2004 Honda Civic VIN Verification

Introduction

The 2004 Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan and coupe that exemplifies Honda’s balance of reliability, performance, and comfort. With a reputation for solid build quality, impressive fuel efficiency, and a comfortable driving experience, the Accord has been one of Honda’s best-selling models in the United States. The 2004 model is part of the seventh generation of the Accord, which introduced a more refined design, better interior features, and enhanced driving dynamics.

History & Origins

The Honda Accord was first introduced in 1976 and has since become one of the most successful mid-size cars in the world. By the time the 2004 model was released, the Accord had already cemented its position as a household name in the automotive industry, competing with popular models like the Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima. The seventh-generation Accord (2003-2007) introduced a new platform, advanced safety features, and a focus on driver comfort, continuing Honda’s tradition of innovation.

Engine & Performance Options

The 2004 Honda Accord offered multiple engine choices to cater to different preferences for power and fuel economy:

• Base Engine:

  • 2.4L inline-4 engine producing 160 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque.
  • Available with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission.
  • This engine is known for its reliability and excellent fuel economy, making it an ideal choice for daily driving.

• Upgraded Engine:

  • 3.0L V6 engine delivering 240 horsepower and 212 lb-ft of torque.
  • Available with a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission (in coupe models).
  • The V6 offers more performance-oriented driving, with strong acceleration and smooth power delivery.

Both engines are praised for their balance of power and efficiency, contributing to the Accord’s reputation as a versatile and dependable mid-size car.

Design & Features

The 2004 Honda Accord reflects a refined and modern design that balances sleek lines with a practical interior layout:

• Exterior Design:

  • The Accord features a smooth, aerodynamic body with a more upscale look compared to previous generations.
  • Available as both a sedan and a coupe, the Accord offers versatility in styling, with the coupe featuring a sportier profile.
  • Standard features include body-colored door handles, alloy wheels (on higher trims), and a chrome-accented grille.

• Interior Features:

  • The interior is designed for comfort and functionality, offering spacious seating for up to five passengers in the sedan.
  • Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel.
  • Higher trims include leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and an upgraded audio system with a 6-CD changer.

Trim Levels & Variants

The 2004 Honda Accord is available in several trims, providing a variety of options for different needs:

• DX: The base model with essential features such as power windows, locks, and air conditioning.
• LX: Adds more comfort and convenience features, including power mirrors, keyless entry, and upgraded audio.
• EX: The premium trim with a sunroof, upgraded interior materials, and optional leather upholstery.
• EX V6: Offers the powerful V6 engine along with more luxury features like a leather interior and premium sound system.

The sedan is available in all trims, while the coupe is generally offered in LX and EX trims, with a sportier edge in the EX V6 variant.

Safety & Technology

Safety is a priority in the 2004 Honda Accord, with advanced features that were notable for its time:

• Standard Safety Features:
  • Dual front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags (on EX models).
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS) for enhanced braking control.
  • Traction control available on V6 models for better handling in slippery conditions.
• Technology:
  • The 2004 Accord includes a 6-speaker audio system with CD player as standard.
  • Optional features include a navigation system with voice guidance, a premium 6-CD changer, and steering wheel audio controls on higher trims.

While lacking some of the driver-assistance technologies found in modern vehicles, the 2004 Accord was considered technologically advanced for its class in the early 2000s.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency

The 2004 Honda Accord offers impressive fuel efficiency, particularly for its size and class:

• 2.4L inline-4 engine achieves around 24 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, making it a great choice for budget-conscious drivers.
• 3.0L V6 engine provides slightly lower fuel economy at around 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway, but delivers significantly more power for those seeking better performance.

Overall, the Accord strikes a solid balance between fuel efficiency and performance, especially with the inline-4 engine.

Market Comparison

In 2004, the Honda Accord competed with several key models in the mid-size sedan segment, including:

• Toyota Camry: The Accord’s main rival, known for its reliability and comfort, but the Accord offers a sportier driving experience and more dynamic engine options.
• Nissan Altima: More aggressive styling and a strong V6 engine option, but the Accord is considered to have better build quality and a more refined interior.
• Ford Taurus: Offers a spacious interior but lacks the driving refinement and fuel efficiency of the Accord.

The Accord’s blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort helped it stand out among competitors, appealing to both practical buyers and driving enthusiasts.

Pricing

The pricing of the 2004 Honda Accord varied depending on the trim level and optional features:

• DX (Base): Starting at around $16,000 (USD), providing an affordable entry point with basic features.
• LX: Priced around $19,000, offering more comfort and convenience features.
• EX V6: Priced at around $25,000, offering luxury features and the more powerful V6 engine.

Used 2004 Accord models remain popular in the pre-owned market due to their longevity, with prices varying based on condition and mileage.

Notable Awards & Accolades

The 2004 Honda Accord received several accolades, reinforcing its position as a top choice in the mid-size sedan segment:

• Named to Car and Driver’s 10Best list, a testament to its excellent driving dynamics and overall value.
• IIHS Top Safety Pick, recognizing its strong safety features and crash test performance.
• Consistently ranked high in consumer satisfaction and reliability surveys, contributing to its strong resale value.

The 2004 Honda Accord remains a well-regarded vehicle for its balance of practicality, performance, and reliability, making it a popular choice in both new and used car markets.