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What are the negatives of the Honda Odyssey?

The Honda Odyssey is a popular minivan known for its spaciousness, versatility, and family-friendly features. However, like any vehicle, it has its downsides. In this article, we'll explore the potential negatives of the Honda Odyssey to help you make an informed decision when considering this model.

Fuel Economy

One of the main drawbacks of the Honda Odyssey is its relatively poor fuel economy compared to some of its competitors. The Odyssey's EPA-estimated fuel economy ranges from 19 to 22 miles per gallon in the city and 28 to 32 miles per gallon on the highway, depending on the trim level and configuration. This can be a significant factor for families who do a lot of driving or have long commutes, as the higher fuel costs can add up over time.

Handling and Maneuverability

While the Odyssey is designed to be a comfortable and spacious family vehicle, its size and weight can make it feel less agile and maneuverable than some smaller minivans or SUVs. The Odyssey's large size can make it challenging to navigate tight spaces, such as crowded parking lots or city streets. This can be a consideration for those who frequently drive in urban areas or need to park in tight spaces.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

As with any vehicle, the Honda Odyssey may require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. While the Odyssey is generally known for its reliability, the cost of parts and labor for maintenance and repairs can be higher than for some other minivan models. This is something to keep in mind when budgeting for the long-term ownership of the vehicle.

Limited Cargo Space

Despite its spacious interior, the Honda Odyssey may not offer as much cargo space as some larger SUVs or crossovers. With all the seats in place, the Odyssey has around 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be limiting for families who need to transport large items or bulky equipment. This is something to consider if you frequently need to haul large or oversized items.

Conclusion

The Honda Odyssey is a well-regarded minivan with many positive attributes, but it's important to be aware of its potential drawbacks as well. By understanding the negatives, you can make a more informed decision about whether the Odyssey is the right vehicle for your family's needs and lifestyle.

What is more reliable, a Honda Odyssey or a Toyota Sienna?

Both the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey are highly reliable minivans, but the Toyota Sienna is often considered slightly more reliable for long-term peace of mind. The Sienna's reputation is built on its consistent performance and hybrid powertrain, while the Odyssey, although highly rated, has had some model years with reported issues affecting long-term dependability.

Toyota Sienna

Strengths: Considered by many experts to have a stronger long-term reliability reputation, partly due to its hybrid system. The hybrid powertrain offers better fuel economy and comes with long-term warranties on the hybrid components, which can lead to significant savings.
Potential drawbacks: The hybrid powertrain can feel less powerful in some situations, and some repairs, like replacing rear spark plugs, can be more complex.

Honda Odyssey

Strengths: Often has a higher J.D. Power reliability rating, with more standard safety features and features like the Magic Slide rear seats, notes Planet Honda New Hampshire.
Potential drawbacks: Has had a few model years with reports of issues that may impact its long-term reliability. Some maintenance tasks, such as spark plug replacement, can be more time-consuming than in other minivans.

Conclusion

For maximum peace of mind and lower running costs: The Toyota Sienna is generally the slightly more reliable choice, especially considering its hybrid system's long-term warranty and excellent fuel efficiency.
For a more engaging driving experience and more versatile interior: The Honda Odyssey is a great option, but it is important to research specific model years to avoid any potential reliability issues that may have been reported in the past.

What year Honda Odyssey to stay away from?

Years to avoid for the Honda Odyssey are primarily the second-generation (1999–2004), especially the 2002 model, due to widespread transmission failures. Other models to approach with caution are the 2005–2006 for potential transmission and other issues, the 2007–2008 for power steering problems, and the 2011–2013 and 2018 models for engine, transmission, or electrical concerns.
Years with major issues

1999–2004: This generation is known for significant transmission problems, with the 2002 model having the most complaints.
2005–2006: These years had common transmission issues, and the 2006 model was also recalled for issues with power windows and steering.
2007–2008: These models are known for power steering issues.
2011–2013: Some sources advise avoiding these years due to engine and transmission problems.
2018: This year is noted for potential transmission issues and other first-year redesign glitches.

General advice

Avoid the first year of a new generation: The first year of a redesign, such as 2018, often has more initial issues that are corrected in later years.
Be wary of specific problems: Be aware of common problems like catalytic converter failure, which affected several model years including 1999-2001 and 2005-2007.
Inspect carefully: Regardless of the model year, a thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic is recommended before purchasing a used Odyssey, and always check maintenance records.

What are the negatives of a Honda Odyssey?

2025 Honda Odyssey Cons
The infotainment system may feel awkward or hard to reach, some say it's lacking in luxury features, and although the styling is technically functional, it may be less exciting compared to other minivans on the market.

What is the most common problem with a Honda Odyssey?

Common problems with the Honda Odyssey include issues with the power sliding doors, infotainment and electrical systems, and transmission problems (especially in older models). Other frequent complaints involve engine problems like misfires, oil consumption, and the check engine light, as well as braking system issues such as warped rotors.

This video discusses common issues with the Honda Odyssey, including dashboard and infotainment problems: 1mMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 25, 2023
Electrical and infotainment

Infotainment System: Screens may freeze, turn black, or reboot. Bluetooth connectivity can be unreliable, and the backup camera may freeze or show a blank screen.
Dashboard/Entertainment System: The clock light can burn out, and issues with the infotainment screen are frequent, with some models having defective units or software glitches.
Honda Sensing: Problems with the safety features have also been reported.

Transmission and engine

Transmission: Older models, especially those with the five-speed automatic from 1999–2004, had poor reliability and premature wear on the third-gear clutch pack. Newer models have also reported transmission issues.
Engine: Common engine problems include misfires, difficulty starting, and stalling, often related to faulty spark plugs or ignition switch issues.
Oil Consumption/Leaks: Some engines consume excessive oil, which can be due to leaking seals or porous engine block casting.
Vibrations: Engine vibrations are a common complaint, sometimes caused by a failed rear or front engine mount.
Overheating: Issues with low coolant or a broken radiator can cause the engine to overheat.

You can watch this video to learn about Honda Odyssey transmission problems: 1mThe Passing LaneYouTube · Sep 1, 2024
Doors and brakes

Power Sliding Doors: Numerous complaints detail failures of the power sliding doors. Some doors may not close properly, have motor assembly issues, or be affected by cable problems that can cause them to open while driving.
Brakes: Warped front brake rotors are a frequent problem, causing vibration when braking.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.