Honda Odyssey RL5
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The 4th-gen Odyssey (2011–2017), with its "lightning-bolt" beltline, is the practical-family default in the used minivan market ($9k–15k). The J35Z8 3.5 V6 carries the familiar VCM oil habit.
Test-drive checklist: Do the cold dipstick check — a low level, no leaks and blue smoke means VCM oil burn. Feel for torque-converter judder at 20–60 mph (a TSB-covered, fluid-sensitive issue, so demand ATF-change records). Cycle the sliding doors (cable wear continues) and check for a Bluetooth-module parasitic battery drain.
2026 market: 2014 cars run about $9,000–13,000, 2015 around $10,000–12,800.
Insider pick: a 2014–2015 EX-L (post-refresh) with VCM managed and documented transmission-fluid service.
Generations
Engine Overview
The Honda Odyssey RL5 is available with one engine variant at 248 hp.
A further development of the VCM V6, now with cylinder deactivation across all trims. Honda revised the piston rings and, after a class action, extended the powertrain warranty to eight years — but the oil consumption was never fully solved. The switching vibration takes its toll on the engine mounts. The VTEC oil-pressure switch tends to leak, in the worst case dripping onto the alternator — keep an eye on the seal and valve cover. The intake tube cracks over time but is a cheap fix. Regular oil-level checks are essential here.
- !! 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 - !! 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 - !! 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
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Medium |
Alternatives
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda Odyssey RL5 (2011–2017) — 4 engine-related and 7 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? +
What should I look for when buying a used Honda Odyssey RL5? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Honda Odyssey RL5 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Honda Odyssey RL5 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda Odyssey RL5? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee