Honda Odyssey 1999 - 2004

scruplek · July 2003

Thanks for all the advice. I called about the service again. It is a quote from a dealership. 750 bucks plus tax....includes both belts replaced and new water pump.....Say it is a package procedure. Should I go to private mechanic??
Thanks,
Scruple k

fezo · July 2003

I would put a new water pump in there while you are at it since if the water pump goes later you have to redo the whole timing belt anyway. It's only every 105,000 miles. I'll bite the bullet when the time comes.

Actually in the past with my Accords I've done the same thing - but did use a private garage.

fezo · July 2003

As near as I can tell, the only diffeerence between genuine Honda antifreeze and regualr antifreeze is that Honda puts their name on it. Maybe I'm wrong and I wouldn't go bet my warranty on it but if you're out of warranty and checking things regularly I can't imagine it's a problem.

Haven't had the issue with the current cars as the antifreeze now has an insanely long life but in the older Accords old Prestone did fine.

autolover3 · July 2003

Has anyone seen where you can buy a portable TV carrying case to strap between the front two seats of their Odyssey? (sorta like a backpack). The 9 inch tv/vcr combo will be secured in case of a collision (no missle effect). Tried Walmart, Target, Circuit City and Best Buy with no luck. Thanks in advance.

jminor · July 2003

Check out a place called PORTABLEDVDSTORE.COM. They have something called the "Suspension Theater". It's really just the straps, etc. for $129; player is extra.

autolover3 · July 2003

Thanks, JMinor. I will try that.

wpalkowski · July 2003

I have a Toshiba 9" portable TV/DVD that gets tranferred between different vehicles. I use a carrier called a Steel Horse Tote. Straps between Ody seats. Extemely secure, so TV doesn't turn into a missle.

Here's a link

http://shop.store.yahoo.com/truckstuffusa/portvtotfor9.html

robr2 · July 2003

There are different types of coolant out there designed to work with different types of systems. Read here:

http://www.mpt.org/motorweek/goss/21009.shtml

gucci3 · July 2003

Thanks robr2.

However, the question remains: can I take the Oddy to a nearby non-dealer shop for a coolant service as long as they use the same TYPE?
For other fluids, Honda only seems to recommend using their brand but allows for others as long as they meet certain specs. But genuine Honda coolant is the only king they allow? If I have to add some coolant on a trip, must I find a Honda dealership?

robr2 · July 2003

I would presume that if the Honda book says to use Honda coolant, that's what I would do. If you have a concern, buy a 5 gallon jug of it from the dealer and carry it around with you.

If you decide to use something else and the cooling system fails, you can be denied warranty coverage if they can show that use of non-Honda coolant caused the failure.

kentwong · July 2003

My wife's 2001 EX has passed just 20K miles mark this month. The battery went dead and needed to be jumped charged last week. Meanwhile, the front brake started making noises. She ended up spent almost $300, to replace them during the weekend at a Honda dealer. Any other Oddy owners out there had the same experience? It was a big surprise when the service person told us that we need new battery and brake pads. We received $40 credit toward the new battery that cost $120, and the brake work cost $180... Thanks for all your feedbacks.

markhoot · July 2003

I am in the market for a new vehicle and was wondering if anyone has any information if Honda will be equipping it's Odyssey with either head airbags or side curtain bags?

Thanks.

Mark

billg7 · July 2003

On the battery: On my 2000 EX Odyssey my battery went out at about 2 weeks past 3 years and I was given a 50% credit, or $37.66. My total bill, minus tax, with labor and corrosion pads installed, was $60.

I was told, by the dealer that if my battery had failed before 3 years I would have gotten a 100% credit on the battery, so that looks to be another $37.66. My bill would then have been, without tax, about $22.

On your brakes: They are suppose to check your brakes at certain service intervals and show you, in percent, what you have left on your front and rear pads, on your service invoice. You should be able to look at this record and tell if you were about due for new brakes. So if you have gone say 22,500 miles, and you still have 45% then you have used 55% So your brakes should be good for 22,500/0.55 = 41,000 miles.

I see it looks like my front brakes, on my 2000 LE, are good for about 40,000 miles. I would say, from my past experance, that front brakes will last in the 30,000 to 45,000 miles range. I see, by using the same formula, that my rear brakes will be good for 150,000 miles. That sounds high. I have usually gotten about 90,000 miles on my rear brakes, in the past.

dartboard11 · July 2003

Took my wife's 2002 EX in for regular 22.5K service this week and the dealer claims the front brake pads are down to almost nothing AND the rotors need to be refinished. This is over the phone so I couldn't take a look. I know it's a heavy van, but still...

billg7 · July 2003

My front brakes had 55% of its wear used up at that mileage, and it was written on the invoice that I had 45% front and 85% rear left. I am easy on brakes, though.

