2019 Honda Odyssey Problems

If you’re considering a used 2019 Honda Odyssey, you’re likely looking for a reliable and spacious family hauler. It’s smart to research any potential issues before you buy. This guide covers the common 2019 Honda Odyssey problems you should know about.

We’ll look at the most frequent complaints from owners, discuss technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Honda, and give you practical advice on what to check. Knowing these concerns helps you make an informed decision and potentially avoid costly repairs down the road.

The 2019 model year of the Odyssey is generally considered reliable, but it’s not without its flaws. Several issues have been reported consistently by owners across various online forums and in official complaints. The main areas of concern often involve the advanced technology features and some specific mechanical components.

Understanding these problems gives you the upper hand when inspecting a vehicle or discussing them with a seller or mechanic.

Most Common Owner Complaints

Based on data from sources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and owner forums, here are the top problems reported for the 2019 Odyssey.

Transmission Shudder or Jerking: This is perhaps the most widely discussed issue. Owners report a noticeable shudder or jerking sensation, usually during light acceleration or when cruising at highway speeds. It often feels like driving over rumble strips.
Infotainment System Glitches: The HondaLink system can be problematic. Complaints include the screen freezing, the system rebooting randomly, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto disconnecting, and unresponsive touch controls.
Power Sliding Door Malfunctions: The iconic power sliding doors can sometimes act up. Issues include doors failing to open or close completely, reversing direction for no reason, or making grinding noises.
Excessive Cabin Noise: Some owners report higher-than-expected levels of wind and road noise, particularly from the front door areas, which can detract from the otherwise comfortable ride.
Electrical Gremlins: Various electrical issues pop up, such as problems with the key fob not working consistently, the rear entertainment system having audio/video sync issues, or intermittent warning lights on the dashboard.

Detailed Look at Key Issues

Let’s break down the major problems in more detail, including potential causes and what Honda has done about them.

1. The 9-Speed and 10-Speed Transmission Issues

The 2019 Odyssey comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission on lower trims and a 10-speed on higher ones. The shuddering problem is more commonly associated with the 9-speed.

What it feels like: A vibration or shaking that comes through the floor and seat, typically between 30-50 mph. It’s not always present, which can make it hard for a mechanic to diagnose during a short test drive.

Potential Cause: Honda has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to this. The issue is often linked to the torque converter. A faulty torque converter can cause a shudder due to improper lock-up clutch engagement.

Honda’s Response: Honda released a software update (TSB 19-091) to address the shudder. In many cases, however, owners found the update didn’t fully solve the problem, and a torque converter replacement was ultimately needed. If you test drive a 2019, pay close attention to smoothness during steady-speed cruising.

2. HondaLink Infotainment System Troubles

The centerpiece of the dashboard can also be a source of frustration. The system’s software has been buggy for some owners.

Screen Freezes: The touchscreen becomes completely unresponsive, requiring a hard reset (usually by holding the power button for 10 seconds).
Random Reboots: The system will shut down and restart on its own while driving, interrupting navigation and audio.
Smartphone Connectivity: Phones will frequently disconnect from CarPlay or Android Auto, or fail to connect at all until the car is turned off and on again.

Honda’s Response: Multiple software updates have been released to improve stability. If you’re looking at a used 2019, ask if all the latest updates have been installed. You can also check the software version in the system settings menu.

3. Power Sliding Door and Liftgate Woes

These convenience features are great when they work. Common door problems include:

Doors stopping partway and beeping.
Doors automatically reversing when trying to close.
Grinding or clicking sounds from the door mechanism.

Potential Causes: Issues can stem from faulty sensors, misaligned tracks, problems with the door control module, or failing motors. Sometimes, simply cleaning the tracks and resetting the system (by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes) can help.

It’s a good idea to test each power door and the liftgate multiple times during your inspection. Listen for unusual noises and watch for smooth operation.

