The 2006 Honda Odyssey minivan has a reasonable number of problems for a vehicle of its age. Its recalls cover fuel pump and brake issues and incorrect information in the owner’s manual. Structural problems include sliding doors popping open while driving and falling off when closed.
Key Points
- The 2006 Honda Odyssey has four recalls, one investigation, and nearly 700 complaints on file with the NHTSA.
- Recalls cover faulty fuel pumps and brake master cylinders and incorrect information in the owner’s manual. Complaints focus on steering and powertrain issues.
- The powertrain is among the top reasons for owner complaints, with reports of the vehicle failing to accelerate and several transmission-related issues such as rough shifting or completely failing.
- The 2006 Honda Odyssey is known for build quality problems that can cause the doors to pop open while driving or detaching from the hinges for no apparent reason.
- The number of complaints and problems on the 2006 Odyssey isn’t alarming considering its age. In addition, the cost of maintenance and good resale value make the Odyssey an affordable option for a reliable family hauler.
2006 Odyssey Has One Investigation Over Service Brakes and Four Safety Recalls, Including Two Over a Faulty Fuel Pump
Two of the 2006 Honda Odyssey’s four recalls cover problems with the fuel pump. The first of these concerns false fuel reading, which can cause the vehicle to run out of fuel and stall.
A deteriorating fuel pump strainer cover resulted in the 2006 Odyssey’s second fuel-related recall. If the wrong fluid is used, the system might leak. In addition, a crack in the fuel pump cover allows fuel to leak out and increases the risk of fire.
The other two recalls from the 2006 Odyssey include one for a brake fluid leak in the brake master cylinder that can affect the brake pedal feel and degrade braking performance.
The less concerning recall involves incorrect contact information in the owner’s manual for the NHTSA hotline.
One NHTSA investigation covers several complaints alleging spongy brake pedal travel that resulted in extended braking distances in 2006-2008 Honda Odyssey minivans. There were 14 alleged crashes related to this braking problem.
A Common Complaint, Malfunctioning Power Steering Can Lead to Stiff Steering, Unusual Noises, and Steering Column Vibration
One of the most common complaints filed with NHTSA is over steering problems, including experiences with stiff steering at various speeds, sometimes as early as 51,000 miles.
Several drivers recount how they have noticed excessive vibration in the steering wheel and the wheels between 65-70 mph.
Some owners claim that the problem persists despite having replaced the tires and suspension parts. According to their reports, the vehicle had these problems since new.
Car Complaints reports that owners have heard unusual noises coming from the power steering pump, followed by stiffness in steering and excessive road vibration in the steering wheel.
2006 Honda Odyssey Suffers From Structural Problems Like Sliding Doors Popping Open or Falling Off
Of nearly 700 complaints on file with the NHTSA, problems with the vehicle’s structure make up one-seventh of the total, just behind steering issues.
Drivers have reported the sliding doors opening independently in different instances at around 60 mph or doors on both sides detaching from the hinges inadvertently while the vehicle was parked.
Some owners have recounted how the doors cannot be opened, but once open, the doors cannot be closed on the first try. Sometimes it takes up to three or four attempts to latch the doors.
Other less common structural problems include paint peeling off, rust, corrosion, cracks, and fractures in different body parts and the subframe.
Additional but Less Common Issues With the Powertrain Include Failing Transmission, Engine Stalling, and Loss of Power
Powertrain problems include the transmission failing to shift, shuddering, and the vehicle jerking. In some cases, the transmission required rebuilding or replacing, costing over $3,000.
Although not nearly as widespread as the Odyssey’s steering or transmission problems, drivers report the engine losing power, stalling without warning, or vibrating violently at 35-40 mph speeds.
Repair Pal registers the most common Honda Odyssey problems based on owner reports, including the check engine light for running rough and difficulty starting, rough idle and harsh shifting due to broken engine mount, and erratic engine idle speeds.
Honda’s 2006 Odyssey Has its Share of Problems but Not at an Alarming Rate Given its Age
Like most Honda models, the Odyssey is a reliable vehicle. It can last between 250,000 and 300,000 when properly maintained but considering its age, most of this year’s Odysseys already come with high mileage and various drivetrain issues.
Still, the incidence rate is relatively low since that there are less than 700 NHTSA complaints against 178,000 units sold in 2006.
All things considered, the 2006 Odyssey minivan can be a great family hauler that still holds decent resale value and that its cost of ownership won’t break the bank.
Photos: Honda
