Honda Odyssey Reliability: How Long Will It Last?

Mar 1, 2022

The Honda Odyssey dominates the minivan segment, with modern model years reaching 200,000 to 300,000 miles of longevity. But transmission problems reportedly surface at around the 100,000-mile mark.

2020 Honda Odyssey - Photo by Honda

Key Points

Most Honda Odyssey years have no problem providing 200,000 to 300,000 miles of service in its lifespan, if they’re regularly maintained.
Transmission failure at around 100,000 miles is a common problem across multiple generations that can cost over $3,000 to fix.
A well-maintained Honda Odyssey can last you a long time with below-average annual maintenance costs of $547, which is $100 less than its competitors.
Odyssey owners commenting on a Vehicle History FAQ page mention reaching even beyond 300,000 miles, with one owner noting his 2012 Odyssey has 423,000 miles on the odometer.

How Long will a Honda Odyssey Last? Owners Claim to be Reaching up to 300,000 Miles without any Major Overhauls

Since its debut in 1995, the Honda Odyssey’s excellent fuel economy (2020 models get 19/28 mpg city/highway) and notable comfort and convenience features have made the minivan very popular among American families. Between 2017 and 2020, Honda has sold on average 100,000 units annually.

Second-generation models onward got even better thanks to a more potent V6 powertrain, larger size, and sliding doors on both sides.

In addition to the Honda Odyssey’s impressive features, the minivan also outshines most of its competition with substantial longevity and reliability.

Across websites and popular Honda forums, including here on Vehicle History, along with J.D. Power, and OdyClub, many Honda Odyssey owners have claimed to reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles without facing any serious overhauls. That translates to roughly 16 to 25 years of service driving 12,000 miles in a year.

According to several owners’ reviews, excellent care can stretch the Odyssey’s lifespan to well over the 300,000-mile mark with the original engine and transmission.

Odyssey owners commenting on a Vehicle History FAQ page mention reaching even beyond 300,000 miles. One owner notes that their “2012 Honda Odyssey has, so far, 423,000 miles. Mostly highway driving.” Another 2012 Honda Odyssey owner says they’re currently at 307,000 miles.

One OdyClub forum member echoes the Vehicle History comments. “We have 330,000 miles on ours. It has been the lowest cost-per-mile vehicle I have ever owned, and we still take it on long trips and tow our pop-up with it,” he says about his 2004 Honda Odyssey. “I would like to get another three years out of her.” This owner provided an update in July 2021 to announce his minivan was now at 359,472 miles on the odometer.

2020 Honda Odyssey - Photo by Honda

Some Odyssey Owners Report having to Repair or Replace the Transmission and Other Parts at around 100,000 Miles to Keep their Ride on the Road

The Honda Odyssey offers excellent reliability and durability across most model years, but there are a few problem areas to be aware of when considering a used Honda Odyssey.

According to Car Complaints, the 2002 model is the worst model year due to a transmission failure occurring as early as 98,000 miles. Other model years reportedly suffer from transmission failures, too, but in relatively higher mileage.

Many Honda Odyssey owners are reporting necessary transmission replacement at around 160,000 to 180,000 miles. In fact, transmission problems are one of the most common complaints over at Honda Problems.

“We replaced the transmission at 180,000, and so far, all good. Is there any reason to get rid of a van that seems to be still going strong just because of the mileage?” writes one OdyClub forum member.

Another OdyClub forum member mentions having to replace the transmission in his 2000 Odyssey twice after about 80,000 miles, which is not common. The minivan currently has 250,000 miles on the odometer.

Getting rid of a broken-down transmission can cost you $3,470, almost as much as a used 2002 Honda Odyssey.

2007 Honda Odyssey - Photo by Honda

Honda Odyssey’s Solid Reputation for Reliability Makes Even its Earlier Generations Enjoy a Long Lifespan, but 2008 is a Problem Year to Avoid Due to Faulty Brakes

Third-generation Honda Odysseys (2005 to 2007) generally already have 150,000 miles or more on the odometer. But since the price tag can be as low as $4,760, they are attractive options for buyers on a tight budget.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the 2008 Odyssey has three open investigations concerning faulty brakes. Honda has recalled the 2008 model two times to solve the same brake issue.

