Road Test
Wrap-Up
Why We Bought It
How It Drove
Inside the Cabin
Summing Up
Changes to the Odyssey since 2005
Ups and Downs
Recalls and Problem History
Dealer Service Reviews
What Consumers Say
Why We Bought It
Year after year the Honda Odyssey wins our Editors' Most Wanted Award. In fact, since 1999 the Odyssey has impressed us enough to earn the top spot in those awards every year except one. We awarded the Toyota Sienna top honors in 2004, as it was an all-new minivan and the Odyssey was not. However, in 2005 the newly redesigned Honda Odyssey again claimed its rightful place as king of the minivan hill.
We also added an Odyssey to our long-term fleet. We already knew the van was a stylish and competent family hauler that's easy to drive and filled with thoughtful features. The question was, how would this new Cadillac of minivans hold up to 12 months of road trips, grimy little handprints, spilled apple juice and having Froot Loops, granola and Cheerios ground into the carpet and power-seat tracks? That's the real test.
How It Drove
In her first drive, Manager of Vehicle Testing Kelly Toepke praised the Odyssey's carlike ride and handling, and over the course of a year most staffers agreed with that initial assessment. Senior Content Editor Erin Riches said, "My favorite aspects of the Odyssey are its driving dynamics and cabin ergonomics. It's quick off the line, and the 255-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 is strong all the way to redline. And unlike our long-term Toyota Sienna and Nissan Quest, its transmission always shifts exactly when it should."
Although Erin's comments were typical of logbook entries that praised the Odyssey's steering, "excellent" brake feel and lack of squeaks and rattles even after 20,000 miles of service, not everyone agreed. Senior Consumer Advice Editor Philip Reed wrote in his notes, "Yes, the ride is comfortable, but the Odyssey feels like a bit of a barge." Stacie Brauer, wife of Editor in Chief Karl Brauer, confirmed this by saying she'd rather drive a sedan than a minivan like the Odyssey because of its overall size.
Enhancing the driving experience were Michelin/PAX system run-flat tires that offered great grip when the weather turned wet. Those tires are standard on the Touring model and we think the idea of run-flat technology in a family van is long overdue. However, we did experience a bit of a hassle when one of those tires developed a slow leak — the only indication of this was a light on the dash. Editor in Chief Brauer made several calls and was directed and redirected to several repair facilities.
Unlike a typical run-flat tire that only uses stronger sidewalls, the PAX system actually incorporates a separate plastic doughnut within the tire to provide tread support if the tire loses air pressure. The bottom line is that a special machine must be used to hold the doughnut in place when the tire is removed/repaired. The problem arose because only certain authorized shops have this equipment. Michelin says there are 200 Michelin dealers equipped to repair PAX system flats and there are 1,000 Honda dealers who can simply replace the PAX assembly.
Karl first contacted two local Honda dealers who both told him they did not have the part necessary to replace the PAX assembly. Then he was directed to an "authorized Michelin/PAX repair center." Eventually the tire was fixed but it took the better part of a day to sort it all out. Our out-of-pocket cost was $50. That sounds like a lot for a flat repair but compare it to the cost of replacing a typical run-flat tire and it seems like a bargain. Plus, we actually drove the van from place to place in an attempt to get it fixed, something that would have been impossible with a conventional flat tire. PAX system-equipped vans can continue for 125 miles at 50 mph in the event of a flat tire.
In all fairness, our flat tire occurred way back in May of 2005 when the Odyssey was still very new. Recently, we made a few calls to Santa Monica Honda and Miller Honda in Culver City, California, to see if the same problem would crop up. We're happy to report that both dealerships had at least one Michelin/PAX tire in stock. We're guessing the confusion and lack of parts was the product of growing pains for this new technology and will not be typical of Odyssey ownership.
Even with the inconvenience, we still think the safety and peace of mind offered by the PAX system tires is worth it. In fact, we'd like to see Honda offer that system as an option on the EX and LX versions of the Odyssey as well. Currently, only the Touring model has the PAX system.
