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2012 Honda Odyssey Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2012 Honda Odyssey Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize confirming completion of all safety recalls, especially those involving the driver's airbag and transmission interlock.
  • Inspect second-row seat mounting hardware for any signs of looseness or improper installation.
  • The high number of TSBs suggests potential for various electrical or accessory issues that warrant a detailed inspection.
  • While owner complaints are zero, the documented recalls and TSBs indicate a need for vigilant maintenance and inspection.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Honda Odyssey

The 2012 Honda Odyssey offers a practical, family-oriented package with respectable fuel economy for its class. However, a history of significant safety recalls, particularly concerning airbags and seat security, alongside a high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), indicates potential for ownership concerns. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, buyers must prioritize verifying recall completion and conducting a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls address potential unintended movement or tipping of second-row seats due to issues with release levers or striker attachments. This can compromise occupant safety.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
248HP
Torque
250 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.4/ 10

Practicality

6.9/ 10

Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a spacious and versatile minivan with good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance vehicle.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Honda Odyssey Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Honda Odyssey.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
8
Horsepower
248 hp
Torque
250 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic 5-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Crossover
MSRP Range
$28,375 - $43,825
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

1. Second-Row Seat Security

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Transmission Interlock Mechanism

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
5 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Honda Odyssey reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Honda Odyssey is 9.4/10. Reliability score is 9.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Honda Odyssey for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.9/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 8. 5 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 1087 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Honda Odyssey is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 6.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Second-Row Seat Security Mechanism (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $50 • Max: $200).

What is the MSRP range for the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

MSRP range is $28,375 - $43,825.

What engine is in the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

Engine specs list V6 • 6 • 3.5. Output is 248 hp • 250 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2012 Honda Odyssey use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Odyssey, transmission is Automatic 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Odyssey, fuel economy range is 18-27 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Odyssey, seating capacity is 8.

What body style is the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Odyssey, body style is crossover.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Honda Odyssey use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Odyssey, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 5-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Honda Odyssey?▾

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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