8.7
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$3,330.00
Average Mileage:
86,382 miles
Total Complaints:
64 complaints
Most common solutions:
- replace transmission (44 reports)
- not sure (13 reports)
- Honda replaced tranny - good will - I had to pay labor (4 reports)
- dealer replaced transmission n/c as good will (2 reports)
- replace output seal (1 reports)
transmission problem
This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Honda dealer.
Helpful Websites About 2002 Honda Odyssey transmission failure
2009Jul 02
Odyssey LX 3.5L
- Automatic transmission
- 84,506 miles
This Odyssey was a replacement for 2001 LX that was totalled by some poor driver who turned left in front of us at the very last moment in a intersection. I can't get over the difference between the 2001 and 2002. We had no problem with the 01, but the 02 has been crappy. How could Honda screw up a good design? Are troubles started with a small lag in the tranny on shifting, two months after we bought the van second hand. Thinking the transmission fluid was old, i had it changed. this didn't stop the problem but made it worst. The tranny started to slip, the lags start to be longer. I toke the van into the local Honda dealer, after finding out that this tranny had a major design problem. Honda wouldn't help, perferring to do nothing. No goodwill, No "it's our crappy design and we will stand up and take care of the problem. What a shame, to see such a good car company screw it customer base. I think i will trade the van in and buy a local car. Ford ,GM
2009Oct 17
Odyssey LX
- Automatic transmission
- 89,800 miles
My husband and I are previous Honda lovers. We expect to keep them for 12+ years and upwards of 150K miles. We have owned three Accords: a 1985, 1989, and 1996. The '89 was our favorite. We had to get rid of it in late 2001 because we were expecting our third child and they all still needed car seats. We went for the Odyssey. Loved the van and the space and convenience it provided for our family.
Over the past several months we have had isolated problems that seemed like missed shifts or slipping transmission. How could this be in a Honda with 89K miles? In September I brought it to our local dealer, said I thought the transmission was slipping, and was told that they couldn't get it to repeat the problem. I tried to explain that this was an intermittent problem. They replaced some switch (about $300) that they said came up as an error code on the computer. I wish I had done my research then. About a monthe later the transmission completely failed. Luckily, I was not far from home. I could drive it to the dealer at about 30 mph max. Monday, stuck home without a car & waiting for the dealer to call, I Googled '2002 Odyssey Transmission'. Wow! I could not believe how many people had the same problem and that Honda knew they had a major design flaw on their hands. I was furious that the dealer failed to mention this when I brought it in in September. There were so many problems with the 2001 that the warranty was extended to 100K miles! Ours is a 2002 and we were told, "Sorry, the warranty is only for 3 years/36,000 miles." The dealer "went to bat for us" with Honda and got Honda to pay some of the repair. It cost us $2,500 for a rebuilt transmission and a new control module. I know it could have been more, but it should not have happened! Ten days later I have my van back. The new tranny has a 3 year/36,000 mile warranty, and I will not keep it one mile or day past that warranty. Another real headache is that the warranty on the repair is not transferrable. I am sure that no one will buy it and the trade in will probably be low. Toyota here we come!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Sep 02
Odyssey LX
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
We too had done a great deal of research prior to purchasing. The vehicle was pre-owned with a recall on the tranny which was documented to be "fixed" by the dealer. That was not quite 5 yrs ago and now we are in this mess... do we fix it or just dump it? We have driven Honda vehicles for about 20 yrs now and will never buy another. What a let down. I'm all for a class action the only caveat is that once the lawyers take their fees there will be nothing left which to apply to fixing the transmission problems we are all encountering!!!!
2009Jul 20
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 96,500 miles
Original owners' letter to Honda, They won't reply - don't buy their vehicles! This is their scheme to profit again on sales!
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Honda Automobile Customer Service
Honda Consumer Affairs Department
Mail Stop 500-2N-7A
1919 Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90501-2746
Fax 310 783 3023
Re: Honda Special Adjustment Program (N012009-08-1800974)
Dear Honda Consumer Affairs,
I write regarding Honda America’s warranty Special Adjustment Program copied below and request the failed third gear of my transmission be replaced free of charge.
This third gear should be replaced free of charge because the recall performed on October 12 of 2004 at 35,531 miles to install a second gear oil jet kit robbed the third gear of pressure needed for lubrication and cooling and it has now failed well before its intended design life. I am a degreed mechanical engineer with failure analysis experience and can attest that such ‘duct tape’ fixes for which the transaxle system was not designed have consequences such as this.
A company with a reputation for quality and reliability like Honda will take responsibility mistakes even when they were ‘well intentioned’. I continue to refuse to believe this to be a deliberate profiteering scheme. As the car ‘go-to-guy’ for friends, family and coworkers it is my hope ‘we’ can remain loyal Honda customers, however I have been disappointed with Honda’s responsiveness thus far. Please have a Honda America senior manager contact me to discuss Honda’s special adjustment program and next steps to replace my failed third gear clutch pack due to inadequate lubrication caused by the second gear recall.
