Model-year record

2012 Honda Odyssey
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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Complaints filed
241
Reports to NHTSA, 2012
Safety recalls
5
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
21.5
EPA estimate
Known issues
Service Brakes issues lead owner complaints (17% of 241 reports), followed by electrical system (13%).
+ 12 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 241 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 10554188, ODI 11494717, ODI 11483844, ODI 11483187, ODI 11455261.
Individual complaint reports(241)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsPower TrainMay 2026 · ODI 11738298Details +Close −
piston rings wore out prematurely on our 2012 honda odyssey. this was caused by the vcm system. its a known issue on hondas. it only had 88,600 miles at the time. we were driving our 2012 honda odyssey in december 2023. the check engine light began to flash. it starting running rough. we had it towed to a honda dealer for inspection. they pulled codes p303 and p304. they said the rings were worn and spark plugs fouled. they said this is a common issue because of the vcm. they peformed a rering job and with all parts and labor the cost came to $4000. we are very disgusted that this issue was already known by honda and they failed to place the vehicle on recall or wave the repair cost. they had a previous recall for this issue, but they say it was for a limited time frame. my mother only drives less than 10k miles a year, so the issue wouldnt have happened before 2016, as the miles on her van were still very low. we are issueing a complaint against honda for this issue. we are asking for reimbursement for the repair for the piston ring job which was $4000 while we had the vehicle in for this repair, we were also informed of other issues with the van, and we went ahead with those repairs as well, which brought our repair bill total to over $6419, which is also shown on the same receipt.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11735013 · fireDetails +Close −
The 2012 Honda odyssey alternator caught on fire after the battery light came on which luckily I, the driver, was able to put out. The next day I towed the vehicle to Boyd Honda Auto in Oxford, NC, where they confirmed with diagnostic that the alternator was overworking and that there was a seeping spool valve. This seeping spool valve is a manufacturer’s defect.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- Apr 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Fire
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11735117Details +Close −
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Honda Odyssey. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. The vehicle mileage was 117,000 at the time of purchase; however, the title listed the mileage at 14,580. The Department of Motor Vehicle reported that the actual mileage as 214,000.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- Apr 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemApr 2026 · ODI 11733644 · fireDetails +Close −
On Wednesday night, the battery light initially came on and after a few minutes the van had this burning smell so I pulled over and the alternator was on fire. I put it out with several bottles of water from papa John’s. Today, at Boyd Honda in Oxford said in the diagnosis that there was a sweeping spool valve that had leaked which must have caused the alternator to blaze because this is a manufacturer’s defect from Honda.
- Reported
- Apr 2026
- Incident date
- Apr 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Fire
Electrical SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11703691Details +Close −
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 80,000. It was later discovered, after checking the Carfax report that the mileage was 285,000.
- Reported
- Dec 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineSep 2025 · ODI 11687498Details +Close −
Vcm problems burn oil and misfire code
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineAug 2025 · ODI 11684172Details +Close −
For several years now, we have misfire issue or code P0304. We continue to change spark plugs cylinders. Both usually last a year or so then they need replaced again. I research the problem, no recall or the like. I did see his report on-line, wondering if it applies to us, Warranty Extension: MIL Comes On with DTCs P0301 thru P0304. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainAug 2025 · ODI 11683289Details +Close −
Dear NHTSA Advisor, Thank you for regarding my request for warranty coverage for the critical misfire and overheating defect with my 2012 Odyssey Honda Engine 3.5L Engine. Odyssey, as described in Honda’s Service Technical Bulletin 13-081. I must reiterate the severity of my situation: the part required for repair is quoted at $7,500.00—and that does not include labor. This amount far exceeds the current market value of my vehicle, effectively making it impossible to afford repairs without Honda’s intervention, it’s aSafety Defect & Known Manufacturer Issue. The misfiring and overheating problems represent major safety risks for my family and anyone who operates the vehicle. This is not routine maintenance, but a substantial defect that Honda has addressed in its own technical bulletin. I have adhered diligently to Honda’s maintenance schedule throughout my ownership. Attached to this correspondence is a PDF containing the complete Service Technical Bulletin 13-081. I am prepared to provide any additional documentation upon request. WARRANTY EXTENSION: MIL COMES ON WITH DTCS P0301 THRU P0304 TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN Reference Numbers): 13-081, Date of Issue: October 08, 2020 HONDA: 2011-13 Odyssey Superceded Bulletin(s): 13-081, Date of Issue: June 18, 2019 Aug 5, 2025 License: Odometer: NOTE: Supersedes 13-081, dated June 18, 2019, to revise the information below. AFFECTED VEHICLES AFFECTED VEHICLES Year Model Trim Level VIN Range 2011-13 Odyssey ALL Check the iN VIN status for eligibility. REVISION SUMMARY Under CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION, outdated information was removed. CORRECTIVE ACTION 2011 Models: Complete diagnosis procedure and if necessary, update PCM software (Procedure A) , replace affected spark plugs then clean pistons and replace the piston rings (Procedure B) • 2012-13 Models: Complete diagnosis procedure, replace affected spark plugs then clean the pistons and replace the pistons rings (Procedure B). No need for software update as 2012-13
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJun 2025 · ODI 11665333Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Odyssey equipped with Cooper Tires, Tire Line: CS5 Grand Touring, Tire Size: P235/65/R17, DOT Number: (N/A). The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle started to vibrate abnormally. The driver was able to pull over safely and became aware of a blowout of the front passenger’s side tire. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, there was an abnormal vibration in the steering wheel. The vehicle was taken to a tire center where it was determined that the failure was linked to a busted tire core. The damaged tire and driver's side rear tire were replaced. The contact stated that while continuing to drive, the steering wheel and the vehicle continued to vibrate. The vehicle was taken to a tire center, where it was determined that the driver's side front tire had a shifted radial belt, and a bulge was detected. The tire was replaced. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle failure mileage was approximately 79,694. The tire mileage was approximately 20,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemApr 2025 · ODI 11655191Details +Close −
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 130,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 230,000. Local authorities had been notified.
- Reported
- Apr 2025
- Incident date
- Apr 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineFeb 2025 · ODI 11641339Details +Close −
vehicle loses acceleration power intermittently. No response when pressing accelerator or when speeding up with cruise control. Pressing the gas harder does not help but the vehicle starts working normally a few seconds later. Dangerous on busy roads. I don't think it is a weak fuel pump because it accelerated quickly after an event
- Reported
- Feb 2025
- Incident date
- Feb 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineApr 2024 · ODI 11584638Details +Close −
The front valve cover is exposed to extreme temperatures from the catalytic converter mounted next to it. There is nothing to protect the rubber components inside from the catalytic converter's excessive heat which is causing them to fail. The steel components inside the cylinder (e.g., the seal ring) are insulated by these rubber components. When these rubber insulators fail, the steel components are exposed and make contact with the aluminum valve cover resulting in the galvanic corrosion of the aluminum. The most common result I have seen is the deformation of the area where the seal ring is seated (along with holes and cracks). Some people have also suggested possible defects in the casting of the aluminum as a contributing factor (the aluminum is also very thin in that area). Some have suggested the possibility of the uninsulated spark plug arcing, but it seems unlikely to generate enough heat to compromise the aluminum's integrity. The way people have described how the aluminum crumbles seems more indicative of corrosion. There are countless testimonies online of similar defects in Odysseys, Pilots, Accords, and Crosstours with the same engine. I have included a photograph of my damaged valve cover and those of others I have found online.
