The best and worst years of Honda Odysseys from 1999 through this year’s latest model have been reviewed closely.
We’ll explain which years are best and which are worst for the Honda Odyssey in this guide.
I have thoroughly researched authoritative sources such as the NHTSA and Consumer Reports to understand Honda Odyssey’s common problems and best features.
Honda Odysseys of the latest generation are the most reliable, providing insight into early transmission problems and recalls.
Now is the time to get started.
Honda Odyssey Generations
It was 1995 when Honda launched the first generation of the Odyssey, a minivan that quickly gained popularity.
With the Odyssey’s first generation, comfort, safety, and functionality were redefined.
For a better understanding of the Odyssey’s evolution from 1999 to now, I have summarized it as follows:
| Generation | Years |
| 5th generation (RL6) | 2018-Present |
| 4th generation (RL5) | 2011-2017 |
| 3rd generation (RL3/RL4) | 2005-2010 |
| 2nd generation (RL1) | 1999-2004 |
If you intend to purchase a new Honda Odyssey in the near future, you should be aware of the generational changes, as these may influence your decision.
Honda Odyssey Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
The following factors are taken into account when determining which years are best and worst for Honda Odyssey:
Listed above is a visual representation of all the combined ratings.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 5th generation (RL6) | 2021 2022 2023 | 2020 | 2018 2019 |
| 4th generation (RL5) | 2012 2013 2015 2016 2017 | 2011 | 2014 |
| 3rd generation (RL3/RL4) | 2009 2010 | 2008 | 2005 2006 2007 |
| 2nd generation (RL1) | 2004 | N/A | 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 |
Model years with neutral performance are those with an evenly balanced performance, without any significant highs or lows.
There are a number of factors that have a negative impact, such as NHTSA recalls. In this model year, there are a high number of complaints and recalls, which indicates a lower level of reliability.
The best, neutral, and worst Honda Odyssey years are listed below.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 5th Generation [2018 to Present]
In its fifth generation, Honda Odyssey refined its stance in the competitive minivan market.
![Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 5th Generation [2018 to Present]](https://gearpatro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Best-Worst-Years-for-Honda-Odyssey-5th-Generation-2018-to-Present-1024x576.webp)
Due to NHTSA recalls for 2018, 2019 Honda Odyssey models should be avoided. One of the best and most reliable models is the Honda Odyssey from 2021, 2022, and 2023.
2021, 2022, 2023 are the best years
J.D Power, Consumer Reports, and Cars.com awarded the Honda Odyssey top ratings in this generation.
An impressive 33 mpg on the highway and 14 mpg in urban settings are achieved thanks to the 3.5L J35Y6 V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission.
CabinWatch and CabinTalk have been integrated with the system over these years, in addition to an improved infotainment system.
Safety advances in this decade include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and collision mitigation brakes.
During the past few years, there has been a noticeable improvement in exterior design, with a more aerodynamic profile and sharper lines.
In addition to ample cargo space, the second-row Magic Slide seats offered comfort and convenience.
2020 is the Neutral Year
There were some teething problems with the 2020 Honda Odyssey in spite of its numerous improvements.
Most of the refinements that would appear in future models were introduced this year, including a 3.5L V6 engine.
The vehicle has been reported to have had infotainment issues and occasional powertrain problems similar to previous models.
2018 and 2019 were the worst years
2018 and 2019 have surprisingly high NHTSA recalls concerning various problems, so they are being avoided when buying Honda Odysseys.
It has been reported by owners that the 2018 Honda Odyssey’s powertrain has jerked, shuddered, and even lost motive power at times.
Media Oriented Systems Transport caused cable and software issues that occasionally resulted in the infotainment system malfunctioning, according to several owners.
There has been a recall for the 2018 Odyssey because of loose battery terminal connections, faulty sliding door latches, and poor brake performance.
Likewise, Honda recalled the 2019 Odyssey because of fuel pump failure-related stalling concerns.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 4th Generation [2011 to 2017]
From 2011 to 2017, the Honda Odyssey underwent another crucial period as it entered its fourth generation.
![Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 4th Generation [2011 to 2017]](https://gearpatro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Best-Worst-Years-for-Honda-Odyssey-4th-Generation-2011-to-2017-1024x683.webp)
These Honda Odyssey models are most likely to have problems in 2014, so it is best to stay away from them. Honda Odyssey models from the 4th generation are at their best in 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017.
2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017 were the best years
VehicleHistory , Consumer Reports , and Cars.com rate Honda Odyssey years 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017 highly.
Two48 horsepower was generated by a robust 3.5L J35Z8 V6 engine in these models.
Fuel efficiency improved even further with the 6-speed automatic transmission, with highway mileage of 31 mpg and city mileage of 13 mpg.
With Bluetooth and touchscreen controls, HondaVAC, the famous built-in vacuum cleaner for the Touring trim, has been added to the infotainment system.
High-end trim levels include lane departure warnings and forward collision warnings.
It has received high praise for its agile handling, upscale and roomy interior, and range of technology features available.
Several minor issues occurred, mainly with the infotainment system and the air conditioning.
2011 was a neutral year
Honda Odyssey 2011 struggled to find its way as the first model of this generation.
The Touring was also equipped with an automatic transmission in addition to its 3.5L V6 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission.
The redesigned 2019 Lincoln MKZ features sleek “lightning bolt” beltlines, while an improved interior offers improved comfort and space.
It has been reported by owners that the battery drains rapidly, that the steering wheel vibrates excessively, and that the brakes fail.
Due to these issues, the 2011 Honda Odyssey wasn’t the best or the worst of its generation.
2014 was one of the worst years
A black sheep of the generation, 2014 is considered the year of the year. Due to numerous engine and transmission problems, you should stay away from the 2014 Honda Odyssey generation.
There were many complaints from owners about the transmission shuddering and jerking when shifting.
Furthermore, the VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system of the engine was problematic.
“Check Engine” lights were triggered and internal engine parts were damaged as a result of oil leakage through piston rings into cylinders.
They faced a class-action lawsuit after Honda settled a class-action lawsuit regarding this problem.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 3rd Generation [2005 to 2010]
The Honda Odyssey was designed to be more reliable and feature-rich in its third generation, from 2005 to 2010.
The 2009 and 2010 Honda Odyssey models belong to this generation’s best. Don’t buy models from 2005, 2006, or 2007.
![Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 3rd Generation [2005 to 2010]](https://gearpatro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Best-Worst-Years-for-Honda-Odyssey-3rd-Generation-2005-to-2010.webp)
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.
A new 5-speed transmission was introduced to the Odyssey from the Ridgeline as a further improvement to transmission reliability.
The higher trim levels offered features such as power tailgates, Bluetooth, navigation systems, and rearview cameras.
These years saw a number of innovations in car safety, including stability control, antilock disc brakes, and side-impact airbags for the front seats.
Family trips are made more convenient by Odyssey’s fuel economy of 12 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway.
Despite some minor issues surrounding brakes and electrical glitches, most models did not receive major complaints.
2008: The Neutral Years
Honda Odyssey had a good and a bad year in 2008.
While there were some brake problems with the 2008 Honda Odyssey, Honda’s technological advancements and safety features helped compensate for them.
The 3.5L J35A6 V6 engine was reliable, and there were numerous trim levels, ranging from LX to Touring.
There are also features like a sunroof and leather seats in the higher trims, as well as a DVD player in the backseat on the higher trims.
Because of lingering issues, especially regarding brakes, and the continued but reduced incidence of sliding door malfunctions, the 2008 Odyssey rated neutral.
2005, 2006, and 2007 were the worst years
There are powertrain problems and poor ratings on platforms like VehicleHistory for Honda Odysseys from 2005, 2006, and 2007.
A variety of transmission problems plagued the Honda Odyssey in 2005. The transmission has been reported to slip, shift jerkily, and shift hard by owners.
With the second generation of sliding doors, there was still a problem.
This year has also seen a number of recalls due to faulty fuel pumps, brake fluid leaks, and reduced braking performance.
There have been complaints from 2006 Honda Odyssey owners about a lack of power steering assistance during low speed maneuvers and parking maneuvers, as well as transmission and engine problems.
