Four problems related to hatchback/liftgate have been reported for the 2009 Honda Odyssey. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2009 Honda Odyssey based on all problems reported for the 2009 Odyssey.
The struts supporting the rear hatch door are no longer supporting the door and it fell on my head when putting in my golf clubs. I believe it is the same strut problem they had in the recall for similar models, other VIN numbers. I talked to my dealer and Honda corporation but it is a different VIN and not covered by the recall. I think it is the struts on all of the 2009 Honda Odyssey's and not just a select few as in the recall.
The contact owns a 2009 Honda Odyssey. While driving 60 mph, the contact noticed that the front end of the vehicle began to vibrate slightly. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where the two front tires were balanced, but the failure continued. In addition, the contact stated that moments after opening the rear hatch, he was struck in the back when the hatch fell downward. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the rear gas struts were replaced. The current and failure mileages were 38,000.
2009 Honda Odyssey. Rear hatch door in back will slam shut without any warning or being closed. No wind or external force caused it to slam shut very fast. Thank goodness there was no one under the hatch door when it happened. Also, rear hatch door sometimes will not stay up without being propped up to avoid from closing.
Power lift gate failure - without warning the power lift gate failed to operate and the struts do not keep it open. The lift gate falls with such force that it caused a serious injury (needed 8 stitches). Dealer is investigating the cause and a solution.