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2008 Honda Odyssey

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Odyssey years

Owner complaints for the 2008 Honda Odyssey are substantially higher than the model-year median of 249.5.

About this comparison →

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

421 reports with mileage · 78 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Structure. Review the 123 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic. Review the 88 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Service Brakes. Review the 62 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

37 crash reports8 fire reports38 injury reports

What owners actually said

499 reports
101,000 miles · Sep 16, 2014
Service BrakesCrash

ON 09/07/14, WAS INVOLVED IN A 4 CAR ACCIDENT. TRAVELING WESTBOUND ON ROUTE 60, NEAR I605, LIGHT TRAFFIC AT APPROX. 3:45 PM. # 1 LANE WAS CLOSING, DUE TO FWY WORK/MAINTENANCE. SAW SIGNS AND PROCEEDED TO MOVE FROM THE #1 LANE TO THE #2 LANE, WHILE IN THE #2 LANE NOTICED THE FLASHING ARROW FOR THE LANE CLOSURE. I ESTIMATE I …

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ON 09/07/14, WAS INVOLVED IN A 4 CAR ACCIDENT. TRAVELING WESTBOUND ON ROUTE 60, NEAR I605, LIGHT TRAFFIC AT APPROX. 3:45 PM. # 1 LANE WAS CLOSING, DUE TO FWY WORK/MAINTENANCE. SAW SIGNS AND PROCEEDED TO MOVE FROM THE #1 LANE TO THE #2 LANE, WHILE IN THE #2 LANE NOTICED THE FLASHING ARROW FOR THE LANE CLOSURE. I ESTIMATE I SLOWED TO ABOUT 60 MPH, SINCE TRAFFIC WAS MERGING, CAR IN FRONT WAS APPROX. 6-7 CARS LENGTHS AHEAD, WHEN I SAW BRAKE LIGHTS FROM THE CAR AHEAD OF ME AND THEY HAD COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. WHICH APPEARED TO BE FROM AN ACCIDENT. I IMMEDIATELY APPLIED THE BRAKES HARD TO STOP, BUT COULD NOT STOP IN TIME. ENDED UP HITTING THE VEHICLE IN FROM LIGHTLY, MAYBE ABOUT 5-10 MPH AT TIME OF IMPACT. BASED UPON THE DISTANCE FROM THE CAR AHEAD, I SHOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO STOP OUR VEHICLE. DID NOT FEEL LIKE THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM WAS WORKING, FELT NO PULSATING OR PUSH BACK IN THE PEDAL AND CAR APPEARED TO SKID/SLIDE INTO THE CAR AHEAD. I FOUND A RECALL NOTICE FOR THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES, WHICH STATED THAT AIR CAN ENTER THE SYSTEM AND AFFECT THE VEHICLE BRAKING SYSTEM. NEVER RECEIVED ANY RECALL NOTICE FROM HONDA ABOUT THIS AND I BELIEVE THE FAULTY BRAKE SYSTEM WAS A FACTOR IN OUR AVOIDABLE INCIDENT. ANOTHER CAR HIT US FROM BEHIND AND THE DRIVER WAS INJURED VERY BADLY. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10633590

Mileage unknown · Sep 9, 2014
Fuel/propulsion System

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO HAVE THE VEHICLE REPAIRED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V112000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE), THE DEALER REFUSED TO COMPLETE THE REPAIRS UNLESS THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE PAID FOR A DETAILED CLEANING FIRST. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPE…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO HAVE THE VEHICLE REPAIRED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V112000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE), THE DEALER REFUSED TO COMPLETE THE REPAIRS UNLESS THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE PAID FOR A DETAILED CLEANING FIRST. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

NHTSA ODI #10631744

90,300 miles · Sep 7, 2014
Engine

2008 HONDA ODYSSEY (ABOUT 5.5 YEARS OLD, 90,000 MILES). DRIVING ON HIGHWAY AT 65 MPH, WHEN A LOUD EXPLOSION OCCURRED. CAR STARTED MAKING A LOUD NOISE SIMILAR TO WHEN THE EXHAUST COMES OFF. LOSS IN ACCELERATION AND SPEED. STALLED SHORTLY AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO DEALER. DIAGNOSIS WAS - COIL AND SPARK PLUG HEAD "EXPLODED" ON CY…

