test is that. Is this some kind of conspiracy with Honda Canada to do a cover up of this obvious oil consumption issue. On Monday I will be taking my car to a local garage which I have used for years and get them to confirm the engine has too much oil it. After that I may be contacting a lawyer, this is absurd.
2010Nov 03
Accord LX 2.4L I4
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
I bought a Honda accord thinking that reliability wouldn't be a concern. Well, being someone who changed the oil in my car myself, I got more and more concerned every time I changed the oil in my car. There were no leaks, there was no smoke coming out of the exhaust, but yet, every 4k to 5k miles, when I changed the oil, I was missing about two quarts. Where the hell was the oil going? I saw the complaints here, and didn't want to fight the battle, so I took the proactive step and got rid of the car before some serious damage occurred to the engine.
So, what did I get to replace the Accord? I figured all car manufacturers make a dud here and there, so I got a 2005 Civic that won't stop overheating and is currently sitting at a service shop. Oh, and it has had its head gasket (honda service rates head gasket at 8 hours labor), radiator, thermostat, radiator fan switch, replaced. All this not 20,000 miles after I paid about $700 to have the timing belt replaced (it has less than 120k miles on it). I am pretty much done with Honda for the foreseeable future.
2010Oct 27
Accord LX 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 55,000 miles
My car started using oil by 40,000 miles. I kept bringing it back to the dealer to document the oil use, and by 55,000 miles they agreed to replace the short engine block. I liked the car a little better after receiving a $5,000 repair job for free, but it started leaking again the following summer. They replaced several seals, it's leaking again, and they now say that it's normal for a car to go through a quart of oil every thousand miles (!) and that being down a quart after 10,000 miles is acceptable. I had a Fiat that did better than that. I'm not replacing this car with a Honda.
2011Oct 07
Accord LX 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
Just need to know is someone addressing this problem. I still owe money on the car!!!
2012Feb 01
Accord V4
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
This is just ridiculous that I am adding a quart of oil every 600 miles to my car! I have had the two recalled things fixed and still burning oil. I just set the odometer and every 600 miles shove a quart in. I am not going to bother with the oil consumption test. Why should I? I will be the one paying for anything they find, right? I mean now my car is out of warranty so I am screwed. My last Honda I bought used with already 120k miles on it. I ran the crap out of it and got over 250k never even checked the oil between. Unreal. Hope this is a class action. Guess I have to keep the car because it's cheaper to add a quart of oil twice a month than buying another vehicle and I cannot dump this car on some poor unsuspectiong person. UNBELIEVABLE, HONDA!
2011Sep 15
Accord LX 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
Since I have become a car owner I've been one of those change your oil every 3,000 mile types. I do all of my own maintenance and what I do works. I had 250,000 miles on my Toyota Pick-Up when I sold it. 230,000 miles on my Dodge Intrepid when I sold it. I never checked the oil on either vehicle because I knew at 3,000 miles I would change the oil. So, when my check oil light came on in my Honda - this was the first time it had happened to me in 32 years of driving.
I checked the oil at 2,500 miles after the last change and couldn't even see oil on the dipstick. I added a quart and a half and the oil barely touched the tip. These cars only hold 4.5 quarts. I was told by the guy who sold me the car that if I did oil changes before 10,000 miles - I would be wasting oil. If I had waited until 10,000 miles to change the oil the engine would have seized.
I Love my Honda. But, I'm a little worried that a car with 65,000 miles on it has already burned more oil than every car I've ever owned combined. Is this a sign that the rings are shot? Has anyone failed a smog test with the added oil in the exhaust? What is this doing to my catalytic converter and oxygen sensors? I have two more payments to make on this car until its mine and I had hoped to put another 200,000 miles on the thing as this is what I am accustomed to.
I hope to talk to Honda soon. But from what I have gleaned from the other complaints I'm not terribly optimistic.
