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Honda Accord (1998-03)

Production Total: The Honda Accord Type R, produced between 1998 and 2003, had a total production of approximately **3,000 units**
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Price New:
In 1998, the Honda Accord Type R was priced at around **£23,000** in the UK. This made it a competitive option in the sports saloon market, offering high performance and advanced engineering for its time.
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Rivals
In 1998, the Honda Accord Type R faced competition from several other sports saloons. Here are the approximate prices of its primary rivals at that time:

- **Ford Mondeo ST200**: Around £22,000
- **Vauxhall Vectra GSi**: Around £21,000
- **Alfa Romeo 156 V6**: Around £23,000
- **Subaru Impreza Turbo**: Around £22,000
- **BMW 3 Series (E36) 328i**: Around £25,000

These prices made the Honda Accord Type R a competitive option in the sports saloon market of the late 1990s.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are approximately **196 licensed** and **537 SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)** Honda Accord Type R vehicles remaining in the UK.
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Honda Accord (1998-03)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.


The **Honda Accord Saloon** from **1997 to 2002** has generally been reliable, but there are a few common issues to be aware of:

1. **Oil Consumption**: The diesel engine tends to consume oil, so regular oil level checks are essential. Unfortunately, there's no dashboard warning light for low oil levels, so manual checks are crucial.

2. **Recalls**: Honda issued recalls for this model to address wiring safety in the boot and ensure proper functioning of rear seat belts. Make sure your vehicle has had these recalls addressed.

3. **Exhaust and Brake Discs**: If the car is used mainly for short trips, the exhaust system may rust through quickly. Additionally, brake discs can rust if not driven frequently.

Remember to check these points when considering a used Honda Accord Saloon from that era.
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Generations
The Honda Accord saloon had two generations during the 1997-2002 period. The fifth-generation Accord, produced from 1998 to 2002, was a dynamic, reliable model with 1.8 and 2.0-liter petrol engines, as well as a potent 2.2-liter Type R variant. Later, in 2001, a mild facelift simplified the range.
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Body Styles
The **1997-2002 Honda Accord** saloon was available in **two body styles**:

1. **Estate**: A wagon-style body with extra cargo space.
2. **5-door Saloon**: A traditional sedan design.
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Variants
The **fifth-generation Honda Accord** (produced from **1998 to 2002**) offered several variants:

1. **Saloon (Sedan)**:
- **1.8L**: Available in various trims: S, LS, ES, SE, SE Sport, and SE Executive.
- **2.0L**: Available in trims: LS, ES, SE, SE Sport, and SE Executive.
- **2.2L Type R**: A performance-oriented variant.
- **3.0L Coupe**: Coupe version with a V6 engine.

2. **Hatchback**:
- **1.8L**: Available in trims: S, SE, SE Sport, and SE Executive.
- **2.0L**: Available in trims: SE, SE Sport, SE Executive, and Type-V.
- **2.3L**: Available in both hatchback and saloon (Type-V) versions.

3. **Coupe**:
- **2.0L**: Available in the ES trim.

These Accords were well-built, reliable, and offered a range of engine options.
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Engines
The **Honda Accord saloon** from **1998 to 2002** featured several engine options. Here's a breakdown:

1. **1.8L** models (S, LS, ES, SE, SE Sport, SE Executive)
2. **2.0L** models (LS, ES, SE, SE Sport, SE Executive)
3. **2.2L** Type R performance variant
4. **2.3L** Type-V model (four-cylinder engine)

These engines offered a mix of performance, reliability, and efficiency. The **Type R** version, in particular, was quite potent.
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Spares
If you're looking for spares for a **Honda Accord saloon** from **1997 to 2002**, you have a few options:

1. **Autopartspro.co.uk**: They offer original **Accord** parts online, including brake components, filters, suspension parts, and more.
2. **BreakerLink**: This platform connects you with quality breaker yards and suppliers in both the **UK** and **Ireland**. They guarantee fully tested **Accord** parts delivered to your door.
3. **EU-Spares**: You can find a parts catalogue specifically for the **Honda Accord VII Saloon (CL, CN)** on their website.
4. **Honda Direct Parts**: They provide genuine **Honda Accord** parts and accessories, with direct delivery to your address.
5. **Parts-Honda.uk**: Order original **Honda** car spares using their part diagrams. Search by model or part number, and enjoy secure payment and manufacturer warranty.
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Specialists
** Specialist Honda Mechanic Services in Northern Ireland**

Honda mechanic specialists in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly & Taggart Honda Service Centre Ballymena
o Address: 120-122 Antrim Road, Ballymena BT42 2HD
o Phone: 028 2544 0633
o Services: Comprehensive Honda servicing, accident aftercare, tyre servicing, seasonal deals on specific services like oil changes, belt replacements, and brake upgrades.
2. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Services: Maintenance and repair, engine and transmission rebuilds, pre-purchase inspections, and full restorations.
3. Ballymena Honda
o Address: Unit 6 Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena BT42 3HB
o Phone: 028 2565 5533
o Services: New and used motorcycle sales, fully equipped workshop with factory-trained Honda technicians and the latest diagnostic equipment.

