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2013 Honda Odyssey Review: One Of The Best & Most Dependable Minivans

Rating: 4.54
Based on 75 Owner Reviews โ–ถ
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2013 Honda Odyssey is a minivan, a segment Honda has dominated for years. This generation, spanning from 2011-2017, continued the tradition of practicality and reliability. Key trims included LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Touring Elite. New, it ranged from approximately $28,000 to $44,000. Its standout features were its spacious interior, available entertainment system, and smooth driving experience, making it a top choice for families.
The Good

The 2013 Honda Odyssey boasts strong reliability and a comfortable ride, appealing to practical buyers. Its spacious interior and available rear-seat entertainment system cater to families, adding an emotional element. The V6 engine provides adequate performance, and decent fuel efficiency for its class enhances its value proposition. It's a pragmatic choice that doesn't sacrifice comfort or features.

The Bad

Common 2013 Honda Odyssey weaknesses include potential issues with the variable cylinder management (VCM) system, which can lead to excessive oil consumption. Sliding door malfunctions are also frequently reported. Additionally, some owners have experienced issues with the air conditioning system and the rear entertainment system. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial.

2013 Honda Odyssey: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.5-liter V6
  • Horsepower: 248 hp @ 5700 rpm
  • Fuel Economy:
    • EPA Estimated: 18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (for models without cylinder deactivation)
    • EPA Estimated: 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (for models with cylinder deactivation)
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 7.9 - 8.3 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LX: 8-inch infotainment screen, rearview camera, single-zone climate control, eight-passenger seating.
    • EX: Adds power sliding doors, tri-zone automatic climate control, Honda LaneWatch blind-spot monitoring system, alloy wheels.
    • EX-L: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power tailgate, available navigation system, available rear-seat entertainment system.
    • Touring: Includes navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, parking sensors, blind spot information system.
    • Touring Elite: Upgrades to a premium audio system, HID headlights, cooled front seats, and an ultra-wide rear-seat entertainment system.
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic

2013 Honda Odyssey Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2013
Make Honda
Model Odyssey
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle Van
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City SUZUKA
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight 4346 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 7
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
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2013 Honda Odyssey Have?

The 2013 Honda Odyssey has several frequently reported problems. The most common is excessive oil consumption, often attributed to the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system. This system shuts down cylinders to improve fuel economy, but can sometimes lead to oil leaking past the piston rings. Another prevalent issue is malfunctioning sliding doors, which can be costly to repair. Air conditioning problems, particularly with the rear AC unit, are also frequently reported.

Recalls for the 2013 Odyssey include issues related to fuel pump failures, which can cause the engine to stall, and problems with the power sliding doors opening unexpectedly. Long-term reliability concerns also revolve around the VCM system's impact on engine health and the durability of the automatic transmission. Some owners have reported transmission issues at higher mileages. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and addressing any warning signs promptly, is crucial for mitigating these potential problems. It is advisable to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls before purchasing a used model.

How long will the 2013 Honda Odyssey last?

