The 2012 Honda Odyssey is a popular minivan that was known for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and reliable performance. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to problems.
Some common issues that have been reported by owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey include transmission problems, steering issues, and problems with the air conditioning system.
It is important to note that not all 2012 Honda Odysseys will experience these issues, and that the frequency and severity of problems can vary widely.
If you are considering purchasing a 2012 Honda Odyssey or already own one, it is a good idea to be aware of these potential problems so that you can take appropriate precautions and seek timely repairs if necessary.
2012 Honda Odyssey Problems
1. Electric sliding door issues
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported problems with the electric sliding doors on their vehicles. These issues can include the doors opening or closing unexpectedly,
the doors not opening or closing at all, or the doors being slow to respond. These problems can be inconvenient and potentially dangerous if the doors are not functioning properly.
2. Warped front brake rotors
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing vibration when braking, which may be caused by warped front brake rotors.
This issue can affect the vehicle’s braking performance and may make it difficult to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a collision.
3. Check engine and D4 lights flashing
The check engine light is a warning indicator that is displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle when there is a problem with the engine or other systems.
The D4 light, also known as the transmission indicator light, indicates a problem with the transmission system.
If either of these lights is flashing on a 2012 Honda Odyssey, it may indicate a problem with the vehicle that needs to be addressed.
It is important to have the vehicle checked by a mechanic as soon as possible if either of these lights is flashing to determine the cause and address any issues that may be present.
4. Vibration caused by failed rear engine mount
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing vibration issues that may be caused by a failed rear engine mount.
The engine mount is a component that connects the engine to the frame of the vehicle and helps to absorb vibration and noise from the engine. If the rear engine mount fails,
it can cause excessive vibration in the vehicle, which can be uncomfortable for passengers and may affect the vehicle’s handling.
5. Check engine light for running rough and difficulty starting
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing issues with the vehicle running rough or having difficulty starting. This can be indicated by the check engine light being displayed on the dashboard.
There can be many potential causes for these issues, including problems with the ignition system, fuel system, or engine.
It is important to have the vehicle checked by a mechanic if the check engine light is on and the vehicle is experiencing running or starting issues to determine the cause and address any underlying issues.
6. Check engine light on, catalytic converter issues
The catalytic converter is an important emission control device that helps to reduce the amount of harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere. Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing issues with the catalytic converter,
which may be indicated by the check engine light being displayed on the dashboard.
These issues can include the catalytic converter failing or becoming clogged, which can affect the vehicle’s performance and fuel efficiency.
It is important to have the vehicle checked by a mechanic if the check engine light is on and there are suspected catalytic converter issues to determine the cause and address any underlying problems.
7. Manual sliding door issues
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing issues with the manual sliding doors on their vehicles. These issues can include the doors being difficult to open or close, the doors not latching properly, or the doors coming off the track.
These problems can be inconvenient and potentially dangerous if the doors are not functioning properly.
8. Third row seat won’t unlatch due to loose latch cables
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing issues with the third row seat not unlatching due to loose latch cables. This can make it difficult to access the third row of seating and may prevent the seat from being used.
It is important to have the latch cables checked and tightened if necessary to ensure that the seat can be properly secured and used safely.
9. Knocking noise from front end, stabilizer link issues
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing a knocking noise coming from the front end of the vehicle, which may be caused by issues with the stabilizer links.
The stabilizer links are components that connect the suspension system to the frame of the vehicle and help to reduce sway and improve handling.
If the stabilizer links are damaged or worn, it can cause a knocking noise and may affect the vehicle’s handling.
10. Engine idle speed is erratic or engine stalls
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing issues with the engine idle speed being erratic or the engine stalling. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including problems with the ignition system, fuel system, or engine.
It is important to have the vehicle checked by a mechanic if the engine idle speed is erratic or the engine is stalling to determine the cause and address any underlying issues.
11. Water leak due to plugged AC drain
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing water leaks in their vehicle that may be caused by a plugged AC drain. The AC drain is a small tube located under the dashboard that helps to drain excess moisture from the air conditioning system.
If the drain becomes clogged, it can cause water to accumulate and potentially leak out of the vehicle. It is important to have the AC drain checked and cleared if necessary to prevent water leaks and potential damage to the interior of the vehicle.
12. Feeding coins into CD slot can cause blown fuses
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing blown fuses after feeding coins into the CD slot of the vehicle’s audio system. This can be caused by the coins becoming stuck in the CD slot and causing a short circuit, which can blow the fuses.
It is important to avoid inserting coins or other foreign objects into the CD slot to prevent this issue from occurring.
13. Check engine light and engine takes too long to start
Some owners of the 2012 Honda Odyssey have reported experiencing issues with the check engine light being displayed on the dashboard and the engine taking too long to start. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including problems with the ignition system, fuel system, or engine.
It is important to have the vehicle checked by a mechanic if the check engine light is on and the engine is taking too long to start to determine the cause and address any underlying issues.
Possible Solution
| Problem | Possible Solution |
| Electric sliding door issues | Have the electric sliding door system checked and repaired by a mechanic |
| Warped front brake rotors | Replace the front brake rotors |
| Check engine and D4 lights flashing | Have the vehicle checked by a mechanic to determine the cause and address any underlying issues |
| Vibration caused by failed rear engine mount | Replace the rear engine mount |
| Check engine light for running rough and difficulty starting | Have the vehicle checked by a mechanic to determine the cause and address any underlying issues |
| Check engine light on, catalytic converter issues | Have the catalytic converter checked and replaced if necessary |
| Manual sliding door issues | Have the manual sliding door system checked and repaired by a mechanic |
| Third row seat won’t unlatch due to loose latch cables | Have the latch cables tightened by a mechanic |
| Knocking noise from front end, stabilizer link issues | Replace the stabilizer links |
| Engine idle speed is erratic or engine stalls | Have the vehicle checked by a mechanic to determine the cause and address any underlying issues |
| Water leak due to plugged AC drain | Have the AC drain cleared by a mechanic |
| Feeding coins into CD slot can cause blown fuses | Replace the blown fuses |
| Check engine light and engine takes too long to start | Have the vehicle checked by a mechanic to determine the cause and address any underlying issues |
2012 Honda Odyssey Recalls
| Recall Number | Issue | Date | Number of Models Affected |
| 17V725000 | Second Row Outboard Seats Tip Forward Unexpectedly When Braking | Nov 21, 2017 | 1 |
| 16V933000 | Second Row Outboard Seats Release Lever Remains Unlocked | Dec 27, 2016 | 1 |
| 13V016000 | The Airbag System May Not Perform as Designed | Jan 18, 2013 | 2 |
| 13V143000 | Shifter May Move Without Depressing Brake Pedal | Apr 16, 2013 | 3 |
| 11V602000 | Possible Loose Nut in Right Front Suspension | Dec 28, 2011 | 1 |
Recall 17V725000:
This recall was issued due to a problem with the second row outboard seats, which may tip forward unexpectedly when braking. If the seat tips forward during braking, it can increase the risk of injury to the seat occupant.
Recall 16V933000:
This recall was issued due to a problem with the second row outboard seats, which may remain unlocked even when the release lever is engaged. An unlocked second row outboard seat increases the risk of injury to the seat occupant during a crash.
Recall 13V016000:
This recall was issued due to a problem with the airbag system, which may not perform as designed. The absence of more than one rivet could alter the performance of the driver’s airbag during deployment, potentially increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Recall 13V143000:
This recall was issued due to a problem with the shifter, which may move without the brake pedal being depressed. 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.
Recall 11V602000:
This recall was issued due to a possible loose nut in the right front suspension. If the nut loosens, the front hub assembly would only be attached by one bolt, allowing the wheel assembly to shift to an extreme inward angle and resulting in a loss of steering. This could increase the risk of a crash.
Problems and Complaints Sources
https://repairpal.com/2012-honda-odyssey/problems
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Odyssey/2012/engine/
All Honda Odyssey years we talked –
