Does a Honda Odyssey have shocks and struts?
Yes. The Honda Odyssey uses MacPherson struts in the front and separate shock absorbers in the rear, meaning the minivan has both front struts and rear shocks as part of its suspension system.
This article explains the typical suspension layout on modern Odysseys, what that means for maintenance and ride quality, and notes variation by model year or trim where relevant.
Front suspension
The front end of the Odyssey is equipped with a MacPherson strut setup. This means the front wheel assemblies combine the spring and damper into a single strut unit that connects to the steering knuckle and the vehicle frame. Below is a concise look at the key components you’ll typically find in the front suspension.
- MacPherson strut assembly with coil spring
- Steering knuckle connected to the strut and lower control arm
- Front stabilizer bar (sway bar) and associated linkages
In summary, the front suspension relies on a strut-based design that houses both the spring and shock absorber in one unit, which is standard for many modern minivans.
Rear suspension
The rear suspension in recent Honda Odyssey generations uses an independent setup with coil springs and separate shock absorbers rather than a strut assembly per wheel. This arrangement helps improve ride comfort and handling on uneven pavement and during load changes.
- Independent multi-link rear suspension
- Coil springs at each rear corner
- Gas-charged shock absorbers at each wheel
- Rear stabilizer bar on many trims
Although the rear uses shocks (dampers), it generally does not use a strut assembly at each wheel in the same way the front does. The result is a distinct rear damping system paired with independent suspension.
Maintenance and practical notes
Because the Odyssey uses front struts and rear shocks, maintenance considerations differ between the two ends of the vehicle. Struts are typically replaced as a unit and may require alignment checks after replacement, while rear shocks are replaced as individual components. If you’re diagnosing a ride issue, listen for typical signs: front strut wear can cause a clunking or drifting feel, while rear shocks may produce excessive bouncing, nose-diving under braking, or sagging on acceleration with a load.
Model-year variations exist. Some older Odysseys used different rear suspension geometries, but the modern pattern most buyers encounter features front MacPherson struts and a separate rear damped, multi-link arrangement. Checking your specific year and trim guide or consulting a Honda service manual will confirm exact components.
Summary
Across the current generation of Honda Odyssey models, the vehicle has front MacPherson struts and rear independent suspension with separate shock absorbers. This combination provides a familiar front-strut feel with a refined rear ride, and maintenance practices reflect the distinct components in each suspension region.
Bottom line
Yes—Odysseys have both shocks and struts, with front struts and rear shocks forming the core of the suspension system. If you’re planning maintenance or a parts purchase, focus on front strut assemblies for the front end and individual rear shocks for the rear, noting any year-specific differences.
