Honda Odyssey 2005+

jorge5

Thank You. I don't think some of people understand that it can happen to them. You and I want to resolve our problem because we realy believe in the '05 Odyssey. They should be more courteous and be thankful they are not among the minority of having to deal with this issue. Please know that I appreciate your comments,,, they have been helpful to me and a great comfort. I hope your uphosterer solves the problem if they do, then there is hope for me and my wife. Otherwise we will have no choice but to sell.

diggin

I'm a software developer, not a Honda salesman...in case that was directed towards me.

Also, I'm free to post my opinions and not a solution to your problem if I wish...again, in case that was directed towards me.

Have you tried playing with the lumbar support lever and/or repositioning the seat and/or steering wheel?....that's about all I can suggest short of buying a different vehicle. I don't really have a solution for you because we, like most others, are not experiencing intense back pain from driving our Odyssey and I don't have the time to assemble a team of certified rehabilitation professionals to analyze and evaluate my driver seat.

mattsbus

I too am having problems with the driver side power door. Dealer has replaced many part ("roller", "battery", etc.) on three separate visits. I'm now talking to my attorney and American Honda in CA. about this being a lemon. Please let me know if you have had any resolution. I'm happy to share my experience and details with you.

rubie

Does this occur to anyone? Both the driver side and passenger side doors do not close tightly without some force when closing them. A bit annoying. This is a big contrast to the power sliding doors - a little touch or push will either clost or open properly.

This is the 3rd day I am driving my EXL. Other than that, I love the van! So do the kids.

jipster

Don't let the cynical people out there bother you nissan22 and jorge. Some people just aren't as sympathetic as others. I beleive you because I have test drove many of the new 2004 minivans and recently the 2005 Ody. The trend in car seats is lumbar support, lumbar this and lumbar that. Sometimes, I think the car manufacturers overanyalise what should be a fairly simple process...making a car seat.Their aim for perfection for the majority of people results in car seats that are uncomfortable ane even painful for many. Hope you guys can get the problem worked out.

recfive

I also don't sell cars or complain about much but after driving the 05' ody for as couple of days my back hurts!! I believe that the formed foam is tooo dense or designed wrong. Will all of the others with pain(jorge,Nissan22) I do think that Honda should be aware that there may be a problem. To all the others that don't care about OUR issue don't put you're 2 cents in unless you have a solution. I came to edmunds to see if others are having the same problem with the seat and a few others are(the vans have only been out for about 3 weeks). I hope that this forum can help me find a solution to the problem.
if you want to take pot shots at us do so elsewhere. (go sell a honda)
Thanks
recfive

isellhondas

Nobody is taking a shot at anyone here.

People are built differently and no one seat will please everyone. Honda builds firm, supportive seats that hold up well in the long run.

Some people (me) like a firm mattress while others do not.

I do think that you may get used to the seats after awhile as your body adjusts to them.

As someone else stated there are upholstery shops out there who can add/remove padding to a customer's preference.

Hopefully your comfort will improve with time.

tomv

Hi all,
I was truly wowed by the '05 Odyssey and really wanted to plop down big money to buy one but both my wife and I had one fairly significant issue in driving it that prevented a purchase. We both noted as has been mentioned earlier that the steering wheel is really close to the dash and there is no telescope function.
My wife is 5'8" and I am 6'6" and it was indeed a problem for both of us. In fact it tended to pull my shoulders and upper back away from the seat cushion if I tried to put my hands at the 9 and 3 o'clock or 10 and 2 positions.
And it is not because I suffer from abnormally short arms (38" sleeve length).
I truly hope Honda addresses this issue.
Tom

katbird1

This is also my 3rd day driving my Touring and I must say that so far this is the only problem I have encountered. I suppose it is something I will just have to get used to, as my Explorer doors did not close like this. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one who has noticed this. Enjoy your new van!

mybuy

One other thing that you might try is adjusting how much your knees are raised or bent. I've found that I am most comfortable when my knees are higher (ie, my body forming a V vs an L with my knees parallel to the ground). I have an EX-L with power adjustable driver's seat, but I think there are also wedge shaped cushions that would do the same thing. Good luck!

pka

Can sombeody comment on whether dealerships can order a particular color and model or are the vehicles alloted to particular dealerships from HONDA and they trade amongst each other. On sales consultant who seemed honest and sincere told me dealerships CANNOT order a particular vehicle....but I've been told elsewhere that "sure...we can order it for you." What guarantee does one have that the particular vehicle "supposedly ordered for you for which you paid a deposit" is the vehicle you will get? what if a dealer gets a van that was for you and there is a prospective buyer at the dealership willing to pay more than you paid...and you end up waiting and waiting...for the "order" to come in. and dealers willing to comment?

stickguy

probably just nuances to the language. I believe they request certain configurations, and have the ability to look at the supply built (or being built) to put their name on a certain unit. They only get a certain allocation, but it isn't a case where they have no say in what models/colors show up.

Just keep in mind that it can take longer for them to get ahold of a speciif model/color combination.

buddybrad

Hey Rec - mellow out. No wonder your backs hurts, you're too hyper. You're going to have a heart attack at this pace and then your back won't matter. There isn't any law that says you can't have a little fun in a forum. Isn't life a little too short to get so focused?

chardan

A doctor once told me (after back surgery), to remove wallet from back pocket when driving. Worked for me. Although it won't help the ladies, unless that's where they carry the wallet.

Just a thought, and best wishes for a successful resolution. Even though this suggestion isn't vehicle specific.

:-)

isellhondas

I know I can't drive with my wallet in my back pocket.

Once on a cruise ship, I thought my back was going to kill me because of an uncomfortable mattress. Since I got little sleep the first night, we asked for a different cabin in the morning. Well, the ship was totally booked so we were stuck. The second night was much better and from the third night on the bed was quite comfortable.

I know there is a big difference between an Odyssey and a cruise ship but perhaps the same results will occur?

Just a thought...

cobblehill1

You need the following:

- 1 x stereo mini-jack to (L + R) male RCA - basically a 'Y' connector (Radio Shack has this config for video cameras - ie from mini out from DV camera to V(yellow) Left audio (white) R audio(Red)) If you buy this you can also use to play video from you DV camera to the RES.
- 2 x 6'ft RCA extensions (male one end/female other)

- Since the engineers at Honda envisioned a teenager wanting to listen to his own MP3 player from the back row, snaking the cable from the Third row to the drivers seat is the only options since Honda didn't put the inputs in the front.

Works fine with my IPOD other than the wire along the floor.

3. once hooked up hit the DVD/AUX button until you get the AUX feed.

Good luck.

jchan2

I remember when my friend bought a Sienna that he was told that they could not order a specific Sienna but that they could trade around for a van that was close to what they wanted. But when I got the Odyssey, the dealer said "Sure, we can order it up for you" But I think they traded with another dealer because another dealer was getting the van we wanted in, so I think they traded vans. But anyways, I think your dealer might be able to order a Honda because there's not as many combinations as a Toyota. (With the Sienna, you have a dizzying array of option packages)

yatesd

I found the leather seats on the Odyssey incredibly comfortable on our test drive. Then I decided to purchase the Touring model (didn't test drive) and when I drove it home I had felt a little comfortable in the lower back.

Well I stayed up late and read the manual. The lumbar adjustment was practically maxxed out and I couldn't even find it. Well, it is a lever that is located on the lower right of the seat. Needless to say, this resolved my issue and I am now enjoying very comfortable seats!

isellhondas

Years ago, I sold a used Accord to a lady who called me later to complain about the seat.

She said it felt like somobody had a fist in her back so I had her bring it in.

