1979–2026 model years
HIGHEST COMPLAINT YEAR
2018
5,844 complaints
Total Complaints
47,250
Models Covered
133
Years Covered
1979–2026
High‑Risk Categories
Electrical System
Engine
Air Bags
A period marked by a surge in powertrain-related issues, particularly automatic transmission failures in popular models like the Accord, Odyssey, and Pilot. This era saw complaints peak at 4,150 in 2003, with widespread transmission problems that required costly repairs and significantly impacted Honda's reputation for reliability.
Complaint volumes peaked at 5,161 in 2007, shifting towards issues with newer electronic systems like steering, brakes, and door locks. Models like the Civic, CR-V, and Odyssey experienced problems with air bags, electrical systems, and service brakes as Honda integrated more complex electronic components into their vehicles.
A new peak in complaints reaching 5,844 in 2018, driven by electrical system glitches (infotainment, push-button start) and problems with newer engine technologies like direct injection and idle-stop. Models like the Pilot, CR-V, and Civic experienced widespread issues with their electrical systems and engine problems including oil dilution.
Honda's most complained-about model with 10,582 complaints, peaking in 2017-2018. Primary issues centered on ENGINE problems (oil dilution), FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Numerous TSBs like A18-114 and A18-147 were issued to address engine misfires and catalyst system efficiency. However, the high volume of complaints suggests that fixes may not have been sufficient or were slow to roll out.
With 10,398 complaints, the Accord has a long history of issues, peaking with the 2003 model year's POWER TRAIN failures and again with the 2018 model's ENGINE and SERVICE BRAKES issues. The 2018 Accord saw numerous complaints about its braking system and fuel pump, addressed by TSBs like A19-044. A recurring theme is high AIR BAG complaints, often related to Takata recalls.
The Odyssey's 9,176 complaints are heavily marred by POWER TRAIN issues, especially from 1999 to 2004, known for automatic transmission failures. Later model years, particularly 2018-2019, saw a shift to ELECTRICAL SYSTEM problems with over 300 complaints related to infotainment, phantom warnings, and camera systems. The breadth of complaints suggests systemic electronic integration problems in newer generations.