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What is the most common problem with a Honda Odyssey?

The most common problem with a Honda Odyssey is transmission failure. This issue has been reported by many Odyssey owners, often occurring at high mileage and resulting in costly repairs.


Transmission Troubles in the Honda Odyssey


The Honda Odyssey is a popular minivan known for its spaciousness, reliability, and family-friendly features. However, one persistent problem that has plagued many Odyssey owners is transmission failure. This issue typically manifests as the transmission slipping, hesitating, or completely failing, often at high mileage levels around 100,000 miles or more.


Transmission problems in the Odyssey can be attributed to a few key factors:



  • Weak Transmission Design: The Odyssey's transmission, particularly the earlier model years, has been criticized for its subpar design and components that are prone to premature wear and failure.

  • Lack of Maintenance: Proper transmission maintenance, such as regular fluid changes, is crucial to extend the lifespan of the Odyssey's transmission. However, many owners neglect this essential service.

  • Heavy Use: The Odyssey is often used for heavy-duty family hauling, with frequent stops and starts, heavy loads, and towing. This type of usage can put additional strain on the transmission, accelerating its deterioration.


When transmission problems arise, Odyssey owners are faced with the prospect of costly repairs, which can range from a few hundred dollars for a minor fix to several thousand dollars for a full transmission replacement. This issue has been a source of frustration for many Odyssey owners and has led to increased scrutiny of Honda's transmission design and quality control.


Addressing Transmission Woes


To mitigate the risk of transmission failure in the Honda Odyssey, owners should adhere to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, including regular transmission fluid changes. Additionally, being mindful of the Odyssey's usage, such as avoiding heavy towing or hauling, can help extend the life of the transmission.


In cases where transmission problems do occur, owners should seek the advice of a reputable mechanic or Honda dealer to determine the best course of action, whether it's a repair or a potential replacement. By staying proactive and addressing transmission issues promptly, Odyssey owners can help ensure their vehicle continues to provide reliable and safe transportation for their families.

What years did the Honda Odyssey have bad transmissions?


99-04 transmissions had a lot of issues, 05-06 were somewhat better, and 07 and up were better still (they switched to the Ridgeline transmission). Odyclub.com is a great place to research these.



What is a bad year for Honda Odyssey?


How to Choose a Reliable Used Honda Odyssey

GenerationBest YearsWorst Years
3rd (2005-2010)2009, 20102005, 2007
4th (2011-2017)2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 20172014
5th (2018-present)2021, 2022, 20232018, 2019
Aug 15, 2024



How many miles will a Honda Odyssey last?


The longevity of a Honda Odyssey largely depends on various factors, including initial quality, maintenance, driving conditions, and the owner's diligence in caring for the vehicle. On average, a well-maintained Honda Odyssey can last for 200,000 miles or more, but individual experiences may vary.



How long does a transmission last on a Honda Odyssey?


The lifespan of a transmission can vary widely; some may last over 100,000 miles, while others could surpass 200,000 miles. Routine maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your Honda transmission. Regular checks and services help prevent major issues and ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition.



What is considered high mileage for a Honda?


200,000 miles
For a Honda CR-V, 200,000 miles is generally considered high mileage. While many CR-Vs have surpassed this mark, it's often closer to the end of its lifespan at this point. Typically, reaching 200,000 miles occurs around 15 years into ownership.



Which minivan has the longest lifespan?


Toyota Sienna: Known for its durability, the Toyota Sienna has a potential lifespan of around 239,607 miles. It's often praised for its reliability and low maintenance costs. Honda Odyssey: Another top contender, the Honda Odyssey, has a potential lifespan of approximately 235,852 miles.



Does the Honda Odyssey have a timing belt or chain?


In order to keep that timing going perfectly, your Honda Odyssey has a timing belt, which is a rubber belt held in place by pulleys.



How much does it cost to replace timing belt in Honda Odyssey?


The real cost is in the labor, because a lot of parts need to be disassembled to get to the belt. Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor).



What is the best minivan to buy?


The Toyota Sienna is the minivan with the highest reliability rating according to the RepairPal data, with a reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars. What is #1 selling minivan? The Honda Odyssey is the top selling minivan at CarMax, based on sales data over a recent 6-month period (March 2023 - August 2023).



How long does Honda Odyssey timing belt last?


According to the Honda maintenance schedule, your Honda's timing belt and water pump generally needs to be inspected and/or replaced every 7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles traveled.


Kevin's Auto

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.