- Reported
- Apr 2024
- Incident date
- Apr 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemApr 2024 · ODI 11584162Details +Close −
While driving on Thursday, 18 April 2024, the CHECK CHARGE SYSTEM alert and warning light came on in my 2012 Odyssey. I was able to get to a garage that was a few miles away, but the electrical system gave out about 1/4 mile from the garage. I was able to shift into neutral and coast into the parking lot. The dash lights were all off and the electrical system had stopped working. When I tried to exit the vehicle, I could not open the driver door. The lock was frozen in place and wouldn’t budge. I was able to pull the handle, but it did not unlatch or open the door. The power lock buttons did not work either. I tried all the other doors and it was the same situation. I was literally trapped inside my minivan. Someone tried opening it from the outside and that did not work as the doors had auto locked due to driving. The hood release mechanism worked fine, so I was able to pop the hood and a the mechanic jump started my battery and I was then able to unlock and open my car door. This is a serious safety concern as it suggests that an electric system shutdown due to fire, immersion in water, or other emergency situation would render any occupants stuck inside the vehicle. The mechanic evaluated the situation and said my alternator was broken and needed to be replaced. He did that successfully and I was back on the road in about 2 hours. It’s been running fine since then. I think this is a serious issue that Honda needs to address.
- Reported
- Apr 2024
- Incident date
- Apr 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureMar 2024 · ODI 11579282 · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
A few weeks ago a cable for the sliding door on the passenger side snapped. We were able to use it manually until this weekend when the whole door fell right off when sliding it closed.
- Reported
- Mar 2024
- Incident date
- Mar 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- 1 injuries
StructureFeb 2024 · ODI 11572117 · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
Cable on passenger side sliding door snapped and door shut without latching on the arm of the person getting in.
- Reported
- Feb 2024
- Incident date
- Feb 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- 1 injuries
Electrical SystemJan 2024 · ODI 11566101Details +Close −
Drivers side heated seat switch turns on then off shortly after.
- Reported
- Jan 2024
- Incident date
- Jan 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Engine And Engine CoolingNov 2023 · ODI 11556273Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power inadvertently in the middle of the roadway. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was unable to veer to the side of the roadway. The contact stated that he shifted into park (P) and was able to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had been occurring approximately twice per day while driving. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
- Reported
- Nov 2023
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemOct 2023 · ODI 11548094Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, several unknown warning lights were illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the alternator. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 132,000.
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Oct 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemSep 2023 · ODI 11546201Details +Close −
Prior to the problem, the radio cut off, various lights (battery, abs, etc) lit up and Check System warning light appeared. The car remained running for approximately 10 miles although stepping on the accelerator did not always result in increased speed. Touching the brake caused the RPM gauge & speedometer to immediately drop to zero and removing my foot from the brake immediately resulted in both gauges resuming correct reading. Eventually, the car ceased to function and I removed the key. Then I tried to exit the vehicle. None of the doors would open and I remained in the car until my wife arrived with a spare set of keys which opened the door. A mechanic later determined the alternator needed replacement. Had I not had a mobile phone to call someone, I might still be there. Had the weather been either extremely hot or cold the consequences could have been life threatening
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2023 · ODI 11526788Details +Close −
Misfiring, I have had to change the spark plugs and coils multiple times. I have contact Honda in Green Bay wi and Appleton wi, they have told me the recall has expired. We just bought this car this year from a none Honda dealership used. Had this problems days after getting it.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- May 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMay 2023 · ODI 11521604Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was jerking. The check emissions and check VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) warning lights illuminated intermittently. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the piston rings needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 85,000.
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- May 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureApr 2023 · ODI 11517286Details +Close −
Paint is falling off
- Reported
- Apr 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherApr 2023 · ODI 11516677Details +Close −
I was driving down the highway and my sunroof exploded.
- Reported
- Apr 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2023 · ODI 11505734Details +Close −
The power door was not shutting correctly. A 5 year old was getting into the car when the door decided to shut. It hit her, and then reopened. When it reopened, the door went off the tracks and fell on my husband. Now the door is completely off the tracks and the body of the car is messed up.
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
TiresJan 2023 · ODI 11501722Details +Close −
Mastercraft Stratus As size 235/65R17 While driving on highway tire pressure light illuminated then immediately proceeded to tire shop to check tire . Then found left rear tire had a ball and saw the sidewall bead protruding. I had a shop dismount the tire and they mentioned they have seen this before where the inside of the bead started to come apart. He saw the brand and mentioned it seems like they haven’t fixed the issue.
