Two problems related to transmission not engage have been reported for the 1999 Honda Odyssey. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Going uphill on a curve at about 35 mph at 9:45pm with a slight drizzle. The tcs and engine lights came on and gears disengaged. Gear was at d4. No power to drive the minivan uphill and van started to roll backwards and downwards. When accelerator was pressed, the rpm went up to 6000-7000 rpm but the gears remain disengaged. Suspect transmission defect. Set emergency lights on and roll over to the curb. Parked and hitch a ride home. Filed a complaint with NHTSA and reported it to american Honda on 8/4/2014 as this is a very dangerous event.
Had transmission problem on my 99 Honda Odyssey. Replaced it at 60000 miles at aamco transmission. Honda denied my claim because I did not bring it to the dealer. Now at 90000 miles, the engine light came on again and the shifting feels rough. This is a design problem that Honda tries to ignore. This transmission problem can cause an accident if the second gear does not engage while we are on the freeway.