The Honda Accord of the early 1980s represented a step up in sophistication for many New Zealand families. Offering a comfortable ride, reliable mechanicals, and a range of practical features, the Accord quickly became a popular choice. Many of these Accords are still found on New Zealand roads, acting as a testament to their build quality.
Rust is the biggest concern on these older Accords, appearing in the sills, wheel arches, and around the windscreen. Carburetor issues are common in the carburetted models. Suspension wear is also a factor to consider.
WOF tips
Inspect all of the specified rust-prone areas carefully. Brake lines and hoses are another common WOF failure point due to age. Suspension components - ball joints, bushings, and shock absorbers - also need to be checked.
About the Honda Accord EK Hatchback
This generation of Accord featured a well-appointed interior, comfortable seating, and decent fuel economy. It was available as both a sedan and a hatchback, catering to different needs. It was a popular choice for families due to its mix of comfort and reliability. Maintenance is straightforward, however, sourcing certain parts can present a challenge. Models with fuel injection are generally more robust than the carburetted versions.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots to check on a 1981-1983 Honda Accord in New Zealand?
Rust is a major concern for these Accords. You should thoroughly inspect the sills, wheel arches, and the areas around the windscreen. These are common WOF failure points due to corrosion.
Are there any specific WOF issues I should be aware of for a 1981-1983 Honda Accord?
Beyond rust in the sills, wheel arches, and around the windscreen, pay close attention to brake lines and hoses, as they are prone to failure due to age. Suspension components like ball joints, bushings, and shock absorbers also need careful checking during a WOF inspection.
Where can I get parts for my 1981-1983 Honda Accord in New Zealand?
CARFIX stocks 47 SKUs for the 1981-1983 Honda Accord. While sourcing certain parts can be a challenge due to the vehicle's age, CARFIX is a good starting point for your needs.
What's the difference between carburetted and fuel-injected 1981-1983 Honda Accords?
Models with fuel injection are generally considered more robust than the carburetted versions. Carburetor issues are a common problem in the carburetted models, so this is a factor to consider when looking at these vehicles.
How often should I service my 1981-1983 Honda Accord?
The recommended service interval for your 1981-1983 Honda Accord is every 10,000km.
Is the 1981-1983 Honda Accord a good family car?
Yes, this generation of Accord was a popular choice for families. It offered a well-appointed interior, comfortable seating, and decent fuel economy, available as both a sedan and a hatchback to suit different family needs.