2002 Honda Odyssey LX review from North America
"Great mini-van, even with it's minor problems"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Passenger side window has been serviced twice now, and the dealer re-greased the slides both times. I think it may be a weak or too small of an electric motor.
Power sliding doors are a little quirky. Sometimes they get confused and stop mid-way, especially when using the remote entry. The dealer checked and lubed the tracks. The doors work perfectly when using the interior controls, but still get confused when using the remote.
The "drive" indicator bulb went out, dealer replaced it under warranty.
Dealer-installed tow package wiring did not work correctly. The dealer corrected it and my trailer lights now work properly. I'm wondering if the transmission oil cooler part of that kit may save me from some of the transmission problems being reported here. If this turns out to be true, I'll be glad to tell the wife "I told you it was a good idea!"
It sounds like the speakers in the front doors are blown. I haven't addressed them to the dealer yet, but will when it goes in for the next service.
General comments?
This has been a great vehicle save the few minor annoyances. Leather seats and DVD system to keep our daughter entertained on road trips. I even enjoyed the DVD on our last long trip to the west coast. I think I'll take a pair of wired headphones next time, however, because the wireless ones just aren't comfortable and don't have any oomph. The 2nd row seat on the passenger side can recline nicely, and you can recline the front passenger seat back to use it as a recliner.
The power of this van is amazing. Mashing the gas pedal to the floor gets this van moving with conviction when you're trying to merge with 70 mph+ highway traffic on a short access ramp. I can honestly say that I'm not embarrassed to be driving this stigmatized vehicle, primarily due to the fact that horsepower=smiles.
The rear-folding seat is wonderful. I can go from people hauling to moving in a matter of seconds. Having just moved myself, I'm very pleased with the hide-a-seat capabilities.
The only other mini-van even close to this vehicle would be the Chrysler line, however, because of bad experiences with the 1996 Intrepid that this van replaced, a poor Dodge dealership service department, and numerous TSB's, I was not inclined to buy another Dodge. In my opinion, the dealership counts for a great deal of the experience. Since I have had outstanding experiences with mine, I'd give my van (excuse me, wife's van), an outstanding review.
Recommended reviews
| Excellent vans that need a beefier transmission |
| Overall good vehicle. but many have had serious problems |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.5 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 30000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Honda |
| Date of Entry | 19th April, 2004 |