Honda and Acura Just Brought Back 0% Financing

Honda and Acura rolled out 0% APR financing this week across a surprising number of models, marking the first time the notoriously stingy automaker has offered zero-percent deals since the chip shortage began.

The offer runs through September 3rd and covers the Accord, CR-V, Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline on the Honda side. Acura is playing along with the Integra, TLX, and MDX. Terms stretch up to 60 months depending on the model, though you'll need strong credit to qualify.

This matters because Honda has spent the past four years acting like incentives were beneath them. While GM and Stellantis were piling cash on hoods, Honda kept financing rates high and rebates minimal. Dealers got comfortable with markups. Customers paid sticker or walked.

That strategy stops working when inventory builds up. Honda's days supply has climbed to 87 days, well above their historic comfort zone of 60. The CR-V is stacking up on lots. The Accord is facing stiffer competition from the new Camry. They need to move metal.

What You Should Do

If you were planning to buy a Honda or Acura in the next six months, do it now. Zero-percent financing saves you thousands compared to the 6% to 7% rates most lenders are charging. On a $35,000 Accord financed for 60 months, you're looking at roughly $6,500 in interest savings.

Don't assume this offer will repeat. Honda doesn't like admitting they need help moving inventory. Once dealer lots thin out, these deals vanish and the brand goes back to its no-incentive religion.

Check if your local dealer is adding market adjustments or mandatory add-ons. The 0% rate only saves you money if you're paying a fair price for the car itself. If they're tacking on $2,000 in nonsense, go to a different dealer. There are plenty of CR-Vs to choose from right now.