Which Honda Odyssey has transmission problem?

Some Honda Odyssey model years have been more prone to transmission problems, particularly mid-2000s Odysseys and certain early-2010s models. If you’re shopping or already own one, understanding the pattern, symptoms, and warranty options can help you decide your next steps.

This article examines which Odysseys are most frequently cited for transmission issues, what symptoms tend to appear, and practical steps for owners and buyers. It does not imply that every vehicle in these ranges will fail, but it highlights areas where problems have been reported and what to watch for.

Model years most commonly affected

Industry sources and owner reports show clusters of transmission concerns tied to specific generations. The following groupings are the most frequently referenced in discussions about Honda Odyssey reliability.

• Mid-2000s Odysseys (roughly 2005–2010)


• Some early-2010s Odysseys (roughly 2011–2013)

Not every vehicle in these ranges experiences a transmission problem, and maintenance history, driving conditions, and care can influence outcomes. Prospective buyers should review service histories and recall status, and current owners should monitor for symptoms and address them promptly.

Common symptoms and failures

Before the following list, note that any of these signs merit a diagnostic check with a qualified technician. Early attention can prevent more expensive repairs later.

• Delayed engagement when shifting from Park/Neutral to Drive or Reverse


• Harsh or sudden shifting, or slipping out of gear


• Unusual noises such as whining, clunking, or grinding during shifts


• Check engine or transmission warning lights appearing on the dashboard


• Transmission fluid leaks, a burnt smell, or visibly discolored fluid


• Loss of drive or failure to move when in gear

These symptoms can result from a range of transmission-related problems, from fluid issues to valve-body or solenoid faults, and may require software updates, component replacement, or more extensive repair.

What to do if you own one or are buying

If you own an Odyssey with these symptoms or are considering a used purchase, these steps can guide you toward a confident decision and a plan for repair or negotiation.

• Check for open recalls and service campaigns on the vehicle’s VIN using official sources (NHTSA or Honda’s recall portal).


• Review any applicable service bulletins (TSBs) related to transmission control, valve body, solenoids, or related software. Ask the dealer about software updates and coverage.


• Have a qualified transmission specialist perform a thorough diagnostic, including a fluid condition check, pressure test (if needed), and a scan for transmission-related codes.


• Assess maintenance history: regular transmission fluid changes, fluid condition, and prior repairs can influence future reliability and cost.


• If buying used, request a pre-purchase inspection focused on the transmission, take a careful test drive (including cold and warm starts), and negotiate based on findings or request extended warranty coverage if available.

Proactive testing and a careful review of recalls and service history can reduce the risk of unexpected failures and help you plan maintenance or budgeting more effectively.

Recalls, warranties, and long-term considerations

Honda has, at times, issued recalls and warranty extensions related to transmission components on certain Odyssey model years. Availability of coverage can depend on the specific year, trim, mileage, and ownership timeline. Always verify current status with a dealer and official databases.

Key steps to stay informed:

• Look up recalls and service campaigns for the exact VIN to confirm eligibility for repair at no cost.


• Ask about any goodwill repairs or extended warranty programs that may apply to transmission-related concerns for your vehicle’s year and mileage.


• Monitor for updates from NHTSA and Honda regarding known issues and fix timelines, and keep documentation of all service work.

Staying informed about recalls and warranty options can provide avenues for assistance if a transmission problem arises.

Summary

Transmission problems in the Honda Odyssey have been most frequently reported for mid-2000s models (roughly 2005–2010) and some early-2010s models (roughly 2011–2013). Common symptoms include delayed engagement, harsh shifting, unusual noises, and warning lights. If you own or are buying an Odyssey, review recalls, obtain a professional diagnosis for any transmission-related symptoms, and rely on a careful maintenance history to gauge future reliability. A proactive approach—checking VIN-specific recalls, seeking professional evaluation, and considering warranty options—can help manage risk and expenses over the vehicle’s lifetime.

What year did Honda have bad transmissions?