- Reported
- Jan 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesNov 2022 · ODI 11494717Details +Close −
My break petal went soft - as in goes all the way to the floor - it has been looked at by 2 different mechanics - no warning lights, no sounds, just all of a sudden no breaks - it has all new break pads, master cylinder, rotors, etc… the break petal is as soft as can be. I can not stop suddenly.
- Reported
- Nov 2022
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesSep 2022 · ODI 11483844Details +Close −
My 2012 Honda Odyssey brake suddenly failed today. I felt the brake paddle was very soft and had to push all the way to the floor and the vehicle would slowly stop. I had to push very fast repeatedly to feel enough pressure on the paddle to stop the vehicle quickly. There is no indications on the instrument panel indicating the failure at all. My car is maintained regularly.
- Reported
- Sep 2022
- Incident date
- Sep 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesSep 2022 · ODI 11483187Details +Close −
Without warning the breaks will not work. You have to push them all the way down and it sometimes lurches forward after breaking. I’ve had it looked at and they can find nothing wrong. This is a serious problem and needs recalled.
- Reported
- Sep 2022
- Incident date
- Sep 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJul 2022 · ODI 11473370Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle made ticking sounds. The dealer was made aware of the failure and scheduled an appointment for the diagnostic test. The contact related the failure to the timing belt; however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 163,000.
- Reported
- Jul 2022
- Incident date
- Jul 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJun 2022 · ODI 11469637Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The dealer stated that oil was leaking onto the spark plugs. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 87,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2022
- Incident date
- May 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineApr 2022 · ODI 11460477Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light would suddenly illuminate and the vehicle would not properly accelerate and would drive very rough. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that cylinder number one was faulty. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the oil pressure switches were faulty and needed to be replaced. The oil pressure switches were replaced; however, failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 78,000.
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Nov 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureMar 2022 · ODI 11455984Details +Close −
Sliding doors on both sides will not close reliably. When closing the sliding doors, the door slides along the track smoothly initially but when it is close to shutting anywhere from 2 feet to a couple inches (usually within inches of closing) the moving door studders its motion, or hesitates and then the door opens again. This has been ongoing for a couple years and although it is intermittent, it has become worse over time. There are only two reliable ways to close the sliding doors. One is to lean heavily on the sliding door at the end of the closing cycle and the other is to drive the vehicle either forward or in reverse while the door is near the end of closing. This poses an obvious safety hazard. We have had a local mechanic look at it but it was not reproducible and seems to be better when the whether is fair so she did not find a solution. We just took it to Marion Honda in Southern Illinois and they cleaned the tracks without charging us and thought it had resolved the problem but it did nothing to help. Problem persists
- Reported
- Mar 2022
- Incident date
- Aug 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesMar 2022 · ODI 11455261Details +Close −
False abs activation at speed above 45mph.
- Reported
- Mar 2022
- Incident date
- Mar 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2022 · ODI 11446981Details +Close −
a cable on the automatic sliding door snapped while normally opening door with my fob. The door would no longer work automatically. Both automatic doors have been sensitive to weather changes and won't open sometimes, before the cable snapped.
- Reported
- Jan 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainDec 2021 · ODI 11443422Details +Close −
Misfire in cylinder 1 Caused van to lose power on freeway almost causing an accident. From 2011-2013 there was a settlement that gave an 8 year extended warranty, but why is it only 8 years when not everyone’s driving is the same? My van was brought to the Honda dealer Check engine light came on, then it flashes
- Reported
- Dec 2021
- Incident date
- Dec 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2021 · ODI 11433677Details +Close −
When applying the brake fro my 2012 Honda Odyssey I feel my steering shaking that may cause an issue while driving on Freeway. I have done the wheel balancing on new tires again too... But still i fee the same.
- Reported
- Sep 2021
- Incident date
- Aug 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureSep 2021 · ODI 11432646Details +Close −
The sliding door on the driver's side would open when the handle was pulled even when the lock was engaged. As this is the primary door used, I didn't not know it wasn't supposed to do this. Several years ago, the started sticking, then making a popping sound when it opened. The dealership inspected and found nothing wrong. It progressed to opening a little bit and getting stuck which required closing the door using the electronic controls. Then it started getting stuck in the open position which using the electronic controls multiple times to get it to close. As it is getting worse over time, I don't know if that will continue. At each oil change, I had the door checked. For years it was sporadic so they claimed they could not reproduce. A few months ago, we lost the ability to use the manual door handles. At this point, it was fully reproducible, but the dealership claimed they couldn't find a cause. They can't explain why the door is attempting to open when the lock is engaged.
- Reported
- Sep 2021
- Incident date
- Sep 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJul 2021 · ODI 11425860Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated while driving 35-45 mph, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that there was blue smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe and the vehicle was shuddering. The contact continued driving the vehicle to her residence. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact they could not provide any assistance as she was the second vehicle owner. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 141,000.
- Reported
- Jul 2021
- Incident date
- May 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Latches/Locks/LinkagesJun 2021 · ODI 11419942Details +Close −
The following referenced items have been in constant or recent trouble status: The two-sliding doors repeatedly have resisted closing for at least a year or more. They are eventually forced to close by manipulation of the track system (i.e. closing mechanism). This issue has repeatedly been brought to the attention of the service team at Clear Lake Honda, and diagnostic tests have been conducted but to no avail. This is definitely a safety hazard. Recently, the rear door refused to close and would not engage either manually or automatically when attempting to close. This issue has been brought to the attention of the service team at Clear Lake Honda as of this reporting.
- Reported
- Jun 2021
- Incident date
- Jan 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJun 2021 · ODI 11419578Details +Close −
The Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) System continues to burn my spark plugs on the rear of the engine where the VCM activates and deactivates. Spark plugs and cylinder fills with oil deposits when cylinders are deactivated. Also burning in excess of one quart of oil per 1,000 miles. Not safe to continue to drive because engine failure could cause other systems like, power brakes, ABS, power steering wheel, etc to fail. Also unsafe unreliable to have my family to take long trips where road side assistance might not be available due to no cell telephone signal in certain areas of Texas isolated roads. Thank understand Honda has had recalls on these engines and VCM systems in the past but their fixes don’t appear to work. I am one of many Honda owners that are left out to spend thousands of dollars in new engines because of original and extended warranties expiring. Honda should extend these engine warranties and take ownership and responsibility for their engineering / manufacturing mistakes. A simple switch to turn off the VCM should fix this problem. Other car brands have this feature that allows vehicle owners to turn it off. This is the fourth time this vehicle gets either a p303, P302 or P301 code for damaged spark plugs and excess oil in the cylinder.
- Reported
- Jun 2021
- Incident date
- Jun 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMar 2021 · ODI 11405021Details +Close −
THE BACK SIDE TRACK DOORS POP OPEN WHILE DRIVING. THEY SET THE LIGHTS OFF ANYTIME YOU BRAKE OR TAKE TURNS.
- Reported
- Mar 2021
- Incident date
- Feb 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureFeb 2021 · ODI 11395980Details +Close −
PAINT PEELING. ON TOP OF VAN AND TAILGATE. NOTICED SEVERAL HONDA ODYSSEY'S HAVE SAME ISSUE ON PEARL COLOR VANS.
- Reported
- Feb 2021
- Incident date
- Jan 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2021 · ODI 11389344Details +Close −
ENGINE WORKING BUT NO POWER WHILE DRIVING THE CAR WHEN PUSH GAS.
- Reported
- Jan 2021
- Incident date
- Jan 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureNov 2020 · ODI 11372837Details +Close −
THE SLIDING DOOR ON PASSENGER SIDE IT IS AN AUTOMATIC OPERATING DOOR. DOESN'T OPEN OR CLOSE IN PROPER WAY FOR MOST OF THE TIME. IT IS TRYING BUT IT GET STUCK AND REVERSED BACK. I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH IT, I CAN'T BRING IT TO THE DEALER IT WILL BE A LOT OF LABOR. THAN YOU!!