I would take it to another place and get a second opinion. Then you will know if your dealer is honest. What I like about extended auto warranties, is for most major repairs, I don't need to get a second opinion. I just tell them to do the job. Of course that does not help with brakes.

jsb16 · July 2003

My dealer must be setting the maintenance light to come on every 3000 miles which is way too often for our mixed suburban and highway driving. After almost 50,000 miles with excessive maintenance costs and service visits, I would like to turn off that maintenance light or at least haveit come on every 7500 miles. Do I need a special reset tool? BTW, this car has not been very reliable and is much more expensive to maintain than my 12 year old Lexus. I did follow a former post to get a good deal on an extended Honda Care warrranty which is lucky since I have had my door sensors (EX model) replaced three times in and out of the original warranty period. When I get closer to the 75K on my extended warranty, I am going to check out the Toyota Sienna.

garyw · July 2003

Dealer is quoting me $135 to puchase and install the leather steering wrap. What did others pay?

andrewtran71 · July 2003

I think I paid around $42 at hondapartsforyou.com or handaccessories.com. Intallation is easy, but does take about 1 hour of sweat, unless it's cold out side :-)
Don't buy anything at the dealer unless you have to.

dave2003 · July 2003

So?

stever · July 2003

That "list" was spammed in a lot of boards today - thought I had removed most of them but I guess I missed a few. Gone now :-)

Steve, Host

goldensunset · July 2003

Can 2003 Odyssey be towed behind an RV with only a bar?

stever · July 2003

Depends.

The Odyssey weighs what, something over 4,000 pounds? I think a lot of RV's top out, like some SUVs, at ~3,500 pounds towing capacity.

I think you'll have to look at the tow vehicle's rating to pin it down closer than that.

btw, I don't know what you mean by "only a bar" - a simple tow bar as opposed to some anti-sway or dolly gizmo?

Steve, Host

grandtotal · July 2003

Only if it's front wheels are off the ground.

isellhondas · July 2003

Can be flat towed.

grandtotal · July 2003

Honda has this to say on the subject

TOWING YOUR HONDA BEHIND A MOTORHOME
Your Odyssey's Owner's Manual advises against towing at more than 35 mph or for more than 50 miles. However, this recommendation exists primarily because Honda has not conducted formal towing tests at higher speeds and for greater distances.

We are not aware of any particular problems being caused by motorhome towing of Honda automobiles with either manual or automatic transmission, so long as proper pre-towing preparations are made and the vehicle is towed at legal highway speeds.

Automatic Transmission
When preparing to tow your Odyssey, make sure the transmission fluid level is full. Do not overfill.

If a Honda automobile with an automatic transmission is to be towed with the front or all four wheels on the ground, you must do the following every day immediately before towing:
Start the engine.
Press on the brake pedal. Shift the lever through all the positions (P,R,N,D,2,1).
Shift to D, then to N. Let the engine run for at least three minutes, then turn off the engine.
Release the parking brake.
Leave the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) so the steering wheel does not lock. Make sure the radio and any items plugged into the accessory power sockets are turned off so you do not run down the battery.

If you travel more than 8 hours in one day (including stopping time), you must stop and repeat the above procedures.

Notice
The steering system can be damaged if the steering wheel is locked. Leave the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) position, and make sure the steering wheel turns freely before you begin towing.

Improper towing preparation will damage the transmission. Follow the above procedure exactly. If you cannot shift the transmission or start the engine, your vehicle must be transported on a flatbed truck or trailer.

SEVERE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DAMAGE WILL OCCUR IF THE CAR IS SHIFTED FROM REVERSE TO NEUTRAL AND THEN TOWED WITH THE DRIVE WHEELS ON THE GROUND.

If you tow a Honda Odyssey with automatic transmission, the transmission fluid must be changed every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Note
Although experience has shown that the Honda transmission and powertrain are capable of being "motorhome towed," American Honda does not assume responsibility for any vehicle damage or liabilities incurred due to the towing device, towing vehicle, lighting hookup, or other towing equipment or towing procedures; any responsibility for these items is assumed by the owner/operator.

For more information about towing your vehicle, check your Owner's Manual or contact us.

garyw · July 2003

The stereo in my new EX sounds horrible. I want to keep the head unit. Has anyone upgraded the speakers to improve sound. Any and all suggestions and real world examples are appreciated.

goldensunset · July 2003

Thanks to "all" for your responses ... (Host, Steve .. Grandtotal, and IsellHondas!!) Yes, Steve, I meant only a tow bar, not a dolly! Flat towed is exactly what I meant! The detail from Grandtotal was very explicit! Thanks a lot!! :-)
I'm impressed by the Honda Board and willing helpfulness!

stever · July 2003

Try Honda Odyssey Club-Audio & Video Ideas or check out Honda Odyssey and Sound (only) in the archives.

Steve, Host

garyw · July 2003

As most of you know I have a new EX. With 1700 miles of driving I have noticed that the steering wheel is just off-center to the right.

No matter how flat the road, the wheel is always pointed at one o'clock or two o'clock. It makes it tiring to drive - you always fight the wheel.

Anyone have the same issues/resolution. Could it simply be tires inflated wrong?

stever · July 2003

I had that myself when my van was new. My steering wheel was an inch off center. Even though the van tracked straight the alignment was off. Should be a warranty fix by the dealer.

Note that I didn't have to fight the wheel to keep the van straight; the steering wheel was just off-center. If you're fighting the wheel, you may have the infamous pull problem. But an alignment should fix that too.

Steve, Host

mehulj72 · July 2003

Hello,

I'm looking for some feedback on Wood Trim installation in Honda Odyssey. I've posted same in Accessories forum but it seems to be least happening forum. I've Odyssey 03 Silver model. I want to know if I can get wood trim interior on this. I'd like to know what is good source to buy wood trim (of good quality).

Help Appreciated.

MJ

nofeer · July 2003

that has to be the BEST gizmo to use a portalble dvd player i have one when they first came out PAID$78 ON LINE. DO A SEARCH

it is sooooo slick, the holder folds over itself and you put into it's own bag, the holder holds extras like remote and 5 dvd's should get an award, will hold up to 10" PLAYER i got a 7" from walmart for cheap and it's great size works weell and i can take it into the hotel with us. i'll use it instead of the big$$$$ unit that nissan charges

HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS TO ANYONE WHO WANTS TO USE A PORTABLE--IT'S THE BEST UNIT AVAILABLE. works with both between seats or behind one seat. no i don't get commission for you buying one, just a satisfied customer

msknopf · July 2003

Just purchased an Odyssey LX. Dealer offered the opportunity to pay for all 36 month regular scheduled service up front for $895 rather than paying as you go, which they estimate to cost approx $1800. Seems like a good deal but I have no idea what 36 months of service should cost. What can I expect to pay for service? Thanks in advance
Michael

billg7 · July 2003

What the cost of 36 months of service would be depends on how many miles you put on your Odyssey, over the 36 months. Without that information it is not possible to calculate and estimated the cost. If you only put on 3,000 miles over the period your service costs would be zero. If you put on 100,000 miles that could be up there in costs.

Does the 36 month policy have anything about mileage in it?

msknopf · July 2003

Sorry, wasn't clear in my shorthand. I meant 36 months/36,000 miles (or 30,000, i forget which. Thanks

billg7 · July 2003

Cost of Maintenance Items on Odyssey for 36,000 miles and For Severe Service
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------------------------------

Services to Be Performed over the First 36,000 miles, for Severe Service, per the owners manual, and my actual cost for the services including tax. Note I get my oil changes for free, but I have included a generous $35 for that charge:
------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------------------------------------

A = Oil Change. Cost $35

A+B = Inspect front and rear brakes, Rotate tires, Inspect tie rod ends, steering gearbox and boots, Inspect suspension components, Inspect driveshaft boots. Cost $103

A+B+C= Check parking brake adjustment, Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches, with multipurpose, Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS), Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check for leaks, Inspect cooling system hoses and connections, Inspect exhaust system, Inspect fuel lines and connections, Check all lights, Inspect the underbody. Cost $185

A+B+C +D = Replace air cleaner element, Inspect and adjust drive belts, Replace transmission fluid, Replace air conditioning filter. Cost $350
-------------------------------------------------

Services to Be Performed over 36,000 miles with costs:

3,750 miles A = $35
7,500 miles A, B = $103
11,250 miles A = $35
15,000 miles A, B, C = $185
18,750 miles A = $35
22,500 miles A, B = $103
26,250 miles A = $35
30,000 miles A, B, C, D = $350
33,750 miles A = $35
37,500 miles A, B = $103

Total cost = $ 1019
-----------------------------------------------

Cost of your service contract is $895, so you save $124. You will have to have all that service done by one dealer, even if you are on vacation and away from home at the time. You do not get interest on the $895, but you are protected against inflation. If you like the dealers service a lot and are sure you will not move away and you will be there for all of the services, over the time period, it could be worth it. It is not a big savings however.

stever · July 2003

The dealer may say that the normal service intervals apply instead of severe.

fwiw, I keep track of my expenses. I spent $464.46 on dealer service during my first 36,000 miles of ownership on my Quest.

I've spend $3257 since Dec. '98/83,000 miles on maintenance items, including things that your dealer wouldn't cover, like 5 tires, a rim, canoe rack, factory manual, windshield chips, stripped stud, 4 new hubcaps, etc. (The maintenance category is a big catch-all on my spreadsheet).

A rough estimate from looking at our Maintenance Guide pegs the cost through $36,000 miles at ~$533, so Bill's dealer seems to be doing a bit more than recommended or charging more than we think he should. And his last $103 service is beyond the 36,000 interval :-)

Doesn't look like so hot a deal to me, but usual disclaimers about my math.

Steve, Host

billg7 · July 2003

Yes, Normal as opposed to Severe maintenance costs are about 1/2 of the cost.

Yes, I question also, weather it is a good deal. I would pass on the deal, myself. I would want at least a 1/3 to 1/2 saving, before I would take it.

Also I do not trust dealers who make up stuff, like $1,800, to sell me something.

geb1 · July 2003

I bought the Honda 'wood' trim set (from HandA. When it came it was obvious that there was not a bit of real wood to be found and I initially was not too happy about it. But, the fit was perfect and after some time it looks like more and more authentic (just don't look too close!).

geb1 · July 2003

I have done my own oil changes/tire rotations and, other than an air filter, my maintenance costs have been exactly $0.
Just arrived at the 3 year/36,000 mile point and I performed the 3 year maintenance. Total cost for genuine Honda vital fluids (coolant,ATF,brake) and a pollen filter = $80.
I can live with reliability like this!!

msknopf · July 2003

Thanks everyone for all their feedback. It looks like this may not be such a great deal, especially if I end up not liking my dealers Service dept.
Thanks again
Michael

fibber2 · July 2003

Mehul,

I saw a nice wood trim package on a Honda LeGreat (same as our Odyssey) when I was in Japan last year. I stopped by the dealership and got the car and accessories catalog which shows it as an option. Too bad we cannot get some of that stuff here in the USA.

Steve

lapvn · July 2003

I just used the Aux input of our 03 Ody-RES. I was wondering has anyone notice that it isn't too clear of a picture. No where near when we are using the VCR with our home TV.

Could it be my RCA cables? Or is there something wrong with the RES system?

mehulj72 · July 2003

Steve,

Thanks for your update. I'm still looking for good deal on wood trim.

MJ

nych · July 2003

Does anyone have another source for the delivery checklist? I am taking delivery on an 03 Odyssey tomorrow. I found the link posted back in '01 and Steve, the host's, link to it from Jan '03. However, the link now leads to a page that no longer exists...or am I lost in etherspace?

BTW, am purchasing from Honda of Nanuet--distant suburb of NYC. I highly recommend them as professional and pleasant to deal with so far. I got an EX with leather and DVD at 3.5% over Edmund's invoice + destination. I feel like I got a good deal. If it's not, please don't tell me

Thanks! to all of you for all the great info on these boards that helped in my negotiating.

stever · July 2003

Just in case you didn't see my other post:

checklist link

Steve, Host

nych · July 2003

Thought I checked them all, at least the more recent ones...somehow missed your other post. But I've got the checklist now. Thanks a million.

jwhite86 · July 2003

Has anybody purchased an aftermarket CD or CD/MP3 player for their post-'99 Odyssey LX yet? If so, would you provide the brand, model no., and opinions?

Thanks,
JD

stever · July 2003

Try the Honda Odyssey Club-Audio & Video Ideas discussion too.

Steve, Host

wholigan · August 2003

My daughter baptized the Ody after our second week of ownership. There is a six inch "wave" scratch in the passenger side slider. All the way to the primer. Took it to the local Honda dealership/bodyshop - $398 (please note that this estimate specifically states "Amount Submitted to Insurance" - we will not be submitting any KIND of claim for a scratch!)

So... Has anybody bought touch-up paint for their Ody? Should I get it at the dealer or an H&A type of store?

BTW - does anybody know of "instructions" or "How To" for simple scratch repair?

Suggestions appreciated! Enjoy!

Honda Odyssey 1999 - 2004

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