2000 Honda Odyssey EX from North America - Comments

I took the Van to Honda for the CE light and they informed me that the Catalytic Converter had failed, with a cost of $900.00 + to replace it. I paid them the $85.00 for the diagnostic support and took the van back home. I decided to order an aftermarket converter by CATCO for $168.00. (two flanges with 3 bolts each... easy work) This cleared the light for approximately 30,000 miles. The light recently came back on. The error code, once again, pointed to the O2 sensors or the Cat Converter. I replaced both O2 sensors (Bosch aftermarket) and reset the error code. The CE light came back on about 30 miles later. After reading several reviews, I then ordered and replaced another Cat Convertor (DEC) for $187.00. The CE light has been clear for ~ 200 miles. (Keeping fingers crossed) The DEC brand converter has much more surface area for cleaning the exhaust, so I'm hoping for the best.

The Check Engine (CE) light has been a constant presence in the vehicle. Failures include a transmission, EGR valve, O2 sensors and Catalytic converter (twice). If you decide to replace the converter and/or O2 sensors, jack the right side up and remove the right front tire. This will give you easy access to the downstream O2 sensor connector. It me about an hour to replace the sensors and about 1 hour to replace the Cat Converter. My guess it that the emission tolerances are very tight on this model year and many different things can cause the CE light to come on. I've found that online autoparts warehouses that can provide quality aftermarket parts at prices much much lower than Honda. I have over 208,000 miles on the Van now, trying to avoid the monthly payments of a new car, but it's been a very frustrating vehicle to maintain.

I'm glad you've seen the light. A domestic vehicle is a far more reliable choice and a much better value all around. Our 8 and 6 year old GM vehicles are still flawless, and have never had a single repair except batteries, tires and brake pads.