What to Check When Buying a Used 2019 Odyssey

Before you commit to a purchase, take these steps to identify potential problems.

Take a Long, Varied Test Drive: Drive for at least 30 minutes. Include city streets, highways, and hills. Focus on the transmission’s behavior during gentle acceleration and at steady speeds of 35-55 mph. Feel for any shudder or hesitation.
Test All Technology Thoroughly: Connect your phone via Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto. Make a call and stream music. Test all USB ports. Open and close each power sliding door and the liftgate several times in a row.
Check the Vehicle History Report: Use a service like CarFax or AutoCheck. Look for consistent maintenance records and check for any major repairs, especially related to the transmission or electrical systems.
Have a Pre-Purchase Inspection: This is non-negotiable. Hire a trusted, independent mechanic (preferably one familiar with Hondas) to put the van on a lift. They can check for leaks, worn components, and scan the computer for any stored trouble codes that aren’t triggering a dashboard light.
Verify Recall and TSB Status: Visit the NHTSA website and enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see all open recalls. Ask the seller or dealer if any Technical Service Bulletins, especially for the transmission shudder, have been addressed.

Official Recalls for the 2019 Honda Odyssey

Recalls are safety-related and are fixed by Honda for free. The main recalls for the 2019 model include:

Fuel Pump Failure: A major recall affected many Honda vehicles from 2018-2020. A faulty fuel pump could fail, causing the engine to stall while driving and not restart. This is critical to have fixed.
Side-View Mirror Actuator: Some vans were recalled because the side-view mirror fold-in actuator could short circuit, potentially leading to a fire, even when the van was off.
Second-Row Seats: A recall was issued for some models where the outboard seat latches may not have been welded properly, affecting seat security in a crash.

Always, always check the recall status for the specific VIN and ensure all recall repairs have been completed.

Is the 2019 Honda Odyssey Still a Good Buy?

Despite these known issues, the 2019 Odyssey remains a top contender in the minivan segment. Its strengths are significant:

Spacious, flexible, and comfortable interior with the clever Magic Slide second-row seats.
Strong and fuel-efficient V6 engine.
Excellent safety ratings and a long list of standard driver-assist features (Honda Sensing).
Generally good build quality and a strong reputation for longevity.

The key is to go in with your eyes open. A 2019 Odyssey that has had its recalls addressed, has a clean maintenance history, and exhibits none of the common shudders or glitches during a thorough test drive can be an excellent value. Budgeting for a potential extended warranty might also provide peace of mind, especially concerning the transmission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most serious problem with the 2019 Odyssey?

The transmission shudder is the most significant drivetrain concern. While not always a safety issue like a recall, it can lead to an expensive repair (torque converter replacement) if not addressed under a warranty or TSB.

Has Honda fixed the transmission problem?

Honda issued software updates and, in many cases, replaced torque converters under warranty for owners who complained. There is no guarantee that every affected van has been repaired, so careful inspection is crucial.

Are 2019 Honda Odysseys reliable in the long term?

With proper maintenance and if known issues are addressed, the 2019 Odyssey has the potential to be a reliable long-term vehicle. Its core mechanicals, like the engine, are robust. Proactively dealing with any TSBs is important for long-term satisfaction.

What should I listen for on a test drive?

Listen for any grinding from the sliding doors. More importantly, feel for a rhythmic vibration or shudder through the seat and steering wheel during steady throttle input on flat roads. Test the infotainment system extensively for lag or reboots.

Is there a class-action lawsuit for the 2019 Odyssey?

There have been class-action lawsuits filed regarding the 9-speed transmission shudder in various Honda vehicles, including the Odyssey. These are often related to allegations that the issue was a known defect.

In conclusion, being aware of the common 2019 Honda Odyssey problems empowers you as a buyer. A thorough inspection and test drive are your best tools. Don’t rush the process. The right 2019 Odyssey, one that has been well-cared for and had its issues resolved, can still be a fantastic and practical choice for your family for many miles to come.