Make sure to check if the previous owner has taken care of the recalls if you’re opting for a 2008 Odyssey.

It is possible to find 2008, 2009, and 2010 Honda Odysseys with roughly 100,000 to 130,000 miles on the odometer for around $10,000. You could expect another 150,000 to 200,000 miles on a properly-maintained used model.

2011 Honda Odyssey - Photo by Honda

2011-2017 Honda Odysseys have Minor Recalls and no Serious Complaints, Making them Excellent Options for $20,000-$25,000 in the Used Market

Model years from 2011 to 2017 make up the fourth generation of the Honda Odyssey. The number of complaints registered with the NHTSA over the span of seven model years is only around 250, which is a solid statement for Honda Odyssey’s reliability.

Also, there are few recalls during this time, and none concern the engine or transmission.

There’s no shortage of fourth-generation Honda Odysseys on the market. Most of the models from 2011 to 2014 have likely already gone through half of their expected 250,000-mile life expectancy.

Because of Honda’s excellent record for reliability, used 2015 to 2017 Odysseys with 60,000 to 100,000 miles are among the best minivans in the $20,000-$25,000 price range.

The 2018 model year marks the start of the fifth and current generation of the Honda Odyssey. It still needs more time on the road to prove decent longevity, but we expect it to follow the footsteps of its previous generations as one of the longest-lasting minivans on the market.

2017 Honda Odyssey - Photo by Honda

Should You Buy a Used Honda Odyssey? Opt for Models From 2011-2017 for the Best Value

Is a Honda Odyssey a decent, reliable vehicle that will outlast its competition? The short answer is yes, if you’re looking for a hassle-free minivan that lasts a long time without drilling a hole in your pocket.

Repair Pal estimates the average annual maintenance costs for a Honda Odyssey to be $547, which is about $100 less than the average for minivans.

Across all generations, the Honda Odyssey has an expected lifespan of 200,000 to 300,000 miles, or 16 to 25 years.

Odysseys with roughly 150,000 miles on the odometer can last another eight to 12 years, so long as they have been properly maintained.

There are plenty of used 2015-2017 Honda Odysseys with low mileages on the market. They’re typically priced between $20,000 to $25,000 via Kelley Blue Book, and they offer the best value.

Photos: Honda

Owner Reviews

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Deron Emmanuel on July 13, 2023

Pros and Cons of an 08 Honda Odyssey Touring

Purchased used from a dealer when it was 6 years old with 90k kms on the odometer. The van currently has 336k kms on it. The bad: - KBoth sliding doors have had the cables to the motors go out twice on them. Replacement cost is around $1200 EACH. - Known VSA issues, handled under recall. Brakes are not sensitive and require harder than normal brake force to stop the vehicle. - Aluminum oil pans.....got stripped out and needed a new one. Common issue for these vans. - Alternator died, replaced - AC Compressor died, replaced $2000 - I'm on my 3rd power steering pump. Known issue, Honda replaced the first one....it leaked after 14 months. - Main powersteering line replaced, $1000 - Interference engine, so timing belt, water pump, tensioner pulleys replaced at 160k and 320k - $2000 each time - Inner and outer front tie rods changed - Known issue: the 2008-2012 models with the Variable Timing consume alot of oil, from activating and deactivating cylinders. Common to use a quart of oil in between oil changes, more if you drive about 100kms on the highway. - The brake rotors just don't last. They warp fast, around 50k kms or less, worse with aftermarket. I'm on my 3rd set all around. The GOOD: - Solid, heavy, comfortable and smooth minivan, seating up to 8 people. - Honda's engines are SOLID, and are workhorses. Using synthetic oil timely should help the engine last well over 500k kms. - Transmission with regular tranny flushes should (fingers crossed) hold up well, we shall see. - Still idles smoothly, and it's approaching 15yrs old now

Steverino Cooke on November 26, 2023

Great, versatile vehicle! It's aging gracefully but needs periodic TLC.

