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Honda · Van · 2011–2017 Custom Search

Honda Odyssey RL5

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants · How we rate

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda Odyssey RL5 is available with one engine variant at 252 hp.

3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM · Petrol· 248 PS
2011 2017

Evolution of J35A7, VCM now on all trims. 248 hp. Honda reworked rings but never fully solved it — TSB 13-081, class action with 8-year warranty extension. Check VTEC spool valve and cover gasket for leaks.

  • !! VCM Piston Ring Sticking (TSB 13-081, Class Action) from 80,000 km

    VCM causes piston rings to stick. 8-year warranty extension. 1 qt/1000 mi in bad cases.

    Symptoms: Oil drops rapidly, no warning until critical, engine stalls
    200–3,600 $
    Ad piston rings J35Z8 Odyssey
  • !! Engine Mount Wear from VCM (same as J35A7) from 90,000 km

    VCM vibrations destroy mounts. VCM now standard on all trims.

    Symptoms: Vibrations, clunking on shifts
    500–2,500 $
    Ad engine mount Odyssey RL5
  • !! VTEC Spool Valve Oil Leak Kills Alternator from 100,000 km

    Oil from VTEC valve or cover gasket drips on alternator — alternator failure cascade.

    Symptoms: Oil traces on engine, alternator fails
    200–800 $
    Ad VTEC spool valve Odyssey

+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Torque Converter Judder

Lock-up clutch judder at 30-60 mph. TSB 17-043. Honda warranty 8yr/80k mi.

Symptoms: Vibration at steady 30-60 mph cruise
from 80,000 km
Ad torque converter Odyssey RL5
 Medium

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Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 9 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda Odyssey RL5 (2011–2017) — 4 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Body, Electronics, Brakes.

Odyssey (J35Z8, 2011–2017) — Be Careful: VCM Piston Ring Sticking (TSB 13-081, Class Action), Engine Mount Wear from VCM (same as J35A7), VTEC Spool Valve Oil Leak Kills Alternator. Power: 248 PS.

What to watch out for with the Honda Odyssey? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Honda Odyssey RL5 have? +
The Honda Odyssey RL5 has 4 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda Odyssey RL5? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: J35Z8 (3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the J35Z8 (3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM).
Which Honda Odyssey RL5 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda Odyssey RL5 — rated: "Decent". {description} 248 hp, VCM on all trims. TSB 13-081 and class action with 8-year warranty. 6-speed from 2014 better. Space and comfort class-leading.
Is the Honda Odyssey RL5 worth buying used? +
The Honda Odyssey RL5 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda Odyssey RL5? +
The Honda Odyssey RL5 is available with engine variants from 252 to 252 hp. Petrol: J35Z8 (3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee