Which Honda Odyssey has transmission problems?

The Honda Odyssey models with the most documented transmission problems are the 2005–2010 third-generation Odysseys. While later generations are generally more reliable, occasional transmission concerns have surfaced across other years as well, so buyers and owners should stay informed and attentive to warning signs.

Model years most commonly affected

Based on owner reports, consumer surveys, and recall data, the highest concentration of transmission problems has been associated with the 2005–2010 Odyssey. Other generations have reported issues less frequently, but they can still occur.

• 2005–2010 Honda Odyssey (third generation): The most widely documented issues involve the 5-speed automatic transmission, including slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and, in some cases, complete transmission failure at relatively low mileage.


• 1999–2004 Honda Odyssey (first generation): There are anecdotal reports of automatic-transmission problems, but these instances are far less common than in the 2005–2010 period.


• 2011–2017 Honda Odyssey (fourth generation): Fewer widespread reports; some owners note harsh or inconsistent shifting and occasional software-related updates, but significant failures are rare.


• 2018–present Honda Odyssey (fifth generation): Introduced a 10-speed automatic; overall reliability is improved, with no large-scale transmission defects widely reported, though early models may have required minor software updates in some cases.

In summary, the third-generation Odyssey (2005–2010) stands out as the portion of the lineup most associated with transmission reliability concerns, while newer generations generally show better performance, albeit not complete immunity to transmission-related issues.

Common symptoms to watch for

Homeowners and prospective buyers should be alert to a set of telltale transmission indicators that can signal trouble in the Odyssey. Recognizing these early can help prevent costly repairs.

• Slipping gears or a loss of acceleration power when the transmission should be engaging.


• Delayed engagement or hard/sharp shifting between gears, especially when starting from a stop or during highway acceleration.


• Unusual noises, such as whining, clunking, or grinding sounds, coming from the transmission area.


• Dashboard warning lights, including a transmission warning or the check engine light.


• Low or leaking transmission fluid, or fluid that is burnt in color or burnt-smelling.


• Overheating symptoms, such as the vehicle entering limp mode or showing reduced performance in hot conditions.


• Intermittent transmission failure to shift or erratic behavior that worsens over time.


• Shuddering or bucking at certain speeds, particularly around highway cruising.

If these symptoms appear, it’s wise to seek a professional inspection promptly to assess whether the issue is fluid-related, software-related, or a more serious transmission defect.

What to do if you own or are buying a Honda Odyssey

Owners and buyers should take a structured approach to mitigate risk, verify coverage, and determine the best path forward in case of transmission concerns.

• Check for active recalls and service campaigns on your specific VIN with the NHTSA database or Honda’s official recall site to ensure all recommended fixes have been completed.


• Review maintenance and service history for the transmission, including fluid changes, torque converter work, and any prior repair attempts.


• Have a qualified mechanic perform a thorough diagnostic, including a road test, transmission fluid check, and a scan for fault codes to identify potential internal failures.


• Inquire about warranty coverage or extended warranties related to the transmission. Some older Odysseys have had court settlements or manufacturer-funded programs that may still apply to certain vehicles.


• Consider a pre-purchase inspection if buying used, focusing specifically on the transmission’s operation, fluid condition, and any software updates that may be required.


• Evaluate the cost of repair versus replacement, and explore certified pre-owned options or third-party warranty plans if you decide to keep or purchase a used Odyssey.


• Maintain the transmission per the owner’s manual, including timely fluid checks and following the recommended service intervals to help prevent issues.

By staying informed about recalls, monitoring for symptoms, and seeking prompt diagnostics, Odyssey owners can reduce the risk of a catastrophic transmission failure and make informed maintenance or purchase decisions.

Summary

Across model years, the 2005–2010 Odyssey remains the most frequently cited for transmission problems, with other generations showing lower but present risk. Early detection of symptoms, proactive maintenance, and verification of recalls or warranty coverage are key steps for current owners and prospective buyers. In general, newer Odysseys have improved reliability, but no generation is completely immune to transmission-related issues.

What year did the Honda Odyssey change the transmission?

2014 Odyssey
All Odyssey trims now feature the 6-speed automatic transmission previously limited to Touring and Touring Elite models.

What years 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 years did the Honda Odyssey have a bad transmission?

The Honda Odyssey years with the most problematic transmissions are roughly 1999–2004 and 2011–2013, with specific issues also reported for 2005–2006 and 2018–2019 models. The earlier models (1999-2004) are notorious for widespread internal failures, while later ones have seen issues with the 9-speed transmission in the 2018-2019 models.
 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems in Honda Odyssey models from 2011 to 2020, including transmission issues: 59sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 25, 2023
Model years with the most significant transmission issues 

• 1999–2004: This generation is widely known for transmission failures, often occurring around 100,000 miles. Common problems include internal gear failure and shifting issues. 
• 2005–2006: While slightly better than the previous generation, these models are still at risk for transmission problems and other issues like brake problems. 
• 2011–2013: These model years have been associated with transmission and engine (piston) problems. 
• 2018–2019: Some owners have reported issues with the 9-speed transmission, including gear-shifting problems. A recall addressed problems related to the transmission control unit (TCU) due to a loose battery terminal. 

This video discusses specific transmission problems in 2004 Honda Odyssey: 57sTraveling Car GuruYouTube · Dec 21, 2023
Recommendations

• If buying used, it's best to avoid the years listed above, especially the 1999-2004 models, according to CarBuzz, Autotrader, and CoPilot. 
• Years like 2011-2013 are generally considered more reliable for the 4th generation, though you should still get a pre-purchase inspection to check for potential issues. 
• For the most reliable used Odyssey, consider models from the 4th generation (2011-2017) or the 5th generation (2018-present), but be aware of potential issues with specific model years within those generations. 
• If you own a model year that is listed as problematic, it's recommended to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic to address any potential issues before they become more serious. 

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.