Honda Odyssey 2005+

hansienna

Now I understand 2005 Odyssey inventory at the dealer is 4 Touring, 3 EX-L-NAV + RES, 1 EX cloth, and no LX.
     Can't speak for jchan, but I think his question is just one of natural curiosity.

lakerat

Could you please tell me about the allotment system that Honda uses and how it works. It would seem to me that Honda would only be too happy to give a dealer all the Odysseys he could sell. Do other manufactures use this system? Thank you.

isellhondas

Based on previous volume. We would be tickled to get an additional 50 Odysseys a month. They can only build so many. as a very high volume dealer we get around 30 a month.

I don't know what other manufactures do.

macqin

have a 05 exl coming in a week,,so the saleman said,,he has a touring ready to go now, I asked him what the price of the new pax tires are when these wear out, he had no idea.I got the exl for 33000 drive away, please tell me I got a good deal

fballard

Before you purchase the 05 Odyssey or any other model you might want to drive the vehicle over a rough road 1st to listen for rattles (The jack located in the left rear side rattles) and if you like a really good sound system you need more than the in-dash audio system with 6 speakers as apparently all 6 of the speakers are located up front. I purchased an EX-L with leather and except for the above two complaints the Van appears to be a quality Van that rides and drives great. I also wish that Honda would make available the day-running lights like they do in Canada. Does anyone know if you can purchase a day-running-light kit for the 05 Odyssey? Thanks!!

jorge5

My wife purchased the 05 Odyssey EXL Res and finds the drivers seat to be uncomfortable and causing her back pain. I drove it 70 miles today and confirm her feelings. Is anyone experiencing this too? Is this while it is broken in? Has anyone tried to have Honda adress this?

stickguy

I thought the seats felt good, but have only taken test drives and sat in the showroom so far.

If the jack rattles, put some foam padding around it. Or get the dealer to do it. You shouldn't have a problem like that on a new car, but it should be an easy fix.

After 6 years, our current van rattles enough over bumps that I'm used to it.

onlysurfer

I share the same feeling. I also dislike seats of CRV (both front and back) that one of my family members have. I think Honda needs to pay attention to make better seats across the vehicle line. (PS. My Odyssey is 2004 EX - cloth. I can only hope that the "redesigned" model has better seats)

stickguy

I found the older style seats uncomfortable. The new ones feel much better to me.

wysiwyg

I did see some posts about finding out how to view the compass or the outside temp. info.
We have just purchased the 2005 Odyssey Touring model without NAV or RES. I’ve discovered that by using the two buttons on the bottom right side of the steering wheel (INFO & SEL/RESET) it is possible to view the following on the top of the MID=Multi-Information Display):
RANGE or Time elapsed or Ave. Speed or Ave. Fuel, Tires (also Tire Pressure), mpg Interval.
On the bottom of the MID one can view:
COMPASS DIRECTION (CD) + OUTSIDE TEMP.+ TRIP A, or CD+Outside Temp. + trip B or CD+Oil Life or CD+odometer + Trip A
In addition, holding the INFO button in for 3 seconds and then using only the same two buttons (INFO & SEL/RESET) you can choose:
English Language, Turn on Auto reset of Trip A and Ave. Fuel (mpg) upon Refuel, your compass zone, to turn ON Memory Position Link (seat + mirrors+ all these choices connected to the key fob), Interior and headlight dimming time, how doors lock (when going over 10 mph, for example) and unlock (when shift to park), and whether your intermittent wipers increase their speed when the vehicle does, among several other things.
Hope this helps those that would rather ‘just try it’ instead of having to study the manual?

aabb

Fballard,
Not sure it this will solve the Jack rattling sound, but worth a try:
you can tighten the seating of the jack in the cubbyhole provided by uncorking the jack.

buddybrad

I've ordered an EX-L with Navi/RES and it was supposed to be built on 11/8. The salesperson informed me yesterday that Honda has delayed the build and it is now scheduled for 12/8 with a 12/20 delivery. Has anyone else heard of this delivery delay or is the dealership selling mine to someone else who has made a better offer?

We were really looking forward to getting our van next week and this is very disappointing!

I find the seats in the '05 to be more comfortable than the '00 which I never really liked (not enough thigh support). The new Sienna has even less thigh support than the '00 Ody. It should be nice when it finally shows up.

stickguy

I talked to a dealer yesterday, and he said they were not letting them order (so he wouldn't take orders on) certain configurations. I think it was the RES units (which I am not interested in). It sounds like the EX-L is the most common model so far.

isellhondas

This happens sometimes and it's frustrating.

Usually when we see a "build date", it's pretty accurate but sometimes things happen.

I always inform my customers of that possibility.

jipster

I feel your pain buddybrad. The same thing happened to me...except it was with a Toyota Sienna. While it is possible that "something could have happened". My initial thought was the same as yours...they found someone who made a better offer. Of course there is no way to prove this. After waiting 2 weeks after our second van due date passed we bought from another dealer.If you're worried about the truthfullness of this dealership I would start looking elsewhere.

jchan2

About the inventory thing, I was just really curious to see which trim lines leave dealer lots quicker than others. I guess I can assume the EX-L is the most popular, followed by the Touring, then EX-Cloth, then LX.

isellhondas

Although the EXL-DVD's move about as fast as the EXL's.

buddybrad, it is possible your dealer found someone willing to pay more money and sold them your Odyssey. I know this happens too. I'm just not as cynical as some of the others here.

grayghost

That's nonsense, the lazy susan would have to interfere with the vehicle's frame to cause a possible safety problem.

isellhondas

When some idiotic "salesperson" ameks a statement like that. I don't know how they would expect a person to believe such nonsense.

jipster

cynical? Is that what you call someone who has a different viewpoint than yours? I can't say I'm not surprised that comment came from you. How many times do you think someone should let a dealer burn them on a deal before they become cynical?

fredf3

I took my '05 EXL in because there is a whistling noise from the front windshield. I also noticed that there is a slight grinding noise when the van shifts from first to second gear when driving slowly. The service manager is telling me that is normal and just the ABS cycling, We test drive a new touring and it made a similar noise once. Anyone else experience this?

surferjoe

I'm expecting my EXL NAV/RES on 11/17 at Norm Reeves in Cerritos CA. The build date only moved a couple of days from what the fleet manager showed me a good six to eight weeks ago. I know the van is already built and on the the way.

The long delay cited by the original poster sounds a bit suspicious. Delays are possible, but yours doesn't seem to fit the pattern of other customers getting delivers with only short delays, at most.

isellhondas

What in the world are you talking about??

I was AGREEING with that poster! He's "probably" correct. It's also possible that the EXL-DVD units sell almost as well. That's all I said.

If you are trying to bait me, it won't work!

erichl

I just placed my order for a Silver EXL-RES with a build date of 12/1. I'll reply to your post if my salesman has any "surprises" on production delays. However, my question is to anyone who has the cargo board option. Since I haul boxes in the trunk I plan to use the cargo board so I don't have the extra work of putting the boxes into the well and the extra work to lift them out later. Has anyone used their cargo board the same way and found any problems with the cargo board construction and strength?

sepa

Buddy - In October, I ordered an Ocean Mist EX-L with build date of late October. Just heard from dealer this week that build date has been pushed back to Nov 20-24.

jipster

sepa...looks like their starting your second van about the same time the first one would be finishing up. But, many in here would just say that its a coincidence...that things happen.Seems to be happening quite a bit though.

stickguy

I seem to recall that the Ody has 50 state emmisions standard. Can anyone confirm this? I just want to make sure that I son't have any problems buying in another state and registering it in NJ.

One of the many joys of the north east states is some adopted the California emissions rules, and some are federal, so sometimes you can't buy a car over the border and bring it home (at least not as a new car).

As long as Honda makes one set up for all states, no problem. Just want to make sure.

fcube

Some of you might be interested in my observations inasmuch as I just replaced an 04 Sienna with a 05 Odyssey. My 16 yr old son totaled the Sienna the first time I let him take it out. The side curtain airbags kept him and his passengers from getting injured.

I thought the Sienna was great...18 months, 22,000 miles. However, the power doors had an intermittent problem, the power hatch always was jerky and you had to be careful starting from a stop and accelerating to make it smooth.

Took delivery of a Ody Touring with Nav 2 days ago. What a difference! This vehicle is much smoother and quieter. The doors and hatch work better and the fold down rear seats are easier to operate. I think it handles a little better also without sacrificing ride. I had wanted a nav system on the Toyota but would have had to wait too long. The Honda's nav system is easy to use and a great improvement over the Garmin portable system I had been using. The XM radio is a treat too. Toyota might top Honda next time, but right now you can't beat the 05 Ody.

buddybrad

To follow up; I spoke to the Sales Manager and he assured me their dealership has never "sold a vehicle out from someone." (Why don't we trust car dealers more?) He checked my file and confirmed the Build Date had moved from 11/8 to 12/4. I also had a buddy talk to his friend who works for Honda corporate and he also says delivery dates on certain models have been extended. As such, I believe the dealer is being honest and we are just back to the same situation we had in '99 and '00 where Honda just couldn't build enough vans quick enough. I feel fortunate I didn't pay "sticker" again like in '00. If I walked back in again today to buy one, it would probably be list price or better.

