by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2008 Honda Odyssey Review: A Great Minivan Offering A Dependable Engine & Updated Technology

Rating: 4.50
Based on 90 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2008 Honda Odyssey is a minivan, a body style renowned for its practicality and family-friendliness. Part of the third generation (2005-2010), the 2008 Odyssey offered several trims, including LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. New, it ranged roughly from $26,000 to $38,000. It stands out due to its reputation for reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for families needing ample passenger and cargo space.
The Good

The 2008 Honda Odyssey excels in reliability and comfort, attracting practical buyers. Its V6 engine provides adequate performance. The spacious interior and smooth ride enhance comfort, appealing to those valuing a pleasant driving experience. While not the most fuel-efficient, its strong resale value makes it a financially sound choice, adding to its overall value.

The Bad

The 2008 Honda Odyssey, while reliable, has some potential weaknesses. Watch out for potential transmission issues, especially in earlier models. Power sliding door problems are also common. Oil consumption can be higher than average in some engines. Rust can be a concern in regions with harsh winters. Regular maintenance is key to mitigating these issues.

2008 Honda Odyssey: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: All 2008 Honda Odyssey models came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. Some models featured Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) for improved fuel economy.
  • Horsepower: The 3.5-liter V6 produced around 244 horsepower in LX, EX, and EX-L trims. The Touring trim had slightly more, around 244 hp, but the key difference was VCM.
  • Fuel Economy: Fuel economy varied slightly depending on the trim level, but generally, it was around 16-17 mpg city and 23-25 mpg highway. VCM equipped models offered slightly better highway mileage.
  • 0-60 Times: The 0-60 mph time was roughly in the 8.5-9.0 second range, adequate for a minivan.
  • Towing Capacity: The 2008 Honda Odyssey has a towing capacity of approximately 3,500 lbs when properly equipped.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LX: Base model, included standard safety features, air conditioning, and basic audio system.
    • EX: Added alloy wheels, power sliding doors, tri-zone climate control, and upgraded audio system.
    • EX-L: Included leather upholstery, heated front seats, power liftgate, and available navigation system.
    • Touring: Top-of-the-line, added features like parking sensors, power adjustable pedals, and a premium audio system. It also featured the Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) for fuel economy.

2008 Honda Odyssey Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2008
Make Honda
Model Odyssey
Trim -
Style Front-Wheel Drive
Type Minivan Van
Category Cargo Van
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine V-6 Cylinders engine
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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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2008 Honda Odyssey Have?

The 2008 Honda Odyssey has some frequently reported problems. Transmission issues are a significant concern, with some owners reporting slipping or rough shifting, especially at higher mileage. Power sliding door malfunctions are also common, often requiring costly repairs. Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) can cause excessive oil consumption, especially in the 2008 model year. This is because VCM deactivates cylinders to save fuel, and sometimes it can lead to oil leaking past the piston rings in the deactivated cylinders.

There have been recalls related to airbag inflators (Takata airbags), which affect numerous vehicles across different brands, including the 2008 Odyssey. Check the NHTSA website for specific recall information related to your VIN. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned transmission and VCM issues. Rust can also be a problem in regions with road salt. It's crucial to maintain the vehicle according to the manufacturer's recommendations and address any issues promptly to extend its lifespan. Some owners have reported issues with the rear air conditioning system as well, so having it inspected is also a good idea.

How long will the 2008 Honda Odyssey last?