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2008 HONDA ODYSSEY (ABOUT 5.5 YEARS OLD, 90,000 MILES). DRIVING ON HIGHWAY AT 65 MPH, WHEN A LOUD EXPLOSION OCCURRED. CAR STARTED MAKING A LOUD NOISE SIMILAR TO WHEN THE EXHAUST COMES OFF. LOSS IN ACCELERATION AND SPEED. STALLED SHORTLY AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO DEALER. DIAGNOSIS WAS - COIL AND SPARK PLUG HEAD "EXPLODED" ON CYLINDER #2. SOME PARTS FELL IN AND THE INSIDE OF CYLINDER WAS SCORED. ENGINE WAS CONSIDERED NON-REPAIRABLE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. HAD ENGINE REPLACED AT THE LOCAL DEALER. COST OVER $5,000. HONDA REFUSES TO MAKE ANY AMENDS, OR OFFER ANY COMPENSATION. THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. THE FIRST SERVICE ON THIS ENGINE IS DUE AT 105,000 MILES. THE CAR IS 5.5 YEARS OLD WITH ABOUT 90,000 MILES. THIS IS A FACTORY SEALED ENGINE. THE CAR HAS BEEN REGULARLY SERVICED AT THE HONDA DEALERSHIP.

NHTSA ODI #10631417

30,000 miles · Sep 3, 2014
Steering

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT STATED WHENEVER THE VEHICLE WAS SHIFTED INTO THE PARK POSITION OR STEERED TO LEFT OR RIGHT, THE VEHICLE MADE AN ABNORMAL POPPING SOUND. THE PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICL…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT STATED WHENEVER THE VEHICLE WAS SHIFTED INTO THE PARK POSITION OR STEERED TO LEFT OR RIGHT, THE VEHICLE MADE AN ABNORMAL POPPING SOUND. THE PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.

NHTSA ODI #10630411

Mileage unknown · Aug 28, 2014
Structure

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE LIFTGATE, THE DOOR INADVERTENTLY CLOSED AND KNOCKED THE CONTACT TO THE GROUND. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V062000 (STRUCTURE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE LIFTGATE, THE DOOR INADVERTENTLY CLOSED AND KNOCKED THE CONTACT TO THE GROUND. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V062000 (STRUCTURE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.

NHTSA ODI #10629045

110,000 miles · Aug 27, 2014
Latches/locks/linkages

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SLIDING DOORS FAILED TO LATCH COMPLETELY AND WOULD OPEN ON ITS WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.

NHTSA ODI #10628767

10,000 miles · Aug 22, 2014
Power TrainService Brakes

FIRST COMPLAINT WAS DESCRIBED BY THE DEALERS AS A HUMMING IN THE TRANSMISSION. MY DESCRIPTION IS LIKE A KICKBACK OR HARD DOWNSHIFTING. NEXT COMPLAINT IS BRAKES SEEM LIKE YOU APPLY FOOT TO PEDAL AND IT SEEMS LIKE YOUR NOT GOING TO STOP WHILE FOOT IS ALL THE WAY DOWN. THEN THERE'S LIKE A SOUND OF SOMETHING RELEASING OR LETTING GO…

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FIRST COMPLAINT WAS DESCRIBED BY THE DEALERS AS A HUMMING IN THE TRANSMISSION. MY DESCRIPTION IS LIKE A KICKBACK OR HARD DOWNSHIFTING. NEXT COMPLAINT IS BRAKES SEEM LIKE YOU APPLY FOOT TO PEDAL AND IT SEEMS LIKE YOUR NOT GOING TO STOP WHILE FOOT IS ALL THE WAY DOWN. THEN THERE'S LIKE A SOUND OF SOMETHING RELEASING OR LETTING GO. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10627419

12,000 miles · Aug 20, 2014
Service Brakes

WHEN BRAKING THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHAKES SEVERELY. HONDA DEALERS CLAIM THAT "THESE VANS JUST HAVE A BAD BRAKE DESIGN" AND CHARGE TO RE-SURFACE THE ROTORS APPROXIMATELY EVERY TWELVE TO FOURTEEN THOUSAND MILES. I'M AMAZED THAT THERE HAVEN'T BEEN MORE ACCIDENTS CAUSED BY THIS FLAW. WITH THE SEVERE SHAKING THERE IS ALSO DRAM…

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WHEN BRAKING THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHAKES SEVERELY. HONDA DEALERS CLAIM THAT "THESE VANS JUST HAVE A BAD BRAKE DESIGN" AND CHARGE TO RE-SURFACE THE ROTORS APPROXIMATELY EVERY TWELVE TO FOURTEEN THOUSAND MILES. I'M AMAZED THAT THERE HAVEN'T BEEN MORE ACCIDENTS CAUSED BY THIS FLAW. WITH THE SEVERE SHAKING THERE IS ALSO DRAMATIC BRAKE FADING, ESPECIALLY DRIVING ON ANY DOWNHILL SLOPE. WE ARE ALWAYS HESITANT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE ON LONG TRIPS AS YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN THE BRAKES WILL ACT UP. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10626826

106,200 miles · Aug 11, 2014
Electrical SystemFuel System, Gasoline

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 14V112000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AND 13V500000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). AFTER THE REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED, THE CONTACT FOUND BOLTS THAT WERE LEFT IN THE CUPHOLDER. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BOLTS BELONGED TO ANOTHER V…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 14V112000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AND 13V500000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). AFTER THE REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED, THE CONTACT FOUND BOLTS THAT WERE LEFT IN THE CUPHOLDER. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BOLTS BELONGED TO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE REPAIRS WERE NOT PERFORMED ADEQUATELY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 106,200.

