NHTSA Complaint #11711031 — 2018 HONDA ACCORD

When I was accelerating the vehicle on 12/21/2025, a flashing check engine light came on, and the car started driving very roughly immediately, with an intense vibration. I noticed a lack of engine power, but the hybrid motor and battery kept me going for roughly 1 mile until they were depleted, after which I was unable to accelerate the vehicle. At that time, the car continued to decelerate, no matter how much I depressed the accelerator. I was able to safely pull over and turn the car off. I let it sit for one minute before turning it on again, at which point it behaved normally. I drove very cautiously to my destination, making sure to accelerate very gradually. This sudden lack of power put myself and others on the road at risk, as it was very sudden with no prior symptoms/warning lights, and I had no recourse besides pulling over as soon as possible. Over the next few days, I researched the problem online, and owners of Honda Accords from that generation (10th generation, model years 2018-2022) reported head gasket failure on all engines Honda offered the 10th generation Accord, including the 1.5 turbo, 2.0 turbo, and 2.0 hybrid engines. This problem is also reported on a slew of other Honda vehicles from roughly that time period. I brought it to Motor Werks Honda in Barrington, IL on 12/24/2025. After they completed their analysis, they determined it was a failed headgasket.