2011Mar 07
Accord EX-L
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
Like all the other complaints, excessive oil consumption is an understatement. For Honda to say that is ok for the car to use 1 qt of oil for every 1,000 miles is ridiculous. Can you imagine if they told you that when you bought the car? Besides paying for the normal oil changes, add in the cost of the additional oil you have to keep adding. I did the system upgrade, which was completely worthless. What was that supposed to fix? The Honda dealer isn't helpful at all, they will not admit that this IS a problem, nor will the corporate office at Honda. I have owned several Honda's in my life and how Honda is dealing with this issue is down right awful, stand behind your product. I've never been so disappointed and angry.
We started noticing the problem around 45,000 miles and have just shy of 80,000 miles now. You will hear a clanking noise coming from the engine, and to our shock having just a few specks of oil on the dip stick after only 3,500 miles after an oil change. This problem NEEDS to be fixed and Honda needs to step up and recognize this is not going to go away.
I'm glad to see we are not the only Honda owners who have this problem and are fed up.
2010Dec 15
Accord EXL 2.4L
- Manual transmission
- 27,962 miles
took a year but they finally fixed it. Add me to the list of disgruntled owners yet luv the car
2011Sep 01
Accord LX-P
- Automatic transmission
- 35,000 miles
Same as all previous posts. Not at all happy with the experience I've had with this vehicle. Attempting to address with Honda Cares. We'll see?!?!?!
2011Jan 31
Accord Coupe 3.5L Exl V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,205 miles
I have been facing the excessive oil consumption problem too like everyone else and I went through hell with several Honda Dealerships and also the Honda Corporate offices trying to have them acknowledge my vehicle's problem and fix it under my warranty; no luck though. Your chances of having any Honda Dealership or the Corporate identifying and fixing your problem are one in a million. My advice is the following, contact immediately a lemon law firm, collect three repair invoices from Honda for the specific problem and present them to your attorney stating that the problem still exists after visiting the dealer for 3 times or more. Start your case, and start performing your oil consumption tests in any reputable Car Repair chain, choose a large company that has a good reputation because those invoices will be used by your attorneys. I did the above and i have invoices showing that the car consumes more than 1 quart per 1000 miles, in addition, OIL WAS FOUND ON MY SPARK PLUGS, the plugs were fouled twice within about 10000 miles, my coil was damaged, which means that there is an engine internal leak. Honda in now willing to settle my case and perform any repairs on the vehicle along with reimbursing me for all the damages that occurred from the specific problem. I am waiting for the appointment with the inspector of Honda, i shall update you.
Again DO NOT WASTE your time with Honda, file a Lemon Law Suit immediately, which is free of charge offered by the state protecting the consumer!
Update from Mar 29, 2012: Had to deal with the same problem, unfortunate.
2011Mar 16
Accord EX-L 2.4L 4 cyl
- Manual transmission
- 42,253 miles
Going on for several months doing an Oil Consumption test as Honda says it's acceptable to add 1 litre of oil for every 1500km of driving.
Based on a average 8000km oil change schedule, I am adding nearly a total oil change between oil changes!
Did the software upgrade a few months ago to improve mileage and oil use but it didn't do a thing that I can see.
90% of my driving is highway and not city and at only 87,000km I should not have to be adding oil all the time. This is the first car I've owed that requires this much oil and I've owned Hondas most of my life (7 of them) including an '85 Civic that was indestructible and went to 531,000km with no major repairs.
This has been the worst of them, I'm sad to say.
2011Aug 10
Accord LX-S 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 44,500 miles
I have done it all. I have talked with the dealership, and they give me the crap that 1qt per 1000 miles is acceptable, and I'm currently at 1qt for every 1400 miles. I've done the oil consumption test, talked with three representatives with honda, written letters, done software updates, and talked with certified honda mechanics that say this IS a problem, but that all manufacturers stand by their specs of 1qt per 1000miles is acceptable, which is total crap according to mechanics. I have been contacted by a lawyer and since have seen the complaints on this site about this problem increase 50% since I started having my problem. the people that have this problem need to complain so that Honda will fix this problem. It is not acceptable, and they should be ashamed of they way they have treated some of the people that have bought their cars. They are in danger of losing a lot of customers with this. and the software update was worthless. I think it actually made my car burn oil faster.
2011Oct 01
Accord EX-L 2.4L 4-cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
This started happening around 60K miles. Or at least that's when I started noticing the grinding noise produced in the pistons. Engine oil would 'evaporate' somehow! The Honda dealer (Honda Bloomfield in Bloomfield, Michigan) explained that some parameter update in the form of software-recall would fix this issue. Unfortunately it hasn't. Today I looked at the oil level, and it was basically empty. Fortunately, I kept backup engine oil (I got it from the dealer as they suggested that I periodically check the level). ... this is a big frustration for me. I didn't buy a Honda to go through this. At least I would expect a low-engine oil lamp to alert me -- that was not there. ... if this is actually a case of Engine Oil burning (the dealer's tech told me), I don't know how a software update would fix this. This is definitely due to some hardware problem. I will take the car back to the dealer and see what they do. If Honda is not going to address this, then this will definitely be my, my family's, my relatives', friends', last Honda. I have flushed the Honda Odyssey plan down the toilet bowl.
2009Jul 20
Accord
- Automatic transmission
- 24,000 miles
I get my oil changed at my local Honda dealership so I know they're (or should be) putting in the amount needed before the indicator comes on to get an oil change; however, my engine starts to rattle when accelerating at (80% oil remaining) and when I put a quart of oil in the rattling stops until about 50% oil remaining.....so I put another quart in and it is fine until about 30% oil remaining...this has been going on for at least a year.
2011Oct 09
Accord LX-S 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 39,000 miles
I am now a part of the very unsatisfied customers for Honda. Their department in California is refusing to accept that this is a deeper problem then just software. I have contacted them and they stick to there specs of 1000 miles per 1qt of oil is acceptable, but when asked to provide me with documentation of this, they could not. They said it is acceptable by, "industry standards" whatever that means. They still have yet to fix the problem and the dealer is saying that honda tells them that this is acceptable. Also, someone at Honda also asked me, "what does the dealer tell you?" ARe you kidding me?!?! They are pushing me around in circles. I currently have consulted a lawyer and they are building a case for this problem and I'm hoping that it turns out like the breaks lawsuit if enough people come forward. Honda has really screwed up and all I ask is that they make it right...and so far they have not.
2011Dec 20
Accord EX-L 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 89,497 miles
Very dissatisfied with this vehicle and Honda's lack of customer service. It took a class action lawsuit to fix the rear brake issue. I am on my 3rd power steering pump and now am having problems with the engine losing oil. No leaks or sign of burning. Also troubled by the lack of warning light (oil pressure or check engine) from lighting up... Now, I am being inconvenienced by taking my car in every 1,000 miles to have the engine oil level checked. You know it's a widespread problem when they have a form prepared specifically for oil consumption. There was a reason I purchased a Honda....to only see Service for preventative maintenance. Goodbye Honda, Hello Chevy!
2010Oct 04
Accord EX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 19,260 miles
I have a 08 Accord that has used 5 plus quarts of oil after 30,000 miles. My dealer says that that`s with in Honda specs and we all know that that is a bunch of BS. In fact I have been told that Hondas specs say that it`s alright for their engines to use a quart every 1,000 miles. My dealer tells me I don`t have bitch but would set up a meeting with one of Hondas reps. I said lets set it up. 2 Calls to my dealer about when that meeting will take place and all I get is a big run around... something about them having a new rep and he hasn`t returned their calls. I`m starting to get angry because Honda nor my dealer wants to admit this is a problem. From reading the rest of your complaints I now know I`m not alone in this. And tweaking the computer didn`t help my oil consumption one bit so when they suggest that you laugh a bit. Has anybody had any luck with getting this fixed? If so I`d like to know how you did it. If Honda doesn`t stand behind this product and fix it I will never buy another Honda and will trash them to anyone who will listen. Because that is what they deserve if they think they can put this product out on the market and then say well better luck next time.
2011Jul 25
Accord EX 2.4L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
I have a 2008 Honda Accord that is magical!!!! It can make oil disappear right before your eyes. Apparently ours is not the only one. This is my wife's car. I drive a 95 Chevy Blazer w/ well over 200000 miles that I thought was a piece of sh*t, well it is. But at least it does not burn a drop of oil. I noticed the problem in July 2011 when I checked the oil before leaving on vacation to Florida. It was over a quart and a half low! After checking under the engine to see if maybe it was leaking, nothing, everything was clean. Ever since then and even after the software update it uses one to two quarts of oil every 5000 miles. Now the dealership says we need to come in for an oil consumption test. Guess what idiots!! I've already figured that out for you. IT USES OIL!!! I'm not even going to waste my time. Instead I'm going to tell everyone I know about this so they can avoid the same problem buy not buying any Honda vehicles. This our second and last Accord!!!
2011Dec 21
Accord EX-L 2.4L I4
- Manual transmission
- 42,900 miles
My Accord started to make funny noises from the engine, then the oil pressure idiot light came on. Stopped, checked the oil, it was three quarts low. Funny thing is, I have never had a car burn oil before, so this came as quite a surprise. Between the clunky power drivers seat, the poor 2-3 shifts on the manual transmission, and now this, I won't be shopping for a Honda again.
2011Oct 12
Accord EX-L 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 72,000 miles
Totally annoyed. Car won't start at least every month or two. Took car in due to excessive consumption of oil. Was also told that 1 quart every 1000 miles was within "normal" limits for Honda. Honda topped off oil on a Wednesday and by Tuesday (6 days later) oil light was on and dipstick was COMPLETELY dry. Finally they agreed to change engine. After 2 weeks (2 weeks!!) in the shop, left with whole new engine. SO glad I got extended warranty. This car has been nothing but trouble. Been driving Hondas my entire life and never had issues until this lemon of a car. Fast forward 2 months later and car wouldn't start again. Currently in the shop. I am DONE with this stinking car!! I need something that is RELIABLE. Some of us have jobs to get to, etc.!!! Will never recommend this car to anyone. Can't wait to sell it once I get it back from the shop, but feel guilty even asking for money for such a piece of $h!+.
2011Jan 01
Accord 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
Having the same issue with oil consumption on my 2008 accord just like everyone else on this site. This was my first new car, and I am sorely disappointed. Can't believe the amount of service visits I've made with this vehicle. I went through the recall which claimed to fix the oil use problem, but of course it has not changed anything! Also had the brake wear problem and had those replaced when there was only 30,000 miles on the car! I am so frustrated with Honda dealer telling me that brake replacement is normal at this mileage and oil consumption is not out of the ordinary either.
2011Jul 08
Accord V4
- Automatic transmission
- 49,710 miles
The problem came to my attention when I heard a rattling sound when I started the Honda Accord Coupe and then again when it was idling. I brought it to a Honda dealer and asked them to check the exhaust. They said I was low on oil and they added what was required. The rattling on idle stopped. About 3,500 kms later, I had the noise on idling and have had the rattling on start up since.
I brought the vehicle to another larger dealer that has turned out to be quite good. They suggested that I register a complaint with Honda which I did. The dealer put the car through the oil consumption test and calibrated the software. I need oil. They suggested I return at 1,500 km for a check. Once they added oil, the car ran better but around 1,500 kms, the oil light flickered and back I went.
I asked the service coordinator if the problem was occurring with other vehicles and he confirmed it was a problem that Honda had no fix for yet and it was not isolated to the 2008 4 cyl Accord Coupe. I called Honda and they said they would extend the warranty and I would receive a letter in 5 weeks. It's been 7 weeks and no letter yet. I'll call back as I am now just past the warranty.
