New 2006 Accord VP

[beetlejuice]

The new Value Package model is similar to LX but has eliminated some features. One is the rear stabilizers. The dealer says this shouldn't effect the handling except under racing conditions.

Does anyone have any thoughts on removing the rear stabilizers?

thanks

 

[Nightdude]

You probably can buy the rear stabilizer for like 100$ after you buy the car. Most likely it's a bolt on.

 

[jmattis]

Does anyone have any thoughts on removing the rear stabilizers?

Racing conditions? You mean like, emergency handling!

I'm really surprised that Honda is pulling this one. Usually only the real cheap-o econoboxes make do with just a front sway bar. I strongly feel the car will wallow during sharp course corrections. The only question is whether it will mostly just feel bad, or significantly affect the handling too.

 

[jmattis]

Racing conditions? You mean like, emergency handling!

I'm really surprised that Honda is pulling this one. Usually only the real cheap-o econoboxes make do with just a front sway bar. I strongly feel the car will wallow during sharp course corrections. The only question is whether it will mostly just feel bad, or significantly affect the handling too.

 

[pars]

Solid rear stabilizer will help to dial in 'over steer' (rear end comes out around the turn). This behavior is extremely advantages on the race track but can be very dangerous on the streets or in bad weather. I'm sure the Honda guys know what their doing by removing the rear bar...but, I would expect them to make the front bar less ridged (small diameter) to compensate.

Pars
98 Civic Hatch (without a front & rear stabalizer bar).

 

[jmattis]

Pre-loaded rear stabilizers will have a marked effect in reducing understeer (or even creating oversteer). But, I'm not so sure whether the Accord's are pre-loaded, or just waiting for torsion to occur in turns.

Without a rear sway bar, we're mostly talking about greater roll in turns, and possible high speed instability, wandering at high speeds.

The rear stabilizer links the two rear springs in effect (becoming a third spring in the process). Honda may beef up the rear springs in value Accords which lack a rear stabilizer. I agree they may reduce the front sway bar diameter too.

So, can you really add a rear sway bar and bring your value Accord right back to LX standards? I doubt it.

The front bar may be too small. The rear springs may be too big.

 

[beetlejuice]

Thank you for the postings. Honda has told me that the only change is removal of the rear stabilizer. The rest is the same as the LX. But this was the local service guy.

 

[jmattis]

Thank you for the postings. Honda has told me that the only change is removal of the rear stabilizer. The rest is the same as the LX. But this was the local service guy.

You'll have to find a cooperative parts guy at the dealer to be sure. Drill down until you are positive that the part numbers are actually the same.

 

[bbtaco]

You'll have to find a cooperative parts guy at the dealer to be sure. Drill down until you are positive that the part numbers are actually the same.

That is not the only difference. The LX adds:

All value package features, plus:
6 speakers instead of only 2
Body-colored power side mirrors
Multi-reflector halogen headlights with auto-off
Variable intermittent windshield wipers
Slightly wider tires (205 vs 195)
Center lockable armrest in the back seat
Body colored door handles
Chrome window trim
2 additional beverage holders
Adds illumination to the vanity mirrors
Map lights
Sunglasses holder
Coin box
An additional 12 volt power outlet
Electronic remote trunk release
Manual driver seat height adjustment

bbtaco

 

[ps]

sounds like the salesman has no clue. What a shock!

 

[frabor]

Gor my vp new on 2006. Looking at mine, the list is partially correct

That is not the only difference. The LX adds:

All value package features, plus:
6 speakers instead of only 2 (yes, but the wiring is there to add 4 more)
Slightly wider tires (205 vs 195) (and I belive it goes from 15 to 16)
Electronic remote trunk release (The Vp has remote trunk on the keyfob)
Manual driver seat height adjustment (The VP has heigth adjustment)

Worst of the VP:
Only two inside lights, headliner and glove
(no lights or harness on doors and vanity mirrors)
No electric mirrors
No trunk liner
Single zone AC