With proper maintenance, a 2008 Honda Odyssey can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report exceeding this milestone. However, long-term durability depends heavily on consistent maintenance, especially regarding transmission fluid changes and addressing oil consumption issues related to VCM. Key weaknesses over time include potential transmission problems, power sliding door malfunctions, and rust in colder climates. Neglecting these issues can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan. Regular servicing, addressing problems promptly, and rustproofing measures can contribute to a longer and more reliable service life.
Positive Owner Reviews
FIFO
Saves money in gas in parts in everything, Reliable, long life, huge inside, Need it for my family of 6 very comfortable for six passengers, it lasts for ever
CarsNut
Excellent family vehicle very nice and comfortable. Maintenance costs are reasonable, I highly recommend this vehicle to family and friends! I would buy this minivan again if I was looking for reliable family Transportation!!
Honest Joe
Spacious, powerful, fuel-efficiency, easy maintenance, Ocean-mist color, only painted that year. looking good and drive smooth. so far no major issue, I kept it with good maintenance in dealer
Negative Owner Reviews
Helen Glen
Why can't Honda check the way the van is put together before they sell them. I wish we never bought this van. We don't expect it to be perfect but transmition problems and rattles are driving us nuts.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2008 Honda Odyssey offered a range of tech and safety features for its time. Base models (LX) included standard features like air conditioning and a basic audio system. Higher trims (EX, EX-L, Touring) added features like power sliding doors, tri-zone climate control, upgraded audio systems, and available navigation. Entertainment features included a rear entertainment system with a DVD player, available on EX-L and Touring trims. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but included features like Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and traction control.

Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain), and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The 2008 Honda Odyssey performed well in crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It generally received good ratings for frontal and side-impact crash protection. The optional navigation system featured a relatively small screen and limited functionality compared to today's standards. Overall, the 2008 Odyssey offered a good balance of safety and convenience features for its era.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Taffeta White
Silver Pearl Metallic
Dark Amber Metallic
Ocean Mist Metallic
Slate Green Metallic
Nighthawk Black Pearl
Desert Rock Metallic
Interior Colors
Stone
Gray
Tricot Fabric Stone
Tricot Fabric Gray

2008 Honda Odyssey Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2008 Honda Odyssey ranged from approximately $26,000 to $38,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to find them ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 typically. Depreciation is significant, but the Odyssey holds its value relatively well compared to some competitors due to its reputation for reliability. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, maintenance records, mileage, trim level, and geographic location. Models with lower mileage and well-documented maintenance history command higher prices.

2008 Honda Odyssey Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2008 Honda Odyssey are typically moderate, depending on your driving record and location. Fuel costs can be significant, especially with city driving. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, but potential transmission repairs and VCM-related oil consumption can increase expenses. Repair costs can be higher than average for certain components. Long-term ownership costs are moderate, but it's not the most economical vehicle due to fuel consumption and potential repairs. Budgeting for potential repairs is recommended.

2008 Honda Odyssey Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 42.02 liters
City Mileage 5.65 km/l
Highway Mileage 3.61 km/l