Honda automatic and CVT transmissions from the late 1990s and early 2000s are known for problems, with specific problematic years often cited including 1998–2004 for general issues and 1999–2003 for specific automatic transmission failures. Specific models like the Accord, Odyssey, and Acura TL are frequently mentioned as being affected. 
This video explains the reasons why Honda transmissions fail: 59sspeedkar99YouTube · Jun 10, 2024
Problematic years by model

• Honda Accord: Years 1998–2002 and 1999–2003 had widespread automatic transmission issues, with some later models like 2008–2010 and 2013–2014 also having problems. 
• Honda Odyssey: The 1999–2003 and 1999–2001 models are frequently cited for transmission problems. 
• Acura TL/CL: The 2000–2003 and 2001–2003 models are known to have issues, with the Acura 3.2 TL having problems from 1999 onward. 
• Honda Civic: Some earlier CVT models, like those from 1999–2004, are known to have issues. 
• Honda Pilot: The early 2000s models had issues with overheating transmissions. 
• Honda Jazz and Vezel Hybrid: Some 2014 models had issues with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission software. 

Common symptoms of transmission problems

• Slipping gears
• Rough shifting or delayed shifts
• Jerking during acceleration
• Unusual noises
• Transmission failing to engage
• Vibrations 

This video discusses Honda CVT reliability: 46sShadetree AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 10, 2024
Why these years had problems

• Automatic transmissions: The V6 automatics from the late 1990s and early 2000s were particularly prone to failure. 
• CVTs: Some early Honda CVTs, particularly those from 1999–2004, had a high rate of failure. 
• Dual-clutch transmissions: Some 2014 models had software issues that could cause delays or failure in gear selection. 

What year did the Honda Odyssey have transmission problems?

Specific Honda Odyssey model years with reported transmission problems include 2002 (premature failure), 2004 (recall for a range of issues), and 2011–2013 (avoid due to possible issues). More recently, the 2014–2017 models had problems with the torque converter, causing symptoms like shuddering or jerking. The 2018–2019 models were subject to a recall for a 9-speed transmission issue related to a defective control unit.
 
Specific model years with transmission issues

• 2002: Prone to premature failure, often around 100,000–120,000 miles, with issues like slipping gears and erratic shifting. 
• 2004: This year was part of a large recall that also included other Honda and Acura models for transmission-related problems. 
• 2011–2013: These years are generally considered ones to avoid due to potential transmission and engine issues. 
• 2014–2017: These models frequently experienced problems with the torque converter, leading to jerking, shuddering, slipping, or rough shifting. 
• 2018–2019: Subject to a recall due to a defective control unit in their 9-speed transmissions, which could cause issues while driving. 

Which model year Honda Odyssey is the most reliable?

The most reliable Honda Odyssey years include the first generation (1995-1998) and the fourth generation (2011-2017), with the latter generation having specific models like 2014-2017 being highly regarded, especially after 2014 when safety features improved and crash test performance was better. The fifth generation is also considered very reliable, particularly newer models like 2021-2022 which have had fewer reported issues than earlier models in that generation. 
This video discusses the reliability of the first-generation Honda Odyssey: 1mAbsolute Automotive ChannelYouTube · Sep 10, 2022
First generation (1995-1998) 

• Known for exceptional reliability and fuel economy due to its smaller, four-cylinder engine. 
• It is a good choice if you are looking for a reliable and smaller minivan. 

Fourth generation (2011-2017) 

• Generally considered very reliable, with 2014-2017 models being particularly recommended for their improved safety and features. 
• Note: Vehicles in this generation have Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which some owners report can cause issues. It is often recommended to disable VCM on these models to help ensure long-term reliability. 

Fifth generation (2018-Present)

• Overall, this is a highly reliable generation, though some early model years (2018-2020) had minor glitches. 
• Recommendation: Prioritize 2021-2022 models for a good balance of the latest features and proven reliability within this generation. 

What year to avoid on Honda Odyssey?

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.