general problems of the 2008 Honda Odyssey - part 2

115 problems related to service brakes have been reported for the 2008 Honda Odyssey. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Honda Odyssey based on all problems reported for the 2008 Odyssey.

36 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 08/01/2012

So far, on 3 separate occasions while applying the gas pedal the brakes were engaged and nearly stopped the vehicle. On each occasion it happened during acceleration and speeds went from nearly 40 to 10-15 mph each time. No pressure was applied to the brakes in any of these incidents.

37 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 07/11/2012

While driving with foot on the gas the vehicle felt as if I was pumping the brakes but I was not touching the brakes. It was slowing. I then heard a rattling noise so I turned off the radio and opened the window to listen. I continued to drive and felt the same "brake pumping" sensation again. I was near the dealer so I headed there to report the issues. Directly in front of the dealer I felt a vibration under my foot on the gas pedal and hear a vibration sound. I arrived at the dealer to report the incident. I told the service rep. That I'd reported the same sensation 11 months ago while driving on vacation (while on the freeway). When I returned home I brought the vehicle to dealership but they found nothing. I'm afraid to drive it. If it does this while someone is driving directly behind me it will cause an accident. I honestly don't feel that is it is safe for me or others on the road to drive the vehicle. I'm afraid it will do the same thing on the freeway while I'm traveling at a high rate of speed. At this moment I feel like it is a death trap and will not drive it. I'm waiting from the dealership in the morning.

38 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 06/22/2012

While driving with my foot on the accelerator, my 2008 Honda Odyssey spontaneously braked. I quickly looked to make sure the parking brake had not engaged and that no other warning lights were on. After a moment, the brakes released. Then they braked again even harder, slamming me against the seatbelt. This happened about five or six times. I immediately slowed down to about 25 miles/hour and managed to limp the couple of miles left to get home without further incident. About eight months later, the same thing happened, almost exactly like the first time. When I took it in the dealership, both times they could not duplicate nor determine the problem.

39 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 03/30/2012

At random times, usually at about 40 mph, usually accelerating, vehicle will act like the brake is being applied.

40 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 03/22/2012

Brake without the driver pressing the pedal.

41 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 02/21/2012

After starting the vehicle and driving a short distance down the road at about 35 mph, the vehicle suddenly began slowing hard and the brake pedal went stiff as it applied it's own brakes. The event occurred over only a second or two before the brakes released and the car could accelerate again. However, moments later, the brakes applied again and promptly slowed the car down to a halt, again over a matter of a couple of seconds. During both occurrences, after immediately switching from the accelerator pedal to the brake pedal found the brake pedal impossible to press until the event passed.

42 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 08/26/2011

Brake is soft only 40,000 mile very soft brake Honda does not wanna replace parts so please help me on this issue thanks.

43 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 08/13/2011

Brakes are extremely soft and spongy, pedal sometimes has to be pressed completely to the floor to engange proper braking, nearly causing a crash on multiple occassions. Takes much longer than it should to stop the vehicle. Pumping brake pedal allows for better braking, as if there was air in the line. Recall work completed in August 2011 for a simialr issue where air could build up in system, but it did not fix issue. Two visits to Honda service center and they indicate nothing wrong with the system after multiple tests. Dealer advised that previous recall repair was completed correctly. Dealer advises that they tested against other Odyssey's and all appear to brake the same, so there is no issue. Google internet search revelaed hundreds of similar complaints on this model year and similar claims from various Honda dealers that there is nothing wrong with the braking system.

44 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 08/11/2011

On August 6, 2011 I took my 2008 Honda Odyssey (33,2281 miles) in to be looked at because there was a leak under my vehicle. It was determined that the front torque oil shaft converter/transmission was leaking. Upon repair, I got home, and was experiencing the same problem. I took my van back to Honda on August 11, 2011, only to have them determine that during the initial repair they had broke one of the seals during the install. They kept my vehicle for another 3 days, and gave me a rental car during this time. On November 4, 2011 (33,946) I took my car back in to Honda because my steering wheel had become difficult to turn, and there was oil leaking from under my van again. The steering issue and the oil were both repaired again. My vehicle was returned to me on November 7, 2011. On Friday March 3, 2012 (35,650 miles)I took my van back in to Honda because my vehicle was sling-shooting and having very rough transitions in shifting gears in low speeds 35-45 mph. On March 4, 2012 Honda informed me that my transmission was flare shifting and had complete internal transmission failure, and the entire transmission would have to be replaced. To date, I have been told that because it is over 36 months, (but still under 36,000 miles) it may not be covered under my warranty, and that they cannot provide me with a rental this time. Three transmission issues, brake issues, steering issues, etc later I am without a vehicle again. I'd say this is a lemon. Help!.

45 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 06/05/2011

Today I ran into a pole in the parking lot as I was parking. My brakes haven't worked properly in over 2 years. My 2008 Honda Odyssey was recalledin 2010 for air in the brakes vsa modulator system. I did have this replaced by Honda dealership. However with in 6 months my vans brakes are still soft. There are times when I am inches away from a vehicle before it stops. This issue has me worried for my safety. I have taking it to the Honda repair dept and was told everything was working fine. I know there is an issue. When you go to s top your vehicle shouldn't finally stop with in inches of its destination. The brakes periodically make a schreeching sound. As I have told my local Honda service dept, I am making a formal complaint about the brakes and hope I don't have to rely on this one day in court due to injury! please, just figure out what the problem is and fix my brakes!!!.

46 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 04/23/2011

The contact owns a 2008 Honda Odyssey. The contact was driving approximately 10 mph and applied the brakes when the brakes did not respond and the contact crashed into the rear of another vehicle. There were no injuries or damage to either vehicle. The dealer was contacted and advised that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA campaign id number: 10v098000 (service brakes, air). The dealer advised the contact to take the vehicle in for inspection. The vehicle was neither inspected nor repaired. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.

47 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 04/01/2011

The contact owns a 2008 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated that the brake pedal was depressed abnormally into the floorboard when the brakes were applied. In order to stop the vehicle, the contact had to apply repeated pressure to the brake pedal. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer, but they were unable to diagnose the failure. The rotors were resurfaced, but the failure continued. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 28,000.

48 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 02/08/2011

I have a Honda Odyssey 2008 model - problems are: 1. Brakes are sort of giving a feeling they are not rigid and firm. The pedal shakes when the brakes re applied to slow down the speed 2. There is a friction sound that is annoying all the time and this happens when the vehicle is stationary for long time and then moved. 3. When riding in snow conditions, the brake pedal shakes along with the vehicle hydroplaning.

49 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 07/23/2010

There is a problem with the braking system on the 2008 Honda Odyssey. It makes noises periodically and grinds sometimes. I have reported it to the dealership and corporate office. They insist nothing is wrong.

50 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 06/26/2010

I took my 2008 Honda Odyssey to the dealer after receiving the brake recall notice. The dealer made the changes to correct the problem as per the recall notice. About 1 month later while I was traveling 50 -55 mphi had to stop quickly to avoid hitting a car that had stopped in the road ahead of me. The brake pedal went to the floor and the van did not stop so I was forced to pull off the road onto a lawn and my van side swiped a mailbox . This was a terrifying experience for me and my 11 year old son who was in the passenger seat. I took the van back to the dealer on Monday( 2 days after the accident) but was told the brakes were fine and the recall had been fixed appropriately.

51 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 06/02/2010

Minivan was brought to dealer to fix an overly-soft brake pedal, per a recall letter. Car was returned with brakes equally soft (or worse), so that even a "panic brake" procedure (using 240 lb of foot strength) could not trigger the abs, brake assist, or other brake safety features. Car was returned to the (same) dealer twice more, with no improvement. Calls to Honda brought no results. Although there may be a simple fix (e. G. , bleeding the brake fluid), Honda made no attempt to diagnose and repair the problems that arose during a recall procedure.

52 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 05/08/2010

The contact owns a 2008 Honda Odyssey. While driving between 30-35 mph, the contact engaged the brake pedal and the vehicle would not respond. The contact crashed into the rear of another vehicle causing that vehicle to crash into the rear of another vehicle. There were no injuries. A police report was available. The vehicle was towed to the dealer for repairs to the brakes and body damage. The contact stated that prior to the failure, he had contacted the dealer three times in regards to NHTSA campaign id number: 10v098000 (service brakes, air). The dealer advised that the contact would need to physically receive the recall letter before they would further inspect the vehicle for failures. The contact received notification of the recall following the crash and repairs. The failure mileage was approximately 38,436.

53 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 04/30/2010

Car crashed on 4/30/2010 due to brake malfunction in Honda Odyssey 2008 I was driving the car slowly approaching a bank atm at 5-10 mi/hours. I was applying pressure on the brake with my foot. When I attempted to stop the car by pressing more on the brake, the car did not stop but continue forward. The car crashed into a iron stopper on the right front end. This is third instance of similar fashion with this car since we bough it in 2008.

54 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 04/22/2010

The contact owns a 2008 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated while driving at approximate speeds of 15 mph, she applied the brakes and there was a delay in brake engagement. The vehicle proceeded to crash into the rear of another vehicle. Upon impact, the steering columns exhibited smoking. The police were called to the scene and a police report was filed accordingly. There was one unknown injury reported. The contacts insurance company was proceeding with an investigation of the failure. The vehicle had not yet been repaired. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure and current mileages were unknown.

55 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 04/18/2010

I have a Honda Odyssey 2008 and a major brake problem; the brakes have become so soft it would not stop immediately and only if the pedal is pushed all the way to floor, which make it difficult to stop in case of emergency. I took the car to dealership numerous times and reported the issue but they have not fixed the problem yet. I have three toddlers age 2 and 1and I drives the car on daily basis. This is most hazardous situation I am facing and Honda's negligence can cause us severe consequences.

56 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 04/02/2010

I have a 2008 Honda Odyssey and have experienced an extremely soft brake pedal. On a number of occassions as my right foot put normal pressure on the brake pedal, the pedal went almost down to the floor of the vehicle, causing my toe to put pressure on the accelerator pedal and the vehicle lurched forward. This has happened numerous times. I did receive a recall notice from Honda in may 2010 pertaining to the soft brake pedal problem. I have now had my pedal adjusted three times by Honda service and it does not improve the problem. Each time the Honda service personnel have explained the the "2007 and 2008 Odyssey models have an inherent "soft brake" problem. I fear an emergency braking of the Odyssey can result in a serious highway collision and or serious injury or death. My opinion is that Honda is not concerned with the danger this problem is to my family or others who might suffer injuries or death due to the braking problem.

57 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 03/16/2010

Brake pedal goes to floor (spongy). Concerned that it is getting worse, have parked vehicle and driving another till recall is completed. Sick auto mall (Honda dealer) in hopkinsville, ky was not knowledge about problem so I did not feel comfortable about taking it to them for a check. They also did not seem concerned about my problem. When recall is received I will take it to another dealer for work.

58 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 03/12/2010

Soft brake, pedal goes to the floor.

59 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 03/10/2010

3/10/10 - vehicle crash while driving on i80 near chicago, IL. Brakes, when applied hard, did not stop in time to avoid hitting a car in front. In heavy traffic at 7:45 am on i80/i94 wb, cars were slowing down to maintain adequate space between cars. There was at least one car length between my car (car 1) and the immediate car in front of me. The front car (car 2) was traveling at 45 mph in construction zone, and slowing. Car 2 stopped abruptly, brakes were applied on car 1, but did not stop in time to avoid the rear-end crash. Brakes were applied with both feet applying energy. I could feel that the brakes bottomed out near firewall, but vehicle didn't stop.

60 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 03/06/2010

Honda Odyssey brake problem my Honda having low brake and I took the vehicle to the dealer and they didn't do anything and took $29. 99 for inspection. I brought this issue to american Honda and they also do nothing. So I request to NHTSA please take necessary action against american Honda because of their negligence.

61 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 02/18/2010

In February I purchased a 2008 Honda Odyssey with 25k miles, brakes pedal seems inconsistent, spongy with excessive pedal travel before brakes respond. Feels like air in lines which requires the driver to pre-think braking and leave additional space between them and the vehicle in front of them. Abrupt stops are difficult and delayed due to the inconsistency. Returned van to dealer immediately and was told it there is nothing wrong with the vehicle, "this is how the Odyssey brakes feel".

62 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 01/27/2010

My Honda Odyssey 2008 having shaky problem on the brake system after 15000 miles. The problem persists and getting worse. I've taken the car to Honda dealer and they say the car warranty only cover 12000 miles for the brake and was not as part of the 36,000 miles manufacture guarantee.

