The Honda Odyssey typically earns enthusiasm from owners and automotive critics alike, with decent sales numbers in the minivan segment. It offers plenty of space, rides comfortably, and abounds with useful tech features — everything you’d need in a family hauler. It’s still alive and kicking for the 2023 model year, now with a relatively aggressive Sport trim. The Honda Odyssey is also generally reliable, but there are a few exceptions. Here’s why Consumer Reports hated the 2019 Honda Odyssey.

Beward of these Honda Odyssey model years

Before we get into details about the 2019 Honda Odyssey, here’s some useful information about other problematic model years:

2018 Odyssey

According to Consumer Reports, the 2018 Honda Odyssey has some concerning reliability issues. Owners reported poor performance from the transmission and glitchy smartphone integration. A few 2018 Odyssey models have already needed to have their starters replaced.

2013 Odyssey

Another bad year for the Odyssey was 2013. This model is prone to suspension issues, engine cylinder leakage, and uneven brake wear. Some of these issues were also present in the 2012 model, along with several electronic problems. Both the interior and exterior lights are known to suddenly stop working.

2005 and 2010 Odyssey

If you plan to purchase a 2010 or 2005 Honda Odyssey, check that its engine was replaced under the recall. Otherwise, its cylinder heads are prone to premature failure.

You’ll also have to watch out for body integrity problems, suspension issues, and an assortment of electronic failures on the 2010 model. And the 2005 Honda Odyssey is has many cosmetic and tech issues.

Avoid the 2019 Honda Odyssey, according to Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports was quick to notice the unrefined nature of the standard nine-speed automatic transmission on the 2019 Honda Odyssey. Most of the time, it needs a few seconds to catch up with the driver’s input, followed by a rough shake as it shifts.

2019 Odyssey owners surveyed by Consumer Reports also complained about the nine-speed automatic. One driver even experienced unexpectedly high revs after shifting, after which the gearbox stopped working for a few moments.

The 2019 Honda Odyssey also has many body hardware problems. One driver had to get the sliding doors fixed immediately after buying the minivan. Others reported alignment issues with the Odyssey’s sunroof and chrome trim along its doors.

It’s also clear the trunks in some of these minivans weren’t manufactured properly. Water leakage is common because of a potentially faulty seal. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed at a dealership.

The 2019 Honda Odyssey also has smartphone integration problems. Most owners say they can’t connect to the feature without rebooting their devices. Sometimes the entire infotainment system, as well as the backup camera, shut down without warning.

Take Consumer Reports’ 2019 Honda Odyssey findings with a grain of salt

According to users on CarComplaints.com, the 2019 Honda Odyssey actually has fewer problems than other model years. Owners still reported many electrical problems, but most drivers didn’t have any issues with the transmission. 

CarComplaints.com hates the 2005 Honda Odyssey more than the 2019 model, primarily because of body structure issues. The sliding door latches are often defective, and the body paint starts peeling after 100,000 miles.

Power steering problems also become apparent after the 2005 Odyssey hits around 50,000 miles. It’s known to produce a grinding sound at low speeds, and some drivers needed to have the entire unit replaced. Also, expect faulty engine mounts, malfunctioning A/C units, and transmission woes from these models.

Of course, remember that the 2019 Honda Odyssey has been around since only April 2018. Most drivers have yet to hit the 100,000-mile mark, usually when the most troublesome defects reveal themselves. CarComplaints.com users might start agreeing with Consumer Reports members in the future.