Inside the Cabin
If there was even a hint of disagreement with regard to the Odyssey's driving and handling characteristics, the van's interior drew such unanimous praise you'd think Honda slipped something in the punch at the Christmas party. Actually, there was one notable exception.
Road Test Editor Brian Moody said, "Make fun of me for wanting a minivan all you want. With the Odyssey's combination of roominess, versatility and luxury I could easily have this one vehicle as my only car. The rest of you can have your $50,000 BMW sedans and $100-per-tank Escalades. I'm fine with this Honda and its ability to swallow countless Princess Barbie videos and bags full of Thomas the Tank Engine toys while at the same time offering a luxury-carlike interior."
That storage capacity was one more feature our editors virtually gushed over. "The folding center tray is brilliant," said one. Another editor praised the comfortable seats and dual power-sliding side doors. We also found that the third-row seats in the Odyssey were exceptionally comfortable. Erin Riches noted that even "adult family members were comfortable in back."
And here's where that notable exception comes in. Phil found the door handles that activate those power doors from the inside of the van to be troublesome. Because of the automatic locking doors, Phil noticed that "people in the rear seats are always yanking on the handles and getting frustrated when they don't open."
"The power door locks themselves are completely counterintuitive. In my '02 Odyssey, when you want the locks to open [go up], you press the door lock button up. That makes sense. In the new model, you have to press the door lock button down," added Joanne Helperin, senior features editor. Our long-term Honda Ridgeline has the same type of locks and we're no more pleased with that system.
Summing Up
Minivans are not so mini anymore and the 2005 Honda Odyssey is proof. Senior Road Test Editor Ed Hellwig said, "If this Honda was any bigger, it would have an echo." For those of us with children there's a simple translation. The Odyssey's siren song seems to be luring suburban parents, carpool moms, soccer coaches and weekend do-it-yourselfers into a gentle trance by repeating over and over, "It'll all fit, don't worry." But it's not just the Odyssey's ability to swallow tons of stuff and people, it's the van's thoughtful touches like door-mounted water bottle holders, an under-floor storage area and a collapsible center tray.
Our chief bone of contention with the Honda Odyssey is the automatic door locks that seem to be counterintuitive. More than one editor expressed frustration with this aspect of Odyssey ownership. A few drivers also thought the Odyssey felt too big when parking and would just as soon take a sedan for family dinners out or errands around town.
But the praise for this attractive and versatile minivan took up page after page of the Honda's logbook. The most telling entry was written by Erin Riches. "You don't have to be a parent to understand what a well-designed vehicle this is." And that pretty much sums up our feelings. If you have a family, you will love the Odyssey's large interior, tons of storage and well-balanced ride. But even those who might otherwise shun minivans have to admit that the Honda Odyssey is appealing on so many levels.
True Market Value at service end: $31,647
What it sold for: N/A
Depreciation: $2,848 or 8% of original paid price
Final Odometer Reading: 22,800
Best Fuel Economy: 25.5 mpg
Worst Fuel Economy: 12.6 mpg
Average Fuel Economy: 18.6 mpg
Total Body Repair Costs: None
Total Routine Maintenance Costs (over 12 months): $223.50
Additional Maintenance Costs: $50 for flat tire repair.
Warranty Repairs: None
Non-Warranty Repairs: 1 for repair of slow leak in one tire.
Scheduled Dealer Visits: 2
Unscheduled Dealer Visits: 1 in an attempt to get a tire repair
Days Out of Service: 2 for scheduled maintenance
Breakdowns Stranding Driver: None
Changes to the Odyssey since 2005
2006 — The most significant change for the Honda Odyssey this year is the option to get the Touring trim with the rear-seat entertainment system and not the navigation system. Previously, the two features were packaged together. Other changes this year include additional child-seat tether anchors for the third row and standard satellite radio for the Touring model. Finally, stated power output for the Odyssey's V6 engine has dropped slightly due to Honda's adoption of a new SAE horsepower-rating procedure.
