Best & Worst Honda Odyssey Years [To Avoid]

From 1999 to the latest Honda Odyssey, the worst and best years were analyzed.

Using this guide, you will find out which years are the best and worst for the Honda Odyssey.

I’ve thoroughly researched authoritative sources such as NHTSA and Consumer Reports to identify Honda Odyssey’s common problems and best features.

With insight into transmission issues and recalls from the early Honda Odyssey generation, the latest Honda Odyssey generation is the most reliable.

We’re ready to begin.

Honda Odyssey Generations

One of the top minivans on the market, the Odyssey, debuted in 1995 as Honda’s first generation.

For generations to come, the Odyssey embodied comfort, safety, and functionality in an unparalleled manner.

For a better understanding of the Odyssey’s evolution, I have summarized its evolution from 1999 to now:

You should be aware of the generational changes when considering the next Honda Odyssey purchase.

Honda Odyssey Best, Neutral, and Worst Years

The following factors have been taken into consideration when determining which Honda Odyssey years are best and worst:

• Owner reliability surveys (reports)
• An annual breakdown of maintenance costs
• An evaluation of safety
• Consumer Reports’ reliability rating
• Consumer Reports’ rating of owner satisfaction
• NHTSA investigations, recalls, and complaints
• Edmunds owner reviews
• JD Power ratings for owners
• The Kelley Blue Book (KBB) provides owner ratings
• Ratings by owners on VehicleHistory
• Reviews on Cars.com by owners

The following is a visual representation of all the combined ratings from the sources listed above.

There are no significant highs or lows in a neutral year, since its performance is evenly balanced.

There are several factors that contribute to a negative outcome, such as NHTSA recalls. This model year has a high number of complaints and recalls, which indicates lower reliability.

The following are the specifications of the best, neutral, and worst years of Honda Odyssey.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 5th Generation [2018 to Present]

Honda Odyssey’s position in the competitive minivan market evolved as it entered its fifth generation.

In 2018 and 2019, Honda Odyssey models have been recalled by the NHTSA for a variety of reasons. There are a number of good and reliable Honda Odyssey models from 2021, 2022, and 2023.

2021, 2022, 2023 are the best years

Cars.com, J.D Power, and Consumer Reports ranked the Honda Odyssey as one of the top cars in this generation.

With a 3.5L J35Y6 V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle reaches 33 miles per gallon on the highway and 14 miles per gallon in the city.

From enhanced infotainment systems to integrated CabinWatch and CabinTalk, the system has grown over the years.

Advances in safety technology, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, marked this decade.

With more aerodynamic profiles and sharper lines, exterior design has improved in recent years.

Thanks to the Magic Slide second-row seating, there was plenty of cargo space inside, as well as comfort and convenience.

2020 is the Neutral Year

Its numerous improvements failed to move the 2020 Honda Odyssey out of the neutral zone primarily due to teething problems.

Almost all of the refinements that would be found in future models were introduced this year, including the 3.5L V6 engine that carried over from the previous model.

The infotainment system and the powertrain sometimes have issues, as reported by some owners.

2018 and 2019 were the worst years

Considering the surprisingly high number of recalls by the NHTSA for 2018 and 2019, these are the years to avoid when shopping for an Odyssey.

Owners complained of jerking, shuddering, and even loss of motive power with the 2018 Honda Odyssey’s powertrain.

Media Oriented Systems Transport caused cable and software issues that caused several owners to complain about the vehicle’s performance and the infotainment system.

Due to faulty sliding door latches, loose battery terminal connections, and poor brake performance, the 2018 Odyssey has been recalled.

In addition to the Odyssey, Honda also recalled the 2019 model due to fuel pump failures causing the vehicle to stall.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 4th Generation [2011 to 2017]

Honda Odyssey experienced another crucial period between 2011 and 2017 as it entered its fourth generation.

This generation of Honda Odyssey has the most problems in 2014, so it’s best to avoid them. In the Honda Odyssey’s 4th generation, the best years are 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017.

2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017 were the best years

VehicleHistory , Consumer Reports , and Cars.com rate the Honda Odyssey years 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017 highly.

These models featured a powerful 3.5L J35Z8 V6 engine that produced 248 horsepower.

This model’s fuel efficiency improved even further due to the 6-speed automatic transmission, which achieved 31 miles per gallon on the highway and 13 miles per gallon in the city.

The infotainment system, which comes with Bluetooth and touchscreen controls, now includes HondaVAC, the famous vacuum cleaner built into the Touring trim.

On higher trim levels, lane departure warning and forward collision warning systems are available.

Its agile handling, upscale interior, and technology features have earned the 2017 Honda Odyssey high marks.

Occasionally the air conditioning would malfunction and there were some infotainment glitches.

2011 was a neutral year

This generation’s Honda Odyssey failed to find its place as the first of its kind.

Touring was also equipped with an automatic transmission as well as a 3.5L V6 engine.

An improved interior boasted improved comfort and space, while the exterior had a sleek “lightning bolt” beltline.

It has been reported by owners that the battery drains while driving, the steering wheel vibrates excessively, and the brakes fail.

Because of these issues, the 2011 Honda Odyssey wasn’t the best or the worst of its generation.

2014 was one of the worst years

Among the generations, 2014 is considered to be the black sheep. A number of engine and transmission problems have plagued Honda Odyssey’s 2014 generation.

Many owners experienced transmission jerks and shudders while shifting.

There were also issues with the engine’s VCM (Variable Cylinder Management).

Oil leakage caused misfires by damaging internal engine parts and triggering the “Check Engine” light.

Despite settling a class-action lawsuit regarding this issue, Honda was still facing a class-action lawsuit.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 3rd Generation [2005 to 2010]

Honda Odyssey’s third generation, from 2005 to 2010, focused on enhancing its reliability and features.

These are some of the best Honda Odyssey models from this generation. It is best to avoid models from the years 2005, 2006, and 2007.

2009 and 2010 were the best years

According to VehicleHistory and Cars.com, 2009 and 2010 were the best years for the third generation Odyssey.

To further improve transmission reliability, Honda introduced the Odyssey with a 5-speed transmission.

Among the available features on higher trim levels were power tailgates, Bluetooth, navigation systems, and rearview cameras.

There were several innovations made to cars during these years to improve safety, including stability control, antilock disc brakes, and part-length side-impact airbags.

In city driving, the Odyssey gets approximately 12 mpg, while on the highway it gets 28 mpg, making it a good choice for family trips.

While some minor issues surrounding brakes and intermittent electrical glitches were reported, most models were largely free of major complaints.

2008: The Neutral Years

It was a year of good and bad news for Honda Odyssey in 2008.

While the 2008 Honda Odyssey had some brake problems, the technology and safety advancements it introduced this generation compensated for them.

In addition to the 3.5L J35A6 V6 engine, there were multiple trim levels, ranging from LX to Touring.

Higher trims offer features such as leather seats, a sunroof, and a DVD player.

Due to lingering brake issues and the continued but reduced occurrence of sliding door malfunctions, the 2008 Odyssey landed in the neutral category, thus neither being the best nor the worst.

2005, 2006, and 2007 were the worst years

Owners of Honda Odysseys in 2005, 2006, and 2007 should avoid these years due to powertrain problems and low ratings.

Several transmission problems plagued the Honda Odyssey in 2005. Owners have reported slipping transmissions, jerky shifting, and hard shifting.

In the second generation, sliding doors remained a problem.

In addition, there were a number of recalls issued this year because of fuel pump failures, brake fluid leaks, and poor brake performance.

As well as continuing transmission and engine problems, some 2006 Honda Odyssey owners reported no power steering assistance when driving at low speeds or during parking maneuvers.

The 2007 Honda Odyssey suffered from a number of problems, including a longer braking distance and a squeaking door.

As a result of reduced braking performance, Honda initiated a recall.

Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 2nd Generation [1999 to 2004]

Its second generation Odyssey is smaller and more feature-rich, aiming to gain a larger share of the minivan market.

Honda Odysseys from 2004 have a good reliability score and high owner satisfaction scores, while those from 1999-2003 should be avoided.

NOTE: Owners report transmission problems and age-related issues with this generation.

2004 was one of the best years

Honda Odyssey’s reliability and owner satisfaction scores for the 2004 model year were reasonable in Edmunds and Consumer Reports.

Odysseys were powered by 3.5L J35A4 V6 engines and 5-speed BYBA automatic transmissions in 2004.

In this year’s model, there were three trim levels available: LX, EX, and EX-L.

Safety features like traction control, antilock brakes, and side curtain airbags were standard on the 2004 Odyssey.

Additionally, Honda introduced a DVD navigation system and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, the first of their kind.

The Odyssey has a number of commendable features, but some Odyssey owners have reported transmission problems.

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 were the worst years

Do you need to avoid any particular year of the Honda Odyssey? The years 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003 of the Honda Odyssey should be avoided without a doubt. As a result, the following reasons apply:

The transmission and electrical systems of the ship were particularly problematic.

In 1999, Honda Odysseys had transmission problems. Electrical malfunctions caused unexpected stalls due to faulty ignition switches.

In response to the severity of this issue, Honda issued two recalls regarding ignition switch malfunctions.

The famous sliding door issue occurred in 1999 due to a faulty latch, causing the sliding door to open unexpectedly.

There were transmission problems in Honda Odysseys built in 2000, 2001, and 2002 as well, because the problem was so entrenched.

The Honda Odyssey models from 2003 and 2004 were recalled by Honda in 2002 due to transmission problems.

Common Honda Odyssey Problems

Reliability ratings are generally above average for all Honda Odyssey model years. RepairPal rated the Odyssey third out of eight minivans with a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0. However, there are a few issues common to this model:

Braking issues

Many Odyssey owners have complained about a faulty brake pedal. There have been several reports that the brakes only work after pumping. Safety is a major concern here.

Transmission issues

In 2019, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Honda Odyssey over its 9-speed automatic transmission problems. Suddenly, there was a rough shift, power loss, and acceleration.

Interior problems

Owners of the Odyssey complain that it lacks comfort despite its spacious interior. Long drives cause neck pain due to the hard seats and non-adjustable headrests.

Windows and sliding door issues

There have been reports of defective windows and sliding doors on models from 2004-2010 and 2015. There was a complaint from a frustrated owner who could not fully close their windows, leaving the interior exposed to harsh weather. In addition, sliding doors were difficult to operate due to stuck seals.

Ignition switch failure

Odysseys manufactured in 2004 have been reported to have ignition switch failures. Multiple attempts have been made to fix the ignition cylinder lock, but the key cannot be turned. Replacement of the ignition lock cylinder typically costs $200 to $250 plus labor.

Engine issues

Between 1999 and 2016, clogged exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valves caused rough-running engines, poor fuel economy, vibrations, stalling, and long cranking times. It is not uncommon for these models to suffer from a faulty front engine mount, resulting in rough idles and hard shifts, which can lead to oil leaks from the engine block.

Catalytic converter failure

There have been numerous instances of Honda Odyssey catalytic converters prematurely failing. The Odyssey from 1995, 1999-2001, 2005-2007, 2009, and 2012 have been affected by this problem.

 In most cases, this failure is caused by burned out spark plugs or exhaust valves, which allow unburned fuel to enter the exhaust system. In the end, this causes the catalytic converter to overheat and fail.

Water leaks

Several Odyssey models have experienced water leaks from 1995-1998, 2001, 2005-2007, and 2009-2010. Owners often hear whooshing noises when their air conditioner’s evaporator drain becomes clogged.

What Makes An Odyssey Reliable?

There must be a high level of reliability in used vehicles. If it’s unreliable, you’ll have to spend a lot of money on repairs and spend your mornings frustrated. Why are Honda Odysseys so reliable in their early years?

Honda created them at the beginning. Quality parts are produced by this iconic group without a doubt. They take their time designing the newest used models as evidenced by their reliability.

According to carparts.com, Honda Odysseys have a lower annual repair cost than other vehicles. Therefore, they remain in better shape for a longer period of time. Their depreciation value is also lower than that of other kinds of vehicles.

It is important to consider many factors in order to ensure the Honda Odyssey is reliable. These items are most commonly found in the previously stated years. 

The worst is next so you can understand what to avoid. We have looked at the best, so now let’s look at the worst. It is the Honda Odyssey year that has the lowest reliability rating in this article.

Is The Honda Odyssey Worth It?

Used Honda Odysseys are a reliable option if you’re looking for one. Is one of these something you would like to have in your garage?

If you are looking for quality, the Honda Odyssey is the best minivan to choose. Besides providing quality and technology, it also provides safety features that you’ll appreciate. These vehicles are capable of accommodating both cargo and passengers.

In regards to the Honda Odyssey, there are many excellent things to say. In the years to come, nobody will be able to stop this vehicle from taking everyone to where they need to be.

What are the most common problems with Honda Odyssey?

The Honda Odyssey is one of the most popular minivans on the market, but that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. From transmission problems to electrical problems, Odyssey owners have reported a variety of problems.

Problems with the Honda Odyssey include:

• Problems with the transmission
• Problems with electricity
• The engine is malfunctioning
• Problems with suspensions

In the event of any of these problems, Honda dealerships and qualified mechanics are your best bets.

Read: Best & Worst Ford Escape Years
Read: Best & Worst Jeep Grand Cherokee Years
Read: Best & Worst Toyota Tacoma Years
Read: Best & Worst Toyota RAV4 Years
Read: Best & Worst Honda Pilot Years
Read: Best & Worst Honda CR-V Years
Read: Best & Worst Honda Civic Years

FAQs

Conclusion

The Honda Odyssey models from 2010-2013, 2015-2017, and 2021-2023 are my recommendations. It is best to stay away from the 2nd generation Honda Odyssey, the early 3rd generation and 5th generation Odyssey, and the 2014 model.

Has a Honda Odyssey from one of our top recommended years ever been in your possession? Would you mind telling me about your experience?

If you have any Odyssey experiences to share, please do so in the comments!

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