Sure enough, the lumbar was cranked all the way and it was horrible.

bamapt

I am expecting to take Delivery of a EX-L Navi/Res tomorrow. I was wondering if anyone knows if there is a mat or some type of covering for the 2nd row rail system if you have the "Plus" seat removed. Also is there a separate manual for the Navi? Finally, what exactly does the Maintenance Minder indicator tell you and where is it?

rubie

I just watched the DVD that came with the manual. It has some demos of maintenance minder indicator and content. And more. I have not tried it myself yet.

wpack1

Please help as I am very torn. I really like the odyssey touring with nav and res but the pax is really starting to scare me. As of today the salesman I am talking to called me and told me that as of right now when you go to replace the pax you have to replace both the rim and the tire together. He told me that Honda is banking on all of their dealerships buying the 10 to 15k machine to mount the tires but don't count on it. I am very uneasy at this point knowing that in two years I may have to spend 2500$ to get new tires on my vehicle. I am now starting to lean back to the Sienna XLE limited. I do not want an EX-L Honda as the wife really wants the power liftgate.

stever

I suspect the dealer's hatbox won't cost much more than the tire and labor, since they'll be reusing the rim you drop off (and the road hazard warranty may pay for the whole thing).

MICHELIN® PAX SYSTEM™

And that's just a phase in program until the mounting machines become widespread (link). Unless you're driving the Dempster Highway, I wouldn't be too concerned about it unless the Toyota runflats are significantly cheaper than $700 a set.

Steve, Host

diggin

If you take inventory of all the mats included with your EX-L, you'll notice there is a smaller rectangular mat with protruding plastic pieces on two sides and that two of those plastic pieces have snaps on them. I believe this particular mat is meant to be versatile, i.e. you can place it in between the second row seats (with the Plus One seat removed) or place it near the passenger side door entrance after sliding the second row passenger side seat to the middle (again, with the Plus One seat removed). It can attach in many places to the third row mat using the snaps.

I haven't actually read this anywhere, but I'm guessing this is how it works.

bamapt

Thanks Diggin. I am going to see if I can get the dealer to throw in some accesorries like the all season mats. I was wondering also about the mud guards. Are those custom colored or all black?

diggin

All black.

homer2005

If all else fails, the owner's manual does address this issue (seat rail cover). It is located under the right (passenger side) 2nd row seat, or at least it should be. Mine was missing, which is why I'm now intimate with this issue. You can then move it to the center or right side as necessary to accommodate your favorite seating positions.

homer2005

Despite being blown off initially by the dealer service manager, I called American Honda, and they stepped in and agreed to replace 100% of the rusty seat hinges on our van. The parts are currently on order.

The good news is that this is a recognized problem, and if your dealer stiff arms you, call American Honda customer service and complain. If you don't get anywhere, let me know and I'll get you a contact.

isellhondas

It's amazing the runmors out there! Sounds like even a dumb Honds salesperson thinks the tires and wheels have to be replaced as a unit!

This isn't true!

heywood1

While I was having my Sienna's run-flat snow tires mounted yesterday, I inquired about PAX at the tire shop. The manager said they are still considering whether or not to buy the machine that will be required to service PAX tires. He said there's a 50/50 chance they'll invest in the equipment--and if they do, it will be at least a year from now.

This was not a mom & pop shop, but a large-volume dealer (with multiple locations) that handles Michelin as well as other brands.

stickguy

I'm olmost glad that I have to wait until mid-late February for the EX-L that I have on order. I guess it won't be built until late January, so hopefully the little things (rusty hinges, loose cowling) are addressed. That, and the 100,000 or so they had to practice on have things running like clockwork.

mybuy

Thanks for the advice. I'll give them a call first before I show up in person and see how that goes.

