If you are thinking about buying a safe and reliable car, the last thing you want to hear about is the potential for transmission problems. Most manufacturers ensure there are no concerns, but problems can happen over time. This applies to Honda Odyssey vehicles from the last few years. Not all problems require recalls, though.
Are there known problems with the Honda Odyssey transmission?
Yes, there are some known problems with the transmission and powertrain for this vehicle.
Some of them include:
- Faulty bearings on 4-speed transmissions
- 5-Speed transmission reliability problems
- Early transmission failure
- Transmission shift while driving
- Clunking and jerking noises
These are a few of the transmission problems reported on the Odyssey. It is important to know that others could exist since this vehicle has been produced by the manufacturer for many years. The good news is that we will take a look at these reported customer complaints at length here.
If you are thinking about buying a pre-owned Honda Odyssey, it may be a good idea to learn more about the transmission on the make and model you choose. You should always check the Vehicle History on the car as well.
About the Honda Odyssey Transmission
Over the years, the Honda Odyssey has had several different transmission types. This minivan, which is known for its roomy interior and powerful engine, now has a 10-speed automatic transmission (as of the 2018 model year onward). This model line has been produced since 1994 in many versions and styles since that time.
Faulty Bearings on 4-Speed Transmissions
One of the earliest problems with the Honda Odyssey transmissions relates to the 4-speed models. On these vehicles, faulty bearings may be present. These would, in some of the easiest models, break apart.
This could send small metal fragments into the transmission itself. This causes the transmission to shift without warning and, in many situations, causes the engine to fail.
This problem was common in the Honda Odyssey manufactured from 1999 through 2001. The company did not issue a recall on these transmissions. However, it did extend the warranty on the transmission for these impacted vehicles to seven full years.
5-Speed Transmission Reliability Problems
In the next release of the Odyssey in 2002, a number of problems developed with the 5-speed automatic transmissions. These developed reliability issues.
The problem was never pinpointed to a specific concern, but rather to early wear and tear. This specifically impacted the third gear clutch on these transmissions.
In these vehicles, abrasion and extensive wear occurred. This could send material into the transmission. This can also cause the car to shift randomly. The transmission slips can become problematic quickly, leading to a sudden stalling.
Some customers reported problems with slipping that led to a crash because they were operating the vehicle when it happened.
Early Transmission Failure
The Honda Odyssey has a number of complaints about a total transmission failure occurring. This is indicated on numerous model years. It is not fully explained by Honda in terms of why it occurs. Some people reported rough shifting that eventually worsened to failure of the transmission.
Others reported the transmission shuddering when operating, resulting in an accident. Transmission failures also were related to the torque converter in some customer complaints.
Honda did not issue a recall or a repair for these vehicles. Transmission failures have been reported on numerous vehicles, including the 2000 Honda Odyssey as well as on more recent vehicles.
Transmission Shift While Driving
One of the problems reported in more recent Honda Odyssey vehicles was for the 2018 model. In fact, Honda issued a recall for about 50,000 vehicles for this problem. In these vehicles, the transmission can shift unexpectedly, leading to the driver causing an accident or the vehicle stalling out and not restarting.
The problem affected the 10-speed transmission vehicles. In some of these vehicles, Honda dealerships and technicians reported a loose battery terminal connection caused the transmission to stall out. This led to the transmission rebooting unintentionally and unexpectedly.
This can lead to the vehicle shifting into the “Park” position randomly, increasing the risk of an accident occurring.
Honda had dealerships tell owners to bring these vehicles in for repairs. They checked all the battery connections to make sure they were secure and properly in place. They also updated the software on the transmission to prevent it from rebooting in this way.
Clunking and Jerking Noises
Another problem was found in the 2014 and 2015 Honda Odyssey. In these vehicles, owners reported the transmission made a clunking or loud, unexplained noise. Some also reporting that when switching gears, the vehicle would jerk heavily. Some drivers reported this happening randomly.
Honda did not issue a recall for this or a repair but did have technicians take a look at the transmissions in these vehicles to ensure they were in good condition.
They noted that the problem could be related to a needed transmission flush. When performed, this seemed to stop the problem from occurring. Some drivers reported having to have the transmission replaced, but this was not as common as other repair options.
What Should You Do to Find Out More About Honda Odyssey Transmission Problems?
It is not uncommon for transmission problems to result in the need for transmission recalls or service bulletins issued by the company for repairs. That is why it is so important for owners and those thinking about buying a pre-owned Odyssey to know how to find information before they invest.
One option is to use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. Enter the VIN to reveal a full list of applicable recalls, customer service problems, and service bulletins related to the vehicle. If you do not have the VIN, use the make, model, and year to gather this information. Then, make an educated decision for yourself.
