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2012 Honda Odyssey Review: Reliable And Comfortable Van Buyers Can Count On

Rating: 4.55
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2012 Honda Odyssey is a minivan, part of the fourth generation (2011-2017). Key trims include LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Touring Elite. New, it ranged from approximately $28,000 to $44,000. It stands out due to its spacious interior, versatile seating configurations (like the "magic seat"), smooth ride, and reputation for reliability, making it a family favorite.
The Good

The 2012 Odyssey offers a blend of practicality and a touch of fun. Its smooth V6 provides ample power (performance) and Honda's reliability gives peace of mind. Comfortable seating and a quiet cabin (comfort) make long trips enjoyable. Excellent fuel economy (efficiency) for a minivan adds to its value, appealing to budget-conscious and safety-minded families.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses include potential transmission issues (juddering or slipping), especially at higher mileage. Some owners have reported issues with the variable cylinder management (VCM) system, leading to excessive oil consumption. Power sliding door malfunctions are also a relatively common complaint. Premature brake wear is another point to watch.

2012 Honda Odyssey: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.5L V6
  • Horsepower: 248 hp @ 5700 rpm
  • Fuel Economy (EPA estimated):
    • City: 18 mpg
    • Highway: 27 mpg
    • Combined: 21 mpg
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.9 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LX:
      • 8-passenger seating
      • Air conditioning
      • Power windows and locks
      • Cruise control
      • 5-speaker audio system
    • EX:
      • All LX features, plus:
      • Power sliding doors
      • Tri-zone automatic climate control
      • Alloy wheels
      • Upgraded audio system
    • EX-L:
      • All EX features, plus:
      • Leather upholstery
      • Heated front seats
      • Power liftgate
      • Sunroof
      • Available navigation system and rear-seat entertainment system
    • Touring:
      • All EX-L features, plus:
      • Blind spot monitoring
      • Rear parking sensors
      • 10-speaker audio system
    • Touring Elite:
      • All Touring features, plus:
      • Ultra-wide rear-seat entertainment system with HDMI input
      • Xenon headlights
      • Premium sound system
      • Blind spot information system

2012 Honda Odyssey Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2012
Make Honda
Model Odyssey
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle Van
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City ALLISTON
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine J35Z8
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 5-Speed 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) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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What Problems Does the 2012 Honda Odyssey Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Honda Odyssey often revolve around the transmission. Some owners report shuddering or slipping, particularly at higher mileage. The variable cylinder management (VCM) system has also been a source of complaints, with some experiencing excessive oil consumption due to the system's cylinder deactivation. Power sliding doors are another common issue, with malfunctions and failures reported. Premature brake wear is also a recurring concern.

Recalls for the 2012 Odyssey have addressed issues such as potential fuel leak from the fuel pump assembly and problems with the vehicle stability assist (VSA) system. Long-term reliability concerns center on the transmission and VCM system as mentioned above. While Honda's reputation for reliability is generally strong, these specific issues can become costly over time. Some reports suggest that disabling the VCM system (with aftermarket devices) can mitigate the oil consumption issue, but this may void the warranty if still applicable. Regular maintenance, especially transmission fluid changes, is crucial to minimizing potential problems.

How long will the 2012 Honda Odyssey last?

With diligent maintenance, a 2012 Honda Odyssey can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report exceeding this milestone. However, reaching that mileage requires consistent servicing, especially transmission fluid changes every 30,000-60,000 miles. Long-term durability is generally good, but the transmission and VCM system are potential weak points. Owners who proactively address these issues with regular maintenance and, if desired, aftermarket solutions can significantly extend the vehicle's lifespan. Rust can also become a factor in regions with harsh winters and road salt use. Proper rustproofing and washing can help mitigate this.
Positive Owner Reviews
Snoopy55
This was my second Odyssey. The first was a star. This one has been plagued with issues since purchased with 95,000 miles on it. The spark plugs keep getting gunked up because the engine sucks oil into the open cyclinders due to the eco feature. Honda won't warranty it because we weren't the original owners. If you search honda spark plug replacement VCM you will see why NOT to buy this model. DO NOT BUY. It's left me stranded 3 times. I have ownerd it 2 years, replaced the plugs 5 times in that timeframe. It's beening sold, over it. Other than that I really like it, I planned on keeping it for a lot longer. Lots of space, storage, and it's beautiful.
KateOrtiz
It's comfortable and reliable. The body is in great conditions. I enjoy driving it and my kids enjoy the space a perks. They can watch TV charge their devices and/or play their video games on the TV. Everything they've wanted in a car and silence for me!
Rebecca
This car is wider than other minivans, providing more space and legroom for the kids. It drives ultra smooth and is super comfortable. Only complaint is that there is only 1 built in USB port and is located in the glove compartment.
Negative Owner Reviews
JustMe
We bought this car new in 2008. True, it has great resale value and true it seats a lot of kids but it is a tinny, poorly engineered and overly complicated ride. There are a lot of little gremlins and the dealership is a nightmare to deal with, which is my biggest complaint. For instance... They tried to charge us for an issue that I fixed in from of the mechanic in three minutes. I am the most laid back guy in the world and my blood begins to boil when I pass the dealership. I will never, never, never own another Honda again. If you buy one of these things I hope you enjoy spending time with mechanics....

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2012 Honda Odyssey offers a range of tech and safety features, depending on the trim level. Standard features include antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain). Higher trims offer more advanced features.

Entertainment: The base LX trim has a basic audio system. Higher trims include features such as a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rear-seat entertainment system (DVD player with a screen) which is standard on the Touring Elite. The Touring Elite boasts an ultrawide screen for enhanced viewing.

Driver-Assistance: Available features include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring (Touring and Touring Elite), and rear parking sensors (Touring and Touring Elite).

Safety: The 2012 Honda Odyssey received excellent crash-test ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" designation. The Odyssey is equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), which helps to maintain control during oversteer or understeer situations. Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) optimizes braking force based on vehicle load and road conditions. These technologies contribute significantly to the overall safety profile of the vehicle.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Alabaster Silver Metallic
Crystal Black Pearl
Dark Cherry Pearl
Polished Metal Metallic
Smoky Topaz Metallic
Taffeta White
Interior Colors
Truffle
Gray
Beige

2012 Honda Odyssey Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2012 Honda Odyssey ranged from approximately $28,000 (LX) to $44,000 (Touring Elite). As of late 2023/early 2024, used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $18,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. Depreciation is significant, but Honda's reputation for reliability helps it retain value better than some competitors. Factors affecting resale value include: mileage, condition (mechanical and cosmetic), trim level (Touring and Touring Elite command higher prices), and geographic location. A well-maintained Odyssey with lower mileage will fetch a higher price.

2012 Honda Odyssey Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2012 Odyssey are generally moderate. Fuel costs are reasonable, considering it's a minivan. Maintenance costs can be moderate if regular servicing is followed. However, potential transmission and VCM-related repairs can be expensive. Overall, it's neither the most economical nor the most costly to own, but budgeting for potential major repairs is wise. Long-term ownership costs largely depend on how well the vehicle has been maintained and the mileage it has accumulated.

2012 Honda Odyssey Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 21 gallons
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2012 Honda Odyssey Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2012 Honda Odyssey Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags
Recall date 2013-01-18
Recall no. 13v016000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence 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.
Notes Honda's Recall Campaign Number IS S75.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.
Suspension:front
Recall date 2011-12-22
Recall no. 11v602000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence 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.
Notes 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> .
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date 2013-04-15
Recall no. 13v143000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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."
Consequence 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.
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.
Seats:mid/Rear Assembly
Recall date 2016-12-27
Recall no. 16v933000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence 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.
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.
Seats:mid/Rear Assembly
Recall date 2017-11-17
Recall no. 17v725000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence 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.
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.

2012 Honda Odyssey Insurance

Insurance for a 2012 Honda Odyssey is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2012 Honda Odyssey Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2012 Honda Odyssey competes with minivans like the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country (later Chrysler Pacifica), and Nissan Quest. Performance-wise, the Odyssey's V6 is comparable to the Sienna's V6. The Town & Country offered similar performance but often traded reliability for features.

In terms of features, the Odyssey held its own, especially in higher trims with the rear-seat entertainment system. Reliability is where the Odyssey traditionally shines, often outperforming the Chrysler models, though the Sienna has a similar reputation for reliability. Price-wise, the Odyssey was generally competitive.

Alternatives: The Toyota Sienna is a strong alternative, especially if all-wheel drive is desired (Sienna offered AWD, Odyssey didn't). The Chrysler Town & Country might be considered for budget-conscious buyers seeking more features for the price, but reliability should be a key consideration. A well-maintained Sienna of the same year is arguably a "better" choice due to AWD availability and similar reliability. If budget is a primary concern, a lower-mileage, well-maintained Odyssey is a perfectly viable option and a strong contender in its class.

Ranks #271 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
271 2012 Honda Odyssey (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Honda Odyssey a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2012 Honda Odyssey is ideal for families needing a spacious, reliable, and versatile minivan. It's generally worth buying used, provided a thorough pre-purchase inspection is performed, paying particular attention to the transmission's condition and checking for VCM-related oil consumption. Higher trims (EX-L, Touring, Touring Elite) offer more desirable features, but even the lower trims provide a functional and practical family vehicle. Ensure the vehicle has a clean maintenance record. If a Sienna with AWD is within budget and AWD is needed, that is a superior choice. Otherwise, a well-maintained Odyssey remains a strong contender.

2012 Honda Odyssey Owner Reviews

4.55
Overall rating
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Snoopy55 on March 21, 2024

Lost my faith in Honda

This was my second Odyssey. The first was a star. This one has been plagued with issues since purchased with 95,000 miles on it. The spark plugs keep getting gunked up because the engine sucks oil into the open cyclinders due to the eco feature. Honda won't warranty it because we weren't the original owners. If you search honda spark plug replacement VCM you will see why NOT to buy this model. DO NOT BUY. It's left me stranded 3 times. I have ownerd it 2 years, replaced the plugs 5 times in that timeframe. It's beening sold, over it. Other than that I really like it, I planned on keeping it for a lot longer. Lots of space, storage, and it's beautiful.

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Real Deal on January 20, 2024

VCM System

Please be leary if you are looking at purchasing this vehicle. There was an issue with the VCM system. Several articles online. If you don't have proof engine was rebuilt, please stay away. Honda did extend the recall to 8 years, should have been a lifetime recall. This isn't the only model year that had this issue. I would recommend another manufacturer, maybe Toyota, etc.

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KateOrtiz on November 17, 2020

Love my new van

It's comfortable and reliable. The body is in great conditions. I enjoy driving it and my kids enjoy the space a perks. They can watch TV charge their devices and/or play their video games on the TV. Everything they've wanted in a car and silence for me!

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Rebecca on August 18, 2020

Recently purchased Honda Odyssey 2012

This car is wider than other minivans, providing more space and legroom for the kids. It drives ultra smooth and is super comfortable. Only complaint is that there is only 1 built in USB port and is located in the glove compartment.

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Jennyg on July 18, 2020

Most reliable car I've owned.

This car has met my family needs for 8 years. The next owner will be happy to purchase the car. It is a very good for family with kids.

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Family man on June 23, 2020

Great family car

This was a great reliable car. Treated us well the 8 years we have owned it. Lots of leg room. The 3rd row seating folds for lots of cargo room.

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Laura Brook on May 7, 2020

The most comfortable vehicle with all the luxury.

It exceeds my expectations and very confident and pleased with the purchase. Love all the bells and whistles of the touring elite model. I love it!

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Am's line on April 18, 2020

Sorry to say Good-bye!

This Honda odyssey met all of our family needs. It was comfortable and spacious. Reliable Like no other van, we owned 3 Honda odyssey through The years of raising our children. I am sorry to see our last one go and to say goodbye, it's a turning point on many levels in our lives. I would never buy another minivan than a Honda Odyssey!

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Cathy on April 11, 2020

This one has cost me money

I had a 2003 and it went 270,000 with almost no expense. This 2012 has cost me $3000 in O2 sensors at 130,000 miles and another $2,000 for bushings and other things. Also I barely tapped a car and my airbag deployed. Literally, I tapped someone and my bumper Just barely came off one clip all I had to do was tap it with my knee to put it back and I was told that it wasn't one of the recall issues. I've had several of these and this one has cost me a lot of money. It's been good for taking 8 kids places and getting back and forth from Cali to Wisconsin. In the summer I tow my boat to the lake on Sunday which has also been great just the most expensive Honda I've ever owned for repairs.

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Average Dad on March 9, 2020

Most reliable and useful minivan I've ever owned

Good mileage excellent reliability capacity and utility. Honda has proved to build reliable and good value vehicles. This was the first Honda I ever bought and now own three different models. All excellent

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.