63 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 01/10/2010

We have taken our 2008 Honda Odyssey to the dealer several times for brakes that are so soft and shake so badly under braking that I consider them dangerous--have had several near-misses because brakes are so weak. We have been told every time that they are "functioning exactly as they were designed to function.

64 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 01/07/2010

Driver in front me stopped and I was unable to slow down due to the unresponsiveness of my 2008 Honda Odyssey. I ended up rear ending the vehicle in front of me. We've been complaining of soft brakes and the inability to stop for awhile to the dealer. They've said it's normal. On a trip up to reno recently, it was very apparent that the vehicle had problems stopping. The brakes would cause the steering wheel to shake. We've had many vehicles and have not had this issue.

65 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 11/24/2009

Model: 2008 Honda Odyssey ex-l (with nav & rear ent. System) issue: brakes are very tentative and "mushy". Atypical pedal travel before braking action activated, and then requiring much more pressure to activate braking than what would be considered normal. We recently purchased this vehicle used from Honda carland, alpharetta, GA. Vehicle had undergone the Honda "certified" used car inspection prior to sale. We are very concerned with the brakes in this vehicle and have become aware that a substantial number of other complaints regarding the brakes have been made. We encourage an investigation and recall so that this potentially dangerous situation can be fixed. We will return the vehicle to the dealership for inspection and potential repair.

66 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 11/10/2009

The contact owns a 2008 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated while accelerating from a traffic stop at 15 mph, the vehicle ahead of him abruptly applied the brakes causing the contact to crash into the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated he applied the brakes but they did not engage. There were no injuries. The dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. There were no repairs. On a separate occasion while driving at 35 mph, a preceding vehicle stopped and the contact attempted to brake but to no avail. The brakes did not engage and the contact crashed into the vehicle. There were no injuries and the vehicle was drivable. Soon after, the contact received notification of NHTSA campaign id number: 10v098000 (service brakes, air). The VIN was not available. The failure and current mileages was unknown.

67 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 10/26/2009

Very poor braking action and low and spongy brake pedal on 2008 Honda Odyssey le. Vehicle purchased on 9/12/08. Due to low spongy pedal the abs modulator was replace on 3/10/08 at 3416 miles. On 6/3/09 at 5279 I complained about the brakes again for same reasons and was advised that was "normal for an Odyssey" and "pedal feels normal at this time". On 10/26/09 while descending a hill traffic came to sudden stop. Odyssey pedal went down to the floor without activating abs or skidding the tires. Car stopped but nearly hit car in front. Car is going in to dealer tomorrow for further work.

68 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 10/15/2009

2008 Honda Odyssey - brake pedal is traveling too far periodically. You attempt to stop and the pedal does not actuate the brakes unless you slam on them. Specifically a problem on a hill. Seeking service this week for a solution.

69 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 10/14/2009

2008 Honda Odyssey ln van; brakes faded drastically, without warning, van stopped just before impact. Speed approx. 50mph, slightly downhill grade. Afterwards, brakes made a scrubbing noise. This went away after driving very cautiously home. This has occurred three times in 18 months. Dealer claims no knowledge which is a lie, it is all over the internet, same issue, and someone will die soon. I am a very cautious drive, most are not. It appears that the transmission which "helps' during the breaking process and while in "eco" does not react quickly enough causing the vehicle to rely strictly on the breaking system. This does not work at moderate to highway speeds. Down hill is worse. It also occurred once with a 2007 model of the same make and model. *note; I have over one million miles logged using a variety of vehicles over 31 years. This is not driver error or "missing" a brake pedal.

70 Service Brakes problem

Failure Date: 09/18/2009

I am writing this complaint after reading about the Honda Odyssey recall about brake malfunction on 2007 and 2008 models. I read there were three reports or crashed due to this failure. I think a lot of people had this problem and did not reported it. I purchased a 2008 Odyssey, with brake problems. I went back to the dealer with complaints time after time, and everytime I was told they checked it and it was normal. Finally, I was in a fender bender because the brakes do not respond as expected. I never bother to report any of this, but I am sure there are a lot of people in the same situation.



Safety Ratings of Odyssey Cars
Fuel Economy of Odyssey Vehicles
Odyssey Service Bulletins
Odyssey Safety Recalls
Odyssey Defect Investigations