With proper maintenance, a 2013 Honda Odyssey can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, providing 10-15 years of service. However, longevity heavily depends on consistent maintenance. As mentioned earlier, the VCM system and sliding doors are long-term weaknesses. Neglecting oil changes can exacerbate VCM-related issues, leading to costly engine repairs. Similarly, failing to address minor sliding door problems can result in more significant and expensive malfunctions over time. Regular servicing of the transmission is also critical for long-term durability.
Positive Owner Reviews
STL
Amazing van. Love it, love it, love it. Reliable Honda Odyssey. Great for family vacations. The kids, dogs, family, and friends enjoy riding in the van.
MaiMai
This van met all my needs. It's very roomy and has legroom. Very helpful for my elderly parents to go in and out. By far best value for my money.
Kim B
This van is fabulous so far. I had a 2003 Odyssey for 10 yrs prior to buying this 2013 Odyssey. I love Honda Odyssey's. This one is a very smooth ride, love the electric windows in the second row, the sunroof is wonderful, there's ample ports, the screen is big and easy to view the radio and backup camera. No complaints!
Negative Owner Reviews
Uh
2008 model was much better than 2013 and what idiot eng placed a spare tire in the floor? When you have big family you need space for storage on the long trips. So Ac issues, sliding door issues, EGR issues VSC issues
Dissapointed Honda owner
Buy any other van but not this one... it's burning oil and it will leave you stranded it will give you VSA and check engine light . Poor design 3 rings on the cylinders align and it sprays oil in the upper cylinder I have changed sparkplugs just to be able to drive it for a few more days and Honda does not cover it รƒยขรขโ€šยฌร‚ยฆ.
Dave
So incredibly mad that at 60,000 miles I am experiencing trans issues with this vehicle. Not my first Odyssey so very familiar with them. The trans is bucking at times and always feels like its going to drop out. I am afraid the quality is no longer there with Honda--a disgrace.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2013 Honda Odyssey offers a range of tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard features include an 8-inch infotainment screen, rearview camera, and eight-passenger seating. Higher trims add features such as power sliding doors, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Honda LaneWatch blind-spot monitoring. Optional features include a navigation system and a rear-seat entertainment system with a widescreen display and HDMI input.

Safety features include standard ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trims offer parking sensors and a blind spot information system. The 2013 Honda Odyssey received excellent crash-test ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" designation. The entertainment system, especially on Touring and Touring Elite models, is a highlight, keeping rear passengers occupied on long trips. The Honda LaneWatch system, which displays a live video feed of the passenger-side blind spot on the infotainment screen when the right turn signal is activated, is another notable safety feature.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Alabaster Silver Metallic
Modern Steel Metallic
Smoky Topaz Metallic
Crystal Black Pearl
Dark Cherry Pearl
White Diamond Pearl
Interior Colors
Truffle Interior
Gray Interior
Beige Interior

2013 Honda Odyssey Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2013 Honda Odyssey ranged from approximately $28,000 to $44,000, depending on the trim level. As of today, used market prices typically range from $10,000 to $20,000, contingent on mileage, condition, and trim. The Odyssey depreciates at a moderate rate compared to other minivans. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and any outstanding recalls or reported issues. Models with the rear-seat entertainment system and lower mileage tend to command higher prices.

2013 Honda Odyssey Cost of Ownership

The 2013 Honda Odyssey is generally considered moderately economical to own. Insurance costs are typically average for a minivan. Fuel costs are reasonable given its V6 engine. Maintenance costs can be higher than average due to potential VCM and sliding door issues. Repairs, while potentially pricey for specific issues, are generally manageable with preventative maintenance. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on addressing known problems early. Regular maintenance is key to keeping ownership costs down.

2013 Honda Odyssey Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage 19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage -

2013 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

2013 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.
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.
Engine
Recall date 2013-08-27
Recall no. 13v382000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013 Pilot 2WD and 4WD Vehicles and Certain Model Year 2013 Odyssey Vehicles. During Manufacturing OF THE Engine Piston, IT IS Possible That THE Heat Treatment Process WAS NOT Properly Applied, Resulting IN THE Piston Having AN Insufficient Hardness Level, Making IT More Susceptible TO Premature Wear.
Consequence A Worn Piston MAY Suddenly Fail, Causing THE Engine TO Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Engine Short Block Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 16, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009. Honda's Recall Numbers ARE JB4 (Honda Odyssey) and JB5 (Honda Pilot).
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.
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.

2013 Honda Odyssey Insurance

Insurance for a 2013 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 2013 Honda Odyssey Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2013 Honda Odyssey's key rivals include the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country (now Chrysler Pacifica), and Nissan Quest. In terms of performance, the Odyssey and Sienna are fairly comparable, offering similar V6 engines and driving dynamics. The Chrysler Town & Country provides a more budget-friendly option but often lags behind in reliability. The Nissan Quest offers a stylish design but sacrifices some cargo space and practicality.

