Buckle up for a deep dive into the Honda Odyssey’s history!
We’re uncovering the treasures and duds across generations, using data from NHTSA and Consumer Reports.
From early transmission troubles to recent outstanding features, we’ll explore it all. Ready to become an Odyssey expert?
Let’s hit the road and uncover which years merit your driveway and which should stay in the distant rearview mirror.
Table of ContentsShow
Honda Odyssey Generations
The Honda Odyssey burst onto the scene in 1995, quickly establishing itself as a top contender in the minivan market. Its unique blend of comfort, safety, and functionality caught the attention of families and critics alike, setting the stage for a legacy of innovation.
To give you a clear picture of how the Odyssey has evolved, I’ve compiled a handy table showcasing its generations from 1999 to the present:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 2nd generation (RL1) | 1999-2004 |
| 3rd generation (RL3/RL4) | 2005-2010 |
| 4th generation (RL5) | 2011-2017 |
| 5th generation (RL6) | 2018-Present |
Understanding these generational shifts is crucial when you’re on the hunt for your perfect Odyssey. Each generation brings its own set of improvements, features, and, yes, sometimes issues. Keep this timeline in mind as we dive into the nitty-gritty of the best and worst years.
Honda Odyssey Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When it comes to picking the cream of the crop (or avoiding the bad apples) in the Odyssey lineup, we’ve left no stone unturned. Our thorough analysis takes into account a broad range of factors, including:
- Owner-reported reliability (from various surveys)
- Annual maintenance costs
- Safety ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability and owner satisfaction scores
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Ratings from Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), VehicleHistory, and Cars.com
To give you a visual snapshot of how each model year stacks up, I’ve created a graph that combines all these ratings:
Following the graph, you’ll find a breakdown of each Honda Odyssey model year, neatly organized into best, neutral, and worst years. This at-a-glance guide will help you quickly identify which years are worth your attention and which ones to approach with caution.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd generation (RL1) | 2004 | N/A | 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 |
| 3rd generation (RL3/RL4) | 2009 2010 | 2008 | 2005 2006 2007 |
| 4th generation (RL5) | 2012 2013 2015 2016 2017 | 2011 | 2014 |
| 5th generation (RL6) | 2021 2022 2023 | 2020 | 2018 2019 |
When we talk about “Neutral Years,” we’re referring to model years that deliver a balanced performance – nothing to write home about, but nothing to escape from either.
Keep in mind that some factors, like NHTSA recalls, are negative indicators. A significant number of complaints or recalls suggests lower reliability for that particular model year.
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and delve into the specifics of Honda Odyssey’s best, impartial, and worst years across its generations.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 2nd Generation (1999-2004)
The 1999 Honda Odyssey
The second-generation Odyssey hit the streets with a novel look and enhanced features, aiming to solidify its place in the minivan market. But did it deliver on its promises? Let’s find out.
In this generation, 2004 stands out as the brilliant star, while the years 1999-2003 are best left in the dust. But here’s a word to the wise: given the age of these models and the notorious transmission issues reported by owners, you might want to skip this entire generation altogether.
The Best Years: 2004
The 2004 Odyssey emerges as the crown jewel of the second generation, boasting solid reliability and owner satisfaction scores from both Edmunds and Consumer Reports.
Under the hood, you’ll find a powerful 3.5L J35A4 V6 engine paired with a 5-speed BYBA automatic transmission. Honda offered three trim levels – LX, EX, and EX-L – catering to a variety of preferences and budgets.
On the tech and safety front, the 2004 model came equipped with traction control, anti-lock brakes, and side-curtain airbags. It also introduced some firsts for Honda, including a DVD-based navigation system and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
But even this star pupil isn’t without its flaws. Some owners reported transmission failures, reminding us that no car is perfect.
The Worst Years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Want to know which Honda Odyssey years to avoid like stale leftovers? Look no further than 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003. Here’s why these models earned a spot on the terrible list:
The 1999 Odyssey kicked off this problematic streak with transmission failures and electrical system malfunctions. These weren’t minor hiccups – we’re talking about unexpected stalling due to defective ignition switches, serious enough for Honda to issue two recalls.
But wait, there’s more! The 1999 model also introduced the infamous sliding door issue, with faulty latches causing doors to swing open while the vehicle was in motion. Talk about a plot twist you don’t want on your family road trip!
The transmission troubles didn’t stop there. They continued to plague the 2000, 2001, and 2002 models. By 2002, Honda finally acknowledged the problem and rolled out a recall – but this also extended to the 2003 and 2004 models.
For a comprehensive look at the recalls and complaints for these problematic years, check out the NHTSA records for the 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003 Honda Odyssey models. It’s a read that might make you appreciate your current car a bit more!
Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 3rd Generation (2005-2010)
The 2005 Honda Odyssey
As the Odyssey entered its third act from 2005 to 2010, Honda aimed to turn over a new leaf, promising a more reliable and feature-rich minivan. Did they succeed? Let’s break it down.
The later years of this generation – 2009 and 2010 – emerge as the highlights of the show. On the flip side, you’d be prudent to steer clear of the 2005, 2006, and 2007 models. Let’s dive into the specific details.
The Best Years: 2009, 2010
The 2009 and 2010 Odyssey models take the cake as the best years of the third generation, earning outstanding marks from owners on VehicleHistory and Cars.com.
Honda upped its game by introducing a more powerful 5-speed transmission, borrowed from the Honda Ridgeline, to boost reliability. Higher trim levels came loaded with deluxe features like a power tailgate, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation systems, and a rearview camera.
Safety took center stage with stability control, anti-lock disc brakes, front-seat side-impact airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags. Fuel efficiency was comparable, with urban driving clocking in around 12 mpg and highway driving reaching up to 28 mpg.
While these models were largely free from major issues, some minor complaints about brakes and occasional electrical glitches popped up. But hey, nobody’s perfect, right?
The Neutral Years: 2008
The 2008 Odyssey sits comfortably in the middle ground, bridging the gap between the finest and worst years of this generation.
While it inherited some of the brake issues that plagued its successors, it also benefited from Honda’s technological and safety advancements. The 3.5L J35A6 V6 engine, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, proved reliable.
Trim levels ranged from LX to Touring, offering features like a sunroof, leather seating, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system in higher trims. However, persistent issues with brakes and reduced but still present sliding door malfunctions kept the 2008 model from reaching the top tier.
The Worst Years: 2005, 2006, 2007
Looking for Honda Odyssey years to avoid? The 2005, 2006, and 2007 models should be at the top of your “do not buy” list. Here’s why:
The 2005 Odyssey was plagued by transmission troubles, with owners reporting slipping, erratic shifting, and harsh shifting. The sliding door gremlins from the previous generation also decided to stick around for an encore appearance.
Adding insult to injury, this year saw recalls related to fuel pumps, brake fluid leakage, and reduced braking performance. Not exactly the reliability you’re looking for in a family hauler, is it?
The 2006 model continued the transmission and engine issue parade, with a fresh twist: many owners complained about power steering assist loss, especially at low speeds and during parking maneuvers. Because parallel parking wasn’t already nerve-wracking enough, right?
By 2007, the Odyssey was still grappling with a host of problems. Increased brake distances, persistent steering issues, and those pesky sliding door problems refused to go away. The diminished braking performance was concerning enough to trigger another Honda recall.
For a full rundown of the recalls and complaints for these troubled years, take a look at the NHTSA records for the 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 Honda Odyssey models. It’s a sobering read that might make you appreciate the later, more reliable models even more.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 4th Generation (2011-2017)
The 2011 Honda Odyssey
The fourth generation of the Honda Odyssey, spanning from 2011 to 2017, marked another pivotal chapter in this minivan’s story. Did Honda finally iron out all the kinks? Let’s find out.
In this generation, 2014 stands out as the troublesome child you’ll want to avoid. On the bright side, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017 shine as the Odyssey’s finest years. Let’s break it down.
The Best Years: 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017
These model years hit the jackpot, scoring exceptional ratings on VehicleHistory, Consumer Reports, and Cars.com. Here’s what makes them the cream of the crop:
Under the hood, you’ll find a powerful 3.5L J35Z8 V6 engine churning out a respectable 248 horsepower. Most trims featured a 6-speed automatic transmission, boosting fuel efficiency to about 13 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
The infotainment system got a major upgrade, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen controls, and the crowd-pleasing HondaVAC – a built-in vacuum cleaner for the Touring trims. Because who doesn’t want to clean up crushed Cheerios on the go?
Safety features took a substantial leap forward with the introduction of Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning systems in higher trims.
The 2017 model, in particular, earned high praise for its nimble handling, upscale and spacious interior, and a smorgasbord of available tech features.
While these years weren’t entirely trouble-free (are any cars, really?), issues were few and far between. Some owners reported minor infotainment glitches and sporadic AC hiccups, but nothing to write home about.
The Neutral Years: 2011
The 2011 Odyssey, as the initial year of this generation, found itself in a bit of an awkward phase – not quite the worst, but not reaching the pinnacle of its successors.
Equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission (6-speed for Touring trims), it laid the foundation for the enhancements that would follow.
The redesigned exterior sported a sleeker look, featuring a distinctive “lightning bolt” beltline that set it apart from the minivan crowd. Inside, passengers enjoyed improvements in space and comfort.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Some owners reported issues like battery drainage, excessive vibration in the steering wheel, and instances of brake failures attributed to rotor designs. These difficulties kept the 2011 model firmly in the impartial zone – not bad enough to avoid, but not quite reaching “best year” status.
The Worst Years: 2014
Oh, 2014. The dark sheep of the fourth generation. If you’re shopping for a used Odyssey, this is the year to avoid. Here’s why:
Owners faced a cornucopia of transmission issues, including shuddering and lurching while shifting. Not exactly the smooth ride you’re looking for in a family hauler.
But wait, there’s more! The VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system decided to join the trouble party, presenting a plethora of engine problems.
The cherry on top? Oil leakage through piston rings into the cylinder led to misfires, often triggering the dreaded “Check Engine” light and causing internal engine damage. This problem was significant enough for Honda to face a class-action lawsuit, which they subsequently settled.
For a complete picture of the 2014 Odyssey’s issues, check out the NHTSA recalls and complaints. It’s a perusal that might make you appreciate the more dependable years even more.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Odyssey 5th Generation (2018-Present)
The 2018 Honda Odyssey
As the Odyssey entered its fifth generation, Honda aimed to further enhance its position in the competitive minivan market. But did they stick the landing? Let’s find out.
Due to a slew of NHTSA recalls addressing various issues, 2018 and 2019 find themselves in the “avoid” category. On the flip side, 2021, 2022, and 2023 emerge as the shining stars of this generation. Let’s break it down.
The Best Years: 2021, 2022, 2023
These model years hit the trifecta, earning highest marks from J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and Cars.com. Here’s what makes them stand out:
Under the hood, the proven 3.5L J35Y6 V6 engine continued its dependable run, now paired with a refined 10-speed automatic transmission. This combo not only delivered power but also improved fuel efficiency, reaching approximately 14 mpg in urban settings and a commendable 33 mpg on highways.
Tech-wise, these years witnessed a remarkable array of features. The upgraded infotainment system boasted improved responsiveness, while the integrated CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems let you keep an eye (and ear) on the backseat shenanigans without turning around.
Safety became a hallmark for these years, with the Honda Sensing Suite becoming standard across all trims. This package includes benefits like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking.
On the outside, Honda gave the Odyssey a crisper, more streamlined profile. Step inside, and you’ll find the Magic Slide second-row seating, ample cargo space, and sophisticated materials that make long journeys a breeze.
The Neutral Years: 2020
The 2020 Odyssey finds itself in the middle ground – not quite reaching the pinnacle of its successors, but avoiding the shortcomings of its predecessors.
Building on the foundation of previous years, it carried the reliable 3.5L V6 engine and introduced many of the features that would be refined in subsequent models.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Some owners reported infotainment glitches and intermittent powertrain issues reminiscent of earlier models. These hiccups kept the 2020 model from reaching “best year” status, but they weren’t substantial enough to land it in the “avoid” category.
The Worst Years: 2018, 2019
If you’re shopping for a fifth-gen Odyssey, you might want to steer clear of the 2018 and 2019 models. Here’s why these years earned a position on the undesirable list:
The 2018 Odyssey was plagued by various powertrain issues. Owners frequently reported experiences of jerking, shuddering, and even sporadic loss of motive power. Not exactly the smooth ride you’re looking for in a family hauler.
Adding to the woes, the infotainment system decided to join the trouble bash. The rearview camera occasionally malfunctioned due to a combination of Media Oriented Systems Transport cable and software issues.
But wait, there’s more! The 2018 model faced recalls due to loose battery terminal connections, defective sliding door latches, and diminished braking performance. Talk about a trifecta of trouble.
The 2019 Odyssey didn’t fare much better, grappling with comparable concerns and facing a recall related to fuel pump failures that potentially caused the vehicle to stall. Because nothing says “family fun” like unexpected stalling on the highway, right?
For a comprehensive picture of these troubled years, check out the NHTSA recalls and issues for the 2018, 2019, and 2020 Honda Odyssey models. It’s a sobering read that might make you appreciate the later, more reliable models even more.
Honda Odyssey Average Resale Values
Want to know how well the Odyssey holds its value? The graph below gives you a thorough view of the Odyssey’s resale values over the years:
Conclusion
Ready to join the Odyssey club?
Here’s the scoop: aim for 2010-2013, 2015-2017, or 2021-2023 models – they’re the cream of the crop. Avoid the 2nd generation, early 3rd and 5th gens, and the troublesome 2014.
Your wallet will thank you! Already sailing in a top-notch Odyssey?
We want to hear about it! Share your minivan adventures in the comments – from cross-country trips to conquering the school run, we’re all ears!