NHTSA ODI #10621522

109,000 miles · Aug 8, 2014
EnginePower Train

ON APPROXIMATELY 7/1, I WAS DRIVING HOME. THE CAR WOULDN'T SWITCH GEARS AND LOST A BIT OF POWER. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE DOWN AN INTERSTATE DURING RUSH HOUR AT APPROX. 40 MILES PER HOUR. I HAD THE VAN TOWED TO A FRIENDS HOUSE. THE NEXT DAY, I DROVE IT TO HONDAMAN, A CERTIFIED HONDA REPAIR SHOP, THEY DID A VALVE ADJUSTMENT. THE …

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ON APPROXIMATELY 7/1, I WAS DRIVING HOME. THE CAR WOULDN'T SWITCH GEARS AND LOST A BIT OF POWER. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE DOWN AN INTERSTATE DURING RUSH HOUR AT APPROX. 40 MILES PER HOUR. I HAD THE VAN TOWED TO A FRIENDS HOUSE. THE NEXT DAY, I DROVE IT TO HONDAMAN, A CERTIFIED HONDA REPAIR SHOP, THEY DID A VALVE ADJUSTMENT. THE VALVE ADJUSTMENT DIDN'T WORK. THERE WAS A CLICKING, VIBRATING, KNOCKING NOISE AT 2800RPMS WHILE THE CAR WAS IN PARK (METAL ON METAL NOISE) AND THEN WHEN DRIVING. REPLACED THE TIMING BELT AND TENSIONER AS RECOMMENDED, THIS DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. DID ANOTHER VALVE ADJUSTMENT (ACCORDING TO THE TSB) AND THAT DID NOT WORK. RECOMMENDATIONS WAS THAT THE ENGINE BE REPLACED OR REBUILT. AT NO POINT EVER DID THE CAR HAVE A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, LOW OIL LIGHT, OR ANY OTHER SIGNS OF PROBLEMS. I TOOK THE CAR TO BROWN'S HONDA, THEY RECOMMENDED A CYLINDER HEAD REPLACEMENT, VALVE REPLACEMENT AND CAMSHAFT REPLACEMENT. THE ITEMS HAD SHOWN METAL ON METAL WEAR. THE SHOPS AND BASED ON RESEARCH, THIS A SIGN OF NO LUBRICATION. THEY SHOP TOLD ME THAT THIS HAPPENS AND IT IS A FLUKE. I ALSO NOTIFIED THEM THAT THERE ARE NUMEROUS TSBS ON MY CAR AND IF I MOVE FORWARD WITH THE FRONT CAM REPLACEMENT, I AM WORRIED THAT SINCE THE ISSUE COULD NOT BE IDENTIFIED, THAT THE REAR CAM AND PISTONS' OR CAMSHAFT WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. I DID HAVE MY OIL PAN AND OIL PLUG REPLACED 2 YEARS AGO AND AFTER RESEARCHING MORE ABOUT MY CAR, FOUND THAT THIS WAS A DEFECT IN THE MODEL I PURCHASED. I ALSO CALLED THE MISFIRE SETTLEMENT AND WAS NOTIFIED THAT SINCE NO DIAGNOSTIC CODES SHOWED UP, THERE WAS NOTHING THEY CAN DO TO EXTEND MY WARRANTY. SINCE THE NOTIFICATIONS ONLY OCCUR DUE TO EMISSION ISSUES, THE CAR ENGINE WOULD HAVE BLOWN UP WHILE I WAS DRIVING WITH NO WARNING. I HAD ALL MAINTENANCE WITH HONDA AND TRULY SCARED THAT THIS WILL EFFECT OTHER BUYERS. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10621007

Official recalls

4

14V112000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump

Mar 14, 2014

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain 2005-2010 Honda Odyssey vehicles manufactured June 23, 2004, through September 4, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the fuel pump strainer cover may deteriorate allowing fuel to leak out.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Parts to permanently repair the affected vehicles are not currently available. Honda will notify owners with an interim letter during May 2014. A second notice was mailed to owners October 6, 2014 when the remedy became available. Any vehicles that are currently leaking from the fuel pump cover will get a replacement, original cover. All vehicles, including those receiving the interim repair, will get an improved cover when they are available. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009. The recall numbers associated with this campaign are JD9 (inspection and/or preliminary part replacement) and JE0 (final parts replacement).

