Odyssey Transmission

My Odyssey, with 92k miles, began leaking trans fluid. The van had been serviced regularly, especially with frequent trans fluid changes done by Honda dealers, because I was aware of the early trans failures. We do not use it for towing and we live in an area with no hills or mountains. We drive easily with our family.

After 3 trips to the dealer, who initially stonewalled, then said a cooler line was loose, the trans continued to leak fluid. The dealer finally admitted an exchange trans was needed. Then began the calls to American Honda to file a case and to speak with the regional representative. The rep seemed to be annoyed by my request for assistance, and spoke to me only very briefly. No apology was offered.

After waiting and several more calls, the rep finally offered to pay 40% of the replacement cost ($3600)...I agreed to pay 60% or $1948. not including tax, trans fluid, or rental car expenses. Meanwhile the car has been in the shop for 1 week, and will not be ready for another week.

The reason I bought a Honda in the first place, and the reason I paid a premium for it, was because I believed Honda produced a reliable product. I have since changed my mind, and have talked to neighbors who owned an 2002 Accord, also with transmission defects. I should have bought the Toyota Sienna that we considered before buying the Honda. No more Hondas for me, my friends, or family.