Honda Odyssey 1999 - 2004

dlythjo · June 2001

Thought I would let you all know that I recently contacted Honda re: our 2000 DX with sticky doors... we had it into the dealer 5 times in the first year so we went after Wisconsin's lemon law.
Sent them a letter in early April... after a few telephone conversations, They agreed to replace it with a 2001 !! No lawyers... and no cost to me, but they tried to charge me $2500 for the new model year... It was easy, and Honda dealt with me very above board. Our problem was made worse by being in a cold winter climate, with icing of the door seals, but we also had problems in the summer. Dealer did the seal service change and everything.... Hopefully the 2001 is better ????
Time will tell... we decided to replace versus get our money back because we loved the van... just not the sliding doors !!!

mstaebo · June 2001

We put down a deposit for a 2002 Ody EX with a nearby dealer outside Boston. He said we were the first people on the 2002 waiting list, so the first Redrock Pearl EX (our tentative color choice) that comes in is ours. He also gave us a written statement that we will not be charged more than MSRP. This dealer does not do the mandatory dealer "appearance packages." I would never do business with any dealer that did.

We're not planning on getting the leather either (we have a large dog), but we may go for the RES (rear entertainment system) option.

We also anguished about the decision to buy now or wait. We already had a deposit down on a 2001 SS EX, and it came in last week. But after receiving some reliable information about the new changes in store for the 2002 (i.e., rear disc brakes, improved speakers, side air bags), we transferred our deposit to the pre-order list.

Good luck with your decision!

Erika

cwbeetles · June 2001

Hi, We are on the waiting list for a 2001 GG LX odyssey, but I am wondering if it would be worth waiting for a 2002. Is there somewhere that I can look at samples of the new colors and find out about any changes being made.
Also, I am concerned about the steel/firestone tires verses the alloy. Are the steel/firestone ones unsafe or do they just make an annoying sound? Has anyone had problems with blowouts or losing control with the LX?
Also, if we want to add the remote entry, should we talk to the dealer, or is there some where to have it installed cheaper.

One more question, does anyone know what the MSRP will be for the 2002
Thanks

anbthomas · June 2001

Our dealer (Ralph Schomp in Denver who I highly recommend) has told us to expect the 2002 models in September. I remember them telling us that they've already been told how many 2001 models they will be receiving. I can't remember how many, but I remember it was very, very small. (especially for the biggest Honda dealer in the region) They also said that the ones waiting for a 2001 when the 2002s come in will be receiving a 2002 (not sure how many).

What's great about Ralph Schomp is that we will not be paying more than MSRP and there's NO DEALER HANDLING. There's also no add ons or anything we don't want. Also, if we have all of our scheduled maintenance at the dealership, they throw in the extended warranty for free.

If you're concerned about the color, just stop by a dealership and ask to see the 2002 colors.

mlica · June 2001

Hello,

I just purchased a 2001 Ex and would like to add an entertainment system and a bug shield. Has anyone added these to a 2001? If so, can you give me an idea on where to purchase either. Thanks for your help.

donbroer · June 2001

My current mileage on my 2000 Ody EX is 30.200 miles. Over that time frame I am averaging over 23 mph. I drove the van from Cleveland OH to Alaska and back. Averaged over 24 mph on that trip.
Most of my driving is 20% on city streets and the rest is freeway driving.
Relly enjoy the Ody.

gpalm · June 2001

I have tried contacting the leads in post 2448, but have gotten no response. Any leads on competitive dealers for Honda Care would be appreciated.

GP

jimblock · June 2001

I'm sure others have and will post other names, but my experiences were:
Gregallen -- you may have to wait several days for an email, and you may have to be specific about what you are asking for.
Honda Warranties site-- all the prices are on the site, there is a form to purchase.

I didn't try calling either of these sites; you might get quicker results if you called...

ekrem · June 2001

I got mine from Alton Blakey Honda in KY, 7/100k/0 for $875 two weeks ago. Btw I am in NC.

stjoenewt · June 2001

I have a 2001 LX. Has anyone else experienced steam or odorless smoke from the A/C? With the A/C cranked dowen to the coldest setting and the fan on 3/4 or full speed, I see what appears to be steam coming from the vents. The dealer said this is normal when it is humid, but I'm not sure I believe him. Here in Michigan, the humidity isn't all that bad and it seems strange that the A/C would do this.

ian2 · June 2001

It's called condensation.

crkeehn · June 2001

like ian2 said it's condensation , aka clouds. My old Honda Civic used to do it with a vengeance. In fact when I went through a patch of high humidity, you would see the white "smoke" come pouring out of the ventilation ducts.

tj_tjiang · June 2001

I post a similar case in #2380. masshoosier answered with very valueable points in #2394 and #2395.

I printed out masshoosier's messages and will talk to service people next service time when I go for Ody's service. If I get anything, I will post here.

billg7 · June 2001

If you want the scientific explanation. The A/C cools the air. The cooler the air the less moisture it can hold. It therefore comes out of the air as water vapor and water.

perinara · June 2001

I took my 2001 EX Odd to my mechanic, instead of the dear. The mechanic used 10W30 oil. Is this OK to use or should I go back and change it to 5W20 or 5W30?Any info will help.Thank you.

billg7 · June 2001

For the 2000 year they recommend 5W30 and since they are the same as the 2001 year, the 5W30 would work fine. The 5W20 is only the proffered oil. The owners manual says it is OK to use 10W-30 as long as the tempature in your area does not go below 20F (-7C)

binkybarnes · June 2001

though chains are more durable and need less maintenance (timing chains can break too, jfyi), some designs may use belts because they're lighter, quieter and smoother...there are tradeoffs in everything

fast93ser · June 2001

A pretty good resource is http://www.honda-odyssey.com/ubb/Forum14/HTML/000001.html.

axfalk · June 2001

From the manual I saw, the 5W20 viscosity will cover the temperature range from 10F to 80F, whereas the 10W30 will cover a lot wider ( I think up to 120F). This is my first exposure to Honda products and it seems a bit strange they recommend 5W20. Are the Honda engines designed this way? I live in the North East and we have many different weather extremes. For all my other cars (Nissan, Toyota) I have always used 10W30 & 10W40. Does anybody know any specifics about Honda engines? What will happen if I use 10W30 oil for them?

Thanks.

_ Alex

rogerberkowitz · June 2001

This reminds me of two of my favorite phrases:

"It's not the heat so much as it is the humidity"

or for our friends in the desert southwest:

"But it's a dry heat"

I'll bet most everybody can manage to fit one of those into their conversations on a daily basis...try it!

ewong321 · June 2001

Hi mstaebo,

Which dealer did you go to put your name on the 2002 waiting list? We're in Newton, MA, and some local dealers haven't been very responsive.

Thanks!

cmt4 · June 2001

axfalk,

Honda recommends 5W-20 for two reasons: fleet average mileage and money. How do they make money on it? Have you tried to FIND 5W-20 oil yet? I live in a very large city and have yet to find one store that carries it (although, on another post a guy said Penzoil makes a 5-20 syn blend). So, you MUST go to the dealer to change the oil.

The reality is that 5W-30 is perfectly fine (that is what the oil filler cap states, anyway!). Using 10W-30 depends upon your temperature/climate use. I live in the southwest and will be using 10W-30 all the time... it is darn hot here almost all year round. There is absolutely no risk of damage to Honda's engines or any other make's engines. The 10-30 provides the protection I NEED because of the heat, while the 5-20 would be hard pressed to provide the same protection (all things being equal) at the higher temps. You shouldn't need the same level of protection for heat and the 5W-20 would be adequate.

I would steer clear of 10W-40. That may get you in trouble with the warranty. There has been talk of manufacturers NOT honoring warranties because 10W-40 was always used. I know I see a lot less of it on the shelves these days and for good reason. It uses too many polymers to reach that 40 rating. These polymers are what cause all the gunk build-up and deposits (when the oil breaks down due to thermal wear).