Thank you,
From your owner's manual:
Some Repairs May Be Covered Beyond the Limited Warranty Introduction 7
Honda may cover, under a special adjustment program, some or all of the cost to repair a problem that is not covered by your vehicle’s limited warranties. If your vehicle develops a problem you feel should be repaired by Honda at no cost, discuss it with your dealer. If you are not satisfied with your Honda dealer’s decision, call or write the Honda Consumer Affairs Department (the address and telephone number are on the inside front cover). Please provide this
information about your vehicle: year, model, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), mileage, maintenance history, a detailed explanation of the problem, and why you think Honda should be responsible for the repair. Your request will be investigated, and you will be informed of Honda’s decision.
2009Sep 17
Odyssey EX
- Automatic transmission
- 95,812 miles
Car stopped accelerating on Freeway suddenly. Complete failure of transmission. transmission oil changed as per Honda user guide all along.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Aug 20
Odyssey EX
- Automatic transmission
- 98,462 miles
My van only had 98462 miles on it, the transmission failed when I was driving on an extremely busy freeway, 2 1/2 hours from home with my two very younger daughters in the vehicle with me. Honda of America is not doing anything about it. I cannot afford to fix it, and it is my only vehicle. What am I suppose to do now?
2009Aug 10
Odyssey EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 106,000 miles
It is obvious that Honda knows there is a problem with the Odyssey transmissions and I am very frustrated that they are not stepping up to take any responsibility for it. I have read story after story of Odyssey owners having to replace their transmissions. This is costing us $2,500 to $4,500 a piece. I think the "you're SOL" attitude Honda has convinced me and countless others to never buy another Honda again.
2009Aug 02
Odyssey EXL V6
- Automatic transmission
- 99,000 miles
my 2002 Honda odyssey 's tran broken down at 99000 miles... take to dealer and it cost $ 5300.00 to replace .. cost more than the van itself .. this is my last Honda for sure ... they need to bring the HONDA back to where it belong ... they are playing game to much .
2009Aug 10
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 86,000 miles
Traded in my 1999 Odyssey when it's transmission failed at about 90,000 miles and purchased my 2002 Odyssey in March of 08. Now it's transmission has failed at 86,000 miles and Honda is doing nothing for me.
Spoke with Marlene at 800-999-1009, then her manager Marla (use fake names much?). They couldn't have cared less. At one point I could tell that they actually muted the phone on their end, probably so that they could have other more important conversations about nail polish and designer purses, while I was demanding financial assistance with the transmission replacement costs. They kept to their script, though, and reread their lines like rejection zombies. They told me their manager is Durwin Gonzales (seriously?), but he couldn't possibly be bothered to talk to me, a lowly customer. Marla said, that because the car is being repaired at an Acura delaer (where I purchased it), and not a Honda Dealer (Honda OWNS Acura), that they couldn't be of any assistance. She suggested I get it to a Honda dealer (the transmission is laying on the floor at the Acura dealer), but when I asked if that would get me some compensation she quickly said no- probably not. What the??? So, why would I then move the car in mid repair? When I asked "doesn't Honda own Acura?"- she responded "yes, but, well... we're sort of under the same umbrella but, like, sort of not...oh, how can I explain it?..."
Are you kidding me? One person at Honda can't make a call to my contact at the Acura dealer? Do they not trust what the Acura dealer (again, they OWN Acura) is telling me?
So now, I'm paying $3500 for a new transmission, and I will continue to send copies of the invoice to Honda for as long as it takes.
+How can I sign on to a class action suit for the 2002 Odysseys?????
+Why hasn't the 2002 been included in the extended warranty??
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Aug 10
Odyssey ES
- Automatic transmission
- 85,200 miles
This is my 2nd odyssey to have transmission failure. First a 1999 Odyssey, then a 2002. The first failed at @70,000 and the 2nd at 85,000. We took great care of these cars. I've read tons of material about this model in the last few days, and learned of all the tranny nightmares. I'm hoping for a class action suit against Honda for the 2002 Odyssey- but in the mean time I'll be arguing with the dealer today about what how much of the bill I will pay verses Honda. They better step up.
I will NEVER buy another Honda.
Why are these cars getting such great ratings?
2009Jul 31
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 115,000 miles
I feel very upset that Honda knows there is a problem but won't help. Last time buying a Honda for sure!!!!
2009Jun 25
Odyssey EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 87,000 miles
I purchased a Honda, because I was tired of other manufacturers reliability. I had two chevy venture vans, one lost the transmission at 100K the other lost the engine at 95K. I never thought that I would have a Honda lose it's transmission at 86K. I took it to the dealer, they said I had to replace the Tranny and the control module for $4300. I told them that that was unacceptable, they contacted Honda, they responded by discounting the amount down to $3200.00. I was still in shock. I read many places where Honda replaced transmissions with more miles for free! I changed my tranny fluid and everything. I have owned Civic's, Accords, Odyssey, Element. Apparently this is where it stops if this is what they consider reliable. If you visit their website, they say come in for a reliable new Honda. Are they serious??? Before this happened to my Odyssey, I would have agreed, but after talking directly to Honda Corp, I don't believe it. If it is that reliable, they will stand behind the product!!!
