What Year to Avoid on the Honda Odyssey

The most widely cited Honda Odyssey years to avoid are 2001–2004 for chronic automatic-transmission failures and 2018–2019 for electrical/infotainment glitches and sliding-door problems; shoppers should also be cautious with 2005–2007 (brake and early VCM issues) and 2011–2013 (VCM-related misfire/oil consumption). In recent years, 2020–2024 models have generally performed better after software fixes and hardware updates.

The Odyssey years most owners and mechanics recommend avoiding

Based on owner complaint trends, recalls, technical service bulletins, and independent reliability reporting, several Odyssey model-year clusters have a higher-than-average incidence of costly or safety-relevant issues. The list below highlights those years and the typical problems associated with each.

• 2001–2004: Widespread automatic-transmission failures (slipping, harsh shifts, internal wear) leading to expensive rebuilds/replacements.
• 2005–2007 (caution): Premature brake wear/warped rotors, ABS/VSA complaints, and some transmission judder; early VCM-related drivability concerns.
• 2011–2013 (caution): VCM-related engine misfire and oil consumption in some vehicles; occasional power sliding-door and brake system issues.
• 2018–2019: Electrical/infotainment freezes and camera/display faults, sliding-door wiring/latch issues with recalls, and transmission calibration complaints (9- and 10-speed).

While individual vehicles can be outliers—especially if repaired with updated parts—these years, on average, pose higher risk of expensive repairs or owner frustration compared with other Odyssey model years.

Why these years are flagged

2001–2004: Transmission failures in the second generation

Second-generation Odysseys built in this window are notorious for automatic-transmission failures stemming from internal lubrication and heat-management shortcomings. Symptoms include slipping between gears, harsh or erratic shifting, and eventual loss of drive. Many units required rebuilds or replacements well before 150,000 miles, prompting extended coverage and multiple service bulletins in-period.

2005–2007: Early third-gen teething issues

Although a major redesign improved packaging and safety, early third-generation models saw complaints around premature brake wear/warped rotors, ABS/VSA behavior, occasional steering shudder under braking, and some transmission judder. Honda’s early implementation of Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) also drew reports of vibration/drivability quirks in certain conditions.

2011–2013: VCM-related misfire and oil consumption

Select fourth-generation Odysseys experienced misfires (often fouling specific cylinders’ spark plugs) and elevated oil consumption linked to VCM operation in light-load cruising. Honda issued service bulletins and limited extensions for affected vehicles, but out-of-warranty repairs can be costly without documentation.

2018–2019: Electronics, sliding doors, and shifting behavior

The 2018 redesign brought a modern cabin and new transmissions (9-speed on many trims; 10-speed on higher trims initially) along with a large infotainment suite. Early builds drew notable owner complaints about head-unit freezes/blank screens, rear camera/display glitches, and power sliding-door wiring and latch issues that prompted recalls and software updates. Some owners also reported transmission hesitation or roughness that improved with calibration updates.

Better years to consider instead

If you want a lower-risk ownership experience without giving up the Odyssey’s space and road manners, the following model years have tended to deliver stronger reliability once early issues were addressed.

• 2014–2017: Late fourth-generation vans benefited from incremental fixes and fewer widespread powertrain or electronics complaints.
• 2020–2024: Post-refresh fifth-gen models generally improved, with the 10-speed automatic standard across trims (from 2020), plus multiple software and hardware updates addressing earlier infotainment and door concerns.

As always, condition, mileage, and maintenance history matter. A well-kept van from these spans often provides a better cost-of-ownership profile than riskier years—even if the sticker price is higher.

If you’re considering a flagged year, check these items

Some Odysseys from “avoid” years can still be good buys if they’ve been updated or meticulously maintained. Use the checklist below to limit risk.

• Service records: Look for documented transmission services, rebuilds with updated parts (for 2001–2004), and regular fluid changes using Honda-spec fluids.
• Software updates: Confirm infotainment, transmission, and powertrain control module updates were applied (especially 2018–2019).
• Recalls: Run the VIN at NHTSA.gov to verify completion of sliding-door, fuel pump, seat latch, camera/display, and other safety recalls.
• Engine health (VCM years): Check for misfire history, oil consumption tests, and spark plug/coil replacement evidence (2011–2013).
• Door systems: Repeatedly operate sliding doors; listen for binding, check for warning chimes, and ensure latches fully secure.
• Comprehensive test drive: Include highway grades and stop-and-go; watch for shudder, flare, or harsh shifts; brake from speed to check for vibration.
• Pre-purchase inspection: Have a Honda-experienced technician scan for stored codes and inspect transmission fluid condition, mounts, brakes, and suspension.

Thorough vetting can reveal whether an individual van has already had the problematic components corrected—or if it’s likely to need expensive work soon.

Recalls and campaigns commonly associated with the Odyssey

Honda has issued numerous Odyssey recalls across generations. The items below represent frequent themes you should check by VIN; completion status is free to verify on NHTSA’s website.

• Power sliding doors: Wiring and latch recalls affecting various 2011–2016 and 2018–2020 vehicles.
• Infotainment/camera software: Updates for rearview camera or display malfunctions (notably on 2018–2019).
• Fuel pump: Denso-supplied pump recalls affecting many 2018–2020 Hondas, including Odyssey.
• Second-row seat latching: Recalls to ensure seats lock correctly (primarily 2011–2017).
• Power steering hose/line leaks: Older models had campaigns for potential leaks and fire risk.

Even a well-rated model year can have open recalls; confirming and completing them improves safety and resale value.

Summary

If you’re shopping used, the Honda Odyssey years most prudent to avoid are 2001–2004 (notorious transmission failures) and 2018–2019 (electronics/door issues and transmission calibration complaints), with added caution for 2005–2007 and 2011–2013 due to brake and VCM-related concerns. For fewer headaches, target 2014–2017 or 2020–2024, prioritize documented maintenance and recall completion, and get a pre-purchase inspection to validate the specific van’s condition.

What is the best model of Honda Odyssey?

The “best” Honda Odyssey depends on your priorities, but for new models, 2021 or 2022 are excellent choices due to their advanced safety features and updated tech, while 2018-2020 models offer similar tech at a lower price. For the most reliable used options, experts often point to the fourth generation (2011-2017), with the later years (2014-2017) being particularly desirable for their safety features. 
For New/Nearly-New Models (2018-Present)

• Best Pick: 2021 or 2022 models offer a great balance of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies with fewer reported issues compared to the first years of the fifth generation. 
• Features: These models have modern tech, including a 10-speed transmission, and available safety features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and CabinWatch/CabinTalk. 

For Used Models (Budget-Conscious)

• Fourth Generation (2011-2017): This generation is frequently recommended for its strong reliability record. 
• Later Years (2014-2017): These are preferable within the fourth generation because they introduced more advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning. 
• Early Models (2005-2010): The third-generation models also have a reputation for solid build quality and reliability. 

Key Considerations When Choosing

• Technology: Newer models (2018+) have more modern tech, but you can find desirable features like navigation and entertainment systems in models from the 2011-2017 generation. 
• Safety: The 2018-present models offer the most comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assist systems, while the 2014-2017 models are a good alternative for older budgets. 
• Reliability: The 2011-2017 and 2018+ generations are generally considered reliable, but newer models will have fewer miles. 
• Budget: Older models from the 2011-2017 range can offer excellent value if you’re willing to forego the very latest tech in favor of reliability. 

What years did the Honda Odyssey have bad transmissions?

Honda Odyssey years known for transmission problems include the 1999-2004 models (widespread failures), the 2005-2010 models (continued issues and new problems), and the 2018-2019 models (9-speed transmission issues). Other problematic years are 2002 and 2003, while the 2011-2013 range also saw some issues. The most significant problems involve widespread failures in the early 2000s and a problematic 9-speed transmission in the 2018-2019 models. 
This video explains common problems with the Honda Odyssey transmission, including the issues in the 2018-2019 models: 55sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 25, 2023
Specific Model Years to Avoid

• 1999-2004: These early models are notorious for widespread transmission failures. 
• 2002-2003: These are specifically called out as problematic years for transmission issues. 
• 2005-2010: Transmission problems continued in this generation, although not as widespread as the previous ones. 
• 2011-2013: These models also experienced some transmission and engine issues. 
• 2018-2019: These later models had problems with their 9-speed automatic transmissions, leading to rough shifting, power loss, and accidental shifts into park. 

Why Certain Years Have Problems

• Early models (1999-2004): Often suffered from internal gear locking, which could be dangerous. 
• Late models (2018-2019): Faulty 9-speed transmissions had issues, sometimes linked to loose battery terminals and software problems that could cause unexpected reboots. 

What to Do if Considering a Used Odyssey

• Check the VIN: Use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to check for any recalls or service bulletins on a specific used Odyssey. 
• Consult a Mechanic: If buying a third-generation or older model, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic. 
• Ensure Recalls are Addressed: For the 2018-2019 models, ensure any recall related to the 9-speed transmission and loose battery terminals was addressed by a dealership. 

Which Honda Odyssey years to avoid?

You should consider avoiding Honda Odyssey years such as the 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, and 2018 models, which had issues like transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, and electrical problems. The 2011-2013 and 2018-2020 models are also flagged for potential transmission and engine issues. If you’re considering any models from the third-generation (2005-2010), be aware of potential brake, power door, and continued transmission problems. 
Specifically, look out for these common issues by generation:

• First Generation (1999-2004): . Opens in new tabMany early models, particularly 2002 and 2003, are noted for widespread transmission failures. 
• Third Generation (2005-2010): . Opens in new tabSome years within this generation, such as 2005 and 2006, experienced problems with transmissions and other components. The 2007-2008 models had specific issues with the power doors and brakes. 
• Fourth Generation (2011-2017): . Opens in new tabThe 2011-2013 models are flagged due to transmission and engine problems. 
• Fifth Generation (2018-Present): . Opens in new tab2018 is particularly singled out for transmission failures and other issues. 2019-2020 models are also flagged. 

General Advice:

• Avoid New Remodel Years: New generations often have issues that are sorted out in later model years, so it’s often best to avoid the first few years of a redesigned generation. 
• Check Recalls: Verify that any model you are considering has had all relevant recalls addressed, especially for significant ones affecting the 2001-2007 and 2018-2019 models. 
• Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Always have a trusted mechanic inspect a used Honda Odyssey, especially if it’s an earlier model, to identify potential problems. 

What is the biggest problem with the Honda Odyssey?

Most Common Honda Odyssey Problems

• Transmission Issues. The most important issue on this list is related to the transmission.
• Ignition Switch Problems. Another item of concern might be related to the Honda Odyssey ignition switch problems.
• Check Engine Light.
• Automatic Doors.
• Fuel Pump Issues.