My wife went and drove a Tourag just for comparison. It's a great looking vehicle, but $10K more than an EXL Nav. for the V6 model and 10 MPG less. VW has an excellent financing deal going on, but it just isn't comparing apples to apples. I would rather wait for the Ody. A few weeks ago my daughter and I took the Audi Driving Experience for 2 days. During that time they hauled us around in VW minivans. Not that bad, but you're still not comparing apples to apples when talking Ody.

majordad

Does anyone know if there is a compatible remote starter for the 05 OD w/NAV? I really want the starter, but don't want to void the warranty on anything.

jipster

Why don't we trust car dealers more? I guess it's just the way the industry is set up. Pressue to sell, sell, sell...often at any cost.No, not all are like that...but way to many are. The sales manager I talked to when I was asking about a base Sienna LE...said he had one for "somebody" coming in in a couple weeks...but "it hasn't been paid for yet". Then looking at me expecting me to make an offer. So, I know first hand of one dealership that"sold a vehicle out from someone"It happens.It was good that the sales manager reassured you.Let us know when you pick up your Ody.

jchan2

uninformed consumers (a rapidly dying breed) get ripped off the most. Unlike some other industries, such as appliances, where most people are uninformed when walking into Lowe's to pick a fridge, the car industry doesn't always exactly tell the truth. At Lowe's, do you see someone pressuring you to buy the Maytag refrigerator over the Whirlpool simply because he would earn a higher comission? I don't think so. At least it didn't happen to me when I needed a new dishwasher. I went into Lowe's and The Home Depot, did a quick comparison based on price, then picked out one on clearance from The Home Depot.

rubie

When ordering my Ody 05, the financial manager suggested to have this done before the van is out of their door. The cost is $289.

I live in a very snowy thus salty area. Anyone done this rust protection? Recommendations?

rubie

Is it better to get from the dealer directly (if their prices are comparable with those posted on Honda site)or from elsewhere? Any suggestions?

I am looking for all season floor mat, cargo tray, and cargo mat.

hawaii1

This is an important factor for me with the seats on whether we buy this vehicle. AI have chronic lower pack problems, disc issues and drive around 3 kids everywhere all the time. Had a 2002 Odyessy had a lot back issues with that as well especially if I drove it more than 45 minutes at a time. Have looked at other vans as well and have not been comfortable, Odyessy I think might of been better than previous model but still has issues. Are you still experiencing issues with it? Is it lower pain? Thanks in advance

cpstar

Does anyone know if there is a compatible remote starter for the 05 OD w/NAV? I really want the starter, but don't want to void the warranty on anything
I have heard that Audiovox systems work OK with '05 Ody but would not integrate into the Ody key fob (you need to carry a separate remote for remote start).

Getting it installed at your Honda dealership should avoid warranty issues.

pka

Can somebody please offer details as to what to expect when taking delivery of the van? Are there usually surprises or price add-on's to the order sheet (which includes price of car, tax, freight, proc fee, deposit, etc.) When does one get offered the extended warranty, accessories, VIN etching, etc? Please help this first time car buyer. Also, how can one get the deposit back eventhough on the order sheet it says non refundable but is refundable if car not delivered within 30 days of estimated delivery---but there is no estimated delivery date written. please help....

buddybrad

When you pick up your van you'll meet with the Office Manager, Finance Manager, or whatever they call him/her. That's where you hand over your hard earned cash and that person will try and sell you Extd. Warranty, road hazard, and who knows what else. Remember, you have until just before your std. warranty runs out before you have to buy the Extd. Warranty, but the price can go up within that period. Don't be afraid to try and negotiate the price of the Extd. Warranty. You don't have to buy it from the selling dealer. I bought the Extd Warr for my Prowler from a dealer in LA. and I'm in Chicago.

I thought the sales person would try and sell the accessories, but all mine did was hand me the price sheet. How can they have them installed before you pick up the van selling them like that? Maybe they expect you to bring it back. The tax, freight, and "out the door" price should have been given to you before you left on the day you made the deal. You should know right now what you are going to pay if you don't buy anything additional.

