transmission problem
8.4
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,967.00
Average Mileage:
77,454 miles
Number of complaints:
35 complaints
Most common solutions:
- replace transmission (22 reports)
- not sure (6 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)
Helpful Websites About 2002 Honda Odyssey transmission failure
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 V^
- 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.
2008May 21
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
We have an 2002 Odyssey. This is the one asset I have that I didn't have to worry about because it's a HONDA! I own a 1998 Nissan Maxima and I was worried about that going first but my HONDA...never! We had the recall fixed several years ago and was told that the transmission would be good forever. This would fix any problems. Two days ago, the transmission failed to engage from 2nd to 3rd gear and now my 3 small children and I don't have any transportation except for a Maxima, which I can only get 2 car seat in. I received 2 quotes between $4,000 & $5,000 and a car company that doesn't give a crap! Go figure...I just paid the van off approximately 5 months ago. So now they have my $24,000+ and I have no vehicle for my family. Help Me...how can I get Honda to pay! I have spent 2 1/2 days crying over this...
2008May 23
Odyssey V6
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
Transmission failure! I take the vehicle for regularly scheduled maintenance and I have taken it in recently for the problem, but the dealer says they couldn't duplicate the problem. So now they want to replace the tranny for $4600. I started researching only to find out that this is a reoccurring issue in this year Odyssey. Still looking for a viable solution, replacement inevitable.
2004Jan 20
(reported on)Odyssey EX
- 50,000 miles
At 50,000 miles the van began up shifting sluggishly from 1st to 2nd gear. When checked by the dealer, they reported that a new transmission was needed, ? $$$$. It appears the transmission problems Honda had with the 4 speeds has carried over to the 2002 and newer 5 speeds. When I called Honda, they seemed reluctant to admit there had ever been a problem in earlier years even though they had issued a warranty extension for the 1999 thru 2001 models. I really like the van other than the transmission problems, but unless Honda becomes a little more honest when they have problems or improves their warranty, I won't be back.
2008Mar 14
Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 119,500 miles
I took my 02 Odyssey in when it had the recall. They put the kit in it and said "All will be fine." All of a sudden I start having a problem with the trans not shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear. I'm awaiting a response from Honda about if they will fix this since it's a defect on Honda's part. They said probably not, but, I'm still waiting . Been waiting 1 week. Can you imagine what will happen if we're driving this van and it decides not to shift properly and Lord forbid that an 18 Wheeler or other large or just a speeding vehicle comes up behind us?????? What would be left of the passengers in this supposedly great minivan? It is a huge safety issue. I'm ready to talk with anyone that's willing to seek damages from Honda. Who would have thought that you would pay $28,000.00 for a Honda and by the time you almost have it paid for, Get ready to dish out about 3000-4000 more dollars to repair a defect that should be covered by Honda. Let's all pull together and see what we can do!
2008Mar 21
Odyssey EX 3.5L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 116,000 miles
Hello everyone,
I purchased my 2002 Honda Odyssey Minivan in March of 2002. There have been 2 recalls to my knowledge on this vehicle. The first recall was concerning the timing belt, and the second was about problems with the transmission when changing from 2nd to 3rd gear while driving between 30 and 40 mph. I have taken my vehicle to the dealer hoping they would honor recall by correcting the problem, but was turn down because they said the preventative measure was done in 2005 with the installation of an Oil Jet Kit. Well that apparently didn't fix the transmission, therefore, Honda should accept responsibility and be accountable for this major problem with the transmission on the 2002 Odysseys. I don't know what else to do at this point since I have taken the car to two dealers. Both gave me prices to repair the problem with a replacement transmission, along with letting me know that Honda made the decision not to cover the repair cost. I also spoke with Honda and was unsuccessful getting them to fix the car at no charge. If anyone else is out there who would like to pursue this further, perhaps via a Class Action Suit, please don't hesitate to respond to this complaint. The more of us who is experiencing this exact maintenance problem, the better chances that we will have in receiving some kind of relief and/or resolution to this costly mechanical failure. Please respond at your earliest convenience as I would like to discuss this further. I would be interested in knowing if others are out that would like to take this issue further with legal action. I hope to hear from any and all of you that is affected by this very soon. Have a wonderful day!
2008Apr 01
Odyssey EX-L 3.5L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
I started having issues with my van not going into 3rd gear in Jan 08. I took the van to the dealer a couple of times but their service reps could not reproduce the problem. They asked me to come back when it became worse. I can't believe they let me drive knowing these vans have transmission issues. Finally a few days ago, the same thing happened and this time the engine light came on at 61,000 miles. I drove straight to the dealer and after running diagnostics, they said the transmission needs to be replaced. They said they called Honda on my behalf and that Honda offered to pay 50% of the costs. I called Honda on their 800 number and opened a case file which is being looked into by their regional case manager. I am still waiting to hear back from him. I asked the dealer to perform the repairs and now they say the new transmission will not have any parts or labor warranty because Honda is paying 50% as a goodwill gesture. This is something I'll have to take up with Honda again. I don't think I should pay anything to replace a transmission that failed this early.
2008Mar 01
Odyssey LX 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 71,000 miles
I purchased this vehicle used with 20k . I purchased this van expecting to be trouble free for a long time but after driving it for only 50k, the transmission came apart. This van now has 71k. The extended warranty did not cover a new transmission. They insisted I take it to aamco.The tranny shop charged 3700.00for rebuilding it . The extended care paid for most. I paid $240 for misc shop supplies and tax. I thought so highly of these cars. I was so disappointed to find out that this is a common problem. The shop said they have repaired 5 of these vans in the last 3 months for the same problem and close to the same mileage. 70-80k. I was given a 12 month 10k warranty . but I don't think I'll need it...The toyota dealer is only 3 miles away! I was told that there is nothing you can do to prevent this tranny failure. The problem is in the design .So, save yourself a lot of grief..get a toyota.
2007Sep 15
Odyssey LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
Transmission slipping when starting. Called Honda and they advised the transmission was no longer in warranty. 2000-2001 Honda transmissions were extended to 100.000K.
I will be contacting Honda to see if I can get it covered.
2007Apr 17
(reported on)Odyssey
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
Our 2002 Odyssey EX-L started having transmission problems at about 60,000 miles. Transmission seemed to completely disengage while engine was running (as if in neutral). Letting off of gas until transmission shifts seemed to be the only solution but didn't always work. Took vehicle to the dealer to troubleshoot but they couldn't find anything wrong. Luckily when we bought the van, we also bought a 3yr/36k mi extended warranty through the dealer from CNA Insurance. The new transmission would've cost us $3000 but fortunately the warranty is covering it and a rental car and we're only responsible for the $150 deductible.
2007Oct 09
(reported on)Odyssey LX 3.5L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
bad design anyway
2007Sep 18
(reported on)Odyssey LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
Not sure at this point if Honda is going to take some responsibility.
2005Nov 10
(reported on)Odyssey EX-L
- 37,500 miles
My '02 Odyssey EX-L started having transmission problems at about 36,000 miles. Transmission shifts abruptly or seems to completely disengage while engine revolutions soar and car slows down(as if in neutral). Letting off of gas until transmission shifts seems to be the remedy but driving vehicle has become dangerous. On ramps to the expressway and significant inclines are particularly problematic. Taking vehicle to the dealer in a few days and am not optimistic. They made sure to tell me on the phone when I set up the appointment that vehicle was out of std 3/ 36 warranty period.
2006Mar 30
(reported on)Odyssey LX
- 52,000 miles
This appears to be a bigger problem then the stats here - for more info, see the forums at www.odyclub.com
2004Apr 13
(reported on)Odyssey EXL
- 37,800 miles
Trans failed to engage 3rd gear, this is a pampered van, with no abuse whatsoever. The van still has 50% tread on tires and 50% on disk brake pads. Who ever heard of the trans failing before your new vehicle needs tires or brakes? Van was 5% over standard warranty of 36000 miles. (I did not get extended warranty because it's a HONDA.) I think dealer did the replacement on his own, as American Honda does not acknowledge any problem related to my van and at this time are refusing to extend the warranty on the remanufactued trans. Dealer has stated new trans is covered to 100000 miles/7years. Call me untrusting, but I want it in writing from American Honda! Yes I am happy the dealer did the right thing, now American Honda should also do their part. These Honda Odyssey transmissions have been failing since 1999 and I thought waiting for the 2002 new 5spd trans would solve the problem, not so the 5spd just has one more gear to fail!!!! Come on American Honda stand behind your product and take care of business.
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Dec 24
Odyssey LX V6
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.
Tracy R.
Hollywood, FL, USA
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