2017 Honda Odyssey
2017 Honda Odyssey
Overview
The 2017 Honda Odyssey is a popular minivan known for its family-friendly features and practicality. Generally, it offers good reliability, making it a solid choice for many households. However, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers or current owners. We will examine the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical systems, exterior, and interior components to give a comprehensive reliability picture.
Engine
3.5L V6
Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) Issues
- Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, rough idling, engine misfires, check engine light illumination.
- Solution: Software update, replacement of spark plugs, ignition coils, or VCM deactivator/lifters.
- Cost: $300 - $1200
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
- Cost: $200 - $600
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
Hesitation and Shuddering
- Symptoms: Jerking or shuddering during gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping gears.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and replacement, software update, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Cost: $400 - $3000
9-Speed Automatic
Harsh Shifting and Jerking
- Symptoms: Rough or abrupt gear changes, especially at lower speeds, occasional jerking.
- Solution: Software update for transmission control module, transmission fluid service.
- Cost: $200 - $800
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing or Unresponsive
- Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $300 - $1500
Power Sliding Doors
Malfunctioning Doors
- Symptoms: Doors not opening or closing properly, intermittent operation, unusual noises.
- Solution: Lubrication of tracks, adjustment of sensors, replacement of motor or control module.
- Cost: $200 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Seat Upholstery
Wear and Tear
- Symptoms: Premature wear on fabric or leather, especially on driver’s seat.
- Solution: Professional cleaning, repair, or replacement of seat covers.
- Cost: $100 - $500
Climate Control System
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Honda Odyssey generally presents a reliable profile for a minivan, with its 3.5L V6 engine being a robust unit. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues related to the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which can manifest as performance problems and require costly repairs. Transmission issues, particularly with the 9-speed automatic, can also arise, leading to rough shifting. Electrical concerns, such as infotainment system glitches and power sliding door malfunctions, are also noted. While the suspension and exterior are typically solid, interior upholstery can show wear over time. Overall, the Odyssey is a practical choice, but proactive maintenance and awareness of these specific potential problems are recommended.