- Reported
- Nov 2020
- Incident date
- Aug 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineNov 2020 · ODI 11372684Details +Close −
VAN STARTED TO CHUG WHEN DRIVING. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FLASHED AND IT WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. PISTON RINGS ARE BAD AFTER 130,000 MILES.
- Reported
- Nov 2020
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherOct 2020 · ODI 11366934Details +Close −
WAS DRIVING NORMAL STARTED MISSING AND SPUTTERING REALLY BAD JERKING VIOLENTY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STARTED FLASHING BARELY WAS ABLE TO GET SAFELY OFF THE ROAD. GOT BACK HOME IGHT GOES OFF AND DRIVES NORMAL FEW DAYS LATER SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN.
- Reported
- Oct 2020
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureSep 2020 · ODI 11361580Details +Close −
THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR SLIDING DOOR CABLE SNAPPED AND BROKE. NOW THE DOOR ISN'T WORKING. NOT SURE HOW IT HAPPENED I WENT TO OPERATE THE DOOR AND IT WOULDN'T WORK. AFTER INSPECTION I SAW THE BROKEN CABLE.
- Reported
- Sep 2020
- Incident date
- Sep 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2020 · ODI 11350647Details +Close −
SHUTTER / JUDDER LOW SPEED. CAN CAUSE HESITATION FOR GETTING OUT OF ANOTHER VEHICLE'S WAY IN TRAFFIC AT LIW SPEED.
- Reported
- Aug 2020
- Incident date
- Aug 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemAug 2020 · ODI 11343891Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HONDA ODYSSEY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE HAD EXPERIENCED AN INTERMITTENT DRIVER SIDE SLIDING DOOR FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON PULLING THE DRIVER SIDE SLINGING DOOR HANDLE, THE DOOR WOULD NOT SLIDE BACK AS NEEDED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO HONDA OF ESCONDIDO (1700 AUTO PARK WAY N, ESCONDIDO, CA 92029) WHERE THEY FAILED TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO REPLACE ALL THE CABLE WIRES IN THE DEFECTIVE DOOR HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CONTACT BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER TEN MONTHS LATER WHERE THEY PERFORMED A LATCH ADJUSTMENT ON THE DEFECTIVE DOOR; DESPITE THE REPAIR, THE FAILURE STILL PERSISTED. SINCE THE LAST REPAIR, THE FAILURE BECAME MORE FREQUENT AND THE DEALER HAD RECENTLY SUGGESTED THAT THE CABLES BE REPLACED YET AGAIN. THE MANUFACTURER HAD YET TO BE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 50,000.
- Reported
- Aug 2020
- Incident date
- Jun 2016
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJul 2020 · ODI 11341994Details +Close −
I SCANNED MY VEHICLE WITH A FOXWELL 624ELITE AND FOUND THE FOLLOWING: 1. ANTI LOCK BRAKE TRACTION VEHICLE (FAULT I2) ABS/TCS/VSA 2. BATTERY VOLTAGE HIGH 62_1 PERMANENT DTC 3. BATTERY VOLTAGE LOW61_1 PERMANENT DTC 4. BODE ELECTRICAL INTEGRATED CONTROL SYSTEM (FAULT I1) 5. REAR COMMUNICATION FAILURE PERMANENT DTC B2965
- Reported
- Jul 2020
- Incident date
- Jul 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls(5)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Suspension · 11V602000Details +Close −
HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012, ODYSSEY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 31, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 30, 2011. THE RETENTION NUT FOR THE FRONT RIGHT LOWER SUSPENSION DAMPER BOLT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TIGHTENED TO THE PROPER TORQUE, POTENTIALLY ALLOWING THE NUT TO LOOSEN.