Honda mechanic specialists in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Comiskey Engineering Works
o Address: Mahon Industrial Area, Mahon Road, Craigavon BT62 3EH
o Phone: 028 3833 2040
o Services: Engine reconditioning and repair.
2. Kelly Motor Works
o Address: 27 Garland Avenue, Lurgan, Craigavon BT66 6JH
o Phone: 028 3832 7753
o Services: General car repairs and maintenance.

Honda specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. S.A Automotive
o Address: Crossgar, Down, Northern Ireland
o Phone: 07754 038342
o Services: Full or part engine rebuilds, gearbox refurbishment, welding, MOT preparation, and performance upgrades.
2. The Dent Man NI
o Address: Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland
o Phone: 028 9147 9999
o Services: Dent removal and car body repairs.

Honda mechanic specialists in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Group Honda
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Services: Comprehensive Honda servicing, accident aftercare, tyre servicing, and seasonal deals on specific services like oil changes, belt replacements, and brake upgrades.
2. McElroy Motors
o Address: 1-3 Mill Street, Irvinestown, Enniskillen BT94 1GR
o Phone: 028 6862 1655
o Services: General car repairs and maintenance, MOT preparation, and diagnostics.

Here are some Honda mechanic specialists in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. Lloyd Cooke Motors
o Address: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o Phone: 028 7130 2100
o Services: Car body repairs, accident repair centre.
2. ClickMechanic
o Services: Offers a network of vetted and qualified mechanics who can provide Honda repairs and servicing at your home or office.

Here are some Honda mechanic specialists in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Honda Dungannon
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Services: Comprehensive Honda servicing, accident aftercare, tyre servicing, and seasonal deals on specific services like oil changes, belt replacements, and brake upgrades.
2. Fannin’s, Clogher
o Address: 73-75 Main Street, Clogher BT76 0AA
o Phone: 028 8554 8287
o Services: General car repairs and maintenance, MOT preparation, diagnostics, and breakdown recovery

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Racing
The Honda Accord from 1998 to 2003 did participate in racing, particularly in touring car championships. Here are some highlights:

1. **British Touring Car Championship (BTCC)**: The Honda Accord was a competitive car in the BTCC during this period. It was fielded by teams like Prodrive and Arena Motorsport, achieving several podium finishes and race wins.

2. **Super Touring Car Series**: The Accord also competed in various Super Touring Car series around the world, including the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC) and the Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC).

3. **North American Touring Car Championship (NATCC)**: In North America, the Accord was used in the NATCC, where it demonstrated strong performance against other manufacturers.

The Accord's success in these series was due to its well-balanced chassis, reliable engine, and strong support from Honda's motorsport division.

The Honda Accord, particularly the models from 1998 to 2003, had several racing specifications that made it competitive in various touring car championships. Here are some key specifications:

1. **Engine**: The racing versions of the Accord often used the H22A engine, a 2.2-liter DOHC VTEC inline-four. This engine was capable of producing around 212-220 horsepower, depending on the specific setup.

2. **Transmission**: These cars typically featured a 5-speed manual transmission with a helical limited-slip differential (LSD) to improve traction and handling.

3. **Brakes**: The Accord race cars were equipped with ventilated disc brakes both at the front and rear, providing strong stopping power necessary for competitive racing.

4. **Suspension**: The suspension setup was often modified for racing, including adjustable dampers and stiffer springs to enhance handling and stability on the track.

5. **Weight and Dimensions**: The race-prepped Accord had a reduced weight compared to the stock version, often achieved through the use of lightweight materials and the removal of non-essential components. The car's dimensions were similar to the stock version, but with modifications to improve aerodynamics.

6. **Wheels and Tires**: Racing Accords used larger, lightweight alloy wheels with high-performance tires to improve grip and handling.

These specifications helped the Honda Accord perform well in various touring car championships, showcasing its versatility and engineering excellence.

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