These SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic Converters. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory due to a loss of CARB certification. These SKUs can no longer be sold as they do not meet CARB standards, but parts on vehicles are not effected.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2005 Honda Odyssey engine problems
moderate 122 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100 · see engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
122
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
1crash
2fires
When does it fail?
Of the 122 engine complaints filed for the 2005 Honda Odyssey, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 21 model years of Honda Odyssey we track for engine problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 122.
Owners have filed 122 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
These SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic Converters. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory due to a loss of CARB certification. These SKUs can no longer be sold as they do not meet CARB standards, but parts on vehicles are not effected.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This SKU is a Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid. The Customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect for possible incorrect wiring. Incorrect VVT solenoid wiring may cause an inability of the variable valve timing system to activate. Inability to activate the variable valve timing system may cause reduced engine performance. Incorrect VVT solenoid wiring may also cause the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) to illuminate.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗HONDA VEHICLE: DAMAGED CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (CMP) CAUSES THE MIL TO COME ON WITH DTC P0344. EXCESSIVE CAMSHAFT END PLAY CAUSES THE CAMSHAFT GEAR TO DAMAGE THE CAMSHAFT POSITION (CMP) SENSOR. REPLACE THE FRONT CAMSHAFT, THRUST COVER, THE CAM GEAR, AND THE CMP SENSOR. UPDATED 3/27/12. UPDATED 10/11/12.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗HONDA: MALFUNCTION LIGHT COMES ON WITH TROUBLE CODE STORED. SOFTWARE CONCERN.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2005 Honda Odyssey exhibits a cluster of engine-related failures tied to the variable cylinder management (VCM) system introduced that year. Owners report sudden engine stalling at highway speeds due to excessive oil burning—the VCM shuts down cylinders to save fuel, but idle cylinders burn oil from ring wear. Oil level drops undetected (no low-level warning exists) until pressure becomes critical and the engine stalls without warning. Honda issued a software update in January 2011 but has not recalled the vehicles.
Engine mounts fail prematurely, typically between 50,000 and 105,000 miles, causing severe vibration in the steering wheel and cabin at 40–75 MPH. Dealers confirm this is a known issue but classify it as normal wear, quoting $500–$1,200 per mount. Multiple owners report the rear mount fails within months of replacing the front and side, suggesting an engineering defect related to VCM vibration stresses.
The A/C condenser sits unprotected behind the front bumper and frequently punctures from road debris, costing $630–$1,600 to replace. Dealers universally deny warranty coverage by claiming "rock strike," though owners report repeated failures on the same vehicle.
Additional failures include catalytic converter breakdown (often linked to oil consumption), head gasket leaks, harmonic balancer ejection, and unexplained engine surges during braking. One owner reported total loss of steering and braking during a sharp turn. Electrical gremlins appear throughout ownership, with some vehicles requiring repeated computer and wiring harness replacements before dealers give up.
Same Honda Odyssey engine reports on nearby years: 2006 · 2007 · 2008
Failure modes owners describe
Engine stalling at highway speed due to variable cylinder management and excessive oil consumption
Engine stalls abruptly during cruising after variable cylinder management (VCM) deactivates cylinders to save fuel. When cylinders remain idle, oil burns on the rings due to temperature differences. Over time, oil level drops enough to trigger low oil pressure warning only after engine begins to stall, causing sudden loss of power.
When: Begins after 70,000 miles; first complaint January 2010 incident documented; problems appear years into ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden engine stall at highway speed (15 mph or below in seconds); Engine stalling in reverse and at low speeds; Low oil pressure warning light triggers only after stalling begins; No separate low oil level warning
Repairs/costs cited: Honda released software update January 2011 to periodically fire idle cylinders to minimize temperature differences and reduce oil burning
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Software update released January 2011; no formal recall issued; Honda reportedly reluctant to recall due to fear of EPA mileage claim failures
Unexplained engine surge during braking and gear shifting
Engine revs to 5000–6000 RPM without driver input when approaching stops, at traffic lights, or when shifting into reverse. Occurs intermittently but with high frequency (three to four times per year). Dealers unable to diagnose despite error codes or repeated visits.
When: Occurs intermittently throughout ownership; one complaint documented from 2015 onward
Symptoms owners cite: Engine revs to 5000–6000 RPM while braking at traffic lights and stop signs; Engine surge while placing vehicle in reverse; Vehicle continues to slowly roll forward despite brake pressure; Problem persists after timing belt, water pump, and valve adjustment repairs
Repairs/costs cited: Timing belt, water pump, and valve adjustment replaced at $3,216.06 without resolving the issue
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer stated no reports of this issue occurring on any other vehicle; refused to allow customer to drive with diagnostic monitor
Engine mount failure causing excessive vibration
Engine mounts (front, rear, or side) crack or break prematurely, causing severe vibrations felt in steering wheel and passenger compartment. Failures occur at low to moderate mileage. Dealers acknowledge this is a known widespread problem, suggesting it is related to the variable cylinder management system introducing additional vibration stress the mounts were not designed to handle.
When: Between 46,000 and 105,000 miles; as early as 50,000 miles reported by some owners
Symptoms owners cite: Strong shimmy or vibration in steering wheel and passenger compartment; Vibration occurs between 40–75 MPH; Loud droning or thumping noise from undercarriage; Vibration worse in ECO mode or during acceleration; Vibration at steady cruising speeds
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement cost $500–$1,200 per mount depending on dealer; some owners report needing to replace multiple mounts (front, rear, side) in sequence as each fails; typical labor and parts combined $700–$1,041
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda classifies as normal wear and tear between 80,000–100,000 miles; denies design defect; no recall issued; TSB #11-033 acknowledges VCM switching issues
Excessive oil consumption and burning
Engine burns or leaks oil internally at an abnormally high rate, requiring frequent top-ups. No visible external leaks. Oil consumption accelerates in vehicles with variable cylinder management, especially during light throttle cruising. Oil level monitoring system does not alert owners until pressure drops critically.
When: Begins after 70,000 miles; some owners report needing to add oil monthly despite recent changes; one report from 2015 onward
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle loses 1–2 quarts of oil between scheduled changes; Oil level drops without visible leaks; No low-oil-level warning light; only low oil pressure warning activates after pressure becomes critical; Engine loses power when oil level drops too low; Smoke from exhaust
Repairs/costs cited: Valve adjustment recommended at 80,000 miles; some owners reported replacing timing belt and water pump without resolving the issue
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB #11-033 issued July 2011 acknowledges VCM may switch repeatedly at light throttle and cruising speeds; Honda class-action lawsuit 2008–2013 Odyssey models; Honda denied hidden problem despite TSB
Air conditioning condenser exposure and puncture
A/C condenser is unprotected behind the front bumper. Road debris or small rocks easily penetrate and puncture the condenser, causing refrigerant loss. Multiple owners report the issue recurring even after repair, and dealers universally deny warranty coverage by claiming 'rock strike' or 'road hazard.'
When: Occurs within first few years of ownership; some owners report multiple failures within 12 months
Symptoms owners cite: A/C stops producing cold air; Small hole found in condenser; Condenser 'explosion' or rupture in hot weather; Refrigerant leak detected
Repairs/costs cited: Condenser replacement cost $633–$1,600 depending on dealer and whether full compressor replacement is necessary; parts availability issues reported
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda denies warranty coverage; claims damage from road hazard, not design defect; aftermarket protective grilles available but change vehicle appearance; no recall issued despite widespread complaints; Honda initially stated they were 'not aware' of problem
Engine power loss and limp-home mode at highway speed
Engine enters limp-home mode or severe power reduction without warning while driving at highway speeds. Vehicle slows to 15–20 MPH. Low oil pressure and check-engine lights illuminate. Multiple visits to dealers produce no consistent diagnosis or repair.
When: Occurs intermittently over years of ownership; one documented incident at 65 MPH
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden power loss while driving 65 MPH on interstate; Vehicle slows to less than 20 MPH; Engine and VSA warning lights illuminate simultaneously; Vehicle does not respond to accelerator; Power steering and braking may be affected
Codes mentioned: Check engine light, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) warning
Repairs/costs cited: No permanent repair documented; dealer unable to address without warning light codes present
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response; dealer reluctant to consider possible connection to other known failures
Catalytic converter failure
Catalytic converter fails prematurely, often triggered by the variable cylinder management system and associated oil consumption issues.
When: Documented as early as 2008 on 2005 models; one complaint after 80,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates with P0420 diagnostic code; Reduced engine power; Failed vehicle emissions test
Codes mentioned: P0420
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement cost $800
Head gasket and internal engine leaks
Head gasket fails or engine develops internal porosity allowing coolant to leak into oil. Engine smokes from exhaust and loses antifreeze internally. Mechanic diagnosis indicates 'porous' defect in engine block.
When: Documented incident in 2008 on model with 35,000 miles at purchase; failure occurred within years
Symptoms owners cite: Smoking from exhaust and under hood without warning; Fluid pouring from undercarriage; Antifreeze and oil mixing; Continued leaking after repair attempt
Repairs/costs cited: Diagnosed as blown or cracked head gasket; mechanic unable to complete repair due to secondary porous leak in engine block after two weeks of work
Engine computer and electrical malfunction with VSA system
Engine computer intermittently malfunctions, triggering check-engine light without consistent error codes. In one case, both engine and VSA lights illuminate, causing vehicle to enter limp mode and lose power on highway.
When: Documented incidents over three-year span beginning one year after purchase
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates and goes off unpredictably; Engine and VSA warning lights come on together; Engine revving and power loss; Dealer resets light without diagnosis
Repairs/costs cited: Part replacement authorized after light recurrence; no permanent fix achieved in some cases
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda Care and dealer reset light without investigation; Honda reluctant to acknowledge systemic issue
Timing belt jump and bent valves
Timing belt jumps time, causing bent valves and loss of engine power. Rare but severe failure.
When: One documented incident at 149,247 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine warning light illuminates; Engine revs and power becomes extremely low at 25 MPH; Loud noise under hood
Repairs/costs cited: Repair not completed by complainant
Harmonic balancer failure and serpentine belt ejection
Harmonic balancer fails, dislodging bottom pulley shaft and throwing off serpentine belt. Results in complete electrical system failure, battery warning, and vehicle shutdown.
When: Documented incident at 37,000 miles after water splash
Symptoms owners cite: Loud thumping sound under hood after water splash; Battery indicator light illuminates; All warning lights illuminate simultaneously; Vehicle completely shuts off
Repairs/costs cited: Harmonic balancer fell from engine; serpentine belt thrown off
Auto tensioner failure when wet
Auto tensioner fails during wet conditions, allowing serpentine belt to slip. Results in power steering failure and battery charging failure.
When: Documented incident at 52,000 miles during rainfall
Symptoms owners cite: Power steering failure when raining; Battery stops charging in wet conditions; Serpentine belt loses tension
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer could not locate auto tensioner; independent mechanic found and replaced it
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer stated no recalls; advised contacting manufacturer; no response documented
Total electrical failure and loss of steering/braking control
Complete electrical failure during sharp turn at low speed results in loss of engine power, lights, power steering, and power brakes. Vehicle restarts after placing in park, but underlying cause remains unexplained.
When: Documented incident during hard right turn
Symptoms owners cite: Simultaneous loss of engine, lights, power steering, power brakes; Vehicle restarts after restart procedure; Approximately 10 error codes recorded
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer blamed dead battery and replaced it; explanation does not fit loss of all systems
Ignition coil and spark plug ejection through engine block
Ignition coil and spark plug blow out of engine block creating a gaping hole in the block while driving at 60 MPH.
When: Documented incident at 135,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud noise from under hood; Gaping hole in engine block; Check engine light illuminates
Repairs/costs cited: Not repaired
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer stated no recall exists
Sudden acceleration and transmission lock
Vehicle experiences sudden acceleration without driver input. Transmission locks in park. Multiple electrical issues reported including throttle control, sliding door locks, and air bag sensor problems.
When: Documented as recurring issue over vehicle ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden acceleration; Transmission locking in park; Engine racing; Engine shutting off
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle towed to dealer; multiple electrical repairs required
Intake heater malfunction causing hot air in cabin
Engine or hot air from engine leaks into air intake duct, causing heated air to blow into the cabin even when vent is used and outside temperature is cool.
When: Documented complaint
Symptoms owners cite: Fan blows hot air instead of outside air; Air from vents is heated even when vent selected and outside temp is 70 degrees; Problem most apparent when vehicle stopped or at low speeds; Decreased fuel efficiency from running A/C excessively to compensate
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer indicated design problem with no repair available
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer states unable to fix due to design problem
Synthesized from 122 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
While servicing the timing components I notice the timing belt not damage. But the tensioner was out of place with a bolt broken and the other was missing like it was never bolted
Front & rear engine mounts both went bad and the engine shakes at the same time is their any recall about this issure
Had to replace 3 engine mounts in 2 months after 80,000 miles - van is used for suburban driving. *tr
Vehicle will not go over 25 MPH without shaking violently. Pilling misfire codes
Had engine trouble with your 2005 Honda Odyssey?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2005 Honda Odyssey?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 122 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 103 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 54,000 and 105,000 miles, with the median around 76,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 54,000; a quarter make it past 105,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2005/Honda/Odyssey.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.