2007 Honda Odysseys suffered from a range of problems, including a long brake distance, persistent steering problems, and squeaking doors.
Due to reduced braking performance, Honda initiated a recall.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 2nd Generation [1999 to 2004]
Honda’s Odyssey minivan is now more compact and has more features, aiming to expand its market share.
According to reliability and owner satisfaction scores, 2004 is the best year of this generation for Honda Odysseys, while 1999-2003 should be avoided.
![Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 2nd Generation [1999 to 2004]](https://gearpatro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Best-Worst-Years-for-Honda-Odyssey-2nd-Generation-1999-to-2004.webp)
I recommend skipping this generation altogether due to its age and transmission problems.
2004 was one of the best years
Owner satisfaction and reliability ratings for the Honda Odyssey’s 2004 model year were reasonable in Edmunds and Consumer Reports.
An automatic transmission with a 5-speed BYBA was standard on the Odyssey in 2004. It was powered by a 3.5L J35A4 V6 engine.
In this year’s model, three trim levels are available: LX, EX, and EX-L.
A number of safety features were standard for the 2004 Odyssey, including traction control, antilock brakes, and side-curtain airbags.
The first rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and DVD navigation, were also introduced by Honda.
Despite the car’s commendable features, Odyssey owners reported some transmission problems.
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 were the worst years
Is there a Honda Odyssey year you should avoid? Undoubtedly, you should not purchase a Honda Odyssey from the years 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, or 2003. As a result, the following reasons apply:
There were problems with its electrical and transmission systems in particular.
Honda Odysseys from 1999 had transmission problems. Furthermore, electrical malfunctions caused unexpected stalls caused by faulty ignition switches.
As a result of the severity of this problem, Honda issued two recalls regarding these ignition switch malfunctions.
The famous sliding door issue in 1999 was caused by a faulty latch that caused the sliding door to open unexpectedly while moving.
Honda Odysseys from 2000, 2001, and 2002 were also affected by transmission troubles.
A recall was issued by Honda in 2002 for the 2003 and 2004 Honda Odyssey models, but it also covered transmission problems.
Common Honda Odyssey Problems
Reliability ratings are generally above average for all Honda Odyssey model years. On RepairPal, the Odyssey was rated third among eight minivans based on reliability. The Odyssey does, however, have some common problems:
Braking issues
Many Odyssey owners have complained about a faulty brake pedal. It was reported that the brakes worked only after pumping. There is a serious safety concern here.
Transmission issues
In 2019, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Honda Odyssey for problems with its 9-speed automatic transmission. The shift was rough, the power was lost suddenly, and the acceleration was sudden.
Interior problems
Odyssey owners complain that the minivan lacks comfort despite its spacious interior. In long drives, they complain that the hard seats and non-adjustable headrests cause neck pain.
Windows and sliding door issues
The sliding doors and windows on models from 2004-2010 and 2015 were reported to be defective. Owners complained that their windows could not be fully closed, exposing their interiors to harsh weather conditions. The seals on sliding doors also stuck, making it difficult for occupants to operate them.
Ignition switch failure
Odysseys manufactured in 2004 have been reported to have ignition switch failures. In spite of numerous attempts at repair, the key cannot be turned due to a defective ignition cylinder lock. If you want to replace the ignition lock cylinder, you can expect to pay between $200 and $250 plus labor.
Engine issues
Between 1999 and 2016, clogged exhaust gas recirculation valves caused rough-running engines, poor fuel economy, vibrations, stalling, and long crank times. It is common for these models to experience rough idles and hard shifts due to a broken front engine mount, resulting in oil leaks from the engine block.
Catalytic converter failure
There have been a number of Honda Odyssey model years when the catalytic converters prematurely failed. This problem has plagued Odysseys from 1995 to 2001, 2005 to 2007, 2009, and 2012. Unburned fuel enters the exhaust system when spark plugs or exhaust valves burn out. Catalytic converters overheat and eventually fail due to this problem.
Water leaks
In Odyssey models from 1995-1998, 2001, 2005-2007, and 2009-2010, there have been water leaks. Owners often hear whooshing noises when they have a clogged evaporator drain.