13V500000 · Electrical System:software

Nov 1, 2013

American Honda Motor Company (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 Honda Odyssey vehicles manufactured August 8, 2006, through September 8, 2008. Due to a combination of system components and software, the Vehicle Safety Assist System (VSA) may apply the brakes unexpectedly.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: The vehicle may suddenly and unexpectedly brake hard, and without illuminating the brake lights, increasing the risk of a crash from behind.

Remedy: Parts to remedy these vehicles will not be available until the spring of 2014. Honda will send owners an interim letter notifying them of the issue and instruct them how to prevent unintended braking. A second notification will be sent when the parts become available. Interim notification was mailed in December 2013. The recall began on April 29, 2014. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009 or visit their website at www.recalls.honda.com. Honda's recall number is JC5.

12V062000 · Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate; Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:hinge And Attachments; Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut

Feb 16, 2012

HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 ODYSSEY VEHICLES, THE GAS-FILLED STRUTS THAT HELP TO RAISE AND SUPPORT THE LIFTGATE OF VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM MAY BE PRONE TO EARLY LIFE FAILURES DUE TO A MANUFACTURING FLAW. THE FLAW CAN RESULT IN A LEAK OF THE PRESSURIZED GAS, LEADING TO REDUCED STRUT PERFORMANCE.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: STRUTS WITH DIMINISHED PERFORMANCE CAN LEAD TO UNEXPECTED CLOSURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy: HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH POWER LIFTGATE GAS STRUTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.

Additional source detail variants (3)

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut

HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 ODYSSEY VEHICLES, THE GAS-FILLED STRUTS THAT HELP TO RAISE AND SUPPORT THE LIFTGATE OF VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM MAY BE PRONE TO EARLY LIFE FAILURES DUE TO A MANUFACTURING FLAW. THE FLAW CAN RESULT IN A LEAK OF THE PRESSURIZED GAS, LEADING TO REDUCED STRUT PERFORMANCE.

Consequence: STRUTS WITH DIMINISHED PERFORMANCE CAN LEAD TO UNEXPECTED CLOSURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy: HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH POWER LIFTGATE GAS STRUTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:hinge And Attachments

HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 ODYSSEY VEHICLES, THE GAS-FILLED STRUTS THAT HELP TO RAISE AND SUPPORT THE LIFTGATE OF VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM MAY BE PRONE TO EARLY LIFE FAILURES DUE TO A MANUFACTURING FLAW. THE FLAW CAN RESULT IN A LEAK OF THE PRESSURIZED GAS, LEADING TO REDUCED STRUT PERFORMANCE.

Consequence: STRUTS WITH DIMINISHED PERFORMANCE CAN LEAD TO UNEXPECTED CLOSURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy: HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH POWER LIFTGATE GAS STRUTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate

HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 ODYSSEY VEHICLES, THE GAS-FILLED STRUTS THAT HELP TO RAISE AND SUPPORT THE LIFTGATE OF VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM MAY BE PRONE TO EARLY LIFE FAILURES DUE TO A MANUFACTURING FLAW. THE FLAW CAN RESULT IN A LEAK OF THE PRESSURIZED GAS, LEADING TO REDUCED STRUT PERFORMANCE.

Consequence: STRUTS WITH DIMINISHED PERFORMANCE CAN LEAD TO UNEXPECTED CLOSURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy: HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH POWER LIFTGATE GAS STRUTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.

10V098000 · Service Brakes, Air

Mar 16, 2010

HONDA HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA OF A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 AND 2008 ODYSSEY AND ELEMENT PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JULY 28, 2006 AND AUGUST 21, 2008. AIR CAN ENTER THE VSA MODULAR PUMP DURING AN INITIAL SELF-CHECK PROCESS THAT OCCURS SHORTLY AFTER EACH TIME THE ENGINE IS STARTED. IT IS POSSIBLE FOR ENOUGH AIR TO ENTER THE SYSTEM TO RESULT IN A BRAKE PEDAL THAT FEELS SOFT OR LOWER TO THE FLOOR.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: IF THE OWNER DOES NOT HAVE ANY BRAKE SERVICE OR MAINTENANCE PERFORMED OVER A PERIOD OF MONTHS OR YEARS, THE SYSTEM CAN CONTINUE TO ACCUMULATE ENOUGH AIR TO AFFECT BRAKING PERFORMANCE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNER AND HONDA DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VSA MODULATOR BY REMOVING ANY EXISTING AIR IN THE BRAKE SYSTEM THEN APPLY SEALANT AND CAPS TO PREVENT AIR FROM ENTERING THE BRAKE SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 3, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

5

PE13024 · Inappropriate Autonomous Braking

Opened Jun 25, 2013 · Closed Nov 4, 2013

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electronic Stability Control

In a letter dated October 31, 2013, Honda Motor Company (Honda) submitted a recall notice to NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation describing a defect in the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system in approximately 344,187 model year (MY) 2007 and 2008 Honda Odyssey vehicles produced from August 8, 2006 through September 8, 2008 (NHTSA Recall 13V-500, Honda Recall JC5).The report describes a defect condition caused by a combination of VSA system components and software that is unique to the MY 2007-2008 Honda Odyssey vehicles.The condition may result in unexpected brake application by the VSA system with no brake lamp illumination.The braking forces resulting from the condition can approach the maximum braking capability of the vehicle.Honda's investigation determined that (1) if the yaw rate sensor off-set exceeds a certain value, (2) the sensor calibration is not completed before the vehicle starts moving after start-up, and (3) the vehicle is driven in a specific manner; the VSA system may build hydraulic pressure in the brake system resulting in heavy, unexpected braking without the driver applying the brake pedal.Honda estimates that the parts necessary to correct this condition will not be available until March 2014.Pending part availability, Honda will send interim letters to affected owners including instructions to avoid the defect condition using a procedure to ensure proper VSA system calibration after each vehicle start-up, as well as instructions about what to do if unexpected brake application occurs while driving.Once the remedy parts are available, Honda will send a second notice advising owners to bring their vehicle to their dealer for installation of a redesigned yaw rate sensor.This investigation is closed.

EQ12010 · Stabilus Rear Liftgate Struts Failing

Opened Sep 28, 2012 · Closed Dec 31, 2012

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut

Please see the attached closing resume summary.It has been attached to this document as a PDF.

PE11034 · Unexpected Closing Of Power Liftgate

Opened Sep 23, 2011 · Closed Feb 29, 2012

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Latches/locks/linkages:hatchback/liftgate:lock; Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate; Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:hinge And Attachments; Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut; Structure:body:tailgate ; Structure:body:tailgate:hinge And Attachments

The investigation found that the liftgate struts were failing prematurely and at an abnormal rate in certain model year (MY) 2008 Honda Odyssey Touring and 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring and EX-L model vehicles equipped with power-operated rear liftgates (note: MY 2008 Odyssey EX-L was not equipped with a power liftgate).Unlike vehicles with non-powered (manual) liftgates, the subject vehicle's liftgate can be opened automatically (via the power liftgate motor) even when the struts are in a degraded condition and can no longer support it in the open position.Consumers standing or accessing the rear cargo area under the liftgate and expecting the liftgate will stay open, can be struck when the liftgate unexpectedly drops, or can be trapped under the liftgate as it power closes, both of which can occur when the system detects and reacts to degraded struts.By contrast, users of a manual liftgate assist in lifting it, and thus notice the lack of support as the struts degrade.Honda is conducting a recall to replace the liftgate struts in approximately 45,747 MY 2008 and early MY 2009 Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates built before a manufacturing change of the liftgate strut assembly that occurred on January 13, 2009 (see NHTSA Safety Recall No. 12V-062 for further details).The vehicles subject to the recall account for 101 complaints, 12 injuries, and 5,630 of the warranty claims shown above (i.e., the MY 2009 and 2010 vehicles built after the manufacturing change experience lower failure rates).In addition, and based on consumer complaints to NHTSA, Odyssey vehicles without power liftgates experience lower complaint and injury rates than the Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates (subject vehicles).The reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:10442027, 10441232, 10437461, 10432557, 10430420, 10429962, 10412908, 10401388, 10395475, 10390216, 10343678, 10336744, 10294156

Additional source detail variants (6)

