Head-to-head reliability
BMW 740il vs Honda Accord
How the BMW 740il and Honda Accord compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
BMW 740il vs Honda Accord: The BMW has 23 complaints per year vs 432 for the Accord, but the BMW's issues are more severe, including electrical failures and coolant leaks. The Accord's main problems are infotainment glitches and engine issues. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW 740il or Honda Accord more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW 740il
The BMW 740il is a luxury sedan that, in ownership terms, demands attention to electrical and cooling system health. Owners report a pattern of intermittent electrical gremlins, from pixel loss in the instrument cluster to random engine shutdowns, and cooling system failures that lead to overheating. While not every car will have these issues, the frequency and variety of complaints suggest a vehicle that can be unpredictable and costly to maintain.
Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is a mainstream sedan with a high volume of complaints, but many are concentrated in modern tech and engine components. Owners report widespread infotainment screen glitches, including 'ghost touch' and crashes, as well as engine issues like head gasket failures and turbocharger problems in turbo models. Despite the high count, the Accord's overall reliability is mixed, with some years being solid and others plagued by specific defects.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW 740il | Honda Accord |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 46 Better | 4,326 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 4 Better | 38 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 1 Better | 155 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 23.0 Better | 432.6 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 3 Better | 141 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 3 |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
BMW 740il
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM8
- 02ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING6
- 03AIR BAGS6
- 04POWER TRAIN5
- 05TIRES5
Owners report pixel loss in the instrument cluster, making it hard to read speed and warnings, and more serious issues like random engine shutdowns and failures of window motors, GPS, and brake lights. These electrical gremlins can leave you stranded or with a car that won't start.
Coolant leaks from cracked plastic reservoirs and separate coolant tanks are common, leading to overheating and low coolant warnings. Some owners also report engine shutdowns and failsafe mode, which can be dangerous if it happens while driving.
The airbag warning light often comes on due to passenger seat sensor failure, and there are reports of side airbags deploying unexpectedly after minor impacts, which can cause injury and costly repairs.
Transmission issues include failure to shift into reverse and clicking noises, leading to loss of acceleration. These problems can make the car undriveable and require expensive transmission repairs.
“THE PROBLEM AREAS OF MISSING PIXELS ARE PRIMARILY LOCATED IN THE DRIVER'S INSTRUMENT CLUSTER THAT DISPLAYS ODOMETER & TRIP ODOMETER, OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE , AND CHECK CONTROL DISPLAY, SUCH AS WARNINGS/PARKING BRAKE/COOLANT TEMPERATURE /LEVEL/ KEY & SEAT BELT RE…”
“PURCHASED PRE-OWNED CERTIFIED CAR IN APRIL 06, STARTING HAVING PROBLEMS WITH ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS: WINDOW MOTORS, GPS SYSTEM/MONITOR, CAR KEPT DYEING WHILE STOPPED AND DRIVING, ENGINE SHUTDOWN/FAILSAFE MODE, BRAKE LIGHTS BLOWING ALL THE TIME, FUSES AND IGNITION…”
Honda Accord
- 01ENGINE940
- 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM832
- 03FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE802
- 04UNKNOWN OR OTHER701
- 05FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM579
Owners report head gasket failures causing coolant loss and overheating, especially in turbocharged 1.5L engines, and turbocharger failures that reduce power and speed. These are major repairs that can be very costly.
The central infotainment screen suffers from 'ghost touch' glitches, where it randomly selects options, and can crash entirely, affecting climate control, navigation, and safety settings. This is a distraction and can disable critical functions.
The system can malfunction, causing the car to brake hard unexpectedly or the steering to become hard to turn, with warning lights appearing intermittently. This can be startling and increase the risk of a rear-end collision.
Fuel pump failures are a known issue, leading to stalling or no-start conditions. This can leave you stranded and is a safety hazard if it happens in traffic.
“I am submitting this complaint regarding an apparent head gasket failure involving my 2022 Honda Accord Sport 1.5T equipped with Honda's 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. At approximately 143,000 miles, I began experiencing coolant loss without any visible exter…”
“I am writing to file a complaint regarding a serious issue with my Honda vehicle involving the turbocharger system. The turbocharger appears to be failing, causing a significant reduction in vehicle speed and performance while driving. During operation, the v…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
BMW 740il — 4 recalls
The defect: FCP GROTON IS RECALLING CERTAIN STEERING CENTER DRAG LINKS, P/N 32 21 1 096 057, SOLD FROM DECEMBER 1, 2009 THROUGH APRIL 9, 2010 AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR MODEL YEAR 1995 THROUGH 2001 BMW 740I, 740IL, AND 750IL PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SHAFT OF THE STEERING CENTER TIE ROD MAY SHEAR OFF.
The risk: THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT, WITHOUT WARNING, IN IMMEDIATE AND COMPLETE LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
The fix: FCP GROTON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE TIE ROD WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JUNE 1, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FCP GROTON TOLL-FREE AT 1-877-634-0063.
The defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BRAKE LAMPS IN THESE VEHICLES ARE CONTROLLED BY A SWITCH ACTIVATED BY THE MOVEMENT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. THIS SWITCH COULD FAIL INTERNALLY, CAUSING IT TO REMAIN EITHER IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS OFF" POSITION OR IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS ON" POSITION.
The risk: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE BRAKE LAMPS EITHER WILL NOT OPERATE OR WILL BE CONTINUOUSLY ILLUMINATED, REGARDLESS OF BRAKE PEDAL POSITION.
The fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE EXISTING BRAKE LAMP SWITCH WITH AN IMPROVED SWITCH.
The defect: FCP GROTON IS RECALLING CERTAIN STEERING CENTER DRAG LINKS, P/N 32 21 1 096 057, SOLD FROM DECEMBER 1, 2009 THROUGH APRIL 9, 2010 AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR MODEL YEAR 1995 THROUGH 2001 BMW 740I, 740IL, AND 750IL PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SHAFT OF THE STEERING CENTER TIE ROD MAY SHEAR OFF.
The risk: THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT, WITHOUT WARNING, IN IMMEDIATE AND COMPLETE LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
The fix: FCP GROTON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE TIE ROD WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JUNE 1, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FCP GROTON TOLL-FREE AT 1-877-634-0063.
The defect: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 18-INCH TIRES. (18-INCH TIRES ARE STANDARD EQUIPMENT ON THE M5 AND OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT ON THE 7-SERIES MODELS). THE MACHINE USED TO MOUNT AND INFLATE THE TIRES ON THE WHEELS AT THE ASSEMBLY PLANT MAY HAVE DAMAGED THE SIDEWALL OF ONE OR MORE TIRES…
The risk: HANDLING AND CONTROL WOULD BE DRASTICALLY AFFECTED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TIRES AND IF DAMAGE FROM THE MOUNTING MACHINE IS FOUND, THE TIRE WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 10, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND…
Honda Accord — 38 recalls
The defect: Honda (America Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 Civic, Acura RDX, Acura Integra, and 2022 Honda Accord vehicles. A ball valve in the vehicle stability assist (VSA) modulator may leak brake fluid, which can result in unintended vehicle movement when the brake hold feature is engaged or an…
The risk: Unintended vehicle movement or an unexpected increase in brake pedal travel can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the VSA modulator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 24, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are OEJ, XEK, AEY, XEX and OEW.
The defect: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura R…
The risk: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls ar…
The defect: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV,…
The risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansi…
The defect: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022…
The risk: Air bags that deploy unintentionally during a crash increase the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 7, 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are BOL, WO9, OOA, WOM, XOH,…
Buyer analysis
BMW 740il or Honda Accord: which should you buy?
The BMW 740il has far fewer complaints per year (23.0) compared to the Honda Accord (432.6), but the BMW's issues are more severe and costly. The Accord's high count is partly due to its popularity and modern tech, but the BMW's electrical and cooling problems can be more dangerous. In practice, the Accord may have more frequent but less catastrophic issues, while the BMW's problems are rarer but potentially more serious.
Key differences
- The BMW 740il has a higher rate of electrical and cooling system failures that can cause sudden breakdowns, while the Accord's issues are more about infotainment and engine components.
- The Accord has a much higher number of complaints, but many are related to modern tech features like the infotainment screen, which may not affect drivability.
- The BMW's airbag and transmission problems are safety-critical, while the Accord's forward collision avoidance issues can also be dangerous but are less frequent.
- The BMW has fewer recalls (4) compared to the Accord (38), but the Accord's recalls address many of its common issues.
- Check for coolant leaks around the radiator and coolant tank, and look for signs of overheating or low coolant warnings.
- Test all electrical functions, including the instrument cluster pixels, windows, and brake lights, and be wary of any intermittent failures.
- Inspect the infotainment screen for ghost touch or glitches, and ensure it doesn't crash during a test drive.
- Check for engine oil or coolant leaks, and listen for unusual turbocharger noises, especially in turbo models.
Before you buy
- Have a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the cooling system and electrical components for the BMW, and the engine and infotainment for the Accord.
- Check for open recalls and ensure they have been addressed.
- Test drive both vehicles, paying attention to any warning lights, unusual noises, or screen glitches.
- Review the vehicle's service history for any major repairs, especially transmission or engine work.
- Consider the cost of potential repairs: BMW parts and labor are typically more expensive than Honda's.
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific BMW 740il or Honda Accord in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW 740il vs Honda Accord
- BMW 740il total complaints
- 46
- Honda Accord total complaints
- 4,326
- BMW 740il total recalls
- 4
- Honda Accord total recalls
- 38
- BMW 740il avg complaints/year
- 23.0
- Honda Accord avg complaints/year
- 432.6
- More reliable overall
- BMW 740il
- BMW 740il top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Honda Accord top complaint area
- ENGINE