2009Jun 01
Odyssey EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 97,000 miles
would like to start a class action lawsut but dont know where to start for 2002 honda odyssey. Transmission been slipping . I just found out of recalls and called Honda and they said previous owner came in and they got recall fixed (something to do with transmission and 2nd gear ) and no other recall for my VIN. Dont now what to do. and dont have the money for a new tranny HELP!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Jun 01
Odyssey LX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 133,000 miles
I bought my Odyssey through AAFES new car sales in 2002 when I was stationed in Germany. It was a great mini-van. I had heard only good things about Odysseys before that. We had several trouble-free years until sometime in 2007, when several things started to go wrong: the transmission starting jerking while shifting, the "D" light started to blink while driving, the TCS light came on and stayed on, the transmission would slip causing the engine to race, and so on. We took it to a Honda dealer in MD for an assessment. We were told that the transmission was failing and needed to be replaced, not fixed or rebuilt. They said it was no longer under warranty (due to the mileage). Even further, AAFES had purchased the car from Honda Europe rather than Honda USA and they were two totally separate companies. Apparently, Honda Europe didn't recognize the problem and would do nothing to help. And, OF COURSE, Honda USA wouldn't do ANYTHING because it came from Honda Europe! What BS! They told us it would cost $6000+ to install a brand new transmission, so we thanked them and left. We continued to drive it for a couple years, expecting it to totally fail any day. Well, that day came when we moved from MD to TX. The van did OK for the entire trip until we hit Texas. Then, the transmission began jerking so hard I thought it was going to fall off the vehicle. We drove the last 20 miles to my brother's house in Dallas going about 10 mph (as fast as it would go). When we arrived, there was no reverse at all and only one gear in forward. So, it sits at my brother's house right now, gathering dust and waiting for me to decide what to do with it. I am torn between putting a new transmission in it (because everything else is still in great shape) and trading it in for something else (NOT another Odyssey). I am so angry with Honda, I could just sue them! Maybe I will. Maybe we all need to file a class action suit for model year 2002.
2009Jun 22
Odyssey LX
- Automatic transmission
- 74,000 miles
This is about 2002 Honda odyssey with single owner and 74000 miles over 7 years 4 months. Odyssey started giving jerks during driving last week. Then TCS (Traction control system) light started coming on. After about a day the 'D' light (showing minivan is drive gear) started flashing. When we took it to dealer was told transmission has failed and cannot even be rebuilt. Cost for new transmission and computer will be $6100. Dealer gave a choice to trade in minivan for $3000. When mentioned that 1999-2001 Honda Odyssey transmission failures and class action suite was told 2002 model not covered. Even if service manager asked Honda to provide to give goodwill, was told Honda may not pay more than $1000 towards fix.
I have owned 5 Honda cars and one accord with 180,000 is still running. So I am not pleased with this shoddy quality and will certainly give my piece of mind to Honda about this transmission.
2009Jun 18
Odyssey V6
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
i have a 2002 Honda odyssey very well maintained.we are the second owner. we took it to john hindeerer Honda of Newark Ohio, where we bought it, only to find out the transmission has to be replaced, and with the warranty we bought from them for it will not cover the control module because it is not a covered part BUT it is not bad it only has to be changed because the upgrade tranny that Honda says to put in also has to have the ecm replaced to operate.this tell me that Honda knows there is still a problems with their tranny but they will not stand behind them.
i think the 2002 were {as with most cars} built with left over parts from 2001 so why were they not included in the lawsuit by specific models of trannys not just 1999 to 2001.
i talked to a yolanda at Honda of America and she told me that there obligation was fulfilled at 36000. so to me that means they only plan on 36000 and after that you are running on borrowed time.
TELL EVERY ONE THAT YOU KNOW ABOUT WHAT YOU HERE ABOUT HONDA ODYSSEY AND THE WAY HONDA HANDLES PEOPLE AFTER THE SALE. TELL THEM TO GOOGLE IT ON THE INTERNET AND SEE FOR THEM SELVES. I HAD ALWAYS HERD THEY ARE A GOOD CAR COMPANY. THEY ARE NOT
i am starting to believe what a old vet told me Honda=Help Our Nation Destroy America
all they want is our hard earned money then they run
bryan from Newark Ohio posted this
Update from Jun 19, 2009: i have already posted about it but YOU need to go to your local craigs list and place a add for your year of van and post all the trouble about it and how honda will not take care of their junk. you have to let every one know. if we make a lot of noise and can change peoples mind to buy anymore hondas then at least they will see how it feels to lose hard earned money. it is there cheap trannys they should have to take care of it.every one knows a van gets old , but this amount of bad trannys is unacceptable. it is not to much to ask they fix their screw up
2009May 21
Odyssey LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 95,000 miles
Transmission failed at 95000 miles. Honda refused to stand behind problem. This is the worst company I have ever dealt with. I hope that everyone who has this problem emails everyone on their email list to let the word out about how Honda treats its consumers. I can't believe that they are aware of the problem and not standing behind it. They lost a class action suit on the 1999 - 2001 models for the same problem. This needs to go into another class action suit. I will never buy another Honda. I had planned on trading in this year but they have lost a customer for life.
2009May 20
Odyssey EX 3.5L
- Automatic transmission
- 96,000 miles
transmission failed at 96,000 the Honda is taking care of me I think Bill was $4,800 then drop it down to $2,800 then I said I would not be buying a new Honda again. Then they said we will fix it for $1,000
2008Oct 15
Odyssey V6
- Automatic transmission
- 134,000 miles
Trans blew at 134,000 Honda offered $1,700 towards the repair cost. Still came out over $2,000. Thought Hondas were supposed to last forever? Hah! Toyota for me, my wife, and son. Let me daughter keep my old Toyota with 184K and no problem.
2009Apr 05
Odyssey EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 107,000 miles
To me now HONDA means HellONDA! I paid over $32K for a new Y02 Odyssey. Wanted a reliable long-term vehicle for my family. For a peace of mind also bought extended warranty. Owning my HellONDA has been a painful experience. In the note I'll only talk about autotransmission. In a little over 3 years with 54K miles the transmission failed - very painful as I lived 60 miles from the dealer. Prior to that all my service was done at the dealer. The dealer used the extended warranty to install a rebuilt HOWARD transmission- never even mentioned that he replaced it with a non-HellONDA transmission. Well, just about 3 years later with additional 53K miles the transmission failed again last week costing me about $4K to replace. I called HellONDA nationwide customer service. The rep said there was a problem with Y2002 HellONDA Odyssey transmission. There was a recall and the dealer had the recall service done on my HellONDA during the second year. She agreed that by the time of the recall service the defective component might have gone thru enough damage to cause the transmission to fail at 54K mile. She said that if at that time I had called HellONDA they might have replaced the part free. Now that I have a non-HellONDA transmission fail at 107K miles they really can't help me. I said the ROOT CAUSE of my second problem is their first defective transmission so HellONDA should provide me with some relief. She said no relief for me and asked me to call the dealer who relaced a non-HellONDA transmission. I called the service manager at the dealer who told me that there standard practice is to use norms of the extended warranty before even considering factory warranty. Since the extended warranty called for replacement using non-HellONDA transmission they simply obliged without informing me. I called back the HellONDA customer rep who still said NO to any relief. I requested to talk to her supervisor. Walter, her supervisor, called me an hour later. He said they can't provide any relief since I have a non-HellONDA transmisson. He even tried to make me feel guilty for choosing a non-HellONDA transmission to potentially save money. I again said that the ROOT CAUSE of my current problem was the original defective transmission so he should give me some consideration but he said no. He said that we could keep on arguing the whole day but his answer is no. I wish I had a bought a TOYOTA van. Just about the same time I bought my HellONDA Odyssey my friend bought TOYOTA - today after 120K miles that lucky chap has had no major expense on his van. I'll never buy a HellONDA again!
2009Mar 13
Odyssey EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
88K Miles on 2002 Honda, and the transmission needs to be replaced - shifting 2nd to 3rd would intermittently not happen. I deemed this dangerous to the family so I took it to a dealer. On the 1st trip, the dealer could not replicate the problem, and they sent us home. 2nd trip, we insisted they check more thoroughly as this was unsafe and obviously an unpredictable condition. They finally checked and found that the transmission needed to be replaced. Cost w/ chip was $4500. A call to Honda via the dealer got us 1/3 covered.
We had the repairs done, then decided to call Honda again to voice frustration on quality of the original and high expense. We were looking for a good faith assistance, and asking them to cover to 50% noting this would make me feel better about getting another Honda. They refused! I'm not planning on ever getting another Honda and I am urging those I know not to purchase Honda products. Keep in mind we took really good care of this van. I am also going to fire off a letter to Honda to make sure they get the message. This poor quality control is unacceptable. Please pass this information on to others.
2009Feb 27
Odyssey EXL V8
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
CLASS ACTION CLASS ACTION HONDA NEEDS TO STEP UP TO THE PLATE WE TRUSTED THEM RAVED ABOUT THE DECISION TO BUY HONDA THEY HAVE LOST ALL TRUST AND RESPECT
2009Feb 15
Odyssey EX 3.5L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 104,260 miles
The more I research the more I say, shame on you Honda. For such an honorable company to behave in such a dishonorable manner saddens me. My 02 Odyssey started by intermittently slipping between 4th and 5th gears. Took it to the dealer as it was time for the timing belt service. Had them test the transmission first. They found the transmission fluid to be thick and discolored. They felt that this was the only problem as the 2004 recall had been performed on the vehicle and due to gas prices it had been parked for better part of six months. I let them go ahead with the timing belt service and front brake job to the tune of $1,000. The next day the transmission fails, stranding my wife and kids.
