sfbusker, have you had the Malfunction Indicator (check engine) Lamp come on? Let's start there. Mine has had the same issue as far as stalling while driving, but it's intermittent and only happens every few weeks so I've gotten used to slapping into neutral and restarting it. : (

 

One day the ignition switch will fail completely. recommend reading the other posts in this thread

 

Stalling when driving could be the ignition switch. I had to replace mine (at the end of the key cylinder), using one from a late 90's Accord (u-pick yard). Actually had some solder melt and drip on my leg- ouch!

 

Ignition switch failure is not uncommon in these vehicles. it's a cheap and easy do it yourself fix. To the OP, did you get the issue resolved?

Also, if you click the key over to the start position, but don't continue turning the key to crank the starter, you should hear the fuel pump prime for several seconds. If you don't hear the fuel pump, it could be defective, or one of the relays.

 

If he analyzed it as the ignition switch, consider replacing it. No soldering involved. I've done this one a couple of 1st generation Odysseys. It's a known problem.

If you scroll down at the site below, there are three available, ranging from $33-57

1997 HONDA ODYSSEY 2.2L L4 Ignition Starter Switch | Shop Now at RockAuto

Electrical-Switch & Relay Parts and More for Your 1997 HONDA ODYSSEY at Reliably Low Prices. Fast Online Catalog. DIY-Easy. Your Choice of Quality. Full Manufacturer Warranty.

www.rockauto.com

Below are links on how to replace it:

Odyssey Ignition Switch Replacement | Audi

www.dognmonkey.com

https://www.odyclub.com/attachments/01-jpg.130737/

Let me know if this helped and if you got the van back on the road. Good luck!

 

Received a PM from the OP. The ignition switch replacement solved the issue. Here's his message:

sfbusker
Registered
Joined Jan 12, 2023

• Feb 28, 2023

Hey. Sorry for the tardy response. It's been a whirlwind past few days now that the van is back on the road. I broke down and had someone come and install the part. Thought it best to let someone who knew what they were doing handle it. It cost me nearly $300, but at least it's done. It was exactly that part. As soon as he installed it and cranked the engine, she started right up and hasn't given me a lick of trouble since. Thank you for all of your assistance. I really, really appreciate it. I'll be messaging you again soon when I'm ready for my next project. 😊