The Odyssey shines in its interior space and available features like the rear-seat entertainment system. Reliability is generally good, but the VCM issues are a concern compared to the Toyota Sienna, which is known for its exceptional reliability. Price-wise, the Odyssey is usually competitive.

Alternatives: If reliability is paramount, the Toyota Sienna is a strong contender. If budget is a primary concern, the Chrysler Town & Country might be considered, but with caution due to potential reliability issues. Ultimately, the Odyssey provides a good balance of performance, features, and reliability for most families, but a thorough inspection and maintenance history check are essential before purchasing a used model.

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Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Honda Odyssey a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2013 Honda Odyssey is an ideal minivan for families needing space, comfort, and a good balance of features. It's generally worth buying used, provided a thorough pre-purchase inspection is conducted, focusing on the VCM system, sliding doors, and maintenance history. Higher trims like the EX-L and Touring offer appealing amenities like leather seats and entertainment systems. While new models are no longer available, a well-maintained used 2013 Odyssey can provide years of reliable service. Pay close attention to potential issues and prioritize models with documented maintenance records. Avoid models with known VCM problems or neglected maintenance.

2013 Honda Odyssey Owner Reviews

4.54
Consumer Rating, Based on 75 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Wendell on August 14, 2022

Reliable? NO way!!

Chose used 2013 odyssey for reliability and safety. Major issues with VCM, extreme oil consumption, oil bypassing seals accumulating on spark plugs causing them to foul. Honda wouldn't honor recall although year and model matched. I learned to change spark plugs myself and check oil often to stretch the life. Regret not buying VCM Muzzler.

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here on June 23, 2022

2013 vs 2008

it was nice joyable but 2008 is better and it has a spear tire and was very nice i rate it 8/10 that better then nothing.

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Uh on April 26, 2021

Dissatisfied

2008 model was much better than 2013 and what idiot eng placed a spare tire in the floor? When you have big family you need space for storage on the long trips. So Ac issues, sliding door issues, EGR issues VSC issues

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STL on January 26, 2020

Honda Reliability and Affordability

Amazing van. Love it, love it, love it. Reliable Honda Odyssey. Great for family vacations. The kids, dogs, family, and friends enjoy riding in the van.

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0

Dissapointed Honda owner on January 2, 2020

Bad Engineering... buring oil through rings...

Buy any other van but not this one... it's burning oil and it will leave you stranded it will give you VSA and check engine light . Poor design 3 rings on the cylinders align and it sprays oil in the upper cylinder I have changed sparkplugs just to be able to drive it for a few more days and Honda does not cover it รƒยขรขโ€šยฌร‚ยฆ.

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1

MaiMai on December 27, 2019

Most reliable van

This van met all my needs. It's very roomy and has legroom. Very helpful for my elderly parents to go in and out. By far best value for my money.

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0

Kim B on September 16, 2019

2013 Odyssey

This van is fabulous so far. I had a 2003 Odyssey for 10 yrs prior to buying this 2013 Odyssey. I love Honda Odyssey's. This one is a very smooth ride, love the electric windows in the second row, the sunroof is wonderful, there's ample ports, the screen is big and easy to view the radio and backup camera. No complaints!

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Momof3boys on June 24, 2019

Nice ride for the family

I have owned just about every Honda model throughout the years. This is my second Odyssey. Had a Pilot most recently. Love this Odyssey Touring. Way better than the Pilot for comfort, driving and maneuverability. Space is awesome. Cup holders are abundant. Kids like the roomy third row. Nice looking, get a lot of compliments.

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LoriHondaOdyssey13 on April 3, 2019

Love this vehicle!

Seating for eight is exactly what I was looking for!! Perfect condition inside and out! Great on gas mileage and a smooth and comfortable ride!

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JoiS on February 4, 2019

Thank you.

My purchase was a good one. My family loves it. I feel better knowing my family is comfortable in my Honda van. Thank you to the sales and finance department.

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.