Latches/locks/linkages:hatchback/liftgate:lock

The investigation found that the liftgate struts were failing prematurely and at an abnormal rate in certain model year (MY) 2008 Honda Odyssey Touring and 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring and EX-L model vehicles equipped with power-operated rear liftgates (note: MY 2008 Odyssey EX-L was not equipped with a power liftgate).Unlike vehicles with non-powered (manual) liftgates, the subject vehicle's liftgate can be opened automatically (via the power liftgate motor) even when the struts are in a degraded condition and can no longer support it in the open position.Consumers standing or accessing the rear cargo area under the liftgate and expecting the liftgate will stay open, can be struck when the liftgate unexpectedly drops, or can be trapped under the liftgate as it power closes, both of which can occur when the system detects and reacts to degraded struts.By contrast, users of a manual liftgate assist in lifting it, and thus notice the lack of support as the struts degrade.Honda is conducting a recall to replace the liftgate struts in approximately 45,747 MY 2008 and early MY 2009 Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates built before a manufacturing change of the liftgate strut assembly that occurred on January 13, 2009 (see NHTSA Safety Recall No. 12V-062 for further details).The vehicles subject to the recall account for 101 complaints, 12 injuries, and 5,630 of the warranty claims shown above (i.e., the MY 2009 and 2010 vehicles built after the manufacturing change experience lower failure rates).In addition, and based on consumer complaints to NHTSA, Odyssey vehicles without power liftgates experience lower complaint and injury rates than the Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates (subject vehicles).The reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:10442027, 10441232, 10437461, 10432557, 10430420, 10429962, 10412908, 10401388, 10395475, 10390216, 10343678, 10336744, 10294156

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:hinge And Attachments

The investigation found that the liftgate struts were failing prematurely and at an abnormal rate in certain model year (MY) 2008 Honda Odyssey Touring and 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring and EX-L model vehicles equipped with power-operated rear liftgates (note: MY 2008 Odyssey EX-L was not equipped with a power liftgate).Unlike vehicles with non-powered (manual) liftgates, the subject vehicle's liftgate can be opened automatically (via the power liftgate motor) even when the struts are in a degraded condition and can no longer support it in the open position.Consumers standing or accessing the rear cargo area under the liftgate and expecting the liftgate will stay open, can be struck when the liftgate unexpectedly drops, or can be trapped under the liftgate as it power closes, both of which can occur when the system detects and reacts to degraded struts.By contrast, users of a manual liftgate assist in lifting it, and thus notice the lack of support as the struts degrade.Honda is conducting a recall to replace the liftgate struts in approximately 45,747 MY 2008 and early MY 2009 Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates built before a manufacturing change of the liftgate strut assembly that occurred on January 13, 2009 (see NHTSA Safety Recall No. 12V-062 for further details).The vehicles subject to the recall account for 101 complaints, 12 injuries, and 5,630 of the warranty claims shown above (i.e., the MY 2009 and 2010 vehicles built after the manufacturing change experience lower failure rates).In addition, and based on consumer complaints to NHTSA, Odyssey vehicles without power liftgates experience lower complaint and injury rates than the Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates (subject vehicles).The reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:10442027, 10441232, 10437461, 10432557, 10430420, 10429962, 10412908, 10401388, 10395475, 10390216, 10343678, 10336744, 10294156

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate

The investigation found that the liftgate struts were failing prematurely and at an abnormal rate in certain model year (MY) 2008 Honda Odyssey Touring and 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring and EX-L model vehicles equipped with power-operated rear liftgates (note: MY 2008 Odyssey EX-L was not equipped with a power liftgate).Unlike vehicles with non-powered (manual) liftgates, the subject vehicle's liftgate can be opened automatically (via the power liftgate motor) even when the struts are in a degraded condition and can no longer support it in the open position.Consumers standing or accessing the rear cargo area under the liftgate and expecting the liftgate will stay open, can be struck when the liftgate unexpectedly drops, or can be trapped under the liftgate as it power closes, both of which can occur when the system detects and reacts to degraded struts.By contrast, users of a manual liftgate assist in lifting it, and thus notice the lack of support as the struts degrade.Honda is conducting a recall to replace the liftgate struts in approximately 45,747 MY 2008 and early MY 2009 Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates built before a manufacturing change of the liftgate strut assembly that occurred on January 13, 2009 (see NHTSA Safety Recall No. 12V-062 for further details).The vehicles subject to the recall account for 101 complaints, 12 injuries, and 5,630 of the warranty claims shown above (i.e., the MY 2009 and 2010 vehicles built after the manufacturing change experience lower failure rates).In addition, and based on consumer complaints to NHTSA, Odyssey vehicles without power liftgates experience lower complaint and injury rates than the Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates (subject vehicles).The reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:10442027, 10441232, 10437461, 10432557, 10430420, 10429962, 10412908, 10401388, 10395475, 10390216, 10343678, 10336744, 10294156

