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2006 Honda Odyssey Review: One Of The Worst Years For The Popular Minivan

Rating: 4.47
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The 2006 Honda Odyssey is a minivan, part of the third generation (2005-2010). Key trims included the LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. It was and is popular for its reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly features. New, it ranged approximately from $25,000 to $35,000. It stands out for its refined driving experience compared to other minivans and its reputation for longevity.
The Good

The 2006 Odyssey offers a smooth and responsive V6 engine. It's renowned for its reliability, providing peace of mind. The comfortable interior and versatile seating appeal to families. Its design is practical yet stylish. Good fuel economy for its class, along with strong resale value, make it a smart choice, while its dependability fosters emotional connection with owners.

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2006 Odyssey include potential transmission issues, particularly around 100,000 miles. Power sliding door problems are also relatively common. Oil consumption can be a concern in some models. Rust can develop in colder climates. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigating these risks.

2006 Honda Odyssey: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.5-liter V6
  • Horsepower: 244 hp (LX, EX) / 255 hp (EX-L, Touring)
  • Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (varies slightly by trim)
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.5 - 9 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LX: Base model; includes standard safety features, power windows and locks, air conditioning.
    • EX: Adds alloy wheels, power sliding doors, tri-zone climate control, upgraded audio system.
    • EX-L: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, available DVD entertainment system, available navigation.
    • Touring: Adds Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), power liftgate, parking sensors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, premium audio system, run-flat tires (specific to this trim).
  • Transmission: 5-speed automatic.
  • Seating Capacity: 7-8 passengers (depending on configuration)
  • Safety: Standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), front and side airbags. VSA is only available on the Touring trim.

2006 Honda Odyssey Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2006
Make Honda
Model Odyssey
Trim -
Style 5-Door
Type Minivan
Category Minivan
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City LINCOLN
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight 2029.82 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2721.55 kg
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine V-6
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $28,395 USD
Invoice Price $25,552 USD
Delivery Charges $595 USD

Vehicle History Report

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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2006 Honda Odyssey Have?

The 2006 Honda Odyssey, while generally reliable, does have some frequently reported problems. Transmission failure, particularly around the 100,000-mile mark, is a significant concern. Symptoms include slipping gears or harsh shifting. Power sliding door malfunctions are also common, often requiring replacement of the motor or cables. Oil consumption, leading to spark plug fouling and catalytic converter issues, can occur in some engines. Check engine lights related to the evaporative emissions system are also frequently reported.

Rust, especially in areas where salt is used on roads, is another potential problem. The rear trailing arm can be susceptible to corrosion.

Recalls for the 2006 Odyssey have addressed issues such as potential fuel leakage from the fuel filter, which could lead to a fire hazard, and problems with the automatic transmission that could cause unexpected downshifts. Owners should check with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the cost of maintaining the automatic transmission, and power sliding doors. Regular fluid changes and preventative maintenance are essential to extend the life of these components.

How long will the 2006 Honda Odyssey last?

With proper maintenance, a 2006 Honda Odyssey can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, potentially providing 15-20 years of service. Excellent maintenance habits, including regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and timely repairs, are critical for achieving this longevity. Poor maintenance drastically reduces lifespan. The most significant long-term durability concerns revolve around the automatic transmission, which may require rebuilding or replacement. Power sliding doors and rear suspension components are also common wear items. Keeping up with rust prevention in colder climates can further extend the vehicle's life.
Positive Owner Reviews
Roshiuwa
The best investment ever! I needed another van because I am a true soccer mom! I have 4 kids and they are all in sports.
Gene DucatiClos
I really like everything about this vehicle. The interior is phenomenal. Numerous side and dash compartments, comfortable seats, nice compartment in the floor between the front and middle seats, roomy, etc. It's a shame the newer models give up all the conveniences of the older models. Looking for to getting them back.
ETHANCARS
THIS CAR IS GREAT ON MAINTENANCE, THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR REALLY HELD UP ALL THESE YEARS. EVERYTHING WORKS ON THE CAR AS IT SHOULD AFTER 130K MILES.
Negative Owner Reviews
jipped in Memphis
too many costly repairs A C went out $1700 to fix CVS went out A $1500 repair Brakes always bad Repair people say nothing wrong Need a lot of space to stop Only slightly over 50,000 miles drive other cars like a Toyota now No problems with Toyotas yet
NAK
This can is pretty good. Comfort could be better but you shouldn't expect much. These vans were pretty expensive when they came out. Interior styling is nothing new, instead of a normal button to close the doors, you get a lever.
minivan
The Odyssey carries our family in a good way. The interior design is good. The Odyssey has fair owner cost and the electronic features in the vehicle are having a little bit of a hard time working.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2006 Honda Odyssey's tech features were decent for its time. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM radio with CD player. Higher trims (EX, EX-L, Touring) added features like tri-zone automatic climate control, upgraded audio systems, and power sliding doors.

Entertainment options included an optional DVD rear entertainment system on the EX-L and Touring trims, featuring a screen and wireless headphones. Driver-assistance features were limited. The top-tier Touring trim included Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) which is an early form of electronic stability control, and parking sensors.

Safety features included standard front and side airbags, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). The Touring trim also had side curtain airbags. Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally good, with the Odyssey earning top scores in several categories. It received five-star ratings in several NHTSA frontal and side-impact tests. The IIHS gave the Odyssey a "Good" rating in the moderate overlap front test. The absence of modern driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring is a notable limitation compared to newer vehicles.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Alabaster Silver Metallic
Taffeta White
Midnight Blue Pearl
Desert Rock Metallic
Sage Brush Pearl
Nighthawk Black Pearl
Fern Metallic
Quartz Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Stone
Gray
Olive

2006 Honda Odyssey Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2006 Honda Odyssey ranged from approximately $25,000 for the base LX trim to around $35,000 for the fully loaded Touring model. Current used market prices vary widely based on condition, mileage, and location, but generally range from $3,000 to $8,000. The Odyssey has depreciated significantly due to its age and high mileage, but Honda's reputation for reliability helps maintain a higher resale value compared to some competitors. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, documented maintenance history, and whether it has desirable options like the DVD entertainment system or leather interior. Lower mileage examples in excellent condition command the highest prices.

2006 Honda Odyssey Cost of Ownership

The 2006 Honda Odyssey is moderately economical to own, but age and mileage increase potential expenses. Insurance costs are typically average for a minivan. Fuel costs depend on driving habits, but the Odyssey's V6 engine provides reasonable, but not exceptional, gas mileage. Maintenance costs can be moderate with regular servicing, but repairs, especially to the transmission and power sliding doors, can be expensive. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on the vehicle's condition and how well it has been maintained. Neglected Odysseys can become quite costly.

2006 Honda Odyssey Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 79.49 liters
City Mileage 7.23 km/l
Highway Mileage 9.78 km/l

2006 Honda Odyssey Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Marginal
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2006 Honda Odyssey Recalls & Defects

