← New search

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

Engine complaints

40 reports
Clear category filter
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 …

Read full complaint

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

94,000 miles · May 15, 2014
EnginePower TrainService Brakes

DURING BRAKING BETWEEN 20 - 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE SURGES FORWARD. THIS HAS BEEN MOST NOTICEABLE WHEN GOING DOWNHILL AND BRAKING. IT SEAMS AS THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION IS DOWNSHIFTING PREMATURELY (TO HIGH ENGINE RPM) THUS CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SURGE (JUMP) FORWARD. THIS HAS OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIME (MORE THAN 6) OVER THE PAST 3 …

Read full complaint

DURING BRAKING BETWEEN 20 - 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE SURGES FORWARD. THIS HAS BEEN MOST NOTICEABLE WHEN GOING DOWNHILL AND BRAKING. IT SEAMS AS THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION IS DOWNSHIFTING PREMATURELY (TO HIGH ENGINE RPM) THUS CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SURGE (JUMP) FORWARD. THIS HAS OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIME (MORE THAN 6) OVER THE PAST 3 YEARS. NOTE: MILEAGE AND SPEED ARE ESTIMATED. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10588567

100,000 miles · Apr 24, 2014
EngineCrashFire

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FLAMES EMITTED FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND EVENTUALLY ENGULFED THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED WHO DETERMINED THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER HAD FAILED AND CAUSED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAIL…

Read full complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FLAMES EMITTED FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND EVENTUALLY ENGULFED THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED WHO DETERMINED THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER HAD FAILED AND CAUSED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

NHTSA ODI #10584624

80,000 miles · Aug 29, 2013
EngineSteeringUnknown Or Other

EARLY 2011 AFTER HAVING SOME RECALL REPAIRS DONE IN THE PAST LIKE THE BRAKES, LEAKING FROM THE MOON ROOF AND THE POWER STEERING PROBLEMS, STARTED NOTICING THE ENGINE LIGHT COMING OUT FOR 1-2 DAYS AND THEN THE OIL LIGHT, CHECKED OIL LEVEL AND REFILL WAS DONE BUT DIDN'T NOTICE ANY LEAKING. SUBSEQUENT SERVICES TO THE DEALER TOLD TH…

Read full complaint

EARLY 2011 AFTER HAVING SOME RECALL REPAIRS DONE IN THE PAST LIKE THE BRAKES, LEAKING FROM THE MOON ROOF AND THE POWER STEERING PROBLEMS, STARTED NOTICING THE ENGINE LIGHT COMING OUT FOR 1-2 DAYS AND THEN THE OIL LIGHT, CHECKED OIL LEVEL AND REFILL WAS DONE BUT DIDN'T NOTICE ANY LEAKING. SUBSEQUENT SERVICES TO THE DEALER TOLD THEM ABOUT THE EVENTS BUT DIDN'T PROVIDED ANY CLEAR REPORT AS TO WHAT IS CAUSING THAT. LIFT GATE SHOCKS GAVE UP AFTER A FEW MONTHS AND HAVE THEM REPLACED FROM THE DEALER, AGAIN NO CLEAR EXPLANATIONS WHY THE IT'S TOO SOON FOR UNEXPECTED POSSIBLE WEAR AND TEAR, ALSO IN ADDITION TO TELLING THEM ABOUT THE POWER STEERING SEEMS TO BE CAUSING A PROBLEM AGAIN BECAUSE IT'S BECOMING HEAVY TO TURN THE VEHICLE. THIS HAS BEEN CAUSING A HUGE PROBLEM AND SAFETY CONCERN ESPECIALLY COMING OFF FROM A PARALLEL PARKING BECAUSE IT TAKES A LOT OF MANUEVERING BEFORE I CAN GET OFF FROM THE SPOT AND INVOLVES A GREAT EFFORT ESPECIALLY IN AN INCLINE POSITION. RECENTLY ABOUT A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, THE SAME ISSUE CAME IN ABOUT THE ENGINE AND THE OIL LIGHT SHOWING UP, OIL LEVEL WAS LOW AGAIN BUT DOESN'T NOTICED ANY LEAKING. I DID SOME SEARCH AND I HAVE SEEN A VIDEO ON YOUTUBE ABOUT THE ERROR CODE P3400 AND P3497 WHICH IS VERY SCARY AND VERY SIGNIFICANT TO THE LIFE SPAN OF THE ENGINE. ALSO, RECALLING ALL THESE ISSUES, I ALSO NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ABOUT THE PREVIOUSLY REPLACED LIFT GATE SHOCKS THAT I PAID FOR LAST YEAR. I JUST HOPE THAT THE DEALER WILL BE RESPONSIBLE ENOUGH TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE VEHICLE FLAWS AND PRIORITIZE THE SAFETY OF THE PUBLIC CONSUMER ESPECIALLY THE MINI VAN AS IT NORMALLY HAS CHILDREN AS IT'S DAILY PASSENGER - BEING THE FAMILY VAN.

NHTSA ODI #10537837

130,000 miles · Aug 13, 2013
Engine

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND THE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVED TO THE SHOULDER WHERE IT WAS SHUT DOWN. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE IT FAILED TO FUNCTION NORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHO STATE…

Read full complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND THE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVED TO THE SHOULDER WHERE IT WAS SHUT DOWN. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE IT FAILED TO FUNCTION NORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHO STATED THE OIL PRESSURE SENSOR FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THE ENGINE WAS NOT RUNNING ON ALL AVAILABLE CYLINDERS. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.