Bottom line: you live in the Northeast, so I would strongly recommend you stick with the manufacturer's suggestion -- 5W-30 (or 5W-20 IF you can find it). The 10W-30 MAY be a bit sluggish during your winters and hinder the critical start-up lubrication. The 5W-30 would out-perform it on the low temperature end.

merrod828 · June 2001

Has anyone gotten the after-market leather, if so, what do you think? Thanks.

raybear · June 2001

If it's from Classic Soft Trim, it's pretty good.

mschafer · June 2001

If it's from Katzkin, it feels and looks like cheap vinyl. Also with Katzkin, the foam backing crushes down and stays down far too easily and quickly.

schnee · June 2001

Go to the Amsoil web site. Amsoil now makes a synthetic blend 5W-20 specifically to meet the 2001 Ford specs and also Honda requirements to change oil at 7500 miles.

wpalkowski · June 2001

I use 5W-30 in '00 Odyssey, but my '01 Ford F-350 Pickup requires it and the dealer's parts department was charging about $2.70 a quart for it. My local Walmart didn't have it on the shelf, but I asked the automotive manager and he looked at me like I was nuts - I told him it was the recommended oil for new Honda and Fords and he said "I must be mistaken, there was no such thing." But just to humor me, he looked it up on his computer system and to his surprise he could order it. I believe they can get Castrol Synthetic, Penzoil, and Valvoline at the 5W-20 weight. If I want it he'll order me a couple of cases at same price as other oils ~$1.50/qt. He also said that if more people ask for it he would consider stocking it full time.
So, it if you don't see it at your local auto parts place, ask, they can probably get for you in a couple of days.

merrod828 · June 2001

Thanks for the tip. My dealer was planning on putting in the Katzkin. Is the quality site dependent or does all Katzkin stink and is all Soft Trim Good? Thanks.

raybear · June 2001

Due to liability concerns, but I like Classic Soft Trim personally. I don't have enough experience with the other to offer a qualified statement.

dmathews3 · June 2001

I have seen the Katzkin once and I too thought it looked awful. Looked and felt like plastic and where the seatbelts in the second seats come through the material they just cut it and fed them through, very unprofessional. My soft Trims belts are stitched around the opening with a plate they are fed through looking very finished. I really like them alot. They seem like they use a heavy grade of leather which makes them a little stiff, not glove soft like some leathers but they don't seem to get all wrinkled or cracked looking under my big 270lb. you know what. I also had them install the heated seat option with a hi/lo switch since I live in Michigan. The heaters were $350 and the seats, door panels, sliding door panels, headrests etc. was $1300 through my dealer which he claimed was his cost. I believe him as I sat there while he dealt with the local installer over a price. $1650 for everything isn't bad. Also remember the Chyrsler people compaining that there leather comes from the factory. Well all they get is the seating surface in leather. The rest is vinyl. Mine is the WHOLE seat, including 3rd row. Ask the Chysler or Toyota people what material the 3rd seat is or for that matter there door panels. Then just smile and walk away.

mschafer · June 2001

Katzkin leather is Katzkin leather. All comes out of the same California shop. All the installer does is strip off the factory seat covers and slip the Katzkin kit over the seat. Btw, the third seat with Katzkin is vinyl, as is everything but the seating surfaces.

I have Katzkin, and would not use them again. Very poor quality.

jmurman42 · June 2001

We are having problems with the aftermarket leather for Odysseys. Mainly the Classic Soft trim. It's not the leather thats the problem it is the installation and the quality of the work.

The new Odyssey with leather will be very nice I'm sure.

merrod828 · June 2001

Anybody out there with experience with either entertainment system? I would appreciate your opinion. Both systems seem to have their advantages. Thanks.

davidthompson · July 2001

Does anyone know whether it will be possible to get - or put - both Navi and RES in the 2002 Odyssey?

David

davidthompson · July 2001

We are in position of being in the market for both a new Odyssey and a new CR-V this summer/fall. Has anyone heard anything about when the new 2002 models of those two vehicles are expected to ship?

David

jmurman42 · July 2001

The 2002 Ody will be available for September deliveries. The 2002 CR-V should be available around the first of the year.

rudy1000 · July 2001

I just purchased a LX from a dealer south of Calgary for $1250 below MSRP including keyless remote.After the testdrive the salesman sent me into the owner's office to deal with the numbers...very nice not to have to go back and forth.He asked me what it would take to buy one from him and I told him 31 k plus keyless,he said ok,it seemed too easy it makes me wonder if I should have asked for more.The dealers in Calgary wanted very close to MSRP.It was definetely the best new car buying experience I have ever had.

Anyways the van I drove came with the backup warning device and he said I could have that one for the same price.Just wondering if anyone out there has experience with this device?Is it worth it?

Appreciate any comments.

billg7 · July 2001

The thing I would most like to have for my 2000 Odyssey is a backup device. I can't see in the back, for objects close, like I would like to be able to.

In one of the test reports, linked here, I believe it was the long term Road Test or Popular Science magazine report, after they ran into something in the back, they installed such a device. It fit on the license plate.

31k x. 0.6600= 20,460 US seems like a good price to me. It seems like quite a bit less then you could get the same vehicle for in the US, although I haven't checked prices in a while.

drew_ · July 2001

For more information about reverse warning systems, please have a look at the existing Reverse warning systems discussion topic in the Aftermarket & Accessories message board.

Drew
Host
Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards

billg7 · July 2001

rudy1000 · July 2001

Drew,
Do you know of any sites in Canada that ship Honda parts?

Thx

ferneau · July 2001

I just heard from my dealer that the 2002 Ody will only have the Navi option when combined with leather.

In other words, if you want Navi, you must get leather.

--Mark

misterjohnny · July 2001

I saw the dealer color guide for 2002 this weekend. The red is called Redrock Pearl, and looks exactly like the "Firepepper Red Pearl" on the Accord. It comes with a Quartz interior. The Evergreen Pearl comes with Ivory interior and looks alot like the Huntsmen Green Mika for the Passport and the Clover Green Pearl for the CR-V. The blue is called Havasu Blue Metallic, I saw no equivalent in the Honda inventory. It is a light blue/gray/silver color and was noted to be available in Spring 2002. I was looking for a blue one but that color is not worth waiting for IMO.

krism1 · July 2001

I have Classic Soft trim leather for the seats. Please advice me regarding which leather care products are good (cleaner & conditioners). Thanks.

jlewelling · July 2001

I got the Odyssey loaded with all the bells and whistles.

I find that when using the Doppler Weather Radars System, the anti-personnel phasers don't seem to lock on target correctly.

Has anyone else had this problem?

DTKWOK · July 2001

The energy signatures from your warp core are interferring with your targeting systems. Suggest setting up a level 4 isolation force field around the core or better yet, make a .002 to .010 variance in your torpedo banks. I'm sure Dodge is already on this one, heck they got the power liftgate didn't they?

crkeehn · July 2001

also, be aware that a radar as powerful as the one installed in the Ody will boil water at 300 yards and permanently sterilize any living being within a half mile.

mschafer · July 2001

I use Zaino Brothers' products.

http://www.zainobros.com/index.shtml

They do very well, in spite of the plastic feel of the Katzkin 'leather'.

dmathews3 · July 2001

You think you have all the bells and whisles. Wait until you see the 02 Ody EXX. It goes DC vans power rear liftgate one better and does away with the sticking sliding doors. Just push one button and the whole body pivots up from the front bumper just like the big trucks. Now everybody can get in with ease and you can load your equipment easy.

jlewelling · July 2001

Thanks guys. All the advice helped. Plus it turns out the dealer had used "aftermarket" dilithium crystals!

Honda Odyssey 1999 - 2004

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