hank007

Presently own a 2004 Chrysler T & C Touring. It sure well has its faults like 05 Odyssey. Drove a 05 EX-L a few weeks ago. Workmanship looked good, drove,handled and just plain felt good. Before I reached for the steering wheel, I adjusted the seat to where the brake and accelerator pedals felt comfortable, then reached for the steering wheel--sure seemed a long way away. In comparison to the T & C I did not like the big extra fob with the push buttons on it, Chryslers is all on the key. Also drove a 04 Sienna before this and did not like the way it drove at all, way to soft of a feel for the road and a crosswind affected it to much to suit me. Also looked at a EX with cloth and that seemed much more comfortable than the leather (I would pay extra for the cloth if it came to that). I do believe the 05 Ody is a great van that sure could be made better with an telescoping steering wheel, all remote opening buttons on the key, available navigation system with the cloth and without the RES. Perhaps a 06 will fill the bill.

hawaii1

I write in this forum every once in a while when I hear someone talk about whether this van is comfortable or not. I have been going nuts trying to figure out whether this van is going to work for my back. (I have 2 degerative disks). I have test driven it so many times, different models, different seats positions and next is with a back cushion I am buying at the back store. Now I owned 2 accords years ago and a 2001 Odyessy yes after having problems with my back in all 3 cars I should of learned but I still need a big enough car for running around.

hawaii1

Another thing I have an issue with on the seat of this van is when you sit up straight in the drivers seat I feel like there is a gap between the seat and my lower back. That is one of many things I have noticed for my back in the 3 hondas I have owned.

sjh

OK, OK - I know it is a minivan, but I need to have some of the luxury I gave up when I replaced my Lexus ES300! I purchased the EXL with NAV/RES. As Honda decided to put the equivalent of a kitchen radio into my $33k vehicle, I opted to install the subwoofer (apparently the first and only installation to date by the dealership). Wow what a difference! The lower range is much richer and fulfilling, although the higher range remains somewhat lackluster. Despite this shortcoming with the tweeter-challenged system, I highly recommend the subwoofer.

I looked into the wood trim - a bit too light for my taste - it was a cross between a yellow and orange, which I guess might look OK to some people, but with ivory leather and a brown/beige dash, the shades outright clashed. Decided to pass on the wood trim package as I was looking for something richer and darker, you know, more like WOOD.

I also had the auto dimmer rear view mirror installed. It came with a compass, which sometimes seems to conflict with the direction indicated by the navigation system. That aside, I do enjoy the dimmer function - it will make a difference, even though the windows are tinted.

I also opted to get the leather wrap - it isn't terribly obvious it did not come factory installed as it blends nicely with the steering wheel - I'd recommend having an upholstery shop do the stitching as the tech who did mind obviously did not take home economics (which is fine with me as long as he knows what he is doing with the rest of the vehicle).

I have noticed a few things that bother me on the vehicle. Please let me know if you have these issues as well:

1. When slowing down, the vehicle seems to lurch when I'm almost at a full stop - worrysome as this lurch increases my stopping distance.

2. When braking, I feel strong motor vibrations through the pedal.

3. When looking down at the smaller top glovebox, I can clearly see the latch as there is quite a gap.

4. After starting the vehicle, I feel a strong scraping/clunk as I accelerate.

5. I hear clanking coming from the sliding door area behind the passenger's seat.

6. I haven't found a guide for the navigation or RES - anyone know how I can learn to use it and learn about all the features or whether there is a guide and I just didn't get it?

7. The rear tailgate seems to squeak a lot when you open and close it - like a lot of plastic parts stacked on top of each other without the appropriate rubber pieces for insulation of noise.

On a final note, why does Honda not give you a nice book to place the wads of paperwork and manuals that come with the vehicle? Again, I know it isn't a Lexus but it sure did cost as much - come on Honda!

bamapt

I am looking for the best place for getting a few accessories for my new EX-L. I was also wondering if someone can tell me if the cargo mat will fold back to cover the rear cargo area when the third row seats are up, or will that require the separate cargo tray? Also, do the all season mats cover all three rows well? Thanks in advance.

vpatel

I think you olso left out that the non touring models,Honda forgot about adding speakers to the second row passengers.My daughter finds it hard to listen to the dvd system without the wireless headphones if she sits in the 2nd row-so much for 5.1 surround sound

bbug1

Good post, sjh!
We just got our EXL NAV/RES last night. I completely agree with you about the speakers. And I'm not coming out of a Lexus! We had a Pilot (it had the stock subwoofer) and it sounded much deeper with more mids than the Ody...and I thought the Pilot didn't sound too good. I do have a subwoofer on order and we are going to look into adding speakers into the sliding doors.
I also know what you mean about the brakes. I had test driven a few before we bought and noticed that the brakes are nowhere close to the Pilots. I will bet that there will be a recall on the braking system in the near future.
You should have received a navigation book in the bundle they hand you. Ours has 4 books:
The fat 2005 Odyssey owners manual
The Warranties book
The Honda Service History book
And the Navigation system book
Was there also one on the RES? I wonder.
If the brake issue is addressed (safety...Hello, Honda!!) I think our family will be very pleased with this van.
sjh, if you didn't get the manual for the Navi, contact Honda and see what they can do. In the meantime, spend some time just playing around with it. So far it seems like it's fairly easy to navigate thru the system.
Enjoy.
Nancy~

wireless

Do any trim levels of the Odyssey have memory seats? If so, is it based on the key fob or is there a button for each person?

regards,
-Dave

scati3984

Paid $29000+tax and tags for the EX-L on Silver. No documentation fees, destination already included. I believe this is around $1500 under MSRP.

rubie

The all season floor mat covers only the front and 2nd row area, not the 3rd. They almost cover the whole carpet and come with the buttons to be fixed to the floor.

I gave up the cargo mat after being told that it does not cover the 3rd row area (where the feet step on when the 3rd row seats are up) but only up to the area that is underneath the seats - it would be odd to leave that row uncovered when you try to load up with bikes, etc. But I did not see the real thing. If anyone has it or saw it, please comment. Also my understanding is that if you have the 3rd row seats up, you cannot use the cargo mat but use the cargo tray.

bamapt

Thanks Rubie,
Looks like I will have to settle for the all season mats and go with the cargo tray. Any idea on the best place for the best prices?

potts_92

My door works fine, but my back door does not shut easily. i took it back once not much help as far as fixing. I really have to slam the hatchback.

saoc

Touring does and it is linked to the fob. none of the other things is controlled however - mirrors, pedals, radio

potts_92

Cobblehill #1812 answered correctly from back AUX to run mp3 device, i did this with my ipod. You can also go to a high end audio store, like Dealer Works in San Jose, what they do is plug into the AUX jack run the wire along the side and under the carpet hidden from view. Female jack would then be placed in lower storage compartment infront console. Two female ends will be ready for connection as mention in #1812 but up front. If someone in the back wants to run ipod from the back they simply unplug in the back and plug in. Hope this helps.

bbug1

I know there have been some posts about where the coin tray/drawer is and if there is even one in the 05 Ody.
We just got our new baby last night EXL Nav/Res and tonight we found the tray!
Reach down below the 2 power outlets on the front center console/dash. It is a very nice size and can easily hold plenty of change.

diggin

I agree that a subwoofer would definitely add some depth to the sound, but I disagree about the speakers in general. I think they sound rather good, at least in my van, and I have several different types/grades of speakers in my home to compare them to. It seems to me that mine offer a nice balance of mids and highs.

I'm sure they're a big improvement of the the '04...from what I've heard.

Oh, and I really haven't noticed any of those anomalies in my van so far.

diggin

Any idea on the best place for the best prices?

Look at the top of this page.

stever

Great answer Diggin :-)

Scati3984, congrats on the new Ody - please let everyone know about your deal over in Honda Odyssey: Prices Paid & Buying Experience.

Steve, Host