Honda has agreed to split the cost of repairs, which takes me to $2150. I feel like they should do more, considering they have known of this problem all along and have deemed it cheaper to handle it on a case by case basis instead of openly admitting the problem and taking care their shoddily engineered transmission. This is the last Honda product I will ever purchase.
2008Dec 10
Odyssey EX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 106,000 miles
I checked on line and the previous 2 years were extended to 109,000 Miles under Honda warranty. I asked them why they did not spot anything at 95,000 transmission service. Honda covered half. Lots of little problems with this car since day one. Radio buttons never worked on the steering wheel. They finally replaced it at 95,000 at no cost. The map light switch cover the size of a Lego piece fell off and they wanted $300 for the entire overhead light assembly. They replaced that for nothing. sliding doors work intermittently. Clunk in front end that took 6 trips to fix. They claimed it was behind the glove box. Felt liner falling off in rear interior and RHS sliding doors and drivers door.
2009Feb 11
Odyssey EX 3.5L
- Automatic transmission
- 73,000 miles
Well I got suckered in to the same motto "Honda's the best car you can buy." Turns out I bought a big gold lemon. Horrible road noise. My Suburban get better gas mileage. Gas tank leak. Engine mount failure. Electrical issues. Now having problem with transmission, 2 weeks after warranty goes out. Problem shifting from 1st to 2nd. Dealer says need new trans for $4500. Guess I was a fool to bring it to the dealer for any repairs at that price. Might as well buy a new car, not Honda, paint this one yellow and park it by the dealership. Aamco said they could rebuild it for $2300 and said they do it everyday with the Honda's. Imagine that.
2009Jan 23
Odyssey EX
- Automatic transmission
- 108,000 miles
The usual problems with the transmission it seems. After reading the comments here, and at 108,000, I guess I feel lucky to have gotten this far on one transmission - which is ridiculous. We bought a Honda so we wouldn't have to deal with issues like this. We paid sticker and waited for 6 weeks - for this???? After looking at the consumerreports.org terrible reviews of the transmission and at the Wikipedia page - class action lawsuit, known extensive problems, etc., I'm disgusted that Honda is trying to make us pay $2200 for the repair. I'm fighting it tooth and nail - we'll see what happens. Since the lawsuit resulted in a warranty extension to 109,000, maybe they'll extend that to mine? I do worry that our problems won't end there, though.
2008Dec 11
Odyssey EXL V6
- Automatic transmission
- 72,000 miles
It's only 72000 miles!!!!
We love our Honda Odyssey since my family and I have traveled together most of the time for our interstate vacations. However, it is s turn off for this part to fail this early.
If Honda will take care of the replacement, I'll be happy!
2009Jan 05
Odyssey LX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 84,000 miles
Just took my 2002 Odyssey in this afternoon and got "the call". Transmission is shot at 84,000 miles. My service rep told me he'd be shocked if Honda didn't "do something"--which could be anything from a total free replacement to absolutely nothing, and anything in between. The rep said he predicts they will "give" me the transmission but I'l have to pay labor ($500-600). Damn! I'll stay optimistic until there's reason to be pissed!
2008Dec 24
Odyssey LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 54,666 miles
Bought a new 2002 Honda Odyssey Vn at Maronne Honda in Hollywood, Florida. Had all scheduled maintenance and changed oil every 3,000 miles (have receipts for all work). Transmission needs total replacement at 54,666 miles and it isn't covered under warranty. According to dealer Honda recognized they had a major problem on 2000 and 2001 transmissions and covered them under warranty after standard warranty expired but the chose not to cover the 2002'a even though the vehicles have the same problem. I have a Toyota Camry with 200,000 miles and it has never had any transmission problems. Extremely upset that Honda doesn't take responsibility for the known defect and cover repairs. It is a source of embarrassment for the company in my opinion and I plan to let everyone know. I will be purchasing a Toyota Sienna and never will purchase another Honda. When we dropped the van off for what we thought would be a minor repair we actually looked at a 2009 CR-V and were going to purchase it the following day. Not now.
2008Dec 30
Odyssey EX
- Automatic transmission
- 87,000 miles
I bought this 2002 Odyssey brand new. I bought it over a Toyota, Dodge, because it was a Honda. Have gone above and beyond in taking care of it. Check engine light comes on and I took it to the dealer they ran the code and said you need a new transmission. It will cost you around $4200. I am so mad right now I spent $28,000.00 on a Honda for durability, reliability, and longevity. I got screwed at 87,000 miles!!!!! What makes me even more pissed is that I am reading all of these other people with my exact same story and Honda is doing Nothing? If anyone has had success with Honda in getting this taken care of please tell me how you did it. My dealer says no way, They have offered me $3900.00 to put towards a new Honda.
