The Honda Odyssey has been a staple in the minivan segment since its introduction, providing families with reliability, practicality, and useful innovative features. Competing against the likes of the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica, the Odyssey has carved out a niche for itself by focusing on durability and a family-friendly design. Let’s look at the best years for the Honda Odyssey in terms of vehicle ownership and reliability, while also spotting which model years to avoid.
A Brief History Of The Honda Odyssey Minivan
Ah yes, the venerable minivan. Well, we can all thank the automotive legendary icon, Lee Iacocca, and Chrysler for the front-wheel-drive family haulers. The minivan, as we know it today, became a hit in the 1980s and most automakers have since added one to their lineups.
Honda introduced the Odyssey in 1994 and the minivan has undergone five generations of evolution. Each iteration brought improvements in technology, safety, and comfort, solidifying its position in the market. The vehicle was family and soccer-mom-friendly, and could transport up to eight occupants in style along with a satisfying volume of cargo. To that note, the Honda Odyssey minivan has been highly acclaimed throughout the years. The platform claimed coveted awards throughout its life.
| Honda Odyssey: Generations Overview | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation | Model Years | Engine | Key Features |
| 1st | 1995-1998 | 2.2-Liter I4, 2.3-Liter I4 | Compact size, four-cylinder engines, car-like handling |
| 2nd | 1999-2004 | 3.5-Liter V6 | V6 engine, sliding doors, larger size |
| 3rd | 2005-2010 | 3.5-Liter V6 | Increased safety features, Variable Cylinder Management |
| 4th | 2011-2017 | 3.5-Liter V6 | Refined styling, improved fuel efficiency, advanced technology |
| 5th | 2018-Present | 3.5-Liter V6 | Updated infotainment, Magic Slide seats, more powerful V6 |
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The Best Honda Odyssey Model Years
Selecting the best year for the Honda Odyssey can be subjective. But, there are important distinctions that should be considered. In this case, we’ve accessed data from reputable resources. Looking specifically at Car Complaints, Edmunds ratings, and NHTSA complaint and recall information helps determine the best and worst model years to own.
In general, if you were to ask which Honda Odyssey years are the most reliable, the statistics show the first (1995-1998) and fourth (2011-2017) generation models have the best records. However, we cannot promote 30-year-old minivans as the best buy. Each used vehicle is unique due to varying driving conditions, regular maintenance schedules, and maintenance standards. So, considering the wear and tear of vehicles, current market valuations, proven reliability, and owner satisfaction, here are best year models for the Honda Odyssey.
2013 Honda Odyssey (Fourth Generation)
The 2013 Honda Odyssey is often hailed as one of the Honda Odyssey’s best years for reliability. This model year benefits from a mid-cycle refresh, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and safety features. Owners appreciate the 2013 Odyssey for its smooth ride, spacious interior, and advanced safety features, contributing to its top reliability scores. At this point, vehicles of this age are racking up miles, so look for well-maintained vehicles that are certified pre-owned.
Highlights:
- Engine: 3.5L V6
- Horsepower: 248 hp
- MPG: 19/27/22 mpg city/highway/combined
- Accolades: 5-star NHTSA Overall Safety Rating, J.D. Power 78/100 Quality & Reliability Score Average
- Key Features: Rearview camera, HondaVAC vacuum, Bluetooth, power tailgate, tri-zone automatic climate control
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2017 Honda Odyssey (Fourth Generation)
Another standout year is 2017, marking the final production year of the fourth generation. The 2017 model is known for its robustness and refined driving experience. With a reputation for low maintenance costs and minimal issues, the 2017 Odyssey is a top choice for families seeking a dependable minivan.
Highlights:
- Engine: 3.5L V6
- Horsepower: 248 hp
- MPG: 19/27 22 mpg city/highway/combined
- Accolades: 5-star NHTSA Overall Safety Rating
- Key Features: HondaVAC vacuum, acoustic windshield, rear entertainment system, Honda Sensing safety suite
2020 Honda Odyssey (Fifth Generation)
Redesigned in 2018, the fifth-generation Honda Odyssey rises above all the others, and benefits from the latest in Honda’s engineering and technology. This includes modern safety and tech features, and a strong V6 engine.
The 2020 Honda Odyssey, despite some complaints and recalls, still receives high marks and is known for very good reliability, making it a modern and worry-free option for buyers.
Highlights:
- Engine: 3.5L V6
- Horsepower: 280 hp
- MPG: 19/28/22 mpg city/highway/combined
- Accolades: 5-star NHTSA Overall Safety Rating
- Key Features: Magic Slide seats, CabinWatch and CabinTalk features, 10-speed automatic transmission
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Honda Odyssey Years to Avoid
While the Honda Odyssey is generally reliable, there are certain Honda Odyssey years to avoid due to recurring issues and complaints.
2005 Honda Odyssey (Third Generation)
The 2005 Odyssey, part of the third generation, is often criticized for its numerous mechanical issues, particularly with the transmission. Despite its innovative features at the time, the 2005 model year has been plagued with reliability problems that can lead to expensive repairs. Based on Car Complaints data, it has the highest number of complaints for any Odyssey model year.
Common issues:
- Transmission failure
- Brake problems
- Fuel pump issues
- Power lift gate malfunctions
- Speed sensors
- Electrical issues
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2007 Honda Odyssey (Third Generation)
The 2007 Odyssey, also a derivative from the third generation, is another model year plagued by reliability issues, particularly related to the engine and electrical systems. Owners have reported problems with the fuel system and significant issues with the brakes, contributing to higher maintenance costs.
Common issues:
- Engine misfires
- Body/paint problems
- Steering issues
- Electrical system failures
- Problematic brakes
2002 Honda Odyssey (Second Generation)
If you’re after a cheap second-gen Odyssey, you should avoid the 2002 model. Car Complaints advises shoppers to “avoid like the plague,” due to the cost and frequency of the 2002 Odyssey’s transmission issues. Some owners experienced outright transmission failure, with the typical repair cost being around $3,500. Transmission slipping, bangs when shifting, and disengaged gears were also reported. On the NHTSA, the 2002 Odyssey has the highest number of complaints, nearing 1,000 at the time of writing.
Common issues:
- Transmission failure
- Exterior accessories
- Electrical problems
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Summary: A Capable Minivan
When considering the Honda Odyssey’s reliability by year, it’s clear that certain model years excel in providing a trouble-free ownership experience. For the best options for respective advancements in reliability, safety, and overall value, look for newer models less than ten years old. In general, we’d avoid Odysseys produced in the 2000s due to their chronic issues and higher maintenance costs. With this information in hand, prospective buyers can make informed decisions and enjoy the many useful benefits the Honda Odyssey has to offer.
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