[sixsmiths]

IS EVERYONE AWARE THAT ALL 1999 AND SOME 2000 MODEL ODYSSEY VANS HAVE A TRANSMISSION DEFECT? HONDA SERVICE BULLETIN #00-065. THEY ARE NOT EFFECTING A RECALL, THEY ARE WAITING FOR YOU TO FIND IT, AND THEN THEY WILL REPLACE IT WITH A REPAIRED "USED" TRANSMISSION. ASK YOUR DEALER TO SEE THE SERVICE BULLETIN AND READ WHAT IT SAYS ABOUT RELACEMENT. IN MY OPINION THERE IS NO FACT THAT THE REMANUFACTURED TRANSMISSIONS ARE ANY DIFFERENT OR FREE OF THIS DEFECT. THAT IS WHY HONDA HAS COMPLETELY REDESIGNED THE TRANSMISSION FOR THE 2002 MODEL. I HAVE INFORMATION ON A TEXAS LAWYER WHO WOULD BE INTERESTED IN TALKING TO ANY ODY OWNERS WITH TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS.

 

[DTKWOK]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by sixsmiths:
IS EVERYONE AWARE THAT ALL 1999 AND SOME 2000 MODEL ODYSSEY VANS HAVE A TRANSMISSION DEFECT? HONDA SERVICE BULLETIN #00-065. THEY ARE NOT EFFECTING A RECALL, THEY ARE WAITING FOR YOU TO FIND IT, AND THEN THEY WILL REPLACE IT WITH A REPAIRED "USED" TRANSMISSION. ASK YOUR DEALER TO SEE THE SERVICE BULLETIN AND READ WHAT IT SAYS ABOUT RELACEMENT. IN MY OPINION THERE IS NO FACT THAT THE REMANUFACTURED TRANSMISSIONS ARE ANY DIFFERENT OR FREE OF THIS DEFECT. THAT IS WHY HONDA HAS COMPLETELY REDESIGNED THE TRANSMISSION FOR THE 2002 MODEL. I HAVE INFORMATION ON A TEXAS LAWYER WHO WOULD BE INTERESTED IN TALKING TO ANY ODY OWNERS WITH TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS.</font>

I am sure that most of the "veterans" on this board are quite aware of the S/B's on those models. But a S/B does not necessarily mean that it could apply to your van (some do, though). I currently have a '01 with about 13.6K miles on it, I had the transmission solenoid replaced early on, more as a precaution than a failure. So far so good. As for Honda switching to the 5 speed, maybe they wanted a competitive advantage? (The '02 MPV is coming out with a 5 speed tranny, the Kia Sedona also has one.) Honda fortunately does not take the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" mentality.

Now, may I ask what year Ody you have? Are you a prospective buyer? Rest assured that there are many satisfied Ody owners out here who would be happy to help with information. However, this forum has been seeing many new posters lately, many of them with complaints for their first postings. Some are valid while others are just plain slander. Good day.

 

[phil47]

DTKWOK:

Just out of curiosity, what was the symptom that caused Honda replace the solenoid, and was it part of a bulletin? I've had absolutely no problems with my 2001 EX tranny so far, but I'd like to know what to look for if there ever is trouble. Thanks.

 

[sixsmiths]

This particular service bulletin #00-065 did not pertain to a solinoid problem. I was for a "clunk" sound during reverse. My 99 EX has done this sence new. The SB states it is from the reverse selector not being fully engaged, so they suspect. I have heard that there is also my be a SB for a solinoid problem. I assume this is not related to the solinoid pack that is internal to the Transmission. This item cost $1800.00 I know I bought one during my ordeal. However I have seen write ups from other ody owners stating price's of $400.00 for a solinoid. I'm not sure but for that price it sounds external.
My neighbor has a 2000 EX, My sister in law has a 2001 EX and they have had no problems, I would suspect you most likely will not. either.

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by phil47:
DTKWOK:

Just out of curiosity, what was the symptom that caused Honda replace the solenoid, and was it part of a bulletin? I've had absolutely no problems with my 2001 EX tranny so far, but I'd like to know what to look for if there ever is trouble. Thanks.</font>

 

[sixsmiths]

If the definition of a "veteran" is someone that has been through %$#@! and back then I do classify as a "VETERAN". This message was intended for owners of 99 and some 2000 year models since you do not own either, your concern is noted.
I was a professional Mechanic for 71/2 years and I am not inept to reading a Service Bulletin and applying it to my case. First of all this SB has nothing to do with a solinoid problem. It addresses a "clunk" during reverse. My 99EX has done this from the start. However the dealer could never reproduce it.
As I have heard from several other 99 owners the check engine light comes on and the transmission go's haywire, jerking around, reving and slipping. The dealer checked it out and stated that a Torque Converter failure was the problem. You need a new transmission at $4500.00. They were totally unwilling to assist us in any way. No one ever asked if our car "clunked" in reverse? Nothing!!!
Had they asked this or took the time to review the cars service record, they could have saved me $4500.00 and kept a happy customer. We approched American Honda as well, as we felt that a failure at this mileage was abnormal, American Honda blew us off as well.
We were so angry and frustrated with them that I had our ody towed elsewhere for the repair.
My case is the Dealership and American Honda could have used this SB to help us. They did not!! Nor did they even mention it.
Finding it after the fact was upsetting.
We love the Van, all I want is for them to step up to the plate here!!!

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">

Originally posted by DTKWOK:
I am sure that most of the "veterans" on this board are quite aware of the S/B's on those models. But a S/B does not necessarily mean that it could apply to your van (some do, though). I currently have a '01 with about 13.6K miles on it, I had the transmission solenoid replaced early on, more as a precaution than a failure. So far so good. As for Honda switching to the 5 speed, maybe they wanted a competitive advantage? (The '02 MPV is coming out with a 5 speed tranny, the Kia Sedona also has one.) Honda fortunately does not take the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" mentality.

Now, may I ask what year Ody you have? Are you a prospective buyer? Rest assured that there are many satisfied Ody owners out here who would be happy to help with information. However, this forum has been seeing many new posters lately, many of them with complaints for their first postings. Some are valid while others are just plain slander. Good day. </font>

 

[DTKWOK]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by phil47:
DTKWOK:

Just out of curiosity, what was the symptom that caused Honda replace the solenoid, and was it part of a bulletin? I've had absolutely no problems with my 2001 EX tranny so far, but I'd like to know what to look for if there ever is trouble. Thanks.</font>

Well, I have noticed that when I came to a complete stop, shift the van from D4 to N to R, there was a loud clunk (not all the time). I took it to the dealer and he said that it was not normal (took all of 2 minutes to get the paperwork started), so they basically replaced the solenoid per S/B 90-014. Now at 13K+ miles there is more of a thud when shifting from D4 to R or from N to R, at about every other shift. I again took it back to the dealer and had them listen to it. The same guy said that it was normal and that the tranny oil replacement will make it go away. Since I've already bought the 7yr/100,000 mile warranty (for the electric sliders) I have some time to find out if they're yanking my chain or not. BTW, hold would others describe the shifting mentioned above? Do you hear or feel anything when you shift?

But as sixsmiths pointed out, the S/B 00-065 pertians to another type of failure. If you're getting bad service from the local dealer, go somewhere else. Good luck on your journey.


[This message has been edited by DTKWOK (edited 12-29-2001).]

 

[phil47]

Thanks gents.

I'll check out any peculiar noises going from D4 or N to R today and let you know what I hear. I certainly know there is no loud clunk, but I'll see if there is any significant noise.

Phil

 

[phil47]

Well I spent a few minutes testing the above, and noted absolutely no significant noise (clunk or thud) when moving through the gears. This includes D4-R and N-R. The only noise, which was evident only when my window was rolled down, was a quiet clicking sound from under the vehicle (likely in the transmission) which sounded like a relay engaging (is this the solenoid?). FWIW.

 

[SoFlaOdyssey]

My 2001 LX has made the "CLUNK!" a few times in this first year that I've owned it. Maybe 4 times?

It rarely happens but can be disconcerting when heard.

I think if you MAKE SURE to wait a few seconds after stopping, before shifting to R (or through R to P), it won't make the noise. Also, I make sure I don't thrust the shifter from D4 to P. I move it one by one (kinda quickly, I don't stop at each point) through N-R-P.



------------------
Nelson
2001 Odyssey LX - Silver
2001 Civic EX Sedan - Silver
1990 Mustang LX Coupe - Titanium
http://fiveoh.homestead.com/main.html

 

[DTKWOK]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by SoFlaOdyssey:
My 2001 LX has made the "CLUNK!" a few times in this first year that I've owned it. Maybe 4 times?

It rarely happens but can be disconcerting when heard.

I think if you MAKE SURE to wait a few seconds after stopping, before shifting to R (or through R to P), it won't make the noise. Also, I make sure I don't thrust the shifter from D4 to P. I move it one by one (kinda quickly, I don't stop at each point) through N-R-P.

</font>

I have found that doing the above gear shifting in the manner described reduces the chance of hearing the thud. The only other thing that would produce this type of clunk would be to allow the weight of the vehicle to "ride" against the tranny while in park (i.e. parking the van on a hill, shifting into Park BEFORE engaging the parking brake). This of course is extremely BAD for the tranny.

Phil47, thanks for your input. For me, I could only generate the thud in the following sequence: drive in D4, stop, shift to N to R, "thud", backup, stop, shift from R to N to D4, move forward again, stop, shift from D4 to N to R, "thud". If I may ask, did you get your tranny oil replaced yet?

Once I get the thud and have not moved the van, I can change gears to R from N or D4 and vice versa with no discernable noise. Awhile back another poster on another forum described the Honda tranny as a "semi-auto" design, meaning no synchros between R and N, thus the chance of noticeable shifting action under certain conditions. Just curious how noticeable the shifting is suppose to be, that's all.

 

[sixsmiths]

The best way to describe it is when pulling out of my garage in reverse, as I reach the street curb and start to angle out, at that point of acceleration into the street is when I most notice it. I sounds like something binding and popping free.
It has never happend to me at a stand still from P to R and is not the normal sound or "clunk" you would expect to get from P to R. It also seems to happen more so, when the transmission is cold.
According to the SB this is caused by "The reverse selector not fully engaged into the countershaft reverse gear". It affects
1999 - ALL, 2000 - From VIN 2HKRL1...YH500001 thru 2HKRL1...YH559976
Good Luck!!

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by phil47:
Thanks gents.

I'll check out any peculiar noises going from D4 or N to R today and let you know what I hear. I certainly know there is no loud clunk, but I'll see if there is any significant noise.

Phil</font>

 

[sixsmiths]

Answering the question about changing my oil, This transmission has about 4000 miles on it and will go in again after the holidays. This things been completely rebuilt top to bottom and still "clunks" in reverse. I will speak with the Service shop reguarding this Bulletin, I will keep you all informed as to what they might say.
Happy New Year!!!!

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by phil47:
Well I spent a few minutes testing the above, and noted absolutely no significant noise (clunk or thud) when moving through the gears. This includes D4-R and N-R. The only noise, which was evident only when my window was rolled down, was a quiet clicking sound from under the vehicle (likely in the transmission) which sounded like a relay engaging (is this the solenoid?). FWIW.</font>

 

[DTKWOK]

Sixsmiths,

Thanks for the VIN's, were those the only ones pertaining to S/B 00-065? I did a net search of tranny defects and came upon the site that you were probably refering to. (The one about contacting a Tony Buzbee from Texas?) Anyhow, hope things work out for all '99 and '00 owners. (Hope I don't have join in this suit, considering I have an early '01 model..) Please keep us aprised of the outcome. Thanks.

 

[phil47]

I haven't replaced my tranny oil yet. I've only got 12,000 miles on this van. I'll try the sequence of events you outlined when the van is cold and see if the "clunk" or "thud" is apparent.

I remember my Chrysler dealer used to always add an expensive transmission additive every time they changed the tranny fluid in my '92 Jeep Cherokee even though it was NOT in the service manual. They said it made for smoother shifts and longer tranny life.The service manager was a good friend and used to only charge me his cost so I don't believe he was trying to up-sell me. I wonder if this may be effective with this transmission??

 

[SoFlaOdyssey]

I posted this in the "Transmission Clunk when shifting into Reverse" thread. I think this may be what DTKWOK was referring to as far as the "semi-auto" design thing.
-----------------------------------------

I've been saving these replies for a while.
The questions come up occasionally.
From www.edmunds.com:
#525 of 1409 odyfan by auburn63 Mar 10, 2001 (07:49 pm)
Honda does feel that their trans design will last longer than that of a stacked trans. I don't think it is a dollar thing because Honda transmissions parts are some what expensive.
Internaly they are set up alot like a manual trans is but the clutch packs don't do as good of a job as a syncro does.Most of the engagement noise is because of a lack of a syncro of some sort and the straight cut of a reverse gear.They don't always line up and as the gear is trying to engage it sometimes loads up until it pops in.In the older ones it would make a bad ratcheting sound as it played roulet falling into gear : ).
Don't know the answer the the towing question so i will have to check out the book and if I remember I will ask tech line..

After some researching, I believe that I've found the cause of the reverse engagement noise from D4. It's coming from the "counter-shaft reverse selector" smashing the counter-shaft reverse gear while trying to engage into it from counter-shaft 4th gear. The reason for noise to occur only from D4 is "reverse selector" being moved only when direction is changed. This also explains why Honda advice when towing an Ody with the front wheel on ground, the van needs to be shifted to D4 first, then into N. Otherwise, reverse gear would be engaged insteads of the 4th gear by reverse selector. I've noticed that neither counter-shaft reverse gear nor counter-shaft 4th gear have synchros to ease the engagements. Due to this particular "BAD??" design, therefore, slight movement of countershaft while shifting from D to R or R to D will cause extreme loud engagement noises and will do major damage to both set of gear.
Also, the infamous "Bang in Reverse" is caused by - guess what? - "reverse selector" not fully engaging the counter-shaft reverse gear. The TSB# is A00-065, issued by Honda on 8/22/2000.



------------------
Nelson
2001 Odyssey LX - Silver
2001 Civic EX Sedan - Silver
1990 Mustang LX Coupe - Titanium
http://fiveoh.homestead.com/main.html