The second generation of Honda Odyssey (1999 - 2004) is one of the best minivans in the current used car market.
Honda Odyssey comes in two models: LX and EX with major difference that EX comes with dual power sliding doors - great convenience but less reliable.
The interior is very spacious; the second row seat can be folded or completely removed. The third row seat folds flat with one easy move. The dual air conditioning system has separate controls in the rear. Well designed instrument panel is easy to read and all the controls are conveniently located.
Good handling, smooth and soft ride, but the interior is quite noisy.
The 1999 - 2001 Honda Odyssey comes with 3.5L 210 hp V6 engine and 4-speed automatic transmission.
From 2002 Odyssey comes with slightly modified engine with power increased to 240 h.p, a new 5-speed automatic transmission and disk brakes on all four wheels.
The 1999 - 04 Honda Odyssey rated "Good" in IIHS offset frontal crash test. Five stars for both driver and passenger in NHTSA frontal crash test. Five stars for the NHTSA side impact test for 2000 - 04 models.

The engine

From 1999 the Odyssey comes with 3.5L SOHC, 24-Valve, VTEC V6 engine with 210 hp and 229 lb.-ft. of torque.
Starting from 2002 the engine power has been increased to 240-horsepower and 242-lb.-ft. of torque on regular unleaded fuel. This engine is fairly reliable and requires minimum maintenance. The Honda Odyssey engine has a timing belt that must be changed regularly.

Strengths

- Stylish look
- Spacious
- Powerful engine
- Versatility
- Third-row seat folds flat
- High crash test ratings
- High resale value
- Interior quality and comfort

Weaknesses

 High price
- Road noise, interior rattles
- Transmission problems

Overall

Honda Odyssey is one of top choices among used minivans despite higher price. High crash test ratings, well-designed spacious interior, folded third-row seat, powerful V6 engine, standard ABS - all this is worth to consider when choosing between more expensive Honda Odyssey and less expensive competitors. Parts and repairs are quite expensive. Some of the possible problems are automatic transmission, power sliding doors on early models, 'check engine' light with EGR related codes. Consider buying an extended warranty to protect yourself from unexpected repairs.

Maintenance and repair

- Wash and wax your car regularly
- Regular oil changes are very important to keep your engine in a good shape.
- Change transmission fluid regularly.
- Try to avoid overheating the engine; it may cause serious problems.
- Take care of minor problems as soon as you can, before they cause something serious.
- Check your parking space for possible leaks, and if you find one, get it fixed as soon as you can.
- At least once a year have your car inspected in the garage on the lift (e.g when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at one of those fast lube places; the car must be on the lift.
- If you have power sliding doors, don't open them when they are frozen. Keep the door rails clean and lubricated.
If you have problem with the automatic transmission, visit your local Honda dealer first.
No matter where you service your Honda, try to stick with original Honda parts.

Honda Odyssey short specs. (2003 model)

Dimensions (EX model)

Length 201.2 in (5110 mm)
Width 75.6 in (1920 mm)
Height 69.7 in (1770 mm)

Fuel Economy

city: 18 MPG or 13.1 L/100km
hwy: 25 MPG or 9.4 L/100km

Automatic transmission fluid

Change: 3.5 qt (3.3 liters)
Total: 8.3 qt (7.9 liters