Risk: IF THE NUT LOOSENS, THE FRONT HUB ASSEMBLY WOULD ONLY BE ATTACHED BY ONE BOLT, ALLOWING THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY TO SHIFT TO AN EXTREME INWARD ANGLE, RESULTING IN A LOSS OF STEERING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: HONDA CONTACTED ALL NINE OWNERS BY PHONE ON DECEMBER 19, 2011, AND REPAIRED THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air Bags · 13V016000Details +Close −
Honda is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Pilot and 2011-2013 Odyssey passenger vehicles manufactured from March 13, 2008, through December 21, 2012. One or more rivets that attach the airbag module to the airbag cover may be missing.
Risk: The absence of more than one rivet could alter the performance of the driver's airbag during deployment. This could potentially increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Honda will notify owners and instruct them to take their vehicle to a Honda dealer. The dealer will inspect the driver's airbag module and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 14, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Power Train · 13V143000Details +Close −
Honda is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 CR-V, Odyssey, and model year 2013 Acura RDX vehicles. During sub-freezing temperatures, the brake-shift interlock blocking mechanism may become slow and allow the gear selector to be moved from the Park position without pressing the brake pedal. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Risk: If the gear selector is moved from the park position without pressing the brake pedal it can allow the vehicle to roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Honda will notify owners and instruct them to take their vehicle to a Honda or Acura dealer. The dealer will install an updated brake shift interlock blocking mechanism free of charge. The recall began on May 13, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009. Honda's campaign recall numbers are S96, S97, and S98.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Seats · 16V933000Details +Close −
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Odyssey vehicles manufactured August 17, 2010, to October 1, 2015. The affected vehicles have second row outboard seats that have a release lever that allows the seats to move for easier access to the third row of seats. This release lever may remain in the unlocked position allowing the seats to move unexpectedly.
Risk: An unlocked second row outboard seat increases the risk of injury to the seat occupant during a crash.
Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional bracket and spring to both second row outboard seats, free of charge. Interim letter has been mailed, and a second notification will be sent . Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is KD5.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Seats · 17V725000Details +Close −
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Honda Odyssey vehicles. The second row outboard seats can slide sideways to one of two positions. If a seat is placed between either of the two positions when attaching the seat to the vehicle floor, the seat will not latch properly to the seat striker, allowing the seat to tip forward unexpectedly during braking.
Risk: If the seat tips forward during braking, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will install a bracket to the second row outboard floor strikers, free of charge. The recall began April 2, 2018. Owners may contact American Honda Customer Support & Campaign Center at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is S0G.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
1 NHTSA investigation on record
Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a Petition dated May 30, 2026. The Petition is requesting an investigation into inadvertent air bag deployment in model year (MY) 2011-2017 Honda Odyssey vehicles. The Petition contends that air bags can deploy absent a sufficiently severe event to trigger a deployment, such as an impact, rollover event, or G-force threshold breach. The Petition further alleges that the Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) conflict and inaccurate data is being recorded for the air bag system. The Petitioner cites 10 complaints received by ODI alleging the same failure. ODI will evaluate these complaints to determine if they are related to the failure cited in the Petition andconduct a technical review under 49 CFR Part 552. This Defect Petition is being opened to evaluate whether to grant or deny the Petition. The Petition can be viewed at NHTSA.gov under NHTSA Number 11744118.
Crash-test ratings
2012 Honda Odyssey VAN FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Odyssey | 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 19 | 27 | 22 |
| Odyssey | 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 5-spd | 18 | 27 | 21 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2012 Honda Odyssey: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2012 Honda Odyssey?
Owners filed 241 NHTSA complaints about the 2012 Honda Odyssey. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2012 Honda Odyssey?
The most-reported problem areas are Service Brakes (17% of complaints) and electrical system (13%).
How many recalls does the 2012 Honda Odyssey have?
5 recalls have been issued that affect the 2012 Honda Odyssey, covering components such as suspension. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2012 Honda Odyssey get?
The EPA rates the 2012 Honda Odyssey between 21 and 22 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.