Ups and Downs
Ups: Roomy and flexible interior make it a great road trip vehicle. We also like the strong V6.
Downs: Counterintuitive automatic door locks. Large size sometimes makes parking difficult.
The Bottom Line: Although some editors think the Honda Odyssey is a little large for a "mini" van, most praise its excellent ride, capable handling, solid reliability and overall comfort.
Recalls and Problem History
Recalls:
How It Drove
Inside the Cabin
Summing Up
Changes to the Odyssey since 2005
Ups and Downs
Recalls and Problem History
Dealer Service Reviews
What Consumers Say
Why We Bought It
Year after year the Honda Odyssey wins our Editors' Most Wanted Award. In fact, since 1999 the Odyssey has impressed us enough to earn the top spot in those awards every year except one. We awarded the Toyota Sienna top honors in 2004, as it was an all-new minivan and the Odyssey was not. However, in 2005 the newly redesigned Honda Odyssey again claimed its rightful place as king of the minivan hill.
We also added an Odyssey to our long-term fleet. We already knew the van was a stylish and competent family hauler that's easy to drive and filled with thoughtful features. The question was, how would this new Cadillac of minivans hold up to 12 months of road trips, grimy little handprints, spilled apple juice and having Froot Loops, granola and Cheerios ground into the carpet and power-seat tracks? That's the real test.
How It Drove
In her first drive, Manager of Vehicle Testing Kelly Toepke praised the Odyssey's carlike ride and handling, and over the course of a year most staffers agreed with that initial assessment. Senior Content Editor Erin Riches said, "My favorite aspects of the Odyssey are its driving dynamics and cabin ergonomics. It's quick off the line, and the 255-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 is strong all the way to redline. And unlike our long-term Toyota Sienna and Nissan Quest, its transmission always shifts exactly when it should."
Although Erin's comments were typical of logbook entries that praised the Odyssey's steering, "excellent" brake feel and lack of squeaks and rattles even after 20,000 miles of service, not everyone agreed. Senior Consumer Advice Editor Philip Reed wrote in his notes, "Yes, the ride is comfortable, but the Odyssey feels like a bit of a barge." Stacie Brauer, wife of Editor in Chief Karl Brauer, confirmed this by saying she'd rather drive a sedan than a minivan like the Odyssey because of its overall size.
Enhancing the driving experience were Michelin/PAX system run-flat tires that offered great grip when the weather turned wet. Those tires are standard on the Touring model and we think the idea of run-flat technology in a family van is long overdue. However, we did experience a bit of a hassle when one of those tires developed a slow leak — the only indication of this was a light on the dash. Editor in Chief Brauer made several calls and was directed and redirected to several repair facilities.
Unlike a typical run-flat tire that only uses stronger sidewalls, the PAX system actually incorporates a separate plastic doughnut within the tire to provide tread support if the tire loses air pressure. The bottom line is that a special machine must be used to hold the doughnut in place when the tire is removed/repaired. The problem arose because only certain authorized shops have this equipment. Michelin says there are 200 Michelin dealers equipped to repair PAX system flats and there are 1,000 Honda dealers who can simply replace the PAX assembly.
Karl first contacted two local Honda dealers who both told him they did not have the part necessary to replace the PAX assembly. Then he was directed to an "authorized Michelin/PAX repair center." Eventually the tire was fixed but it took the better part of a day to sort it all out. Our out-of-pocket cost was $50. That sounds like a lot for a flat repair but compare it to the cost of replacing a typical run-flat tire and it seems like a bargain. Plus, we actually drove the van from place to place in an attempt to get it fixed, something that would have been impossible with a conventional flat tire. PAX system-equipped vans can continue for 125 miles at 50 mph in the event of a flat tire.
In all fairness, our flat tire occurred way back in May of 2005 when the Odyssey was still very new. Recently, we made a few calls to Santa Monica Honda and Miller Honda in Culver City, California, to see if the same problem would crop up. We're happy to report that both dealerships had at least one Michelin/PAX tire in stock. We're guessing the confusion and lack of parts was the product of growing pains for this new technology and will not be typical of Odyssey ownership.