NHTSA ODI #10535096

46,500 miles · Apr 15, 2013
Engine

ALL FIVE ENGINES MOUNTS ARE BAD AND HAVE TO BE REPLACED AT ONLY 46,000 MILES. DRONING, VIBRATING AND LUGGING , SO BRAKES THAT RATTLE WHEN BRAKING HARD. NO WAY ENGINE MOUNTS SHOT AT SUCH LOW MILEAGE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10508219

90,000 miles · Mar 27, 2013
Engine

I HEARD A STRANGE NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE WHEN I ACCELERATE. I TOOK IT TO HEADQUARTER HONDA WHO DOES MY SERVICE. I WAS TOLD BY CARLOS THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO DIAGNOSE IT AND THE THERE WOULD BE A CHARGE FOR IT. WHEN HE GOT BACK TO ME HE SAID THAT IT WAS THE LEFT AXEL. I SAID THAT I COULDN'T BELIEVE THAT. I SAID THAT EVEN THO…

Read full complaint

I HEARD A STRANGE NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE WHEN I ACCELERATE. I TOOK IT TO HEADQUARTER HONDA WHO DOES MY SERVICE. I WAS TOLD BY CARLOS THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO DIAGNOSE IT AND THE THERE WOULD BE A CHARGE FOR IT. WHEN HE GOT BACK TO ME HE SAID THAT IT WAS THE LEFT AXEL. I SAID THAT I COULDN'T BELIEVE THAT. I SAID THAT EVEN THOUGH IT ONLY HAPPENS WHEN I ACCELERATE IT IS THE AXEL? HE SAID YES. I LEFT IT TO GET IT DONE. I WAS TOLD A FEW HOURS LATER THAT IT WAS READY. I PICKED IT UP AND ABOUT FIVE MILES AWAY IT STARTED MAKING A LOUD NOISE AND OIL WENT EVERYWHERE. THE CAR BEHIND ME HAD OIL ALL OVER THE WINDSHIELD. THE AXEL REPAIR DIDN'T GO WELL. THEY CAME AND GOT THE CAR. LATER THAT DAY THEY TOLD ME THE CAR WAS READY AGAIN. WHEN I PICKED IT UP THE ENGINE NOISE WAS STILL THERE. THE MANAGER CAME OVER AND I TOLD HIM THAT IT SOUNDED LIKE THE ENGINE. HE TOLD ME THAT IT WAS NOT THE ENGINE. HE SAID THAT HONDA ENGINES NEVER GO BAD. I BELIEVED HIM BECAUSE I LOOKED UP HONDA ENGINE PROBLEMS AND COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING. THEY KEPT THE VEHICLE FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION. THE NEXT DAY THEY CALLED AND SAID THAT IT WAS THE TENSIONER AND THEY RECOMMENDED THAT I GET THE TIMING BELT CHANGED. I TOLD THEM THAT I WAS COMING TO GET MY CAR BECAUSE IT SEEMED LIKE THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING. CARLOS CALLED ME BACK AND SAID THAT THEY WOULD FIX THE TENSIONER AT NO CHARGE BECAUSE OF ALL OF THE PROBLEMS THEY CAUSED ME. THEY ENDED UP REBUILDING THE ENGINE. NEW ENGINE IS CONSUMING A LOT OF OIL. DEALER DOESN'T WANT TO FIX PROBLEM. I HAVE MUCH MORE INFORMATION. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10504654

70,000 miles · Jan 25, 2013
EngineFuel/propulsion SystemVehicle Speed Control

WHEN REACHING 2000 RPM'S, DURING COOLER WEATHER, THE ODYSSEY MAKES A VERY LOUD HUMMING/VIBRATION. IT APPEARS TO BE COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT UNDER CARRIAGE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10494697

34,400 miles · Oct 21, 2012
EnginePower TrainStructureInjury

ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO...OCTOBER 1, 2012, I TOOK MY HONDA BACK IN TO HONDA. MY CAR HAD BEEN ACCELERATING ON ITS OWN. I LEFT MY HONDA THERE FOR 3 DAYS, AT WHICH POINT THEY DETERMINED THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT, AND THEY WOULD LIKE ME TO BRING IT BACK IN TO DRIVE IT "WITH THEM." THERE IS 100% SOMETHING WRONG WITH MY VAN AGAIN! …

Read full complaint

ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO...OCTOBER 1, 2012, I TOOK MY HONDA BACK IN TO HONDA. MY CAR HAD BEEN ACCELERATING ON ITS OWN. I LEFT MY HONDA THERE FOR 3 DAYS, AT WHICH POINT THEY DETERMINED THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT, AND THEY WOULD LIKE ME TO BRING IT BACK IN TO DRIVE IT "WITH THEM." THERE IS 100% SOMETHING WRONG WITH MY VAN AGAIN! IN ADDITION A FEW DAYS AGO, I WAS PUTTING BOOKS IN THE BACK OF MY VAN, AND THE HATCH STRUTS FAILED, AND THE BACK HATCH DOOR FELL DOWN ON MY HEAD. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10481296

62,000 miles · May 11, 2012
Engine

ENGINE IS KNOCKING AT LOW SPEEDS, SPECIFICALLY GEARS 1-4. ENGINE ALSO KNOCKS GOING UPHILL. TOOK THE VAN INTO LOCAL HONDA DEALER AND THEY COULD NOT HEAR THE KNOCKING. KNOCKING IS GETTING WORSE. VAN HAS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED AT HONDA DEALER, THERE IS NO REASON ENGINE SHOULD BE KNOCKING! *TR

NHTSA ODI #10458091

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.