Body Problems of Honda Odyssey - part 1

I own a 2020 Honda Odyssey and I am currently having a safety issue with the power tailgate. Upon inspection by my Honda dealership, my vehicle requires a new power tailgate control unit and floor harness and my roof rail and clips need to be re-sealed and replaced. It was discovered that due to the break in seal the connectors corroded due to a water leak. In April of 2026 I received multiple warning messages on my dashboard. The first was power tailgate problem and the second was keyless remote problem. At first I noticed my car continuously beeping while driving along with the warning on my dashboard. I attempted to turn the vehicle off to see if it would reset, but it did not. I attempted to open and close my tailgate. I could only open my tailgate with the push button on my dashboard. I had to manually close my tailgate due to my buttons on my car and my key fab failing to work. Next while driving, I could hear the locking mechanism on my tailgate continuously locking and unlocking. Of course this particularly concerned me because I have 3 young children and their safety as well as mine was in danger. It was unclear if my tailgate was going to open while driving. Such an action could potentially cause a serious threat or harm to myself, my family or other vehicles on the road.

See all problems of the 2020 Honda Odyssey 🔎.

Rear sliding doors will not shut automatic or otherwise!!!!! having to pull the door shut to get it to shut could result in someone arms or fingers being crushed! the cord could snap and hurt someone! kids riding in backseat could fall out of car while the door won’t shut! the door could open while driving down the road! these doors have costs us hundreds in trying to fix them and they just keep breaking!.

See all problems of the 2014 Honda Odyssey 🔎.

Rear tailgate window spontaneously shattered.

Power tailgate problems caused by water leaking through body seams. A visible gap in the rear hatch allows water to flow into the vehicle and shorts out control module. This has ruined my control module, caused mold and I noticed a burning smell.

See all problems of the 2021 Honda Odyssey 🔎.

I am submitting a formal safety complaint regarding a failure of the power tailgate system on my 2023 Honda Odyssey. The issue involves water intrusion into the liftgate control system, which has resulted in corrosion and subsequent failure of the power tailgate. This malfunction presents both a safety concern and a significant reliability issue, particularly for a vehicle of this age and mileage. What is most concerning is that this does not appear to be an isolated incident. There is a documented history of similar failures in Honda Odyssey vehicles, including prior class action litigation related to tailgate and electrical system defects. Despite this, the issue does not appear to have been adequately addressed or corrected in newer models, including the 2023 version. My vehicle has approximately 30,500 miles and is only slightly outside of the warranty period. I was explicitly assured at the time of purchase that the vehicle was reliable and that the manufacturer would stand behind it. However, I have since been informed that this repair will not be covered, despite the apparent design flaw and known history of the issue. A power tailgate failure is not merely an inconvenience—it can pose safety risks, especially when transporting passengers, children, or cargo. A malfunctioning liftgate can fail to open or close properly, potentially causing injury or limiting access in urgent situations. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this matter further, as it appears to be part of a broader pattern affecting Honda Odyssey vehicles. Consumers should not be responsible for costly repairs stemming from known defects that have not been properly resolved. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I am happy to provide any additional documentation or details if needed. Sincerely, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2023 Honda Odyssey 🔎.

I have a 2018 Odyssey exl I been getting messages from right sliding door problem and during the drive after 12 or 13 miles was getting sign was saying stop the vehicle and door sign is keep flushing saying right sliding door problem.

See all problems of the 2018 Honda Odyssey 🔎.

Both door latches have failed, the first was at 3 years and the second at 5 years. When this happens the door cannot close all the way. This should be a recall as it’s a safety issue and also very costly to repair.

Leaking from the roof and tail gate caused the electronic control modules in the sliding door and rear gate to fail.

Both power sliding doors are malfunctioning, with the left side being critical. The dashboard intermittently flashes "door open" and "left sliding door problem" warnings during travel, regardless of speed or road conditions (highway, low-speed, and cornering). A certified Honda technician (case #16203079) confirmed dtc b2037 is stored for the left sliding door ratchet switch. The diagnostic report explicitly states the rear latch is failed/stuck in the open position, resulting in a half-latched state that "can open while driving. " the right door also shows intermittent issues with the ratchet switch and pinch sensor. Despite this documented, life-threatening safety defect, american Honda has refused repair assistance. I have video evidence of the warnings flashing while in motion.

See all problems of the 2019 Honda Odyssey 🔎.

Tailgate door is not functioning. Tailgate problem message on dash. Cannot open door with remote nor manually.

The power tailgate control unit (part #74970-thr-a12) failed on my 2023 Honda Odyssey at approximately 46,000 miles and 3 years of age. The tailgate stopped functioning entirely. Upon removing the interior rear trim panels to diagnose, I discovered the failure was caused by water intrusion into the rear body of the vehicle. Behind the interior panels I found: significant rust on interior sheet metal, green corrosion coating the power tailgate control unit, dried water stains showing pooled standing water that had evaporated over time, and clear evidence of repeated slow water exposure over an extended period — not a single incident. The vehicle has no rear windows that open and no exterior damage that would explain the water source. The symptoms and damage pattern match the class action dubrosky v. American Honda motor CO. , [xxx] , which alleges defective polyurethane rear body seam sealant in 2018-2021 Honda Odysseys allowing water to leak into the rear driver's side panel and destroy the power tailgate control module. My 2023 exhibits identical symptoms, raising the question whether the same defect extends to later model years. Safety risk: the class action documents that this defect has caused tailgates to open or close unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion, fail to latch, short-circuit, and in some cases cause fires. Items in the cargo area can fall out during driving, creating road hazards for other vehicles. My tailgate failed completely; I consider myself fortunate it failed closed rather than opening in motion. The damaged components are available for inspection. The vehicle has been inspected and photographed by pohanka Honda of salisbury, MD, who confirmed the damage but denied warranty coverage. No independent inspection has occurred. Warnings prior to failure: none. No dashboard warning lamps, messages, or symptoms appeared before the tailgate stopped functioning. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The power tailgate system on my Honda Odyssey failed. The dashboard displays a “power tailgate problem” warning message and the tailgate will not open automatically using the key fob, interior button, or rear handle. When attempting to open it electronically, the vehicle beeps but the tailgate does not move. The tailgate can only be opened manually. The vehicle and tailgate system are available for inspection upon request. The failure creates a safety risk because the tailgate cannot be opened electronically in situations where quick access to the rear cargo area may be needed. Additionally, if the power tailgate system fails unexpectedly, it could malfunction while opening or closing, potentially striking someone or failing during loading/unloading. The inability to rely on the automatic tailgate also creates hazards when carrying items or supervising children around the rear of the vehicle. The problem occurs consistently every time the power tailgate button is pressed. The system beeps but does not open. The issue has not yet been formally inspected by a dealer but can be easily reproduced. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives for this issue. A “power tailgate problem” warning message appeared on the dashboard when attempting to use the power tailgate. At the same time, the vehicle emits a beep but the tailgate does not move. The issue began recently and has occurred every time the power tailgate has been used since the warning first.

Power lift gate and power sliding doors failure alerts keeping showing up. They flash on and off on the display even while driving which can be very disruptive. The issue occurs randomly every few weeks the dealer quoted close to $2000 to attempt to fix it.

Water is pooling in trunk of van. There appears to be a failed body weld or seam sealant in the trunk area. Vehicle has not been in any incidents since purchased new. Spoke to a service adviser for Honda and they indicated a seam sealant may have failed as well. Have searched internet and found this is occurring frequently with this model.

?I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding a dangerous manufacturing defect in my 2018 Honda Odyssey ex . A structural failure of the factory roof seam sealer (ditch molding) is allowing rainwater to pour directly into the vehicle's cabin, severely compromising critical electrical modules and creating major safety hazards. ?this water intrusion has caused two distinct and dangerous electrical failures: ?1. Entrapment hazard (power sliding doors): previously, water leaked into the rear fuse box area, causing the power sliding doors to completely fail and become completely unopenable. Transporting a [xxx] and a [xxx] in the rear seats, the sudden inability to open the sliding doors creates a terrifying entrapment hazard. In the event of an accident, fire, or emergency, I would be unable to evacuate my young children from the rear cabin quickly, posing an immediate threat to their lives. ?2. Cargo and security hazard (power tailgate control module): currently, the water leak has short-circuited the power tailgate control module. The system operates erratically: the tailgate automatically pops open as soon as the engine is turned off, and it refuses to open manually. Beyond the security risk, this electrical short could cause the tailgate to unlatch unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion or stopped in traffic, potentially dropping cargo onto the roadway and creating a crash hazard for other drivers, or allowing carbon monoxide exhaust to enter the passenger cabin. ?this is a well-documented and widespread structural defect affecting many 2018-generation Honda Odysseys. Water destroying critical safety modules (doors and tailgates) is a severe design flaw that goes far beyond normal wear and tear. ?I strongly urge NHTSA to open a formal investigation into the roof seam sealer failures on the 2018 Honda Odyssey. A safety recall is necessary to force Honda to repair the structural leaks and replace the compromi information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Tailgate control module damaged by water leaking from faulty rear body seam seals on left top of vehicle doors would lock and unlock on their own while driving and tailgate signaled it was open but never unlatched manual tailgate opening/closing did not work at all constantly beeped when unlocked and alarm went off randomly all electrical activity drained battery and made vehicle undriveable; tow was necessary first sign was "power tailgate problem" light on dash 5 days before vehicle battery was dead Honda charged for and replaced tailgate control module and recommended an outside company to repair leak issues; outside company confirmed issue and noted repairs for same issue on similar models.

Both rear power sliding doors on my 2019 Honda Odyssey failed at approximately 74,000 miles. The sliding door motors can be heard running, but the doors do not move and cannot be opened normally. The doors are available for inspection upon request. This failure prevents rear passengers from safely exiting the vehicle. In an emergency situation, this could prevent evacuation and creates a serious safety risk, especially when transporting children or passengers seated in the rear. A dashboard warning message related to the sliding doors appeared at the time of failure. The condition occurs consistently on both doors. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Honda dealer, who confirmed a malfunction in the sliding door system and provided a repair estimate. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives. This appears to be a significant sliding door system failure affecting both rear doors simultaneously.

For 2 years we have had intermittent issues with sliding doors not opening. The doors will not respond to the handles in or out, or remote control or door button. At 2 years old the doors jammed so bad my child was trapped in the middle. Finally we tried pulling on the door that was open about 6" and the rear window exploded. Seems to be some sort of electrical override. Really surprised the door can fail slightly open and not allow passengers to escape.

See all problems of the 2024 Honda Odyssey 🔎.

My driver sliding door will not open or close manually or automatically. This is concerning because if I was to ever get in a wreck and my van was struck on the passenger side, we wouldn’t be able to get out of the car because the other door won’t open. I did see that 107,000 vehicles were recalled due to this same problem I’m having. Obviously looking online, this is affecting more than 107,000… I already had to fix my passenger sliding door due to a faulty sensor. What next?.

Rear lift gate randomly opens and closes automatically while driving and when parked. My kids were in the back seat and there were groceries in the trunk that could have fallen out. Dealership said it's not a recall, and that it is due to a bad weather stripping around the rear window allowing water into the lift gate and damage the controls.

Improper seal on the seam (?) above let water leak into my power tailgate control module. It caused all the dash lights to sporadically rapidly flash, told me I have a transmission problem and my blind spot warning didn’t work right. Pulled out the tailgate module to find water in the module with a failed circuit board. Also wires leading into the module were wet.

Power tailgate stopped working. Warning indicator indicated power tailgate failure. Dealer found water to be leaking onto tailgate unit from driver’s side roof rail. Recommended replacing and programming new ptg unit and resealing water leak. Repair cost was $1,311. 51.

The trunk door stopped working due to a leak from the rear left window seal causing the computer to become waterlogged the mechanic that fixed it said its a common issue with the Honda Odyssey and should be recalled by Honda, I am therefore requesting the NHTSA to investigate this matter further so Honda should reimburse for the cost of the repair this issue can be a safety hazard in the event of a emergency egress from the trunk as it's not possible to open from the exterior and there was no prior warnings lamps or messages.

Sliding doors sometimes do not close all the way and then reopen automatically. You cannot press the sliding doors to close and walk away. You have to stay to make sure they close because often times it will kick back and reopen. You have to manually help push the sliding door to close. Elite trim has no way to make the doors be able to be closed manually, if needed. Took it to Honda, they said they have never heard of doors not closing and reopening so they could not help me, but I have spoken to quite a few Honda Odyssey owners in parking lots and they all stated that the doors do sometimes not close all the way and return to being fully open. Maybe the motor for the doors isn’t strong enough and depends on vehicle tilt or the temperature outside, but for whatever reason the automatic doors are randomly not fully closing.

This is now the second time that we are having a rear hatch failure. With about 37,000 miles on this van, the control module shorted out due to water getting into it due to a bad seam (according to other Odyssey owners who are suing Honda for this). We could not get the hatch to open or close, so I paid the dealer to fix it. Honda did give us a check after the fact to cover some of the bill. Now, with less than 51,000 miles, it has happened again. The hatch will not open or close. In the event of an emergency, this is a major safety issue, to be potentially stuck inside the cabin. The hatch started going up and down randomly, and we could not control it. Now, it won't go up or down. This van is is a mess. Not only does it have this issues, but the rear back up camera still does not work, even though it was recalled. . . They would not honor their recall, and the brakes occasionally come on without cause, when going around a corner and there is oncoming traffic. It thinks that we are headed for a collision, and it's another safety problem here in the northeast. Honda needs to own up to their quality problems relative to these three safety issues.

The auto slide door latch will not disengage. The rear passenger door cannot be opened electronically or manually.

White pearl paint of my 2014 Odyssey is peeling on the roof, almost all of the paint has peeled off on the top front part of the roof and this seems to be a common problem with this paint color and year of Odyssey.