2008Dec 27
Odyssey EXL 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 93,000 miles
I was 2 weeks out of my extended warranty when my transmission failed. Honda dealer stated that it would cost $3427.00 to fix and that was with a little discount from the Honda. I have been left without a car since this happened and the only thing the dealer can say is that it needs to be fixed or we can buy another car. I don't know about anyone else but times are hard for my family right now and it is hard to afford a new car. I have had my honda for just over 4 years and originally bought it because of its reported GREAT reputation (LOL). I had a 1998 Honda Accord that we bought new never had any problems with it. I always wanted an Odyssey but am very disappointed at this point. My next car will NOT be a Honda.
2008Nov 02
Odyssey LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 99,000 miles
I can't believe this from a Honda? We are at the point of waiting to hear from the Honda Corporation any advise would be appreciated. Our transmission came to a dead stop 54 miles from Wendover Utah we are talking dirt and sagebrush sagebrush and dirt! My eighteen year old daughter was driving I hate to think what could hve happen had she been in city traffic. There has to be something done before someone really gets hurt!
2008Sep 15
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 97,000 miles
Apparently, I didn't do my homework on the 2002 Odyssey and get to enjoy the perpetual fisting its transmission is going to dish out. We purchased it used last year in expectation of our fourth child being born and stayed brand loyal to Honda because of our two previous purchases of a 1999 Accord and Civic of the same year. Not a single problem with those cars. Everything went fine with the Odyssey until the transmission went out at approx 97,000. It was a surprise for us, but it was covered under the standard warranty and recall for that model. Took a week to get the part and replace. We pick it up and in seven days, same problems. Sudden revving in first, slippage out of second into first and then the emission light goes off! That's when the thing practically blew up. So, we haul it down to the dealer again and seriously, they tell us they can't duplicate the problem. Within minutes of that call, they call back and I quote, "We just lost first." So, transmission number two is installed.
Five days ago, the same problems again. Revving, slippage and emission light. It's down at the dealer now and we already had the call, "We can't duplicate the problem." Told them to drive it around until it fails because if it toasts on me while I'm towing my kids around, I'm going to be the last thing they want screaming in their lobby. Let's see how long before I get the call that transmission number three is going to installed.
This is the last Honda I will purchase.
2008Sep 26
Odyssey EX-L 3.5L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 126,500 miles
Ha Ha Ha. This is getting ridiculous. This is my Odyssey's 3rd Transmission! I just had it replaced in June (see my previous post - I think it's #18). This time the dealer flushed the transmission fluid before installing the new transmission AND they replaced the PCM (computer that regulates the transmission). All of this was no charge because it was under Honda warranty. Hopefully this will finally take care of the problem.
2007Oct 01
Odyssey 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 97,000 miles
Transmission had just 3000 more miles under extended warranty. We just made it. Transmission had to be replaced.
2008Aug 16
Odyssey XLE
- Automatic transmission
- 102,000 miles
My husband, 2 year old daughter and I were on our way to maine for vacation from n.j.. We were following my dad's car, and brother-in-law's car, we went thru the toll plaza onto the ny thruway and all of a sudden i felt like i had no control over the car it was accelerating when i was braking, and braking when i was accelerating, the needle on the rpm gauge was going crazy and there was no shoulder to pull over to since there was construction. Tractor trailers were flying by us, i drove 10 miles an hour with the hazards on and was finally able to get over when i did all the lights came on and smoke poured out of the hood, we got out of the van and stood on the side so that we wouldn't get hit and it was freezing as it was VERY early in the morning and my daughter was crying because she was cold. It took a week for the rebuilt to come, we had to pay for a rental car to finish the trip for our vacation. Now it is the end of sept, and we have only put on about 2000 miles and this tranny is acting weird again, almost as if it is getting stuck when it shifts, and i was driving down a hill and the car lurched and breaked and i didn't even have my foot on the brake. I used to love driving and now i'm scared to death to get behind the wheel, especially since i have a 2 year old daughter. we still have about 5000 to pay off on it, we only just got the vehicle at the end of june of this year we bought it used. I really wish there was a way to bring a class action suit against honda!
2008Aug 05
Odyssey LX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 66,250 miles
Engine light came on. I took it to my local mechanic that said the problem was a PO740 Tourque converter/circuit failure. He told me something involving the transmission. Could cost anywhere between $2,500-$3,600 to fix. Called American Honda they stated that my warranty was up and that I would need to have checked at an authorized Honda dealer in order to be able to receive ANY compensation from them. Made an appointment with local dealer and the best American Honda will do is a a re-built transmission with a 3 yr/36,000 mile warranty after I pay the labor cost of $1,050.00 And of course the week's worth of car rental. I most say that I have had excellent luck with this vehicle unitl now and I expected more from Honda especially on a vehicle that only has 66,000 plus miles. Thanks for nothing Honda! Here I come...TOYOTA!!!
