Ever noticed your Honda Odyssey shifting oddly or heard unusual sounds from the transmission? You’re not alone. Honda has issued several significant transmission recalls for the Odyssey, particularly affecting 2018-2019 models. These issues range from minor inconveniences to serious safety hazards that could leave you stranded or worse.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Honda Odyssey transmission recalls, how to check if your vehicle is affected, and what steps to take to protect yourself and your family.
The Major Honda Odyssey Transmission Recall: What Happened?
In April 2019, Honda issued a critical recall (NHTSA Campaign 19V299000) affecting approximately 50,000 Honda Odyssey minivans from model years 2018-2019. This wasn’t just any minor fix—it addressed a potentially dangerous defect in the transmission control unit software.
Which Models Were Affected?
This recall specifically targeted Odyssey Touring and Touring Elite trims equipped with 10-speed automatic transmissions built during these periods:
- 2018 models built from January 19, 2017, through April 16, 2018
- 2019 models built from April 12, 2018, through January 14, 2019
Honda’s internal recall numbers for this campaign were Z4J and Y4K.
The Technical Problem Explained
The issue stems from a software glitch in the transmission control unit. If the 12-volt battery cable disconnected while driving, the system could become “confused” and unintentionally activate the parking gear—while the vehicle was still moving.
When this happens, it can damage the parking rod mechanism, potentially preventing future engagement of the parking gear. In simpler terms: your minivan might not stay in “Park” when you need it to, creating a serious rollaway risk.
Thankfully, Honda reported no crashes or injuries related to this condition at the time of the recall announcement.
What Was the Fix?
Honda’s recall remedy included three components, all performed free of charge:
- A transmission control software update to prevent confusion during battery disconnection events
- Tightening of the 12-volt battery cable to reduce the likelihood of disconnection
- Transmission replacement if technicians found the parking gear mechanism was already damaged
Beyond the Major Recall: Ongoing Transmission Issues
The 2019 recall wasn’t the end of Honda Odyssey transmission troubles. In December 2019, Honda issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 19-124 addressing additional transmission problems in 2018-2019 Odysseys with 9-speed automatic transmissions.
Common Symptoms Owners Reported
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, your Odyssey might be affected:
- Intermittent harsh or jerky upshifts during steady acceleration
- Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) illumination with diagnostic trouble code P0716
- Rough shifting between gears
- Unusual noises during gear changes
- Sudden loss of power
What Caused These Problems?
According to Honda’s technical service bulletin, the problems stem from abnormal transmission control module (TCM) adaptation values or miscalculations in the TCM software.
The fix involves updating the transmission control module software using specialized diagnostic equipment. Interestingly, Honda notes that the TCM requires approximately 500 miles after the software update to adapt to your driving patterns.
Honda Odyssey Transmission Class Action Lawsuits
In September 2023, a significant class action lawsuit (Moore v. American Honda Motor Co.) was filed alleging that Honda’s ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic transmission contains programming defects affecting multiple models, including the 2018-2019 Honda Odyssey.
What the Lawsuit Claims
The lawsuit alleges the transmission suffers from “design and/or workmanship defects” in the control software calibration. It claims these defects cause the transmission control module and powertrain control module to become “unduly sensitive” to sensor variations.
Affected vehicles reportedly experience:
- Rough and delayed shifting
- Loud noises during gear changes
- Harsh engagement of gears
- Sudden, harsh accelerations and decelerations
- Grinding sounds during shifting
NHTSA’s Expanded Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has taken notice too. In March 2023, they upgraded and expanded their investigation to include approximately 2.2 million vehicles, including 2018-2023 Honda Odysseys.
This investigation focuses on auto start-stop system failures where engines fail to restart after automatically shutting off at traffic lights or intersections—a problem that can feel like a transmission issue to many drivers.
How to Check if Your Honda Odyssey Has a Recall
If you own a Honda Odyssey, especially a 2018-2019 model, it’s crucial to check whether your specific vehicle is affected by any recalls. Here’s how:
- Visit recalls.honda.com and enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Call Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138
- Check the NHTSA recall database for comprehensive recall information
- Contact your local Honda dealership for VIN-specific recall verification
Your VIN can be found on your vehicle registration, insurance card, or on the driver’s side dashboard visible through the windshield.