Equipment:other:owners/Service/Other Manual
Recall date 2006-07-26
Recall no. 06v270000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Passenger Vehicles and Motorcycles, THE Owner's Manuals Contain Incorrect Contact Information FOR THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (Nhtsa) Vehicle Safety Hotline.
Consequence THE Language IN THE Owner's Manuals IS NOT IN Accordance With THE Current Mandatory Requirements.
Remedy Honda Will Send A Postcard TO Dealers and Owners With THE Correct Nhtsa Vehicle Safety Hotline Information and With Instructions TO Insert THE Card Into THE "reporting Safety Defects" Section OF THE Owner's Manual. THE Recall Began ON August 2, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009, Acura AT 1-800-382-2238 or Honda Motorcycles AT 1-866-784-1870.
Notes Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date 2010-10-22
Recall no. 10v504000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2007 Odyssey and Acura RL Vehicles. Brake Fluid Containing Polymers IS Used That Acts AS A Lubricant FOR Certain Brake System Components. IF Replacement Brake Fluid IS Used That Does NOT Contain Such Polymers, or That Contains Only Small Amounts, A Part OF THE Rubber Seal Located AT THE Rear OF THE Brake Master Cylinder MAY Become Dry, and THE Seal MAY Curl During Movement OF THE Piston. IF This Occurs, A Small Amount OF Brake Fluid Could Slowly Leak From THE Seal Into THE Brake Booster.
Consequence A Leak OF Brake Fluid Could Lead TO A Change IN Brake Pedal Feel and Overtime A Degradation IN Braking Performance Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Brake Master Cylinder Seal Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During December 2010. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes Safety Recall NO. R51 Honda R52 Acura.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2014-03-14
Recall no. 14v112000
Source NHTSA
Summary American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2010 Honda Odyssey Vehicles Manufactured June 23, 2004, Through September 4, 2010. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Fuel Pump Strainer Cover MAY Deteriorate Allowing Fuel TO Leak Out.
Consequence A Fuel Leak Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Parts TO Permanently Repair THE Affected Vehicles ARE NOT Currently Available. Honda Will Notify Owners With AN Interim Letter During MAY 2014. A Second Notice WAS Mailed TO Owners October 6, 2014 When THE Remedy Became Available. ANY Vehicles That ARE Currently Leaking From THE Fuel Pump Cover Will GET A Replacement, Original Cover. All Vehicles, Including Those Receiving THE Interim Repair, Will GET AN Improved Cover When They ARE Available. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009. THE Recall Numbers Associated With This Campaign ARE JD9 (Inspection And/Or Preliminary Part Replacement) and JE0 (Final Parts Replacement).
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2014-07-28
Recall no. 14e049000
Source NHTSA
Summary Delphi Automotive Systems, LLC (Delphi) IS Recalling Certain Replacement Fuel Pump Modules, Part Number Fg1155-11b1, Sold FOR USE IN 2005-2010 Honda Odyssey Vehicles. THE Affected Fuel Pump MAY Send AN Incorrect Fuel Reading TO THE Fuel Gauge Possibly Causing THE Vehicle TO RUN OUT OF Fuel. THE Fuel Gauge Will Always Read 3/4 Full TO Full Regardless OF THE Actual Level.
Consequence A Vehicle That Runs OUT OF Fuel and Stalls HAS AN Increased Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Delphi HAS Begun Notifying Dealers and Distributors, and Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Modules, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Delphi Customer Service AT 1-877-411-8770. Delphi's Number FOR This Recall IS Gl14-004.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2006 Honda Odyssey Insurance

Insurance for a 2006 Honda Odyssey is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2006 Honda Odyssey Compare to Other Minivan?

The 2006 Honda Odyssey competed with minivans like the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Nissan Quest. The Odyssey generally offered a more refined driving experience than the Chrysler/Dodge offerings and a similar or slightly better reputation for reliability than the Nissan Quest. The Toyota Sienna was its closest competitor, often regarded as similarly reliable and spacious.

In terms of features, the Odyssey's trim levels were competitive, although the Chrysler Town & Country sometimes offered more luxurious options at a comparable price point. However, the Chrysler products generally lagged behind in reliability. The Dodge Caravan was typically the most affordable option but lacked the refinement and reputation of the Honda and Toyota.

Considering current used market conditions, the Toyota Sienna remains a very similar alternative, especially if reliability is a top priority. A well-maintained Sienna might be slightly more expensive, but worth the investment for the peace of mind. If budget is a major constraint, a lower-mileage, well-cared-for Dodge Caravan or Chrysler Town & Country could be considered, but be prepared for potentially higher repair costs. The Nissan Quest would be a less desirable pick than the Honda or Toyota due to its lower reliability scores.

