I hope someone corrects me if I am wrong but I believe that the 04 transmission would still be susceptible to the same problems as the 99-02. I think a couple of features were added on by 04... the external transmission fluid filter (a black canister) and some kind of oil-jet modification to improve circulation. However, I think those changes did not definitively solve the causes of failure - namely overheating of the fluid leading to slipping leading to damage and subsequent transmission failure.
I don't think I'd expect the 04s to be significantly more reliable than the 01s or 02s. It's my belief that we haven't seen as many stories about the 04s failing yet simply because statistically, they're only 7 years old and not that many have reached the same kind of mileage where the 99s through 02s are now getting to and experiencing failure.
If you do end up switching to an 04, I would recommend adding an aftermarket transmission fluid cooler such as the Tru-Cool system that Jasper mandates on 2nd gen odyssey transmission replacements. It looks just like a paperback sized radiator. I would also slap on a Magnefine filter on the transmission oil return line from the cooler - just because so many people on this board seem to give it a thumbs up. The Tru-Cool is less than a hundred bucks I think and would take an hour to put in. Magnefine filter is not a significant cost.
I usually don't go for costly extended warranties but in this case, it might be a good hedge to seriously consider negotiating for one as part of your vehicle purchase.
dbx--
Thanks so much for your reply. Your logic is good, but i there are a few other factors i have to consider. My wife has basically demanded we get rid of the van. there are other issues with it, and the dealer is offering me a deal that doesn't seem too bad.
Did the tranny problems get resolved in the 04--or mostly resolved? I can't find a brief synopsis of the tranny issues and changes anywhere.
Ben