What is a good year for a Honda Odyssey?
The Honda Odyssey is a popular minivan that has been a reliable choice for families for over two decades. While the Odyssey has generally been a solid vehicle, some model years stand out as particularly good options. Based on expert reviews, reliability data, and consumer feedback, the best years for a Honda Odyssey are 2018, 2019, and 2020.
Why the 2018-2020 Honda Odyssey Stands Out
The fifth-generation Honda Odyssey, which debuted in 2018, is widely considered the best iteration of the minivan in recent years. This model brought significant improvements in terms of performance, technology, safety, and overall refinement.
- Performance: The 2018-2020 Odyssey is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers ample power and responsive acceleration, making it a capable family hauler.
- Technology: These model years feature a user-friendly infotainment system, available rear-seat entertainment system, and a host of advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
- Safety: The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, thanks to its robust construction and comprehensive suite of active safety technologies.
- Refinement: The fifth-generation Odyssey boasts a more premium interior, smoother ride quality, and quieter cabin compared to previous models.li>
Overall, the 2018-2020 Honda Odyssey stands out as an excellent choice for families seeking a practical, well-rounded, and reliable minivan.
Other Notable Honda Odyssey Model Years
While the 2018-2020 Odyssey is the clear standout, there are a few other model years that are worth considering:
- 2011-2017: The fourth-generation Odyssey, produced from 2011 to 2017, was also a highly regarded minivan known for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and strong reliability.
- 2005-2010: The third-generation Odyssey, built from 2005 to 2010, is another well-regarded model that offered a comfortable ride, versatile seating, and a reputation for dependability.
While the newer 2018-2020 Odyssey models may be the best overall choice, the earlier generations can still be excellent used car options for families on a budget.
What is considered high mileage for a Honda Odyssey?
We've mentioned that the Honda Odyssey can last around 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. When considering this number, it's safe to say that the high mileage is 250,000. At this point, the Odyssey is very close to experiencing serious malfunctions and expensive issues.
At what mileage do Hondas break down?
about 200,000 miles
Honda cars are one of the most reliable car brands on the market. The typical lifespan of a Honda car is about 200,000 miles. However, many Honda models are known to outlast this expectation with proper maintenance.
What is the top Honda Odyssey?
The top-of-the-line 2023 Honda Odyssey Elite builds on the Touring trim's features by adding sound-reducing glass across all windows, a hands-free tailgate, automatic wipers and auto-dimming and power-folding side mirrors to the exterior.
What is too many miles for a used Honda?
According to RepairPal, Honda ranks 1st out of 32 car brands with a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. Honda models feature a lower cost of ownership and when properly maintained, you can even expect your Honda to easily last 200,000 to 300,000 miles.
What is the most reliable Honda Odyssey year?
For those considering a used First Generation Odyssey, the 1998 model year is often recommended as the optimal choice. Benefiting from several end-of-generation improvements, the 1998 Odyssey addressed some of the earlier reliability concerns and is generally considered the most reliable option within this generation.
What years were Honda transmissions bad?
According to carcomplaints.com, the 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005 selections are the worst when looking at the transmission years. The earlier years of the Honda Accord struggled the most with the transmission.
What is the most reliable minivan?
The Most Reliable Minivans
- 2024 Chrysler Pacifica - J.D. Power Reliability Score: 71/100.
- 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid - J.D. Power Reliability Score: 71/100.
- 2025 Honda Odyssey - J.D. Power Reliability Score: 77/100.
- 2025 Toyota Sienna - J.D. Power Reliability Score: 77/100.
Which Odyssey is best?
All Odyssey trims offer a capable performance on the road as they have the same engine. If you're interested in more premium features, you should consider the EX-L or Touring options, as they offer a lot of technology but still won't be the most expensive option.
What years did Honda Odysseys have bad transmissions?
The models from 1999 to 2001 were notorious for transmission problems. Some of these issues even caused engine fires. They also suffered from using too much oil, making them highly troublesome. The 2002 Odyssey continued facing transmission issues.
What is the most common problem with a Honda Odyssey?
Top Honda Odyssey Problems
- Noise From Front Wheel Bearings, Replace Both.
- Third Row Seat Won't Unlatch Due to Loose Latch Cables.
- Knocking Noise From Front End, Stabilizer Link Issues.
- Rough Idle/Harsh Shifting Due to Broken Front Engine Mount.
- Engine Idle Speed is Erratic or Engine Stalls.