What to Do if Your Honda Odyssey is Affected by a Recall
If you discover your Odyssey is subject to a recall:
- Contact an authorized Honda dealer immediately to schedule a repair
- Remember that all recall repairs are performed free of charge, regardless of warranty status
- Don’t delay repairs, as recall defects often involve safety risks
- Keep documentation of all recall repairs for your records
Warning Signs of Transmission Problems
Even if your Odyssey isn’t currently under a recall, it’s important to watch for these warning signs of transmission problems:
- Delayed or harsh shifting between gears
- Slipping or hunting gears during acceleration
- Unusual noises such as whining, grinding, or clunking
- Dashboard warning lights including the Malfunction Indicator Light
- Burning smells that may indicate overheating transmission fluid
- Fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly reddish transmission fluid
If you notice any of these symptoms, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible.
The ZF 9-Speed Transmission: A Known Problem Source
The ZF 9HP transmission used in 2018-2019 Odysseys represents Honda’s attempt to improve fuel economy through a more complex 9-speed design. However, this transmission has experienced problems across multiple manufacturers.
| Model Year | Transmission Type | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|
| 2018-2019 | ZF 9HP 9-Speed | Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, software problems |
| 2018-2019 | Honda 10-Speed | Unintended park engagement, software issues |
| Earlier models | 5 & 6-Speed | Premature failure, shuddering, slipping |
Honda has moved away from the problematic ZF 9HP transmission in newer Odyssey models, instead utilizing their own 10-speed automatic transmission developed in-house. This transition suggests Honda recognized the ZF transmission’s shortcomings.
Honda’s Response to Transmission Issues
Honda has acknowledged these transmission issues through multiple channels:
- Issuing technical service bulletins to dealers
- Extending warranties on specific transmission repairs to 10 years/150,000 miles in some cases
- Cooperating with NHTSA investigations
- Implementing software updates and hardware modifications
However, many owners argue these responses haven’t fully addressed the underlying design problems.
Additional Transmission-Related Issues to Watch For
Fuel Pump Recall Impact
Honda issued an expanded fuel pump recall (NHTSA 23V858000) affecting 2.49 million vehicles, including 2018-2023 Honda Odysseys. While primarily a fuel system issue, fuel pump failures can cause engine stalls that may be misattributed to transmission problems.
Historical Transmission Problems
The Honda Odyssey has a troubled transmission history extending beyond recent models. Earlier generations (particularly 1999-2004) experienced widespread transmission failures, with some reporting failure rates approaching 100% in certain model years.
Legal Rights for Honda Odyssey Owners
If you’ve experienced repeated transmission problems with your Honda Odyssey, you may have legal rights under state lemon laws or consumer protection statutes.
Many states have laws requiring manufacturers to buy back or replace vehicles with persistent defects that substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. The ongoing class action lawsuits may also provide compensation for affected owners.
Document all repair attempts, keep service records, and consider consulting with a consumer protection attorney if you’ve had multiple unsuccessful repair attempts.
Table: Honda Odyssey Transmission Recall Timeline
| Date | Action | Affected Models | Issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 2019 | Major Recall (19V299000) | 2018-2019 Odyssey Touring/Elite | Unintended park engagement |
| December 2019 | TSB 19-124 Issued | 2018-2019 Odyssey with 9-speed | Harsh upshifts, MIL illumination |
| September 2023 | Class Action Filed | 2018-2019 Odyssey (among others) | ZF 9-speed transmission defects |
| March 2023 | NHTSA Investigation Expanded | 2018-2025 Odyssey | Auto start-stop system failures |
What to Consider When Buying a Used Honda Odyssey
If you’re shopping for a used Odyssey:
- Be especially cautious of 2018-2019 models with either transmission type
- Request service records to check for transmission repairs
- Verify all recalls have been performed
- Consider an extended warranty if buying a model year with known issues
- Have a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic
- Test drive thoroughly, paying close attention to how the transmission shifts
Honda Odyssey Transmission Maintenance Costs
If your vehicle is outside warranty coverage, transmission repair costs can be substantial:
- Transmission software updates: $100-$300
- Transmission fluid change: $150-$300
- Transmission control module replacement: $500-$1,000
- Complete transmission replacement: $3,500-$5,000+
These costs highlight the importance of ensuring all recall work is completed while your vehicle is eligible for free repairs.
How Honda’s Transmission Issues Compare to Competitors
While Honda has faced significant transmission problems, it’s worth noting that other minivan manufacturers have experienced their own issues:
- Chrysler/Dodge had widespread issues with their 9-speed ZF transmissions in the Pacifica
- Toyota Sienna has generally had fewer transmission problems but isn’t immune to issues
- Kia Sedona/Carnival has experienced some transmission control issues in recent models