Water getting into trunk.

The power tailgate on my 2021 Honda Odyssey suddenly failed. A “power tailgate problem” warning appeared, and the tailgate became completely inoperable. It would not latch manually or automatically, even when applying force. The latch would spring back open, and no mechanical sound came from the door. Because the tailgate would not latch, the interior lights stayed on, and the vehicle continued to display “tailgate open” warnings. I could not secure the tailgate for driving, which created a safety hazard since the door could not be properly closed during travel. A few days later, both sliding doors also stopped functioning, and none of the powered doors (tailgate or sliding doors) would operate from the interior switches, exterior buttons, or key fob. The Honda service center inspected the vehicle and reported that the tailgate control module was corroded and had clear evidence of water damage. They stated that they would not replace the module until the vehicle was evaluated by a body shop because a water leak was likely present and would continue damaging components. The body shop later confirmed that water intrusion was entering through the upper left rear pillar, caused by a leak in the roof seam area. Water traveled into the rear side panel and damaged the tailgate control module and related electrical systems. Their findings were documented and also confirmed by my insurance inspector. Prior to the failure, there were no symptoms. The only warning occurred at the moment the system failed (“power tailgate problem”). The issue occurred without any impact, accident, or misuse. The defects caused multiple powered doors to become inoperable, which is a significant safety risk for both passengers and the driver. Based on publicly available information, this appears to be a recurring problem in 2018–2021 Honda Odyssey vehicles involving water leaks near the rear pillar leading to electrical control module failures.

My wife and I purchased a new 2025 Honda Odyssey van as it currently has about 11,000 miles and we both have noticed a front end vibration/rattle/noise that can be heard and felt in the steering wheel at varying speeds in the front suspension which leads me to believe as an engineer there are issues with sway bar end links, bad strut mounts, or loose control arm bushings that are especially noticeable over any bumps. This issue could pose a serious safety issues in dealing with failed suspension or steering that could cause a potential wreck or loss of control of a vehicle and result in a product liability suit for all parties involved especially given suspension and steering are considered critical auto parts in nature. The problem has been reproduced with my making an appointment at watermark Honda located at 3201 park Ave, paducah, ky 42001 on November 19th, 2025 with the master service tech caleb buchanan and service advisor harley littrell both driving the vehicle and acknowledging the noise and vibration. I also have any recorded video while driving at 5-10 mph in the parking lot of watermark Honda that was shared and viewed by harley littrell. The vehicle was inspected with some strut bolts and other front end component bolts being torqued down the same day with the issue not being resolved. Harley/caleb noted that they were dealing with the same issue on another 2025 Honda Odyssey on the lot to be sold and they were trying to address issues. As of follow-up appointment on 12/11/25, harley noted this van had several front end parts replaced and it still made noise with this van not being able to be sold to the public. I was advised by harley to contact american Honda and to file this report. See uploaded video below.

See all problems of the 2025 Honda Odyssey 🔎.

The power sliding door on the driver’s side failed and will not open, even manually. The mechanism engages and stops after about an inch. This creates a significant safety risk because passengers cannot exit through the door in an emergency. This appears to be a widespread defect in 2018–2020 Honda Odyssey models. Repair cost is approximately $1,000. Honda needs to address this as a safety issue.

Driver side rear sliding door will not open even when the automatic release button is disengaged. Some could be trapped in an emergency or I am worried that if it opens I will not be able to get it closed.

Power tailgate problem is going off repeatedly while car is on. Power tailgate does not open with remote or button inside car. There seems to be water leaking in tailgate seams. The constant beeping of problem popping up is startling and distracting to driver.

The roof leaks in the lh rear of the van under the roof strip thru a bolt or bad seam rfom a bad build causing the power unit liftgate module pn - 74970-thr-a11 to get wet and sit in water causing a short to the battery, the sliding doors to fail and the rear liftgate to fail which is a safety hazard if someone cannot exit the vehicle in an emergency. It is also a fire potential. This should be a safety recall at Hondas expense. The world wide web is flooded with videos and forums pertaining to this exact issue and Honda has not stepped up to the plate and addressed this issue.

All of my adas systems were disabled due to a water leak. The repair required the dealership to hire a "leak doctor" and then replace a module in the rear tailgate. My vehicle showed an alert on the dash that each of the adas features were disabled, auto high beams were disabled, and I could not turn the vehicle off by pushing the start/stop button once, I had to use a procedure that forced the vehicle to shut down. My interior dash lights flickered, I'm not sure if the headlights worked. As the interior dried out, the flickering occurred less frequently. I was able to drive the vehicle to a Honda dealer for repairs.