Idiosyncratic Performer

We have had Hondas since 1987 - and we purchased the 2004, EX 4-cyl in 2004 new. We really love this car, despite some odd and intermittent problems. The wind noise in this car is worse than our previous Accord and our Civic. The light on our optional seat warmers sometimes doesn't work, although the warmer itself does, and there have been continuing problems with the passenger side airbag sensors. Also, the light from the glove compartment shines through the opening and the display panel on the radio/heating/cooling system is a bit goofy when the temperature is below freezing and the car is cold. And the windows make a weird flapping noise when we bring the windows up. Another thing, there are no lights on the cruise controls on the steering wheel -- hard to work at night! But, the biggest faux pas --- the doors do not stay open and often close themselves easily. I can not begin to identify the epithets I have muttered on having the doors crash on my calves multiple times a day. Performance wise, this car handles beautifully. It turns easily, acceleration is responsive, brakes would stop on a dime, and she handles better than most luxury cars we've driven. The ride is comfortable, albeit a bit noisy. There is enough leg room to accomodate tall people, and it easily sits 5 people. Gas mileage is great - I think we average about 30 miles to the gallon. We have taken this car across the country several times, and have been most impressed with how comfortable she is to drive.

UPDATE MARCH 3, 2006
I forgot to mention a continuuing, intermittent problem with the system's airbags. Sometimes the light pops on and although we have had the car in for the recall and update, it is STILL reoccurring. Also, the light on the passenger's side seat warmer doesn't always come on when the switch is turned on although the warmer is working. I'm wondering if the new Honda doesn't have some electrical problems. Our 87 Honda and 94 Civic both had electrical problems in the 4th year of ownership and have continued to be problematic.

UPDATE AUGUST 11, 2006
I've been doing some research on this car. Last year we had a road rock that somehow broke the plastic grill under the bumper that managed to knock a hole in the air conditioner condenser. Incidentally, this wasn't covered under the warranty and there went $800 to repair this car.

Thinking this was some sort of freak coincidence, I didn't pay no mind and went on with my life. Well, another road rock hit the car late July, and the same thing happened. So, I did some investigative work and apparently this is some sort of design defect. This time we took the car to an independent mechanic and he fixed it for about $400. I don't know about you, but I can't afford to shell out a couple of hundred bucks on this car each year to keep the condenser working.

Another thing: After cleaning the back seat of this car out, I noticed that the material on the ceiling near the rear window has started to come unglued, so there is the bubble thing on the inside roof of the car. While it isn't very big, it is worrisome. So I'll keep driving her and keep updating as needed.