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut

The investigation found that the liftgate struts were failing prematurely and at an abnormal rate in certain model year (MY) 2008 Honda Odyssey Touring and 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring and EX-L model vehicles equipped with power-operated rear liftgates (note: MY 2008 Odyssey EX-L was not equipped with a power liftgate).Unlike vehicles with non-powered (manual) liftgates, the subject vehicle's liftgate can be opened automatically (via the power liftgate motor) even when the struts are in a degraded condition and can no longer support it in the open position.Consumers standing or accessing the rear cargo area under the liftgate and expecting the liftgate will stay open, can be struck when the liftgate unexpectedly drops, or can be trapped under the liftgate as it power closes, both of which can occur when the system detects and reacts to degraded struts.By contrast, users of a manual liftgate assist in lifting it, and thus notice the lack of support as the struts degrade.Honda is conducting a recall to replace the liftgate struts in approximately 45,747 MY 2008 and early MY 2009 Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates built before a manufacturing change of the liftgate strut assembly that occurred on January 13, 2009 (see NHTSA Safety Recall No. 12V-062 for further details).The vehicles subject to the recall account for 101 complaints, 12 injuries, and 5,630 of the warranty claims shown above (i.e., the MY 2009 and 2010 vehicles built after the manufacturing change experience lower failure rates).In addition, and based on consumer complaints to NHTSA, Odyssey vehicles without power liftgates experience lower complaint and injury rates than the Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates (subject vehicles).The reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:10442027, 10441232, 10437461, 10432557, 10430420, 10429962, 10412908, 10401388, 10395475, 10390216, 10343678, 10336744, 10294156

Structure:body:tailgate:hinge And Attachments

The investigation found that the liftgate struts were failing prematurely and at an abnormal rate in certain model year (MY) 2008 Honda Odyssey Touring and 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring and EX-L model vehicles equipped with power-operated rear liftgates (note: MY 2008 Odyssey EX-L was not equipped with a power liftgate).Unlike vehicles with non-powered (manual) liftgates, the subject vehicle's liftgate can be opened automatically (via the power liftgate motor) even when the struts are in a degraded condition and can no longer support it in the open position.Consumers standing or accessing the rear cargo area under the liftgate and expecting the liftgate will stay open, can be struck when the liftgate unexpectedly drops, or can be trapped under the liftgate as it power closes, both of which can occur when the system detects and reacts to degraded struts.By contrast, users of a manual liftgate assist in lifting it, and thus notice the lack of support as the struts degrade.Honda is conducting a recall to replace the liftgate struts in approximately 45,747 MY 2008 and early MY 2009 Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates built before a manufacturing change of the liftgate strut assembly that occurred on January 13, 2009 (see NHTSA Safety Recall No. 12V-062 for further details).The vehicles subject to the recall account for 101 complaints, 12 injuries, and 5,630 of the warranty claims shown above (i.e., the MY 2009 and 2010 vehicles built after the manufacturing change experience lower failure rates).In addition, and based on consumer complaints to NHTSA, Odyssey vehicles without power liftgates experience lower complaint and injury rates than the Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates (subject vehicles).The reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:10442027, 10441232, 10437461, 10432557, 10430420, 10429962, 10412908, 10401388, 10395475, 10390216, 10343678, 10336744, 10294156

Structure:body:tailgate

The investigation found that the liftgate struts were failing prematurely and at an abnormal rate in certain model year (MY) 2008 Honda Odyssey Touring and 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring and EX-L model vehicles equipped with power-operated rear liftgates (note: MY 2008 Odyssey EX-L was not equipped with a power liftgate).Unlike vehicles with non-powered (manual) liftgates, the subject vehicle's liftgate can be opened automatically (via the power liftgate motor) even when the struts are in a degraded condition and can no longer support it in the open position.Consumers standing or accessing the rear cargo area under the liftgate and expecting the liftgate will stay open, can be struck when the liftgate unexpectedly drops, or can be trapped under the liftgate as it power closes, both of which can occur when the system detects and reacts to degraded struts.By contrast, users of a manual liftgate assist in lifting it, and thus notice the lack of support as the struts degrade.Honda is conducting a recall to replace the liftgate struts in approximately 45,747 MY 2008 and early MY 2009 Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates built before a manufacturing change of the liftgate strut assembly that occurred on January 13, 2009 (see NHTSA Safety Recall No. 12V-062 for further details).The vehicles subject to the recall account for 101 complaints, 12 injuries, and 5,630 of the warranty claims shown above (i.e., the MY 2009 and 2010 vehicles built after the manufacturing change experience lower failure rates).In addition, and based on consumer complaints to NHTSA, Odyssey vehicles without power liftgates experience lower complaint and injury rates than the Odyssey vehicles equipped with power liftgates (subject vehicles).The reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:10442027, 10441232, 10437461, 10432557, 10430420, 10429962, 10412908, 10401388, 10395475, 10390216, 10343678, 10336744, 10294156