Ranks #29 Van

1 2023 Toyota Sienna (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Odyssey (2.0★)
3 2001 Mazda MPV (4.0★)
4 2024 Ford E-Series Cutaway (0.0★)
5 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van (0.0★)
6 2023 Chevrolet Express Passenger (0.0★)
7 2021 Nissan NV200 (3.0★)
8 2023 GMC Savana (0.0★)
9 2023 Ram ProMaster (0.0★)
10 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn (0.0★)
11 2013 Volkswagen Routan (4.0★)
12 2007 Buick Terraza (0.0★)
29 2006 Honda Odyssey (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Honda Odyssey a Good Minivan?

The 2006 Honda Odyssey is ideal for budget-conscious families needing a reliable and spacious minivan, provided it's been well-maintained. It is worth buying *used* if you can find a model with a clean maintenance record, ideally with documented transmission servicing. Avoid models with excessively high mileage or signs of neglect. The EX or EX-L trims offer the best balance of features and value. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is crucial to assess the condition of the transmission, power sliding doors, and other potential problem areas. If you prioritize long-term reliability and are willing to spend more, a newer minivan might be a better choice, but the 2006 Odyssey remains a solid and affordable option for many.

2006 Honda Odyssey Owner Reviews

4.47
Overall rating
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Manwell on April 21, 2022

Hey take a look and a drive,this van speaks for it

The best van I've ever owned,drives,looks,runs better,smoother then I could ever have expected,can't say enough about my experiences with my Honda Odessey Turing 2006,207,000 mi

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jh20060101 on June 2, 2020

Top pick minivan for family

This car runs great and reliable. 2nd row seat can be removed and 3rd row seat back fold flat to make it bi carry space. It can set up to sleep for two people or three.

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Roshiuwa on May 28, 2020

Best investment

The best investment ever! I needed another van because I am a true soccer mom! I have 4 kids and they are all in sports.

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Gene DucatiClos on March 11, 2020

'06 Honda Odyssey a Great Vehicle

I really like everything about this vehicle. The interior is phenomenal. Numerous side and dash compartments, comfortable seats, nice compartment in the floor between the front and middle seats, roomy, etc. It's a shame the newer models give up all the conveniences of the older models. Looking for to getting them back.

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Ehst's Honda on January 27, 2020

Purchase of Honda Odyssey

We have owned Honda Odysseys all our lives and they make excellent family vehicles. This one is no exception and was a good value for our money

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MNDRIVER on January 18, 2020

Incredible ability to haul people and gear.

This car was perfect for our family. Great mileage, pulled a pop-up camper like a dream, and hauls a lot of gear. The Odyssey drives much more like a car vs. the Toyota and Dodge vans we have driven.

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Sadie5043 on January 15, 2020

Love my van, I wish all the back seats would have

Love this vehicle I wish the all the back seats were the stow and go seats so they would fold away. In case you needed to haul something. I wish the heating system was better it doesn't seem to heat up as fast as it should. And that's not only with mine but my son has the Odyssey and his heating isn't very good .

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Jeremyi77 on December 15, 2019

Drives Forever

I hope you like your Odyssey, because it will last a long time. Just follow the manufacturer service schedule and it will take you 300k plus miles.

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Odysseus on November 26, 2019

Great Minivan!

First minivan I've owned. Both used with 160K miles. Have 218,000 on it now and it runs just like it did when I bought it. Have an issue with the A/C mixing doors. Sometimes hot air out the d/s vents with the A/C on. Tranny shifting is noticeable (to me). Occasional lurch. Had to change the CV axles...understandable with 200k+ miles. Leather had held up well. Gas mileage is better than decent for a vehicle that size. Overall though, great vehicle!

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sandchief on November 16, 2019

Perfect family hauler

No better vehicle for hauling the family daily or during long trips. Well thought out interior allows for easy changing between carrying people and cargo. Plenty of power for its intended purpose.

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma