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2021 Honda Odyssey Review: Reliable Minivan With Low Ownership Costs As It Ages

Rating: 4.90
Based on 21 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The Honda Odyssey has been a minivan staple for decades, known for its family-friendly features and reliability. The 2021 Odyssey continues this tradition as a spacious minivan. Key trims include LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. Pricing typically ranges from the low $30,000s to the high $40,000s when new. It's popular for its comfortable ride, versatile Magic Slide second-row seats, and Honda's reputation for dependability.
The Good

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offers a blend of practicality and comfort. Its V6 engine provides adequate power, while its reputation for reliability offers peace of mind. The spacious interior and comfortable ride appeal to families, while the Odyssey's strong resale value makes it a smart financial decision. The magic slide seats add convenience.

The Bad

Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including lag and occasional glitches. The Odyssey's styling, while functional, isn't particularly exciting. Some may find the nine-speed automatic transmission (in earlier models) less refined than competitors. The rear entertainment system can sometimes be glitchy.

2021 Honda Odyssey: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.5-liter V6
  • Horsepower: 280 hp
  • Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
  • 0-60 mph Time: Around 6.5 - 7 seconds (estimated)
  • Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs

Trim-Level Features:
  • LX: 160-Watt Audio System with 7 Speakers, 8-Inch Display Audio Touch-Screen, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Honda Sensing suite.
  • EX: Adds Magic Slide 2nd-Row Seats, Blind Spot Information System (BSI), tri-zone automatic climate control, power sliding doors.
  • EX-L: Leather-trimmed seats, power tailgate, one-touch power moonroof, integrated sunshades.
  • Touring: Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, Advanced Rear Entertainment System, CabinWatch and CabinTalk features, parking sensors.
  • Elite: Premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, wireless phone charger, auto-dimming side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers.
The Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistance features is standard on all trims, providing adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. The Odyssey prioritizes practicality and family-friendliness with features like the Magic Slide seats and available rear entertainment system, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for families.

2021 Honda Odyssey Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2021
Make Honda
Model Odyssey
Trim -
Style Front-Wheel Drive
Type Minivan Van
Category Minivan 2WD
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City LINCOLN
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 2032.09 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 3175.14 kg
Overall Height 176.78 cm
Overall Length 521.21 cm
Overall Width 199.39 cm
Wheelbase Length 299.97 cm
Standard Seating 8
Engine & Performance
Engine 280 High Power 3.5-L V-6
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 10-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $35,190 USD
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2021 Honda Odyssey Have?

While generally reliable, the 2021 Honda Odyssey has experienced some frequently reported problems. Infotainment system glitches, including lag and freezing, are a common complaint. Some owners have also reported issues with the automatic sliding doors, such as them not opening or closing properly. There have been scattered reports about the nine-speed automatic transmission (particularly in earlier 2018-2020 models) exhibiting rough shifting or hesitation, though these issues seem to be less prevalent in the 2021 model year.

Recalls for the 2021 Odyssey have generally been related to manufacturing defects, such as improperly installed fuel pumps or potential issues with the seatbelt assemblies. It's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the most up-to-date recall information and ensure any necessary repairs have been completed.

Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the electronic components, such as the infotainment system and door actuators. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is vital to minimize potential problems. Before purchasing a used 2021 Odyssey, it's advisable to have a mechanic inspect it thoroughly, paying particular attention to the transmission, sliding doors, and entertainment system.

How long will the 2021 Honda Odyssey last?

With consistent maintenance, a 2021 Honda Odyssey can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, providing 10-15 years of service. Honda's reputation for reliability contributes to its longevity. However, long-term durability hinges on adherence to the maintenance schedule. Potential weaknesses over time include wear and tear on suspension components, potential issues with the automatic transmission if not properly maintained, and the aforementioned electronic glitches. Regular fluid changes (transmission, oil, coolant) are crucial for maximizing lifespan.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2021 Honda Odyssey comes with a solid array of tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard features include an 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and the Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies. Honda Sensing includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and road departure mitigation.

Higher trims offer additional features such as a rear entertainment system with a 10.2-inch display, CabinWatch (allows the driver to view rear passengers), CabinTalk (allows the driver to speak to rear passengers through the speakers), and a built-in vacuum cleaner (HondaVac). Optional features include a wireless phone charger and a premium audio system.

Safety is a priority, and the 2021 Odyssey generally receives excellent crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA. Features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors enhance safety and driver awareness. The Odyssey's comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies contributes to its appeal as a family-friendly vehicle.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Platinum White Pearl
Lunar Silver Metallic
Modern Steel Metallic
Obsidian Blue Pearl
Pacific Pewter Metallic
Deep Scarlet Pearl
Crystal Black Pearl
Interior Colors
Gray Leather
Beige Leather
Black Fabric
Gray Fabric
Beige Fabric
Mocha Leather

2021 Honda Odyssey Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2021 Honda Odyssey ranged from the low $30,000s to the high $40,000s, depending on the trim level. Current used market prices typically range from the mid $20,000s to the low $40,000s, depending on mileage, condition, and trim. The Odyssey holds its value relatively well due to Honda's reputation for reliability and the vehicle's popularity among families. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, trim level, and the presence of optional features like the rear entertainment system.

2021 Honda Odyssey Cost of Ownership

The 2021 Honda Odyssey is generally considered moderately economical to own. Insurance costs are typically average for a minivan. Fuel costs are reasonable, given its fuel economy. Maintenance costs are generally predictable, with Honda parts being readily available. While major repairs can be expensive, Honda's reliability helps minimize their frequency. Long-term ownership costs are reasonable compared to other minivans, especially with consistent maintenance.

2021 Honda Odyssey Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 73.82 liters
City Mileage 8.08 km/l
Highway Mileage 11.9 km/l

2021 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

2021 Honda Odyssey Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
Recall date 2021-01-14
Recall no. 21v010000
Source NHTSA
Summary Braun Corporation (Braun) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2021 Braun-Modified Honda Odyssey Vehicles. THE Fuel Tank Assembly Installed BY Braun MAY BE Susceptible TO THE Fuel Tank Overfilling Into THE Charcoal Canister. IF THE Charcoal Canister Fills With A Sufficient Amount OF Fuel, Fuel MAY Leak Out.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Increase THE Risk OF Fire.
Remedy Braun Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect Vehicles. IF Evidence OF A Fuel Leak IS Present, A NEW Fuel Tank Assembly and A NEW Honda Charcoal Canister Will BE Installed, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 22, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Braun Customer Service AT 1-800-488-0359.
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.
Visibility:rearview Mirrors/Devices:exterior
Recall date 2023-03-16
Recall no. 23v174000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor CO) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2021 Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2020-2022 Passport and Odyssey Vehicles. THE Heating Pads Behind Both Side-view Mirrors MAY NOT BE Bonded Properly, Allowing THE Mirror Glass TO Detach. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 111, "rear Visibility."
Consequence Detached Mirror Glass CAN Reduce Driver Visibility, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace Both Left and Right Side-View Mirrors, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed January 17, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS Fe5.
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.
Back Over Prevention:display Function
Recall date 2023-06-15
Recall no. 23v431000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2023 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Pilot, and 2019-2023 Passport Vehicles. DUE TO A Faulty Media Oriented Systems Transport (Most) Communication Coaxial Cable Connector, THE Rearview Camera Image MAY NOT Appear ON THE Display. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 111, "rear Visibility."
Consequence A Rearview Camera That Does NOT Display AN Image CAN Reduce THE Driver's Rear View, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash or Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Most Cable Harness and Install A Straightening Cover Over THE Vehicle Cable Connector, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed July 24, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Eel, Zem, and Sfc.
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.
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.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
Recall date 2024-02-01
Recall no. 24v064000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic Sedan, Hr-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic Coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic Hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 Cr-v, Cr-v Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura Mdx, 2022 Acura Mdx, 2020-2022 Acura Rdx, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX Vehicles. THE Front Passenger Seat Weight Sensor MAY Crack and Short Circuit, Failing TO Suppress THE AIR BAG AS Intended.
Consequence AN AIR BAG That Deploys Unintentionally During A Crash CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Seat Weight Sensors, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This IS A Phased Recall. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR These Recalls ARE XHP and Vhq.
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.

2021 Honda Odyssey Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining 12 months / unlimited miles
Drivetrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining 12 months / 60,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2021 Honda Odyssey Insurance

Insurance for a 2021 Honda Odyssey is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2021 Honda Odyssey Compare to Other Minivan Van?

The 2021 Honda Odyssey competes with the Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, and Kia Carnival. Performance is comparable to the Pacifica, but the Sienna's hybrid powertrain offers better fuel economy. The Odyssey's Magic Slide seats are a unique feature, while the Pacifica offers a plug-in hybrid option. The Sienna boasts standard all-wheel drive.

Reliability is a strong point for the Odyssey and Sienna, while the Pacifica has historically had some reliability concerns. The Carnival offers a compelling value proposition with its stylish design and feature-rich trims. Price-wise, the Odyssey is generally competitive.

Alternatives to consider include:
  • **Toyota Sienna:** For superior fuel economy and available all-wheel drive.
  • **Chrysler Pacifica:** For a more luxurious interior and available plug-in hybrid powertrain.
  • **Kia Carnival:** For a stylish design and strong value proposition.
If reliability and innovative features like the Magic Slide seats are priorities, the Odyssey remains a strong contender. However, the Sienna's hybrid powertrain and the Pacifica's luxury features are worth considering.

Ranks #26 Van

1 2023 Toyota Sienna (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Odyssey (5.0★)
3 2001 Mazda MPV (4.0★)
4 2024 Ford E-Series Cutaway (0.0★)
5 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van (0.0★)
6 2023 Chevrolet Express Passenger (0.0★)
7 2021 Nissan NV200 (3.0★)
8 2023 GMC Savana (0.0★)
9 2023 Ram ProMaster (0.0★)
10 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn (0.0★)
11 2013 Volkswagen Routan (4.0★)
12 2007 Buick Terraza (0.0★)
26 2021 Honda Odyssey (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Honda Odyssey a Good Minivan Van?

The 2021 Honda Odyssey is ideal for families seeking a reliable, spacious, and feature-rich minivan. It's worth buying, especially if you prioritize Honda's reputation for dependability and the convenience of the Magic Slide seats. A used 2021 Odyssey offers good value, provided it has been well-maintained and has a clean vehicle history. The EX and EX-L trims offer a good balance of features and value, while the Touring and Elite trims provide more luxury and advanced technology. Consider a thorough inspection before purchasing a used model to ensure it meets your needs and expectations.

2021 Honda Odyssey Owner Reviews

4.90
Consumer Rating, Based on 21 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Ashley on July 20, 2024

Bought the 2021 EX-L model end of 2023 with 21,000 miles.

Bought the 2021 EX-L model end of 2023 with 21,000 miles. I test drive the Sienna and was very disappointed in every aspect which led me to the Oddessy which I had not previously considered. One test drive and I was sold. The amount of space for my three kids to sit comfortably, the ample trunk space, the magic slide seats, automatic sliding doors & heated seats with a sunroof are among my favorite things about this minivan. It's fun to drive and has plenty of power with its 280hp. As long as you have proper snow tires in snowy conditions, this FWD minivan will do just fine. I had no issues in squalls and other winter conditions. I took my snow tires off prematurely and got caught in a winter storm and hit a guard rail and my whole family was safe and sound with no injuries. It has since been repaired back to its original condition. Keep your winter tires on til late Spring to be safe. I will absolutely drive this thing til the wheels fall off and then I'll buy another. Thank you Honda for keeping the Oddessy in your lineup! I hope it never goes away.

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Jose on May 26, 2021

Reliable and confortable VAN.

Nice car but the external and internal design don't change for years. It makes a boring car since there not motivation or attractiveness to upgrade the car after some years. A lack of innovation.

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GC on May 20, 2021

99% pleased!

The only thing that I would say I do not love are some of the mitigation features that at times take away the control of the drive. We had one experience where it was a potential hazard. Apart from that we love the vehicle and the dealership that sold it to us.

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Odyssey Lover on April 23, 2021

I LOVE my Odyssey!

This is my fourth Odyssey. I drive them for 8 years, sell them for 40% of what I paid (usually have people already asking to buy), and buy the new one. I have used my Odyssey as my truck (landlord) people mover (educator) and transportation - for ME when I go to warmer climes in the winter.

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Juan on April 16, 2021

A car i wanted to buy for my family.

This car has plenty of room for the whole family. The children love the new car. They all have their own seating area space compared to our smaller car.

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Tj on March 30, 2021

Wife happy

Great family car. All happy to enjoy. Many safety features make this vehicle one of my most happy purchases to date. I do recommend this car.

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Stephen B on March 28, 2021

Most electronically advanced car I've owned

Brand new. Only have 200 miles on it now. Drives well and it's quiet, has good acceleration, more features than I've ever seen. Lane Keeping Assist, Collision Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise control, Road Departure, Traffic Sign Recognition System, Blind Spot Warning and too many more to list. Although it's not to be used in such a way, it will steer itself down the road while warning you that steering is required. Pretty amazing.

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Samuel on March 25, 2021

Excellent family vehicle lots of room very comfort

With 10 speed transmission it is the most comfortable and performance orientated Honda van we have driven it compares to the performance of a Accord with the comfort of a van

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Meemo on February 24, 2021

Love it!!!

My van meets all of my expectations as well as exceeds it's very nice to know that I am going to be working with a dealership who cares

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activemom on February 2, 2021

Best van I have ever owed, this is my second van

The Odyssey has very thing you need in a vehicle, space, comfort, gas saving, and stability. I had in the past 2007 Honda Odyssey we had it for 15 years and we but it again.

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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.