2008 Honda Odyssey Safety Rating

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

2008 Honda Odyssey Recalls & Defects

Service Brakes, AIR
Recall date 2010-03-16
Recall no. 10v098000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda HAS Notified Nhtsa OF A Defect IN Certain Model Year 2007 and 2008 Odyssey and Element Passenger Vehicles Manufactured Between July 28, 2006 and August 21, 2008. AIR CAN Enter THE VSA Modular Pump During AN Initial Self-Check Process That Occurs Shortly After Each Time THE Engine IS Started. IT IS Possible FOR Enough AIR TO Enter THE System TO Result IN A Brake Pedal That Feels Soft or Lower TO THE Floor.
Consequence IF THE Owner Does NOT Have ANY Brake Service or Maintenance Performed Over A Period OF Months or Years, THE System CAN Continue TO Accumulate Enough AIR TO Affect Braking Performance, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owner and Honda Dealers Will Repair THE VSA Modulator BY Removing ANY Existing AIR IN THE Brake System Then Apply Sealant and Caps TO Prevent AIR From Entering THE Brake System Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 3, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes Honda's Recall NO. R30.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> .
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate
Recall date 2012-02-16
Recall no. 12v062000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2009 Odyssey Vehicles, THE Gas-Filled Struts That Help TO Raise and Support THE Liftgate OF Vehicles Equipped With A Power Liftgate System MAY BE Prone TO Early Life Failures DUE TO A Manufacturing Flaw. THE Flaw CAN Result IN A Leak OF THE Pressurized Gas, Leading TO Reduced Strut Performance.
Consequence Struts With Diminished Performance CAN Lead TO Unexpected Closure, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace Both Power Liftgate GAS Struts Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 12, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes Honda's Recall Campaign Number IS S22.customers MAY 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.
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate:hinge and Attachments
Recall date 2012-02-16
Recall no. 12v062000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2009 Odyssey Vehicles, THE Gas-Filled Struts That Help TO Raise and Support THE Liftgate OF Vehicles Equipped With A Power Liftgate System MAY BE Prone TO Early Life Failures DUE TO A Manufacturing Flaw. THE Flaw CAN Result IN A Leak OF THE Pressurized Gas, Leading TO Reduced Strut Performance.
Consequence Struts With Diminished Performance CAN Lead TO Unexpected Closure, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace Both Power Liftgate GAS Struts Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 12, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes Honda's Recall Campaign Number IS S22.customers MAY 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.
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate:support Device/Strut
Recall date 2012-02-16
Recall no. 12v062000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2009 Odyssey Vehicles, THE Gas-Filled Struts That Help TO Raise and Support THE Liftgate OF Vehicles Equipped With A Power Liftgate System MAY BE Prone TO Early Life Failures DUE TO A Manufacturing Flaw. THE Flaw CAN Result IN A Leak OF THE Pressurized Gas, Leading TO Reduced Strut Performance.
Consequence Struts With Diminished Performance CAN Lead TO Unexpected Closure, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace Both Power Liftgate GAS Struts Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 12, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes Honda's Recall Campaign Number IS S22.customers MAY 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.
Electrical System:software
Recall date 2013-11-01
Recall no. 13v500000
Source NHTSA
Summary American Honda Motor Company (Honda) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2008 Honda Odyssey Vehicles Manufactured August 8, 2006, Through September 8, 2008. DUE TO A Combination OF System Components and Software, THE Vehicle Safety Assist System (Vsa) MAY Apply THE Brakes Unexpectedly.
Consequence THE Vehicle MAY Suddenly and Unexpectedly Brake Hard, and Without Illuminating THE Brake Lights, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash From Behind.
Remedy Parts TO Remedy These Vehicles Will NOT BE Available Until THE Spring OF 2014. Honda Will Send Owners AN Interim Letter Notifying Them OF THE Issue and Instruct Them HOW TO Prevent Unintended Braking. A Second Notification Will BE Sent When THE Parts Become Available. Interim Notification WAS Mailed IN December 2013. THE Recall Began ON April 29, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009 or Visit Their Website AT Www.recalls.honda.com. Honda's Recall Number IS Jc5.
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 2014-03-14
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.

2008 Honda Odyssey Insurance

Insurance for a 2008 Honda Odyssey is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2008 Honda Odyssey Compare to Other Minivan Van?

The 2008 Honda Odyssey competes with minivans like the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country, and Dodge Grand Caravan. In terms of reliability, the Odyssey and Sienna are generally considered more reliable than the Chrysler/Dodge options. The Sienna offers similar performance and features, with comparable pricing. The Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan often have more features for a lower price point, but their reliability is a concern. Feature-wise, the Odyssey provides a good balance, though some may find the Chrysler/Dodge options more appealing with their Stow 'n Go seating. Performance is comparable across the board.

Alternatives to consider are the Toyota Sienna for similar reliability, or if budget is a primary concern and you are willing to accept higher risk, a Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan. For those prioritizing reliability, the Sienna is a strong contender. The Odyssey distinguishes itself with its balanced approach to reliability, features, and performance, but other vans may be better depending on specific needs and priorities. The Nissan Quest is another alternative, but is often less popular due to its unconventional styling.

