by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2016 Honda Odyssey Review: Well-Made & Spacious Minivan With No Major Mechanical Problems

Rating: 4.69
Based on 101 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2016 Honda Odyssey is a minivan, a body style known for its practicality and family-friendliness. Part of the Odyssey's fourth generation (2011-2017), the 2016 model offered trims like LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Touring Elite. New, its price ranged roughly from $30,000 to $45,000. It stands out due to its reputation for reliability, spacious interior, and innovative features like the available built-in vacuum cleaner (HondaVAC) and rear entertainment system.
The Good

The 2016 Honda Odyssey offers a blend of advantages. Practically, it boasts excellent reliability, a comfortable and spacious interior, and decent fuel efficiency for its class. Emotionally, owners appreciate its smooth ride, responsive engine, and family-friendly features, making road trips enjoyable and daily errands less of a chore. It provides a strong value proposition.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2016 Honda Odyssey include potential transmission issues, particularly with shuddering or rough shifting. Some owners have reported problems with the variable cylinder management (VCM) system, leading to oil consumption. Also, be aware of potential issues with the power sliding doors, which can be costly to repair. Inspect these areas carefully before purchasing.

2016 Honda Odyssey: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: A single engine option was available: a 3.5-liter V6.
  • Horsepower: 248 horsepower.
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway. Actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions.
  • 0-60 Times: Around 7.9 - 8.2 seconds, depending on testing.
  • Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LX: Base model with standard features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera.
    • EX: Adds features like power sliding doors, tri-zone automatic climate control, HondaLink, and a larger touchscreen display.
    • EX-L: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and available options like a navigation system or a rear-seat entertainment system.
    • Touring: Upgrades to include a blind-spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert, and a premium audio system.
    • Touring Elite: The top-of-the-line trim adds features such as the HondaVAC integrated vacuum cleaner, a widescreen rear-seat entertainment system, and a premium sound system.

The 2016 Odyssey focuses on delivering practical features across all trims, with higher trims offering enhanced comfort, convenience, and safety technologies. The V6 engine provides adequate power for daily driving and hauling passengers and cargo.

2016 Honda Odyssey Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2016
Make Honda
Model Odyssey
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle Van
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City TAKANEZAWA
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 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-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

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2016 Honda Odyssey Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2016 Honda Odyssey often revolve around the transmission. Some owners have reported a shuddering sensation, particularly at lower speeds, which can be attributed to transmission issues. The Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system has also been a source of complaints. VCM is designed to improve fuel economy by deactivating cylinders, but some owners have experienced excessive oil consumption and engine vibrations as a result.

Another common issue involves the power sliding doors. These can sometimes malfunction, requiring costly repairs. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system's reliability. Recalls for the 2016 Odyssey have addressed concerns such as fuel leaks and issues with the power sliding doors. Long-term reliability concerns mainly center around the potential for transmission problems and VCM-related oil consumption as the vehicle ages. Checking the vehicle's maintenance history and inspecting these specific areas is crucial before purchasing a used 2016 Odyssey.

How long will the 2016 Honda Odyssey last?

With proper maintenance, a 2016 Honda Odyssey can realistically achieve 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report exceeding this milestone. However, long-term durability hinges on consistent maintenance, particularly regarding transmission fluid changes and addressing any VCM-related oil consumption issues promptly. Weaknesses over time include potential transmission wear, increased risk of power sliding door failures, and the ongoing possibility of VCM-related problems impacting engine performance. Regular servicing can mitigate these risks and extend the vehicle's lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Anne
I’ve owned my 2016 Honda Odyssey for several years now and it’s been a reliable family vehicle. The cabin is roomy and comfortable, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. Handling is smooth for a minivan, and I’ve had no major mechanical problems so far. Overall, it’s a well-made, practical choice for anyone needing space and dependability.
Peyton
My mom got this car and it is so cool. Very comfortable. I like how the seats lean back and you can lay down and relax!
Holly
Great vehicle! Gas mileage is amazing for an 8 passenger vehicle, love the cool box, love the blind spot camera, and the ride is very smooth. It's very safe too. When I was in a bad accident in my 2016 Odyssey my children and I came out with only two of us having minir injuries. Definitely recommend this van!
Negative Owner Reviews
Herb
Expensive for what you get. Wind and ride noise is very noticeable. Interior is cheap and poorly assembled. A lot of little cost cuts like rear window not opening, seat design and interior materials poor . Could go on and on, bottom line not worth the cost.
Barb
I owned a '05 (best one) '10 and '15. The front seats are very uncomfortable for long rides, they removed the arm rests on the back seats by the middle isle so it makes you feel lopsided when sitting in the back and with 60,000 on it the transmission need to be replaced. Very disappointed in my Oddsey.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2016 Honda Odyssey offers a range of tech and safety features. Base models include a rearview camera and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims add features like HondaLink (for smartphone integration), a larger touchscreen display, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Entertainment options include a rear-seat entertainment system with a widescreen display and HDMI input, available on upper trims.

Driver-assistance features on higher trims include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Safety features standard across all trims include antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional features included a navigation system and the HondaVAC integrated vacuum cleaner, which is exclusive to the Touring Elite trim. The 2016 Honda Odyssey received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, indicating strong performance in occupant protection. These ratings, combined with the available safety features, make it a safe choice for families.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
White Diamond Pearl
Crystal Black Pearl
Modern Steel Metallic
Obsidian Blue Pearl
Deep Scarlet Pearl
Alabaster Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Gray Interior
Beige Interior

2016 Honda Odyssey Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2016 Honda Odyssey ranged from approximately $30,000 to $45,000, depending on the trim level. Current used market prices typically range from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on mileage, condition, and trim. The Odyssey has experienced significant depreciation, but its strong reputation for reliability helps maintain its resale value. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable features like the rear entertainment system or HondaVAC. Lower mileage and a clean title command higher prices.

2016 Honda Odyssey Cost of Ownership

The 2016 Honda Odyssey generally falls into the economical side of ownership compared to other minivans. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel costs are reasonable for its size, averaging around 23 mpg combined. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is affordable. However, potential repairs, particularly those related to the transmission or power sliding doors, can be costly. Long-term ownership costs are heavily influenced by maintenance habits and the need for any major repairs.

2016 Honda Odyssey Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 22 gallons
City Mileage 19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 28 miles/gallon

2016 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

2016 Honda Odyssey Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date 2016-06-09
Recall no. 16v417000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2015 Acura MDX 2WD and MDX 4WD Vehicles, 2016 Acura MDX 4WD Vehicles, 2015-2016 Honda Odyssey Vehicles, and 2016 Honda Pilot 2WD and 4WD Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles Have Fuel Tanks That Were Manufactured With Insufficient Welds Which MAY Separate and Allow Fuel TO Leak Out.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Tanks, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Honda/Acura Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. THE Recall Began ON July 29, 2016. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE KA9 (Honda Vehicles) and KB0 (Acura Vehicles).
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 2016-12-27
Recall no. 16v932000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016 Odyssey Vehicles Manufactured September 23, 2016, TO October 24, 2016. THE Affected Vehicles Have A Second ROW Center Seat With A Horizontal Adjuster BAR That MAY Stick IN THE Unlocked Position, Allowing THE Seat TO Unexpectedly Slide. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 207, "seat Systems."
Consequence AN Unlocked Second ROW Center Seat MAY Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Seat Occupant IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Slide Function and Replace THE Horizontal Position Adjustment Bar, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 2017. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS Kd4.
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 2018-03-13
Recall no. 18v170000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2014-2016 Honda Odyssey Vehicles. THE Second ROW Outboard Seats Have A Lever TO Fold THE Seatback and Slide THE Seat Forward TO Access THE Third ROW Seats. DUE TO A Manufacturing Error, IF THE Walk-In Release Lever IS Used TO Fold A Fully Reclined Left Outboard Seatback Forward, THE Seatback MAY Stay IN THE Unlocked Position (Free-folding) or Unexpectedly Unlock Without Engaging THE Walk-in or Recliner Lever.
Consequence AN Unlocked Second ROW Left Outboard Seatback Increases THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Seat Occupant During A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Confirm Proper Operation OF THE Second ROW Left Outboard Seatback, and Install A Support Bracket TO THE Seat Recliner. IF THE Seatback Cannot Lock, Dealers Will Replace THE Seatback Frame Assembly. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 7, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS X0r.
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.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2023-12-18
Recall no. 23v858000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, Cr-V, Hr-v, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura Ilx, Mdx, MDX Hybrid, Rdx, Rlx, Tlx, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda Cr-v Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity Phev, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX Vehicles. THE Fuel Pump Inside THE Fuel Tank MAY Fail.
Consequence Fuel Pump Failure CAN Cause AN Engine Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed September 6, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE KGC and Kgd. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Numbers 21v-215 and 20v-314.
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.nhtsa.gov.

2016 Honda Odyssey Insurance

Insurance for a 2016 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 2016 Honda Odyssey Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2016 Honda Odyssey competes with minivans like the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, and Kia Sedona. In terms of reliability, the Odyssey and Sienna have traditionally been strong contenders. The Pacifica offers a more modern interior and features, but its reliability has been a concern for some years. The Sedona provides good value for the price, but may lack some of the refinement of the Odyssey or Sienna.

Performance-wise, the Odyssey's V6 engine is competitive. Feature-wise, the Odyssey offers family-friendly options like the HondaVAC and rear entertainment system. Price-wise, the Odyssey sits in the middle of the pack.

Alternatives to consider would be the Toyota Sienna if reliability is the top priority, or a newer Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid if fuel efficiency and modern features are desired. The Kia Carnival (successor to the Sedona) is also a newer, worthy competitor. Overall, the Odyssey offers a balanced package, but weighing specific needs against the strengths of its rivals is important.

Ranks #245 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★)
245 2016 Honda Odyssey (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Honda Odyssey a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2016 Honda Odyssey is ideal for families needing a spacious, reliable, and feature-rich minivan. It's worth buying, particularly as a used vehicle, if it has been well-maintained and properly inspected for potential transmission or VCM issues. Opting for higher trims like the EX-L or Touring can provide desirable features such as leather seats, a power liftgate, and enhanced safety technologies. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to ensure the vehicle's reliability and address any potential problems before making a purchase. Consider carefully if the potential maintenance costs on a used vehicle are worth it compared to a newer, more reliable option.

2016 Honda Odyssey Owner Reviews

4.69
Overall rating
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Peyton on October 7, 2024

My mom got this car and it is so cool.

My mom got this car and it is so cool. Very comfortable. I like how the seats lean back and you can lay down and relax!

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Holly on September 30, 2023

Worth purchasing

Great vehicle! Gas mileage is amazing for an 8 passenger vehicle, love the cool box, love the blind spot camera, and the ride is very smooth. It's very safe too. When I was in a bad accident in my 2016 Odyssey my children and I came out with only two of us having minir injuries. Definitely recommend this van!

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Chris on October 10, 2022

Odyssey Rules

This is our 3rd Honda Odyssey. With three kids there is nothing better to truck around the family. Awesome vehicle! I'll hang up and listen

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DD on March 18, 2021

Our Fourth ODYSSEY

We purchased a 2016 Elite (Certifiex) after owning 3 second generation Odysseys 1999/2001/2003 (22 years and almost 300k miles without a single problem). We gave our 2003 to our son who has a newborn and purchased Elite. I was never real big on the styling and and basically refused to look at them until a few weeks ago until we found our Elite with low low miles. What an amazing vehicle we aquired. The ride, the comfort, the features and accessories are incredible. This is our 11th Honda and is by far thee best vehicle that we have purchased. We anticipate another Honda that will serve our family with stellar dependability.

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Substitute Maw on February 1, 2021

Honda Odyssey

I love my van! This is the second Odyssey that I have owned. I like it because it is very dependable. I don't have to roll out of it or get on my knees to get in it. Yet, it seats me high enough to see out good too. It's worth the price. This newer model has stuff I will have to learn about so I can use it.

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Jon on December 22, 2020

love this van

This is the perfect car for our family of 5. All three of our kids are in cars seats. We sit all 3 in the middle row if we need extra cargo space, or can put the oldest in the 3rd row and make the 2nd into captains chairs. All to say super versatile with room for family and cargo. Also love the way it drives... way better than you would imagine for a minivan.

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Bee on November 18, 2020

love the space!Good room for a family of 4 or more

It has plenty of legroom and is very spacious. Good choice of car to travel with family. It is a very reliable car. Go for it

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JD on August 18, 2020

Comfiest car I've owned

I'm tall but not too tall but I love that I actually fit in my car with room to spare. We had a carseat in our last car and my wife had to basically have her seat all the way forward to fit it. I just love how much space it has and how comfy it is.

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Connecticutter on July 27, 2020

So Glad We Bought It

Best of both worlds: use it for hauling our trikes to the trail; use it for road trips; use it for going out on the town--and it is so versatile--so glad we got it and plan to keep it for many years to come.

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King Team on July 15, 2020

The space we needed

This van is what our family needed. It has the space and leg room. Drives smooth and has a button for everything 🙂 no more feeling cramped in a car with two car seats.

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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.