2004Mar 18
Odyssey LX
- Automatic transmission
- 49,477 miles
We ordered our Honda Odyssey in November of 2001 (since none were available used at the time) and spent the extra money for the Honda reputation of quality and reliability. What a joke! In March of 2004, at almost 50,000 miles and after several trips to the dealer to complain about strange shifting, revving of the engine as if we were in neutral, and such, it was finally determined that the transmission needed replaced. Of course the warranty was expired. We didn't go for the extended warranty - because it was a HONDA! Honda of N. America helped with the replacement expenses, after our continued nagging. In November of 2005, at 87,000 miles, the recall for the PCM was issued and we went back to the dealer for the repair. In May of 2007 at 114,622 miles the rear main seal broke and the transmission had to be pulled so the seal could be replaced (it should have been replaced during the first transmission issue anyway, but it was not done). June of 2008 until present, at about 135,000 miles we have experienced continuous transmission fluid leaks. The seal was replaced in June and again in August. We went back to the dealer on the 18th of August since it was STILL leaking, and now lights were coming on all over the dash - GUESS WHAT? THEY SAY IT NEEDS ANOTHER TRANSMISSION for $4200! So much for the reliable, quality reputation! We deliberately stayed away from chrysler and dodge vans when we were shopping around because we didn't want to have to deal with these problems. My husband is very mechanically inclined and has babied this vehicle with all it's regular maintenance, oil changes, and transmission flushes which is probably the only reason it has lasted as long as it has. For those out there going through these same problems here's a word of advice...make sure to have them change the retainer clip on the axle whenever they pull the transmission, it's also called a set ring (part #44319-S0X-A01) - this should be done even if the dealer says "it looks okay". We are now having to put on yet another seal and replace this clip to see if we can baby it along a little longer until we can come up with a plan to get rid of it or fix it! By the way, the dealers are all well aware of these problems, as evidenced in the commentary from our mechanics at Duncan Honda in Christiansburg, VA, yet Honda has yet to do anything to correct the issue. It's obvious from the other complaints on this site alone, that we are all going through the same BS! The other reason we elected to buy a Honda was the fact that they retain their value so well. So much for that, now it'll cost us more to fix it than it's worth and it's only 6 years old! We can't even trade it in for a reliable vehicle, because nobody wants to deal with them - the complaints and problems are all over the internet. We will NEVER buy another Honda and we will never recommend them to others. In fact, we are telling our friends and family who also own other model years of the Odyssey to get rid of them before it's too late! We are in agreement with the other comment that called for a Class Action Law suit. Someone needs to do something, Honda should pay for the repairs costs we've incurred, the time we've spent, and at the very least should put a new transmission in at no charge. We are absolutely irate!
2008Jun 15
Odyssey XLE 3.5L
- Automatic transmission
- 102,000 miles
This is on a re manufactured n/c tranny Honda put in 64000 miles ago at 38000. Trans is erratic in shifting now and losing fluid consistently. From the left output shaft seal.
At the first replacement service manager recommended trans cooler be installed. I put in a super duty size for motor homes uo to 24000 lbs. And have changed fluid every 15000 miles since. that is probably the only reason this piece of crap tranny lasted 64000. miles. I am replacing the seal and going to see if Honda will pop for another tranny. See my original complaint number 1.
2005Apr 18
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 44,000 miles
Transmission went on the way home from vacation at 44,000. Broke down on NY Thruway - Very dangerous and very inconvenient. $2900 to replace transmission.
Transmission went on the way to vacation at 87,000. Broke down on Exit 2 of NJ Turnpike. Very dangerous and very inconvenient. Had to leave car and rent one to continue on our vacation. Will get fixed this weekend - $3300.
Honda Odysseys are notorious for this, and depending on where you break down, this can be VERY DANGEROUS. We have 2 kids under 10, and this has happened twice with them in the car on highways with cars running at an average of 75 mph. Honda is really taking chances with peoples' lives turning out faulty product. It's a crime.
2008Jul 19
Odyssey LX
- Automatic transmission
- 54,000 miles
Transmission failed the second time on this vehicle. It was replaced at 49,000 miles by Honda. It failed again at 105,000, seems like a pattern. Was disappointed with corporate as it appears they have a problem with this year.
2008Jul 12
Odyssey EX
- Automatic transmission
- 105,000 miles
2002 Odyssey transmission failed the 2nd time with miles of 105,000.
It went 3.5 years ago with 49,000 miles. Honda covered all the repair and gave another warranty for rebuilt transmission. In July, 2008, it failed the 2nd time after taking to dealer to fix the check engine light. Honda only covered 80% on 2nd transmission. Will it happen again. Seems like a design defect.
2008Jan 25
Odyssey EX-L
- Automatic transmission
- 110,500 miles
2002 Honda Odyssey, began having trouble with the transmission at 50,000 miles. When I brought it to the dealer then, they said nothing was wrong with it. Then a couple years later, at 90,000 miles, driving from Massachusetts to Florida the "D" light stayed on flashing. No other indicators came on at that time. The light subsequently went off and everything seemed fine. Eight months later, 110,000 miles, the Check Engine and TCS lights came on. Brought it to the dealer for service and they determined the transmission needed replacement. After much debate, they agreed to replace it with us only having to pay for labor, as we had it to them for all major services and began having the problem while it was under warranty and they had record of that. Now, after less than 20,000 miles on the new transmission, I am having trouble with it stuttering when shifting. I had it back to the dealer last month and they told me it definitely was not the transmission, probably an EGR problem, especially since no indicator lights were on. Now, just yesterday, the "Check Engine", "TCS", and "Maintenance Required" lights all came on. Don't tell me this is not another transmission problem. I will be bringing it to the service department tomorrow. I should have kept my Chrysler van and never have gotten a Honda - what ever happened to their reliability? Perhaps reliability for their servcie departments keeping busy.
2008Jul 17
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 58,000 miles
The transmission seemed to slip between second and third intermittently when I first bought the car new in 2002. The dealer could never replicate the problem naturally. I've done all the scheduled maintenance. My check engine light went on about a week ago and I finally had time to take it in. It's a Honda. I never expected the service rep to tell me I needed a new transmission because of a torque convertor failure. My warranty was 72 months or 100,000 miles and lapsed six months ago. After reading about so many other failures, I'm really steamed about this.
2008Jul 14
Odyssey LE 3.5L
- Automatic transmission
- 49,200 miles
I bought the Odyssey because I thought the Hondas were very good cars and the quality was excellent. I was wrong. I had a 1991 Caravan that the transmission went out a 61000 miles. I thought that was bad. But the Honda at 49000 is worst. I'm rethinking buying a Caravan now. Chrysler has a lifetime warranty on their transmission. I called Honda,USA and they won't cover the warranty. I talked to transmission specialist friend that I've known for 45 years and he said Honda has known the defect from 1999 to 2005 models. I'm not sure if I would buy another Honda again. This fix just lost the fuel savings I thought I got from buying a minivan from a full size van.!!!!!! I'm pisssd at Honda
2008Jun 16
Odyssey EXL 3.5L
- Automatic transmission
- 121,500 miles
I knew there would be problems with this transmission, but didn't know it would be so soon. I purchased an extended warranty but the transmission outlasted it by 21k miles. I think that a transmission failure after only 6 years is unacceptable for a Japanese make. The dealer is asking $ 4400 for a new transmission with 1 year warranty. This does not include a new PCM - computer that regulates shift patterns. They quoted me another $900 to $1200 for a new PCM. I think the total is about as much as the car is worth! I'm borrowing my dad's 1988 Mercedes Benz 190E with the original transmission!
If you are still driving one of these cars and the transmission has not gone out on you, trade it in NOW and avoid the headache of deciding whether to invest in a new transmission or starting all over with another car.
2008Jun 23
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
The transmission was slipping and the dealer installed an extra "cooling tube' as prescribed by a recall. However this did not solve the problem. Now the dealer wants ~$3000 to replace the transmission. Now after doing some research I have found that this is a common issue. Many of you have written that this is a safety issue which is also the first thing I realized as well. It's hard to believe Honda is ignoring this problem.
2003Jun 18
Odyssey LX
- Automatic transmission
- 36,000 miles
The tranny was under recall for 2nd gear, mine failed in 3rd gear, so it was not covered. They replaced it, I paid for labor, mighty nice of them I thought. The new tranny went out recently. They paid 1/2 again, this is getting expensive.
My neighbor has the same van and his went out 5 times. I am selling. Sorry Honda, I use to trust you.
2006Jun 24
Odyssey EX-L
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
I bought this as a used vehicle at 65K mileage with a great trust on Honda. But it was a big blunder I made as soon as I started to drive it I noticed something is wrong with transmission. I took vehicle couple of times to dealer but could not identity the problem. Now they finally decided to replace transmission at $3000 cost ( after 25% discount from Honda). Honda is not bothered to pay for the total cost even though it is a manufacturing defect. Now I decided not to buy Honda in future.
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2009Nov 13
Odyssey EX-L V6
I bought this van new from a local dealer, because I wanted something reliable for my wife and kids. I dropped big bucks and actually waited on a list to get this van because of the demand. No real issues for 92K miles and yesterday my wife tries to go somewhere and it won't go into drive. Had it towed to the dealer and WHAM, hey "total failure, need to replace the whole thing along with the control module". The reason I bought a Honda was so that I wouldn't have to worry about it until 150K. If I would have expected to throw it away (as I'll basically do now) I would have bought a Caravan! I just figured I got the one bad one, until I saw all the complaints on this web page. It really fires me up to know that Honda had a problem with this transmission and did nothing about it!
Brian T.
Meridian, ID, USA
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