Ranks #28 Wagon

1 2015 Toyota Venza (5.0β˜…)
2 2009 Honda Odyssey (5.0β˜…)
3 2024 Subaru Impreza (4.0β˜…)
4 2009 Mazda CX-7 (5.0β˜…)
5 2023 Ford Transit Connect Wagon (0.0β˜…)
6 2023 Audi A6 allroad (0.0β˜…)
7 2021 Ram ProMaster City (0.0β˜…)
8 2019 Volvo V60 (5.0β˜…)
9 2015 Scion xB (0.0β˜…)
10 2010 Volkswagen Passat (5.0β˜…)
11 2008 Pontiac Vibe (0.0β˜…)
12 2006 Land Rover Range Rover (0.0β˜…)
28 2008 Honda Odyssey (5.0β˜…)

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Honda Odyssey a Good Minivan Van?

The 2008 Honda Odyssey is ideal for families needing a spacious and reliable minivan. It's worth buying used if you find a well-maintained example with reasonable mileage and a clean service history. Prioritize models with evidence of regular transmission fluid changes and attention to potential VCM-related oil consumption. Avoid models with signs of neglect or rust. Higher trims (EX-L, Touring) offer more features, but the EX provides a good balance of features and value. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended, especially to assess the transmission and VCM system. If reliability is paramount and budget allows, consider a comparable Toyota Sienna instead.

2008 Honda Odyssey Owner Reviews

4.50
Consumer Rating, Based on 90 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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DJ on November 15, 2022

Uh yeah.

This vehicle has been a great resource for a long time, lasted about 10-11 years, or longer than that. We had some issuues with the extieror body but yeah.

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FIFO on January 10, 2021

Very Reliable

Saves money in gas in parts in everything, Reliable, long life, huge inside, Need it for my family of 6 very comfortable for six passengers, it lasts for ever

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freddy on October 24, 2020

Reliable, Comfortable and Versitile

The van met the needs of my family since it was new. It is very comfortable for short and long trips, has lots of leg and cargo space, and with the comfort details of multi-zone heating/cooling and the rear DVD it made travel easy. Highly recommend for families.

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CarsNut on September 25, 2020

Very Reliable

Excellent family vehicle very nice and comfortable. Maintenance costs are reasonable, I highly recommend this vehicle to family and friends! I would buy this minivan again if I was looking for reliable family Transportation!!

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Queen on June 14, 2020

Good working van

I got a new battery, some used tires, and an oil change -the van runs fine. My used van runs quietly, and as expected. Good quality van for the price.

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BoomaKareen on March 9, 2020

One of the best minivans you can buy in 2008

My mom owns this car but she used to have a 2006 which was nice but we upgraded to the 2008 and it was quite an improvement. Very rarely we had issues with this car but overall it's a powerful minivan that can get you going. I love this car everytime we had road trips. Ive driven it and the ride is very smooth with good handling. We're probably going to keep it for another year but if we do, we'll be sad to see it go. One of the best cars my mom has ever owned

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sportsfan on February 22, 2020

Very comfortable, reliable family vehicle!

Great for road trips, transporting kids, hauling/moving furniture/appliances and much more! The seats are very comfortable with individual climate control in front and rear. Plenty of cargo space.

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PreferAMinivan on October 18, 2019

Loved owning and driving it

This was our first 5+ seater vehicle. Over the years we have driven a number of other Minivans and SUVs. Very little has even come close to this vehicles comfort, handling and room. Even others who have ridden in this vehicle with us have noticed how smooth and comfortable it is. Especially when taking trips with the family. With all the technology features, the ones I liked the best are the ability to play multiple MP3 disks, the rear entertainment system and the ability to turn off 2 of the 6 cylinders for better gas mileage.

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Wes on October 10, 2019

Great Dependable roomy car!

Love it! Comfortable, Spacious and dependable for driving people of all sizes or cargo. Never a problem to drive. Handles very nicely in any weather and required only regular maintenance with no major surprises like some vehicles.

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Honest Joe on October 3, 2019

Most reliable car I ever owned

Spacious, powerful, fuel-efficiency, easy maintenance, Ocean-mist color, only painted that year. looking good and drive smooth. so far no major issue, I kept it with good maintenance in dealer

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehiclesβ€”starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.