2021 Honda Accord Problems & Complaints

Short answer: The biggest problems with the 2021 Honda Accord are forward collision avoidance system problem, electrical system issues, and brake problems.

Forward collision avoidance system issues are the most common while electrical system and brake problems aren’t as common. Honda has issued three recalls for this vehicle.

Common 2021 Honda Accord Problems

2021 Honda Accord Forward Collision Avoidance System Problems

Owners have reported false braking and Honda Sensing warning malfunctions.

False or Phantom Braking

• Severity: Moderate to severe; unexpected braking can cause the vehicle to slow suddenly without warning, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision or creating a hazardous traffic situation.
• Manufacturer’s Response: Honda has not issued a recall for this issue, but NHTSA upgraded its investigation to an Engineering Analysis.
• Fix: Dealers may inspect/clean the camera and radar areas, check for diagnostic codes, update software if available, and recalibrate sensors if needed. Owners should document incidents and file a NHTSA complaint.

2021 Honda Accord Electrical System Issues

Owners have reported infotainment glitches, display failures, and rearview camera image concerns.

Rearview Camera Not Displaying Image

• Severity: Moderate; a missing rear camera image reduces visibility when reversing.
• Manufacturer’s Response: Honda has not released a TSB or recall for the Accord, although they recalled other models for this issue.
• Fix: Dealers typically check software, wiring/connectors, the camera, and the display/audio unit.

2021 Honda Accord Brake Problems

Owners have reported concerns involving braking noise.

Rear Brake Noise While Reversing

• Severity: Mild to moderate; usually a noise/comfort issue unless braking performance is affected.
• Manufacturer’s Response: Honda issued a dealer message for rear brake noise in reverse, described as humming, moaning, or foghorn-like.
• Fix: Dealers should inspect the brakes. For qualifying vehicles, Honda asked dealers to contact Technical Information & Support before attempting repairs.

Notes from Honda Accord Owners

• Kelley Blue Book Complaint

“I really loved the car and it was maintained by the book until the transmission failed at 66K miles. No warning, no check engine light, no sound, no symptoms, just sudden fail. The repair was 7,000. Honda corporate didn’t cover a dime. Honda NEVER, again!”

• NHTSA Complaint

“The touch screen is malfunctioning. Its “ghost touching” as in the screen is pressing random buttons on the screen at random times while driving. It can change and has changed settings while driving (distance for breaking before a collision, etc). While its touching random things on the screen I’m unable to touch anything on the screen. As if its locking me from pressing anything.”

• NHTSA Complaint

“I was driving on the freeway and suddenly my ABE brake activated and I was almost being hit in the back. It was happening many times in the past but when I brought the attention to the Honda dealer and it said nothing was wrong with it.”

What You Need to Know About the Lemon Law

Lemon laws protect consumers when a manufacturer cannot repair a substantial vehicle defect within a reasonable number of attempts during the warranty period.

If a defect significantly affects the vehicle’s use, value, or safety, the owner may be entitled to a refund, replacement vehicle, or financial compensation. Persistent repair visits and lengthy time out of service are often important warning signs.

A vehicle does not need to be completely inoperable to qualify. Repeated warning lights, recurring braking complaints, or long repair delays may all support a potential claim. If your vehicle continues to return to the dealership for the same unresolved issue, it may be worth having the situation reviewed.

*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.

Secure Your Rights with the Lemon Law Experts

Consumers like you should not have to keep dealing with the same repair issue over and over. If your vehicle has spent too much time at the dealership or the problem keeps coming back, the Lemon Law Experts can help you explore what options may be available. Call (877) 885-5366 or fill out an online contact form through our website today.