2003 Odyssey with 145,000 miles on it. I bought it new in 2003 and have hauled our three babies who are now in college. These items on the van needed to be replaced: timing belt, other engine belts, and water pump (every 75,000 miles). All three motor mounts, at about 90,000 miles (I wasn't happy about that since I feel motor mounts should last a longer time). Rear shocks. The normal periodicity for normal things needing to be replaced on any gas-powered car including things like oil changes, engine air filter, cabin air filter, coolant flush, power steering fluid, transmission fluid flush, brake jobs, wiper blades, battery, and tires. Several electric motors died and I didn't pay to fix them, including both rear window motors (at about 10 years old) and one of the power seat motors (this electric motor is no longer available new, so the only way to fix it is to get a used electric motor from wrecking yard or eBay). A couple of light bulbs in the dash (again, I didn’t pay to get them replaced). Just recently the radio volume control is getting sketchy. Overall, pretty good repair history. I’m surprised it’s still on the original exhaust components and muffler. The sliding door wasn’t closing fully; took it to the dealership and the guy artfully pushed on it to bend something back into place; problem solved and no charge!

Kyle on May 19, 2023

Great vehicle for me

I bought my 2007, Oddy EX-L with Nav and RSE, from a used care dealer, when it had 138,000 miles on it, for $4,500, Because who ever had it before me had a bunch of kids and did a number on the leather, I pulled the car fax and didn't see any mention of the 100K maintenance, so I did it, I did it again at 200K, and am now at 278K All I have done since I bought it, is Replace the brakes, the battery, had to replace the blower motor under the glove box, behind the air filter once. Keep up with the maintenance, change the oil, and have the AC charged. I am pretty sure I can get another 100K out of it. But will need another 100K maintenance on it, before then. On that one they change the timing belt, the oil pump, and the Tension-er pulley. It still drives good, and is dependable.

john p on January 18, 2023

Many repairs on 2012

This is the worst car I've ever owned. My prior 2001 Odyssey was fine, drove it over 330,000 miles. Bought it new. But this 2012 has been a nightmare of repairs. 'front spool valve leak' destroyed the alternator, total bill $2,000. Rear spring cushions broke $700, front axle wore out $2500, front brake rotors replace twice $2,000, tire pressure monitoring system warning light will not shut off, dealer wants $600 to fix, front struts replaced and 40,000 miles later need to be replaced again, front suspension bushing replaced $2,000, power steering is leaking dealer wants $800 to replace, and there were more but I've forgotten. Just not been a goodcar and apparently this list of repairs is common.

Bridget Helm on August 7, 2021

My Honda Odyssey Is A Repair Nightmare

I’ve spent over 15,000 on repairs of this minivan, and that doesn’t include regular typical maintenance like new tires, new brakes, engine and cabin air filters, fluids, oil changes, etc. At 82,000 miles: replaced drive belts tensioner, timing belts, both driveshafts, bank 1 converter, gasket ex chamber, and ex pipe, both rear shocks, both rear struts, & power steering pump At 96,000 miles: removed and replaced bank 2 catalytic converter and removed and replaced front rear and side engine mounts, and suspension. At 138,000 miles: replaced AC blower motor and replaced bank 1 and bank 2 catalytic converters

Jim in Seattle on May 26, 2023

First Generation still going strong

I have a 1995 Odyssey. It is basically an Accord platform with a different body. Made in Japan! With a 4 cylinder engine and no sliding door, it is a different concept than the ones that followed. At 240,000 miles, this vehicle runs perfectly. I had the seals and timing belt replaced a while back, the ignition and distributor too. But the expenses have averaged a couple of hundred dollars a year. Though it is no longer my daily driver, it probably could be. The size is perfect for city life too. I wish Honda still made one like this.

John Peterson on January 18, 2023

Many repairs from poor design

I bought a used 2012 Odyssey with exactly 100,000 miles on it. In 41,000 miles I have had over $7,000 of repairs. The 'front spool valve' leaked destroying the alternator. $2,000. Front axle $2,500 Front brakes twice including rotors $1500 X2, the Tire pressure monitor sensors broke twice $800 Front end suspension bushings replaced $1200. And there are more but I've forgotten the rest. It has been the worst carv I ever owned. My last Odyssey, a 2001, went 330,000 miles with very few repairs. But this one is junk.

Mike on March 31, 2023

2010 oil consumption

I've noticed a few people complaining of oil consumption. Our van did it too; however, after some research I found the variable cylinder management system to be the problem. Installed this VCM muzzler from ebay, oil consumption stopped. No noticeable difference in mpg or performance. I took a $100 chance and it paid off. Car now has 186,000 and going strong. This is a simple fix and relatively easy install, no special tools required. Https://www.ebay.com/itm/353133561057

Jena B on February 5, 2022

A Lot Of Issues With My Honda Odyssey Before 145k Miles

The doors are falling off the tracks because the wiring mechanism is cutting through the bolt that holds them on. The brakes on the right side are always worn first due to multiple adjustments. The front and back right tires always need to be changed due to the brakes. I have had to replace the power steering pump. It gets terrible gas mileage. I only have 145, 000 miles on it

RRSSLLLL on July 29, 2022

2008 3.5l Timing belt

These have an interference engine that requires the timing belt be REPLACED NOT just inspected every 60k-105k miles.If is not done(labor and parts approx.2000dollars+)the belt can slip,break,or come off resulting in the pistons striking the valves inside the engine causing a catastrophic failure of the engine.No one is telling you this,check it out yourself!Buyers BEWARE!!

Stacy on April 6, 2023

I love my Odyssey!

My 2004 Odyssey is going strong! It has 206,000 miles on it and I think I should get a new car because I am afraid it will break down on a long trip. It has no issues it’s just the mileage that makes me think this. I can’t find anything I like as much as this car and the prices of new cars are ridiculous. Help, should I were it into the ground or trade it in? Help!

John Davies on May 29, 2023

Still love my Honda van .

Bought new back in 2008 .Had a leaking seal on the tranny ,it ran out of transmission oil .Had it rebuilt total cost 3 .5 k Canadian .Timing belt replaced at 150thousand km then again at 300 thousand km .No other work on it but routine oil changers ,engine every 7 thousand , tranny every 70 thousand .Today just under half a million .burns zero oil between changers .

Helen on December 22, 2023

2014 problems

Manufactured in 6/13. Purchased in 8/13. Engine rebuilt at 26000 miles. Built again at 118000 miles. Law suit for 2013 models. Not 2014 like mine. This article saying they last 2-3 hundred thousand miles is a joke. Sounds like an ad for the company. First repair was in warranty. Second cost me over 3 thousand. Not a happy camper.

Tricia T on February 21, 2022

Cons Of The Honda Odyssey

This vehicle has about 5 safety recalls. Although we have remedied all the recalls on our vehicle, we still have issues with the automatic sliding doors (which sometimes do not open properly). We recently had to replace the motor on one of the sliding doors after the wire snapped. The doors have been the only issue with our car.

Gloria S on July 21, 2021

Honda Odyssey Massive Oil Consumption

During long road trips, our vehicle will automatically shut down while driving. We've brought it in numerous times for repairs. Turns out the vehicle burns a heap load of oil when on long road trips. So we no longer use this vehicle for long road trips because we feel it's not reliable or safe to drive.

Jim on August 7, 2021

Misfiring Problems With My Honda Odyssey

I bought the odyssey Honda certified with 9000 miles and had nothing but problems. The van started to misfire at 50000 miles and was fixed once, now the vehicle is misfiring again dealer won't repair it under service Bulletin 13-081 because I used an aftermarket oil filter.

Jessica D on February 7, 2022

First Year With The Honda Odyssey With Many Problems

Within 1 year I replaced timing belt, brakes, shocks, starter, fuel pump and the engine oil leaked into the engine. The engine had to be rebuilt. The vehicle has not been reliable. Uses a lot of fuel. The sliding door and entertainment is nice.

Kerry E on September 4, 2021

Safety Features With The Honda Odyssey Make It Reliable

Very reliable never had any engine problems or anything of the sort. It also comes with sensors that beep when a car is in your blind spot or when you are driving into another lane which helps with late-night driving when you are tired.

Henry on September 26, 2022

Maintain maintain maintain!

I'll tell you, I have a 2007 Odyssey that will click 200 grand tomorrow and I just love this vehicle...these things are hard to kill! I beat the c**p out of it in the city and as long as I regularly maintain it, I have no issues...

Betty B on June 19, 2021

No Problems So Far With Our Honda Odyssey

We have no problems with our Honda od. The performance is great. We always take our Honda in when a checkup, oil change, etc. Is due. It is a very reliable car and is very comfortable on long trips and on short trips as well.

Susan A on June 11, 2021

Honda Odyssey: Reliable And Long Lifespan

My Honda Odyssey has been a very reliable vehicle. It has well over 250k miles on it and I still wouldn't hesitate to take it on a road trip. The only issue that I have had is the sliding doors stick and need to be greased.

DEE on October 12, 2022

RACK AND PINION

I purchased this Odyssey EX L 2019 in July from the dealer. Four weeks later, rack and pinion needs replaced. It's been two months waiting on the parts. They still have no idea when it will come in.$35k for a lemon!! UGH!!

Tanya A on October 29, 2021

Honda Odyssey: Reliable, Durable, And Safe

Honda’s have always been reliable cars for us in the ten years that we've owned them. Our last Honda van lasted to 250,000 miles and with some minor repairs was still workable. The Honda just feels more sturdy and safe.

Stefine Koch on December 1, 2022

My van is an 05 odyssey

I've had no real issue with this van in the 12+ yrs I've owned it (Knock on wood.) Most repairs are less than 200$. I'm the working poor so this van has helped me by being old faithful!! Will only buy Hondas.

Sophia D on February 6, 2022

Honda Odyssey: Has A Decent Lifespan Which Makes It Reliable

My car is reliable and performs well. I have not had any problems with it since buying it years ago. The worst that has happened is a flat tire, which I was able to get fixed with no issue.

Lana on May 2, 2023

Love my van

I got 142k on my 2009 Changed brakes, tires, power steering and sticking doors not automatic .Knock on wood Even if trans went out i wouldn't hesitate to fix it and keep rolling along

Wayne on January 31, 2023

2004 Odyssey still going strong

Have owned 04 Honda Odyssey for 19 yrs and just turned 250,000 - no major part replacement - original transmission, Engine and timing belt. Michigan climate only rust @ gas fill

I S on August 4, 2021

Sliding Door Issues With The Honda Odyssey

The biggest issues are the power sliding doors. I've taken them in to be fixed but to no avail. When it rains or snows the doors don't work for about a day after the rain/snow.

Gurdy on September 18, 2021

Major Engine Issues: Honda Odyssey

I have had nothing but problems with it. It’s been in the shop 3 times and is currently sitting in my driveway broke down again doing the same thing. Engine misfire!

Ashley L on February 6, 2022

I Feel Safe In My Honda Odyssey

Haven't had any problems or performance issues. The car has been reliable and is very convenient if you have kids. Good rearview camera. Nice safety features.

Rino Ouellet on June 18, 2021

To Many Problems To Count With The Honda Odyssey

I have many problems. Engine don't run good, power steering problems, sliding door problems, front brake too little, and electric light problems

Stephanie B on November 3, 2021

No Complaints With My Amazing Honda Odyssey

I have had no problems with my Honda Odyssey. It has been a very reliable van. It is very comfortable to drive for short or long distances.

Ashanti C on July 8, 2021

Computer In The Honda Odyssey Is Extremely Faulty

The computer has to be rebooted like 4 times a month, this car always breaks down, it was a recalled but Honda will not fix the issues.

Surayyah S on November 2, 2021

Honda Odyssey: No Issues With Minimal Upkeep

It is very reliable. Have not had any issues with anything, only get it checked once a year or so and upkeep is minimal.

T Gillis on May 2, 2022

Best car ever

I have a 2003 with 343,000 miles. The ONLY part ever replaced other than the necessary maintenance is an alternator

Edna Powell E on July 13, 2021

The Honda Odyssey Has Low Maintenance

Designed for ease of driving and safety. Always dependable and comfortable. Very low maintenance

Jodi C on November 29, 2021

Honda Odyssey: Reliable And Long Lifespan

We are now nearing 175K miles. We have had it for seven years and have had very few issues.

Mike W on September 7, 2023

05 Odyssey Touring 300k+ miles

This is my "work" van and the most comfortable ride to the jobsite I've ever had

Hamed Paydarfar

From collecting miniature replicas to drawing his favorite cars, Hamed's obsession with anything with four wheels kicked off early in his life. Later on, he fused his passion for the automotive industry with his love for languages and literature and began writing blog posts, articles, and features about cars in 2019. When he's not writing, Hamed spends his time with his guitars and paintbrushes.