What Makes An Odyssey Reliable?
Vehicles that are used must be reliable. Having an unreliable one will cost you a lot of money in repairs and make your mornings frustrating. Why are Honda Odysseys so reliable in the Odyssey years?
In this day and age, they are still being used because of Honda’s invention. Quality parts are manufactured by this iconic group without a doubt. Taking their time when designing the newest used models is evident in their reliability.
Carparts.com reports that Honda Odysseys have a lower annual repair cost than other vehicles. As a result, they remain in better shape for a longer period of time. The depreciation value of these cars is also lower than that of other types.
There are many factors to consider when it comes to making the Honda Odyssey reliable. It is most common for these items to be manufactured during the previously mentioned years.
Let’s explore the worst now so you’ll understand what to avoid after we’ve looked at the best. This article discusses the least reliable Honda Odyssey years.
Is The Honda Odyssey Worth It?
Used Honda Odysseys are available from several reliable dealers. Your garage might benefit from one of these, don’t you think?
A Honda Odyssey is the best minivan if quality is what you’re looking for. This vehicle offers quality, technology, and safety features that you will love. There is plenty of space inside these vehicles for cargo and passengers.
Several excellent things can be said about the Honda Odyssey. For many years to come, this vehicle will take everyone to their destinations and beyond, pushing its way down the road for years to come.
What are the most common problems with Honda Odyssey?
Honda Odyssey is a popular minivan on the market, but that doesn’t mean it has all the features you want. There have been reports of transmission issues and electrical problems among Odyssey owners.
There are a number of problems with the Honda Odyssey:
In the event of any of these problems, you should take your Odyssey to the Honda dealership or a qualified mechanic.
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FAQs
What years of the Honda Odyssey have engine and/or transmission problems?
In 2001 and 2002, Honda Odyssey models from the second-generation series needed the most serious powertrain repairs. Both years’ FIXD reliability scores are 1 and 2, with a small chance that the engine or transmission will need to be repaired over $500.
In 2001, 12% of expensive repairs were caused by engines and 33% by transmissions. With 19% and 50% respectively, 2002 has the highest probability of engine failures and transmission failures of all model years.
What is considered high mileage for a Honda Odyssey?
The odometers on Honda Odysseys are reported to have logged 200,000 miles, according to owner reports. This milestone was only reached by the 2002 and 2004 model years. In 2009 and earlier model years, 20% of Odyssey owners expected the minivan to go beyond 200,000 miles.
The Honda Odyssey has a high mileage of 225,000 miles, as could be expected. Approximately 25% of these high-mileage Odysseys are driven heavily, according to their owners. The longevity of a vehicle seems to increase with long trips, rather than short ones. If you wish to purchase a well-used Odyssey, it is important to know how its previous owner or owners used it.
Which years of the Honda Odyssey are most reliable?
Honda Odysseys have proven very reliable in recent years, according to our guide. Thus, the models from 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021 perform exceptionally well and require minimal maintenance.
What makes these Honda Odyssey years reliable?
These Odyssey models are among the most popular due to Honda’s commitment to quality manufacturing. Consequently, they are less costly to repair and depreciate, and their engines last for more than 100,000 miles. Besides their reputation for long-lasting, reliable vehicles, Honda’s reliability has also increased.
What common issues affect the reliability of the Honda Odyssey?
Honda Odysseys are known for experiencing transmission issues, engine misfires, and excessive oil usage, especially in model years rated low for reliability.
Can high mileage affect the reliability of a Honda Odyssey?
Honda Odysseys and other vehicles are susceptible to reliability problems when they have a high mileage. High-mileage Odysseys can be maintained and cared for even if they have accumulated a lot of miles. Always examine the maintenance history and current condition of a vehicle to determine its reliability.
Conclusion
I recommend the 2010-2013, 2015-2017, and 2021-2023 Honda Odyssey models for those considering a purchase. Avoid the second generation, early third and fifth generations, and the 2014 models of the Honda Odyssey.
Has your Honda Odyssey ever been from a top recommended year? Would you mind telling me about your experience?
We’d love to hear about your Odyssey experiences! Feel free to comment below!