The lease expires in 5 months and I was hoping to buy it but I can't even chance buying another Honda or Accord for that matter.
I'm using my wife's Cadillac for distances which is inconvenient and will buy a GM in a few months. Quite disappointing considering the Japanese vehicles have had a strong reputation. Well, the N American vehicle is making a comeback!
2009Oct 09
Accord ES 3.2lV6
- Automatic transmission
- 12,427 miles
Excessive oil consumption. One liter per 2500 kilometers. No indication of leaks or smoke out of the exhaust.
Please Reply.
2011Jul 01
Accord ES
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
The car was excessively consuming oil !!!! The dealership mechanics were trying to place the blame on me. Traded the car last week goodbye Honda forever !!!!!!!. BTW, the rear brakes were replaced 3 times.
2011Sep 20
Accord 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 70,348 miles
im an honda and toyota technition and just experienced this problem with a customers car, allthough clean as can be it used 3 and a half quarts of oil in less than 5000 miles,this person only has his car serviced by a honda dealership.
there is a SERVISE BULLITAN #11-033 that reprograms the ecm to change timing and other perimiters, it takes only a few minutes to perform, this is the 1st one of my experience, so hopefully this will help
2011Sep 12
Accord EX
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
My 2008 Accord EX is my 4th one in a row since 1990 and the first to consume any oil period. My oil light flickered .I checked the oil and it took 2 1/2 quarts.I had gone about 4500 miles since my last oil change. Have not gone to dealer yet.
2011Oct 17
Accord EXL V4
- Automatic transmission
- 41,864 miles
THIS IS A BIG PROBLEM FOR US WE FIGURED WE WOULD HAVE THIS CAR FOR A LONG TIME BUT FROM WHAT i CAN SEE THIS IS GOING TO BE AN ON GOING PROBLEM,WE TOOK IT BACK AGAIN TODAY BECAUSE ITS STARTING TO GO DOWN AGAIN.(11/11/11)...SO DISAPPOINTED IN HONDA....MAYBE IT'S TIME TO GO AMERICAN AGAIN..THE FIRST TIME WE TOOK IT IN THEY DID SOMETHING ON THE COMPUTER TO FIX IT..WHAT EVER THEY DID ISN'T WORKING..
2010Oct 04
Accord EXL 4-cyl, Vtec, 2.4L
- Manual transmission
- 50,000 miles
I don't have anything new to add, but wanted to make sure my bad experience was counted. Bad brakes and excessive oil consumption so far, plus my Ipod goes in and out when using the jack in the center console. I love Honda, but I really don't love how they have handled these problems and I will never never buy a first year model again. Shame on me and shame on Honda. (not so much for the design flaws in the first year model, but for how they have handled the obvious design flaws.) I fully intend to trade this car in to the dealership where I bought it. As the prior owner of a 1999 Civic with 212k miles that is still running, it is very disappointing to have to trade in a practically new car.
2011Jun 20
Accord LX 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 33,554 miles
We heard it all from the dealer, software issues, dipstick problem, it wasnt burning oil, it was burning oil, it was leaking oil, it wasnt leaking oil. Honda Canada would not acknowledge anything or even return a phone call. After two years of this ridiculous oil consumption tests, and a number of temper tantrums and refusals to leave the dealership, they agreed to 'rebuild'' the lower part of the engine to really determine if anything was causing this. After further waiting for Honda Canada's alleged approval for this, we received a call advising they were simply going to replace the entire engine. This only made sense to both dealer and any mechanic who would know it is a bigger job to tear down the lower half than replace the whole thing.
So at this point we have a new engine with 9000 km on it and no oil consumption at this point. Honda will not provide any paperwork on the replacement but promises they will. They also say they will only offer a year warranty on the replacement motor - I am questioning this with them. Push these people if you have this problem - their is a problem and they are liable - ensure you have complete documentation of your complaints on the work orders from DAY 1.
Good luck!
2011Dec 01
Accord
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
At about 42000 miles my Honda accord 2008 started eating oil. Honda started their 1000 mile consumption tests and they told me it is losing about a quart every 1000 miles and of course as they always say 1000 miles is ok with Honda which is ridicules the car has like 4.5 quarts so that means i need to add a quart every 2-3 weeks on a car that’s 4 years old? They been jerking me around with doing the software update, once I came back to complete the test and the mechanic changed the oil without looking at the level when he was not even supposed to change it. Today completed my 5th oil consumption test and the said the manager will try to call Honda. I will never buy a Honda again and hope someone does do a law suit against them for this problem. I am so sick of going to the dealership for some idiot to tell me its ok that my car s oil change sensor is saying I have 70% till my oil change and my car is almost out of oil and they looking in my face and saying this is normal.
2011Nov 01
Accord 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 46,000 miles
I've had the same conversation with Honda service dept. and the Honda consumer relations they assigned me a case number and told me that it was ok for my car to use up to 1 qt of oil per 1000 miles. So we are doing a oil consumption test and will have to be done twice. once this is done they will determine if there is something they need to do or I will have to check the oil constantly while driving. We take long trips and I will be checking the oil almost every fill up. I agree with the other gentlemen about the Honda reminder that comes on at 20% and you need to have the oil changed. But with that happening you would lock the car up before getting to where it needs to be changed by there own programing in there car. They have alot of problems with this and I've read alot of people having the excat same problem at the same mileage. There fore I think we need to all get together and find a good lawyer to represent us in a class action law suit so they can see we mean business. This is not right what the Honda Cars are doing and Honda knows that it is not ok for a car to use 1qt of oil every 1000 miles. Again no one would purchase a car if they told you that up front. I know i wouldn't. I've asked Honda would you purchase a car if they told you the transmission or anything that requires liquid would have to be checked and probably filled every 1000 miles. They would not answer the question so I guess I have my answer. So Honda needs to stand behind there product they know there's a problem because I read alot of complaints with the same problem. So lets stick together and get Honda to fix there problem.
2011Feb 08
Accord LX-P 2.4L 4-cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
first, let me say that I have held Honda to high standards, but have really been disappointed.w/our 2008 accord lx-p 4-cyl. We bought the car when the new body style came out in JULY of '07. This is s super-sharp car, in SILVER. We got rid of
a 7-series BMW to get this car, so it was a big step down, but i was impressed
w/what they had done. We almost immediately noticed a problem w/the brakes.Something about the ABS sensors in the front. Took it to the dealership & they fixed w/out any hassle. As I had expected. But you know these things are still a pain in the ass, because of scheduling an appt. around work--whatever. Anyway, we have had a helluva time w/the brakes too (CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT) we put 2 or 3 sets
of brakes on the car (FRONT & BACK!) I mean, WTF?? who does rear brakes
on a damn car w/20 or 30k miles?? It's not normal, so don't give me that sh*t. i also have an 04' Infiniti FX 35 in MMMMIIINNTTT condition! it has had NO ISSUES. I know how to take care of a damn car man. All I'm saying (this is my wife's car..i just pay for it) please recognize there's an issue, and fix it. I was told by a loyal Honda
owner that I made a mistake by purchasing the new model year. He warned that
there would be issues. Please fix my wife's car. I absolutely do not want to drive a
FORD, CHEVY or anything else really. thanks HONDA..your friends in business,
The Cash Family.
is pampered (like the Honda) and has no issues!
2011Jun 11
Accord LX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 49,299 miles
click to see larger images
We also noticed our oil low as a result of an error code at about 49000 miles. When we took the car into the dealer, and we were told our oil was low, I thought it guff. When the dipstick was pulled and there was but a small drop of oil on it, I about fell over. In fact, I was completely embarrassed because I am quite meticulous about oil changes... I had the Dealer change the oil so we could start with a new slate. Within a short period, the oil was low again, we brought it back, were told what everyone who seems to have the same issue was told, "1 qt/1000 is normal," and entered "oil watch", as if we check it regularly now, the problem will go away... It hasn't. I just contacted a law firm to see if we can categorize this issue under the California Lemon Law. No new vehicle, much less one 3 years old or less, should be burning oil. None. My 2004 Silverado burns ZERO oil.
Update from Nov 28, 2011: The law firm never responded... And I didn't follow up.
So we filed a complaint with the BBB Auto Line to go to enter into 3rd party arbitration that was rejected. What good are they? If the BBB doesn't care, then who does?
We also filed a complaint with American Honda to which we received a call back. Since our issue was not officially documented with our local dealer, even though I was documenting the oil consumption myself, the AH representative - who was by the way very cooperative it seemed - suggested returning to the dealer to have the oil topped off, and the drain plug and oil filler sealed. They wanted to be sure there was no fraud on our part. So that's what we did.
It turned out after about 1400 miles we were 1 quart low. The Service Manager worked with the local representative - we believe - and ordered a short block. Not long after that, we had a new bottom end, rotating assembly and block installed. It's been about a month and so far so good...
I suggest if your vehicle has the same problem, follow the procedure described above. Be persistent, and professional, and keep in contact with the dealer and American Honda. 1 qt / 1000 miles is not an acceptable specification. Think about it: would you buy the car if they told you to expect to burn a quart of oil every 1000 miles? I think not.
2011Jun 08
Accord EX-L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 55,000 miles
I also am dealing with this oil problem with 2008 Accords. I spoke to a retired dealer and he said it was pretty much a lie that the car is supposed to burn 1 quart per 1000 miles. I have had a civic in the past that had 150K and did not burn a drop of oil. My family has 4 other Honda cars and not one burns oil. When will Honda admit there is a issue and do something about it. Maybe a class action lawsuit is what we need to get them to do something about it.
2011Mar 31
Accord EX 2.4L 4 cyl
- Manual transmission
- 46,700 miles
click to see larger images
I purchased my 2008 Accord with manual transmission with about 19K miles in July of 2009 as a Honda Certified Used Vehicle. Before the first oil change was indicated by the maintenance minder (which would read about 20% oil life LEFT at the time), the red "check oil" lamp would come on whenever I made a sharp turn. This would continue to happen with each successive oil change. I assumed this was because the oil in the oil reservoir would swish around due to momentum. I would immediately go in for an oil change. After about my 3rd premature oil change (the maintenance minder would always read 20% oil life when I'd start seeing the "check oil" lamp light up), I went to First Texas Honda in Austin, Texas and told a Service Manager about the issue. He advised that an oil consumption test would need to be performed. As of today, I've had three oil consumption tests. The first test showed that the engine burnt .8L of oil, the second test showed .4L was burnt, and today's test, .9L of oil.
After my second oil consumption test, I asked First Texas Honda what they could do for me since it was obvious that *something* is wrong with the engine. I even referenced this site and pointed out that one person, listed as complaint #59 under "2008 Honda Accord Excessive Oil Consumption", indicated that Honda had actually replaced the cylinders, piston rings, and VTC actuator on her 2008 Accord EX with 58K miles. The Service Manager said that up to 1L of oil being burnt was acceptable, per Honda. If the engine's oil capacity is 4.2L, the maintenance minder indicates that you don’t have to perform an oil change for 5K miles, and your engine is burning 1L of oil per 1K miles, it would mean that there would have absolutely no oil left in the engine during the last thousand miles of driving.
Frustrated, I contacted Honda Automobile Customer Service via the toll free number provided on Honda's Owner Link web site. The case manager who contacted me stuck to the "1L of oil consumption per 1K miles is acceptable" story. I pointed out that it didn’t make much sense for the car's maintenance minder to indicate 20% oil life left and, at the same time have a "low oil" indicator lit at the same time. She referred me to the Accord's owner's manual, which apparently directs owners to check their oil every time they fill up with gas (!!!). I responded that, if I had known that I would be expected to check my engine oil that frequently when I purchased the vehicle (my 4th Accord), that I wouldn't have bought the car. I went on to explain that there is something wrong with my car's engine, that I had come to expect quality products from Honda, and that, rather than help me with the issue, I was being referred to an obscure entry in the owner's manual which any reasonable consumer (or salesperson) would never focus on when going over the vehicle's qualities. I then referenced my two oil consumption tests, pointing out that the amount of oil consumption was not consistent (.8L and .4L, respectively) and that, the possibility of the engine consuming over 1L did not seem unreasonable. The Honda Case Manager said that the dealership was only required to perform 2 oil consumption tests and that, since neither test yielded consumption of over 1L, that Honda wasn't obligated to take any further action. What kind of customer service was this?
About 10 days after my call to Honda Automobile Customer Service, First Texas Honda contacted me, said that a Regional Manager had spoken to them about my case, and that I should bring my car in for an engine compression test. Hopeful that I would finally have some resolution to this issue, I dropped my car off at the dealership this morning. Four hours later, I got a call from the Service Manager. He told me, "Your compression test came back just fine!" When I asked him if they also checked on my oil consumption (it had been just under 1K miles since my last consumption test), he replied, "We had to add .9L of oil". I pointed out that this was more than the .8L and .4L that had been consumed in my previous 2 tests and the Service Manager again told me this was acceptable and that this was the 3rd oil consumption test - more than they were required to perform.
I'm nearly sick to my stomach with frustration. Looking at the data that the dealership itself has collected, it's obvious that the engine's oil consumption is not consistent. It would make sense to at least offer to continue monitoring the issue, but instead, I've been told that only 2 tests are "required" (despite the inconsistency). Is it because Honda is afraid that further tests might yield consumption that's above their 1L threshold? What's the scientific basis for 1L being an acceptable amount of oil consumption for 1K miles of driving? Why isn't .5L the threshold?
Since Honda is unwilling to help out a repeat customer, I will have to sadly and reluctantly steer away from their products (and encourage all of my friends and family to do the same). My next course of action: contact the BBB that the Honda Automobile Customer Service referred me to (in my owner's manual) and post my story on as many online forums as possible. This might not get my engine fixed, but at least it will educate the public as to what can be expected if they run into problems with a Honda.
2011Jul 25
Accord 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 81,000 miles
I just received a call from the dealership today that my car is having the same issues as everyone else on this site. Has anyone received any resolution to the problem? They want me to come in every 1,000 miles for the next 3,000 miles for an oil consumption test.
2012May 03
Accord LX-P I-4 2.4L
I have owned only driven honda's since 1983. They have been the most reliable bulletproof run forever cars. I had a 92 civic go to 450000k miles on original motor. just sold my last commuter 2004 civic with 300000k miles. So i decided well I think I would like an accord this time. F***en "A" REALLY 2008 ACCORD WITH 65000 miles for ten grand WOW I stole this one!!! OH HELL NO who would have thought about a reliability issue with a honda?????? LOOKS like I am screwed after talking so highly about MY GREAT HONDA CARS for almost 30 years THEN "BAM" MY FIRST EVER OIL LIGHT COMES ON WTF? I recently had the oil changed and it was still showing 60% NOT ONE DROP of oil on the dipstick. Looks like this great deal was a bust, turned out they stole my money. and from the looks of it I have ALOT of company!! I guess I will do my part and complain to as many people as I can. I bought used thinking as I have in the past, it's a honda who needs an extended waranty? Looks like we all wait for a class action suite?
olds1970
Sacramento, CA, USA
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