Even with the inconvenience, we still think the safety and peace of mind offered by the PAX system tires is worth it. In fact, we'd like to see Honda offer that system as an option on the EX and LX versions of the Odyssey as well. Currently, only the Touring model has the PAX system.
Inside the Cabin
If there was even a hint of disagreement with regard to the Odyssey's driving and handling characteristics, the van's interior drew such unanimous praise you'd think Honda slipped something in the punch at the Christmas party. Actually, there was one notable exception.
Road Test Editor Brian Moody said, "Make fun of me for wanting a minivan all you want. With the Odyssey's combination of roominess, versatility and luxury I could easily have this one vehicle as my only car. The rest of you can have your $50,000 BMW sedans and $100-per-tank Escalades. I'm fine with this Honda and its ability to swallow countless Princess Barbie videos and bags full of Thomas the Tank Engine toys while at the same time offering a luxury-carlike interior."
That storage capacity was one more feature our editors virtually gushed over. "The folding center tray is brilliant," said one. Another editor praised the comfortable seats and dual power-sliding side doors. We also found that the third-row seats in the Odyssey were exceptionally comfortable. Erin Riches noted that even "adult family members were comfortable in back."
And here's where that notable exception comes in. Phil found the door handles that activate those power doors from the inside of the van to be troublesome. Because of the automatic locking doors, Phil noticed that "people in the rear seats are always yanking on the handles and getting frustrated when they don't open."
"The power door locks themselves are completely counterintuitive. In my '02 Odyssey, when you want the locks to open [go up], you press the door lock button up. That makes sense. In the new model, you have to press the door lock button down," added Joanne Helperin, senior features editor. Our long-term Honda Ridgeline has the same type of locks and we're no more pleased with that system.
Summing Up
Minivans are not so mini anymore and the 2005 Honda Odyssey is proof. Senior Road Test Editor Ed Hellwig said, "If this Honda was any bigger, it would have an echo." For those of us with children there's a simple translation. The Odyssey's siren song seems to be luring suburban parents, carpool moms, soccer coaches and weekend do-it-yourselfers into a gentle trance by repeating over and over, "It'll all fit, don't worry." But it's not just the Odyssey's ability to swallow tons of stuff and people, it's the van's thoughtful touches like door-mounted water bottle holders, an under-floor storage area and a collapsible center tray.
Our chief bone of contention with the Honda Odyssey is the automatic door locks that seem to be counterintuitive. More than one editor expressed frustration with this aspect of Odyssey ownership. A few drivers also thought the Odyssey felt too big when parking and would just as soon take a sedan for family dinners out or errands around town.
But the praise for this attractive and versatile minivan took up page after page of the Honda's logbook. The most telling entry was written by Erin Riches. "You don't have to be a parent to understand what a well-designed vehicle this is." And that pretty much sums up our feelings. If you have a family, you will love the Odyssey's large interior, tons of storage and well-balanced ride. But even those who might otherwise shun minivans have to admit that the Honda Odyssey is appealing on so many levels.
True Market Value at service end: $31,647
What it sold for: N/A
Depreciation: $2,848 or 8% of original paid price
Final Odometer Reading: 22,800
Best Fuel Economy: 25.5 mpg
Worst Fuel Economy: 12.6 mpg
Average Fuel Economy: 18.6 mpg
Total Body Repair Costs: None
Total Routine Maintenance Costs (over 12 months): $223.50
Additional Maintenance Costs: $50 for flat tire repair.
Warranty Repairs: None
Non-Warranty Repairs: 1 for repair of slow leak in one tire.
Scheduled Dealer Visits: 2
Unscheduled Dealer Visits: 1 in an attempt to get a tire repair
Days Out of Service: 2 for scheduled maintenance
Breakdowns Stranding Driver: None
Changes to the Odyssey since 2005
2006 — The most significant change for the Honda Odyssey this year is the option to get the Touring trim with the rear-seat entertainment system and not the navigation system. Previously, the two features were packaged together. Other changes this year include additional child-seat tether anchors for the third row and standard satellite radio for the Touring model. Finally, stated power output for the Odyssey's V6 engine has dropped slightly due to Honda's adoption of a new SAE horsepower-rating procedure.
Ups and Downs
Ups: Roomy and flexible interior make it a great road trip vehicle. We also like the strong V6.
Downs: Counterintuitive automatic door locks. Large size sometimes makes parking difficult.
The Bottom Line: Although some editors think the Honda Odyssey is a little large for a "mini" van, most praise its excellent ride, capable handling, solid reliability and overall comfort.
Recalls and Problem History
Recalls:
- Faulty ABS wheel-speed sensor. 2,247 vans built between July and October 2004 had an ABS sensor installed incorrectly. The result could be a collision resulting from an inaccurate ABS sensor applying the brakes incorrectly because of a wrong wheel-speed reading.
- Incorrectly assembled steering column. 203 vans built in January of 2005 could have a faulty steering column which could result in loss of steering control.
- Loose terminals in the fusebox. 1,923 vans built in November of 2004 may have loose connections in the fusebox and could result in the fuel pump losing power, causing the engine to stall.
- Front airbag sensor. On 85,154 vans built between July 2004 and March 2005 airbag impact sensors may have been sealed improperly. If water enters the sensor, the SRS light on the dash will go on and stay on. In case of an accident, airbags could deploy slowly or not at all.
Problem History:
- Run-flat tire developed a slow leak. After several phone calls and visits to one Honda dealer and two tire stores we finally found an authorized repair facility.
Dealer Service Reviews
Norm Reeves Honda, Cerritos, California
May 2005
We showed up in the afternoon to find that the dealer had suffered a major power outage that day which lasted for several hours, and that power had been restored just prior to our arrival.
Despite the fact that the service department was backed up as a result of the outage, our service advisor called a mere three hours later to announce that our Odyssey was ready for pickup. The $81.31 bill included an oil change and the usual inspections.
Santa Monica Honda, Santa Monica, California
September 2005
When the maintenance light illuminated at around 11,000 miles we made a service appointment. Unfortunately, Honda of Santa Monica had no record of the service appointment we made two days prior, but they were willing to take the Odyssey upon our arrival just the same. After an oil change, tire rotation and numerous regular inspections, we handed over $141.69 and were back on the road.
What Consumers Say
"I did not realize how big this Honda minivan was until I got it in my garage. Yet, it pulls hills like they weren't even there. My wife loves all the extra room it has. She likes the rear-seat storage compartment in the back floor as a place to put the groceries when she goes shopping. They don't slide around there. It is quiet, handles sharp curves well, effortless to drive. The overdrive works extremely well, does not jump in and out as my older vehicles did. It seems to be able to read your mind, and drops into overdrive only when the driving situation is right. On level highway the move to overdrive is gradual, until the engine rpm is down to 1,100-1,600 rpm, and quiet! 18-22 mpg in city." — Don, January 31, 2006
"This has been the best vehicle we have ever owned. We had a 2003 Odyssey that was a great car, but the 2005 is a quantum leap forward in all aspects! As retirees, we use it mostly as a trip car and always feel safe and secure. We drove 900 miles in one day last fall and couldn't believe how comfortable the leather seats were (I'm very sensitive to seats as I have lumbar problems). The quality of the ride is outstanding as well as the ease in using the controls, especially cruise. Handling is more like a car than a van (much improved vs. 2003). On trips, we usually average better than 26 mpg while driving 70-75 mph." — Haroldthreatt, January 7, 2006
"Nice riding passenger van. Easy handling. Lots of power. Poor gas mileage in the city but good on highway. Bought the van right before gas prices soared thru the roof. Peaked at $52 to fill up, now 'down' to $33.00/week." — BdinnaB, November 19, 2005
Add A Comment »