EA09014 · Air In Brake System

Opened Oct 19, 2009 · Closed May 11, 2010

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module

By letter dated March 15, 2010, American Honda Motor Corp. (HMC) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it will conduct a safety recall (NHTSA Recall No. 10V-098) to address a defect in approximately 412,000 model year (MY) 2007 and 2008 Honda Odyssey and Element vehicles equipped with an ABS/VSA/TCS modulator. The recalled Odyssey vehicles were built from August 2006 August 2008.The recalled Element vehicles were built from July 2006 to July 2008. According to Honda, during an initial self-check process that occurs shortly after each engine ignition cycle, the self-diagnostic software for the VSA modulator allows a vacuum condition that can exist for several hours, allowing air to enter the VSA modulator pump.Over time, and thousands of engine ignition cycles, it is possible for enough air to enter the system to result in a brake pedal that feels soft or lower to the floor.If the customer does not have any brake service or maintenance performed over a period of months or years, the system can continue to accumulate enough air to affect braking performance.To correct the safety defect, Honda dealers will remove existing air in the brake system then apply sealant and caps to the VSA modulator to prevent air from entering the brake system, free of charge. The action taken by Honda is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation. The agency will continue to monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.

PE09024 · Air In Brake System

Opened May 13, 2009 · Closed Oct 19, 2009

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) HAS RECEIVED 69 COMPLAINTS, AND HONDA HAS RECEIVED 613 COMPLAINTS AND FIELD REPORTS, ALLEGING LOW/SOFT/SPONGY BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2006 THROUGH 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY MINIVANS.TWENTY-SIX ODI COMPLAINTS WERE ALSO REPORTED TO HONDA, RESULTING IN A TOTAL COMPLAINT COUNT OF 656.SOME COMPLAINTS ALLEGE THAT THE CONDITION RESULTED IN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCES, INCLUDING SOME REPORTS OF ROLLING PAST STOP SIGNS OR TRAFFIC LIGHTS.THERE ARE 14 ALLEGED CRASHES IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLE POPULATION RELATED TO LOW/SOFT PEDALS. IN RESPONSE TO ODI'S INFORMATION REQUEST FOR PRELIMINARY EVALUATION PE09-024, HONDA INDICATED THAT SMALL AMOUNTS OF AIR MAY ENTER THE BRAKE SYSTEM DURING INITIAL DIAGNOSTICS OF THE VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST (VSA) MODULATOR WHILE THE PUMP IS BRIEFLY ACTUATED FOR SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS AFTER THE ENGINE IS STARTED.THE AMOUNT OF AIR GRADUALLY INCREASES WITH EACH SUCCESSIVE ENGINE START CYCLE, RESULTING IN PROGRESSIVELY INCREASING BRAKE PEDAL STROKE.ACCORDING TO HONDA, THE CONDITION DOES NOT PRESENT A SIGNIFICANT RISK TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY BECAUSE THE PEDAL STROKE GRADUALLY INCREASES, PROVIDING THE DRIVER WITH INFORMATION THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT IS CHANGING AND REQUIRES ATTENTION.HONDA HAS FURTHER INDICATED THAT THERE IS NO DETERIORATION OF BRAKING PERFORMANCE CAUSED BY THE SUBJECT CONDITION, EVEN THOUGH THE PEDAL HEIGHT AND FEEL ARE DIFFERENT, UNTIL PEDAL STROKE HAS REACHED THE END OF TRAVEL AND THE DRIVER CANNOT PRODUCE ANY ADDITIONAL BRAKE LINE PRESSURE.HONDA STATES THAT IT IS UNAWARE OF ANY VEHICLES THAT HAVE REACHED SUCH A CONDITION AND HONDA TESTING USING A LEAKING FIELD RETURN MODULATOR INDICATES THAT IT WOULD TAKE OVER A YEAR BEFORE THE PEDAL TRAVEL WOULD REACH ITS LIMIT DURING HARD STOPS WITH 200 N (45 LBF) OF PEDAL EFFORT - THE NOMINAL FORCE REQUIRED TO REACH ABS BRAKING MODE. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY DATA INDICATES THAT THE MY 2007-08 ODYSSEY VEHICLES HAVE EXPERIENCED THE ALLEGED DEFECT AT A RATE OF 0.67%.THE MY 2006 ODYSSEY VEHICLES HAVE EXPERIENCED THE ALLEGED DEFECT AT A SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER RATE (0.04%) THAN THE MY 2007-08 ODYSSEY.HONDA IMPLEMENTED A DESIGN CHANGE IN THE MY 2007 VEHICLES TO CHANGE THE VSA DIAGNOSTIC PROGRAM. THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS (EA09-014) FOR THE MY 2007-08 ODYSSEY VEHICLES TO CONTINUE TO INVESTIGATE THE SCOPE, FREQUENCY, AND SAFETY-RELATED CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT.