By Josh RosenbergVery high new and used car prices have many buyers looking for "older" models that have aged well as a way to save significant dollars. And it turns out the 2010 Odyssey has done quite well in the reliability department. Well, it's a Honda, so no surprise there.
The 2010 Odyssey, while an older model, still maintains a reputation for reliability. This track record for dependability might offer a more budget-friendly option today, albeit with fewer modern amenities and the risk of possible higher-than-average maintenance costs as it continues to age.
In fact, many well-maintained Honda Odyssey owners have claimed to reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles without facing any serious repairs. That equates to approximately 15 to 25 years of service if driving an average of about 12,000 miles a year.
The key, of course, is "well-mantained". Still, all cars have mechanical issues, including some that are characteristic to a specific model, even those with good reliability reputations. That's just a natural part of car ownership.
So here, ...
- We'll take a look at the 2010 Odyssey's overall pros and cons.
- Next, we'll review its features as it was originally released in 2010.
- Then we'll list mechanical problems that some owners have experienced that should be checked before buying.
- And finally, we'll suggest ways of buying one today at the lowest price.
But first, two very important suggestions ...
1. Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Odyssey:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
2. Know How To Get The Lowest Used Car Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely important. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
2010 Honda Odyssey Pros
Affordability: Older models like the 2010 are clearly more affordable. However, this has to be weighed against the uncertainty of future repair costs.
Reliability: Despite potential mechanical issues, the Odyssey is known for its overall reliability. If properly maintained and if you find one with a good service history, it can still offer dependable performance.
Depreciation: Older vehicles have already undergone significant depreciation, so you're less likely to experience substantial depreciation yourself compared to buying a newer car.
Known Issues Addressed: Since the car is older, some known issues, especially those related to manufacturing defects or common problems, may have already been addressed or fixed by previous owners.
Spacious Interior: The Odyssey offers ample space for passengers and cargo. It has versatile seating arrangements that make it suitable for families or for carrying a lot of cargo.
Comfortable Ride: The ride quality is generally smooth and comfortable, making it suitable for longer trips or daily commutes.
Safety Features: It comes equipped with various safety features, including airbags, stability control, and antilock brakes.
Fuel Efficiency: For its size and class, the Odyssey offers decent fuel efficiency.
2010 Honda Odyssey Cons
Potential Mechanical Problems: As the vehicle ages, the likelihood of encountering mechanical issues increases. This might include transmission problems, power steering leaks, or other issues (more on this below).
Outdated Technology: The 2010 model might lack some modern conveniences and safety features found in newer vehicles. The infotainment system, in particular, might feel outdated.
Resale Value: As a car ages, its resale value usually decreases further and can be an issue if you plan to sell or trade it in the future, although it will likely lose less than newer vehicles.
Safety Standards: While the 2010 Odyssey is reasonably safe, newer models often have updated safety features and adhere to more recent safety standards.
Road Noise: At higher speeds, road noise can be more pronounced in the Odyssey compared to some competitors.
Infotainment System: The technology in the 2010 model might feel outdated compared to newer models.
Limited Agility: Maneuverability might be a bit cumbersome due to its size, especially in tight parking spaces.
Overall, the 2010 Honda Odyssey remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and spacious family vehicle, but potential buyers should be mindful of the reported transmission issues and get a thorough inspection before purchase.
2010 Honda Odyssey Overview
The 2010 Odyssey was again simply one of the best minivans available and valued for its smooth V6 engine, agile handling, versatile split and fold-flat rear seat, and outstanding safety crash-test ratings.
Some may argue that this Odyssey's interior had become a bit dated. While there is some truth to this criticism, the Odyssey's overall high build quality, performance and usefulness kept it right there at the top with its chief rival, the Toyota Sienna, as a minivan worthy of very serious consideration.
Trims, Standard Features And Options:
The 2010 Honda Odyssey is available in four trims: LX, EX, EX-L and Touring.
Even the base model LX is well-equipped with standard features that include full power accessories, front and rear air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, 16 inch steel wheels, dual sliding rear doors (manual), a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a retractable center tray and a 4-speaker sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack.
Moving up to the EX model includes all of the above plus alloy wheels, power-sliding rear doors, heated exterior mirrors, a power driver seat, automatic triple-zone climate control, automatic headlights, roof rails, a conversation mirror, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, a removable second-row center seat and a 6-speaker audio system with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer.
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The upscale EX-L model then adds a leather-trimmed interior, a power front passenger seat, heated front seats, a sunroof, satellite radio, a back-up camera with a rearview-mirror-mounted display, a power liftgate and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
The top-of-the-line Touring edition adds run-flat tires, a navigation system with Bluetooth and a back-up camera, driver-seat memory functions, a rear-seat entertainment system, power adjustable pedals, foglights, rear parking sensors, and a premium audio system.
The entertainment system is an available option on both the Odyssey EX and Odyssey EX-L, while the navigation system is optional on the EX-L.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
Powering the 2010 Honda Odyssey is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 244-horsepower and 240-pound-feet of torque (the EX-L and Touring models get an additional 5-pound-feet) that is coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission. All Odyssey models are front-wheel drive.
The EPA estimated gas mileage for Odyssey LX and EX models stands at 16 mpg city and 23 mpg on the highway. EX-L and Touring models are equipped with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which deactivates up to three cylinders when cruising for improved fuel economy performance. Gas mileage for these models comes in at 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
In performance testing, a 2010 Odyssey Touring model was timed from a standstill to 60 mph in a respectable 9.1 seconds.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all 2010 Honda Odyssey models include antilock disc brakes (ABS) with brake assist, traction control, stability control, front-seat side-impact airbags, active front head restraints and full-length head curtain airbags with a rollover sensor.
As further evidence of its emphasis on safety, the Odyssey earned perfect five-out-of-five-star ratings for all frontal and side-impact tests for both the driver and passengers in government crash testing.
Interior:
While basically unchanged for some years, the cabin of the Odyssey remains attractive, comfortable and versatile. The second-row captain's chairs can be mounted left and center for easier access to the third-row.
The third-row seats feature a 60/40-split bench that folds flat into the floor, allowing for 91 cubic feet of cargo space. And by removing the second-row seats, storage room can be expanded to 147 cubic feet.
The Odyssey's somewhat dated-looking center stack as well as its overuse of hard plastic still remain. However, gauges and buttons are easy to see and user-friendly, while the overall vehicle performance and high build quality still make the Odyssey a top choice.
Drive:
The 2010 Honda Odyssey possesses some of the most carlike driving dynamics of any minivan available, except for perhaps the much smaller Mazda 5. The driving experience is notable for its smooth V6 engine, tight suspension, responsive steering and tight turning radius (for a minivan).
Transmission changes are also fast and smooth and the vehicle stays firmly planted in the curves. Road bumps and rough spots are well-absorbed and the interior remains relatively quiet.
2010 Honda Odyssey Mechanical Problem Watchlist:
While generally considered quite reliable, like any car model, some owners experienced various mechanical issues over time. The following areas should therefore be included in an inspection before buying:
Transmission Problems: This is one of the more commonly reported issues. Some owners have experienced transmission problems like jerking, slipping, or rough shifting. This could potentially lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Power Steering Pump Leaks: There have been instances of power steering pump leaks in some Odyssey models, leading to a loss of power steering fluid.
Engine Mounts: Premature wear of engine mounts has been reported by some owners, resulting in increased vibrations felt in the cabin or a noticeable impact on overall driving smoothness.
Brake Problems: Some owners have reported premature wear of brake pads and rotors, leading to decreased braking performance and the need for more frequent replacements.
Sliding Door Issues: Some owners have experienced problems with the power sliding doors, including issues with the motor or the door alignment, resulting in difficulty opening or closing the doors smoothly.
AC Compressor Failures: In some cases, the air conditioning compressor has failed, resulting in a loss of cold air and potentially requiring expensive repairs.
It's important to note that while these issues have been reported by some owners, most vehicles have not experienced these problems. Regular maintenance and timely repairs may have helped in identifying and addressing potential issues before they become major problems.