As far as Rust Protection goes - I wouldn't buy it. You don't need it in this day and age. The factory has a handle rust prevention and gives a good warranty against it. Just keep your baby washed and paint sealed.

buddybrad

For my '00 Ody. I bought a clear bug deflector and painted the back side of it with the same color as the body (white). It was a Deflecta-Shield Concept II. Over the years the clear became yellow. The company said they don't warrant against UV light. What do they think, it stays in the garage all day? It was discontinued. Now I'm starting to look for a clear to put on my future '05. It looks like Lund makes one for $74.99 model 18185. www.lundautomotive.com

Has anyone found a clear bug deflector made by anyone else? I just prefer them over smoke or green colored.

pka

Thank you buddy...for taking the time to answer my questions.... But when does one negotiate the price or instruct the installation or inclusion of the accessories? For instance, when I made the deal I have the order sheet with the OTD price listed. I do want the all season mats, mud guards, cargo tray, roof rail cross bars. Do I purchase these when I go to take delivery of the vehicle? doesn't it take time to put all these on?

yjfu

I calculated the MPG of my new 2005 Ody-EXL to be only 18 MPG based on the first tank which is lower than Honda estimated. Is it within the range or is it normal for a new car?

mybuy

I just had the cargo board "installed" in my Ocean Mist EX-L Res/Nav and I would reco any one to take a hard look if it is really needed. Basically, it has a steel frame on the bottom with 2 plastic boards (60/40 to match the rear seats) resting on top. There is a 22 lb limit for what you should put on top of each side of the 60/40 split cargo boards. Each side of the cargo board flips up and has a hook that attaches to the rear seat headrest to allow access to the area under the cargo board. The instructions (if I understand them correctly)say that you can take the cargo board lids off, rest them in the well area, then slowly drop the rear seats on top of them. I haven't tried that yet, but will try that today. I got them thrown in as part of my deal ($273-ish value). When I went to have them "installed" the service person said that Honda allowed 1 hr time for assembly and installation. It did take them an hour to get me out of there, but it would be easy for someone to do it after market. Basically, it would require assembling a rectangular steel pipe frame and then attaching the 2 plastic cargo boards. I'll report back in on how dropping the seats into the well on top of them works. Hope this helps.

stew7710

I spoke with Honda this morning. There are no alternatives and they do not have any additional information beyond the owner's manual.

I did log a complaint that the proprietary nature of the PAX system was not fully disclosed nor explained.

Honda does NOT have an alternative for those needing snow tires at this time.

At this time, Honda does NOT have alternative solution if you choose to change wheels for conventional tires. You must use the one PAX tire that is currently available.

For many drivers this may not be an issue. For enthusiasts it may.

If a decent conventional tire is $140 and the PAX tire is $175ea, fine. I am trying to confirm what a replacement cost will be if we need to replace them in 1.5yrs or 40k miles from wear (not covered under the tire warranty)

I also recommened that Honda place a sticker on the window disclosing the nature of the PAX system.

aaykay

I seriously doubt you would get a PAX tire for $175, considering the small number of vehicles that are equipped with them. The slim volume and the proprietary nature of the technology, would conspire to keep the costs high - probably in the $300+ range per tire.

stever

I just called one of the local tire dealers here in Boise and asked about a Michelin PAX for an Ody Touring. The guy on the phone said he used to work for the local Honda dealer, knew immediately where I was going with my phone call, and said that Michelins were, quote, "interesting."

The tire dealer doesn't stock PAX tires but can get them. I asked for a ballpark price and he said they'd cost about double what he could sell me a normal tire for.

About $175 was the ballpark quote.

Steve, Host

kengaroo

Can someone post their comments on the comfort level on the removable seat in the second row? The seat looks narrow for a normal size person. Is it comfortable in a long trip and is there a shoulder belt for this seat?

aaykay

I did a search and the earlier mentioned price ($150-$175) seems to be about right. The below link explains PAX in a bit more detail:

http://yahoo.businessweek.com/magazine/content/04_33/b3896077_mz0- - 54.htm

I was a bit concerned about the following statement in the above link: "the PAX works only on vehicles with a specially designed chassis and wheels."

nissan22

The Odyssey seat is extremely uncomfortable. I've had an actual physical therapy assessment of the seat, and there are serious thoracic and cervical back support issues. The new Nissan Quest has a much more comfortable seat with back support as it should be. I am currently an Odyssey owner, and can't drive the vehicle from the back pain it causes. The Quest is extremely roomy with similar gas mileage as the Odyssey. Honda advertises 23 - 28 mpg on the new Odyssey, and the highest I've had so far is 16.7 mpg.

nissan22

You have better gas mileage than I've had with my Odyssey. I have a touring model and the first tank was 15.5 mpg. The second was 16.7, and that included highway driving. What happened to the advertised 23 - 28 mpg?
Have you experienced any back pain after driving this van?

isellhondas

Well, I don't doubt your discomfort but your feelings aren't reflected by the masses.

Quite the opposite, actually but we are all built differently and what may be comfortable for most may be uncomfortable for a few.