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I have the VIN off a 2004 Ody EX with rear entertainment, that I am looking at buying only has 79k on the clock, but looking to avoid tranny issues at ALL costs, thanks in advance for the help.

 

[efaily]

We have an '04 EXL RES with 81K miles that's never had any trans issues. The VIN # ends with 047690, which should be a production number. If you're close to or higher than that # I think you're OK. I would still change the stock filter, flush the fluid, and add a Magnefine filter though.

 

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Thanks

Thanks for the post! The one I looked at was a later model but the ATF was alreayd a brown color at 79k and it shifted on the hard side! I spoted another '04 EX-L that I will look at, but these transmissions have me worried on a vehicle the used car dealer was asking $10,900 for!

 

[efaily]

I can't blame you for the transmission fear after reading this site. I will say our experience with our 04 Ody has been great. The only issue we've had is the remote audio controls not working correctly. Honda issued a TSB about the grounding problem that causes it, but my wife didn't mention it to me in time to have it fixed by Honda.
I embarrassed to admit I hadn't done any trans maintenenace to our Ody for 80K miles. It shifted fine, but I thought I'd better do some work to keep it that way. The fluid was almost black, and the drain plug had plently of crud on it when I recently changed the filter and fluid. I added a Magnefine filter and Tru-Cool 4543 cooler while I was at it. There's lots of great information on this site, as I'm sure you know. If you find a good used 2nd gen Ody, I wouldn't be scared to buy it personally, based our our experience with ours. Good Luck!