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Topic
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I’m looking to buy a replacement for my 27 year old Volkswagen Van (Lots of problems!), and I was hoping a 2004 Honda Odyssey would be a worth while candidate. I do know that odyssey’s of the era have transmission problems, but with a external oil cooler, in line filter, and ATF changes with every oil change, I should be okay, right? The one i’m interested in is a 2004 Odyssey EX with 207,000 kms, cost is $4000
Thanks,
Joey
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Replies
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Hi Joey,
We own a 2001 with 240k. Apart from the transmission and engine mounts, the car has been quite good. Still runs perfectly with no squeaks or rattles, excellent acceleration, braking etc. We’ve been very diligent with the maintenance, nearly all of it done by the dealer (my wife’s preference). The price seems ok if the condition of the car warrants it.
Of course, the usual caveats apply. I would definitely consider taking it to a Honda dealer for the once-over rather than an independent dealer prior to purchase.
Changing ATF at every oil change is not only overkill but would be ungodly expensive. If you are interested in this van I would have it inspected at a shop that has no stake in whether you buy this van or not. It doesn’t have to be a Honda dealer. Any competent shop that works on import cars gets these vans in for work. They’ll probably charge an hour of labor to have a guy look through it closely. Anything that stands out to him he will tell you about so you can make an informed decision. If the owner of the van objects to you doing this, walk away from it. He’s hiding something. That price to have it looked over could save you thousands of dollars in the long run on avoiding a major problem, and if some smaller repairs are needed like brakes or a water pump or something of that nature you have a bargaining chip to try to get the price lowered.
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