My check engine light is on. Is it safe to drive?

Basic rule that holds true with any vehicle, if the check engine light is on steady, and the vehicle is running ok with good oil pressure and not overheating, then it should be safe to drive until you can have the vehicle checked by your shop. If however the check engine light is flashing, and or you detect a performance problem, then it’s not recommended to drive the vehicle any distance.

My battery light is on in the dash. Is it safe to drive?

Normally when the battery light is on, that indicates a possible issue with the alternator. If indeed the alternator isn’t recharging the battery, you run the risk of being stranded if driven as the battery voltage will become depleted.

When should I have maintenance items like spark plugs, driveline fluids, timing belt, filters, etc?

By far the easiest way to keep up with all the maintenance items on your vehicle is to stay close to the Manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Remember all vehicles may not have the same service intervals for a certain item. So It’s always best to check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

We are driving on a long trip soon, but my car isn’t due for any maintenance yet. Should I have the vehicle looked over before leaving?

Absolutely 100% you should have the vehicle checked over before driving on any long trips. Things like spare tire pressure, quick visual inspection of tires for nails/cuts and pressures. Visual inspection under the hood to assure no leaks and all fluid levels are good. These things take maybe 15 minutes and are totally worth the piece of mind while traveling long distances.

There is a warning light on in my dash. What should I do? It seems to be running ok.

Every warning light on the instrument panel has a purpose. Warning lights are there to alert us that a computer/module has detected an abnormality in one of the systems on your vehicle. If you’re not sure what the light indicates, there is a section in your owner's manual that will give detailed information related to the light in question.

I have noticed a fluid leak under my car when parking ?

Any fluid leak should be inspected by your shop to verify the source. Trying to identify fluid on your driveway or parking lot can be a bit tricky. Coolant while water based, can have an oily feel on your fingers and may lead you to think it’s engine oil. Engine oil and transmission fluid are similar, but transmission fluid if not too spent, will have a red look unless it’s a CVT transmission. Engine oil could be darker looking, or clear if you just had the oil changed recently. Brake fluid is usually clear, but oily feeling much like engine oil. Checking the under hood fluid levels many times can lead you in the right direction.

How often should I change my engine oil?

I don’t think any 2 vehicle manufacturers are the same. At Creech Import Repair, we recommend every 5,000 miles to change the oil and filter. Many mfg’s recommend longer intervals, but if they extend past 5k we highly recommend checking the engine oil level every 1,000 miles. By nature of design, any internal combustion engine is going to use or consume some amount of oil. Also detergent in oil is designed to suspend by-products of combustion, which is what eventually turns the engine oil dark. At some point the detergent content will become loaded and can’t store anymore. This is the point when the engine can start to gum up inside with deposits and can be harmful to your engine and shorten its life.

Honda Odyssey Repair Services in Raleigh, NC

Reliable Care for a Minivan You Count On Every Day

Your Honda Odyssey isn’t just a way to get from place to place—it’s the center of your family’s schedule. From school drop-offs and grocery runs to vacations and soccer practices, it’s with you for everything. At Creech Import Repair, we know how important that is. We’ve worked on hundreds of Odysseys and treat every one with the same level of care we’d give our own.

Whether you’re driving a well-used 2006 or a newer 2023 model, our certified team in Raleigh has the tools, insight, and experience to give your minivan the quality service it deserves. We don’t chase temporary fixes—we offer lasting solutions based on years of hands-on work with Hondas.

Understanding Honda Odyssey Generations and Their Quirks

First Generation (1995–1998)

This early version looked more like a tall wagon than today’s minivans. It came with rear-swing doors and a smaller 4-cylinder engine.

Common Issues:

Weak Acceleration: The engine sometimes struggled with heavier loads.
➤ Fix: Stick to a strict maintenance schedule and stay current with valve adjustments.
Faulty HVAC Panels: Control dials would often stop responding.
➤ Fix: Replace the unit or repair the internal circuitry.

Second Generation (1999–2004)

The Odyssey finally embraced minivan form with sliding doors and a more powerful 3.5L V6.

Typical Problems:

Failing Transmissions (1999–2001): Units would fail near or just past 100K miles.
➤ Fix: Rebuild or replace with improved internal parts.
Sliding Door Issues: Doors became hard to close or wouldn’t stay shut.
➤ Fix: Replace or clean latch and motor assemblies.
Engine Mount Problems: Excess vibration while idling.
➤ Fix: Replace engine mounts with upgraded hydraulic versions.
EGR Valve Blockages: Leads to poor fuel economy and misfiring.
➤ Fix: Clean the valve and intake channels; upgrade if necessary.

Third Generation (2005–2010)

Honda added new features, like Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), and improved cabin design.

Frequent Problems:

Brake Pulsation (2005–2007): Warping rotors caused uneven braking.
➤ Fix: Swap out rotors and pads for high-performance components.
VCM Oil Usage (2008–2010): VCM system sometimes burned excess oil.
➤ Fix: Use synthetic oil and consider disabling the VCM system.
Liftgate Strut Failures: Hatch could fall without warning.
➤ Fix: Install new liftgate struts in matched pairs.
Tire Pressure Sensor Issues: TPMS light would stay on unnecessarily.
➤ Fix: Replace aging sensors and recalibrate with the proper scanner.

Fourth Generation (2011–2017)

With more safety features and a smoother drive, this generation became a favorite for families.

Known Issues:

Delayed Gear Changes (2011–2013): Some vehicles hesitated between gears.
➤ Fix: Update transmission software or flush contaminated fluid.
VCM-Related Plug Fouling (2014–2015): Spark plugs wore out early.
➤ Fix: Replace spark plugs and disable VCM if needed.
Power Door Failures: Side doors would stick or stop moving.
➤ Fix: Replace the motor and check cable integrity.
Backup Camera and Screen Issues: Systems would reboot or display nothing.
➤ Fix: Update system firmware or install a new head unit.

Fifth Generation (2018–Present)

The latest Odysseys came with a 10-speed transmission, improved infotainment, and a sleeker design.

Recent Complaints:

Rough Shifting (2018–2019): Some drivers noticed jerkiness at low speeds.
➤ Fix: Reset the transmission control module and flush the fluid.
Idle Stop Failures (2019–2020): Engine wouldn’t restart promptly at red lights.
➤ Fix: Install a new main battery and disable auto stop/start if necessary.
Sliding Door Latch Glitches (2021+): Door sensors often failed to register.
➤ Fix: Adjust door track and replace faulty latch sensors.
Wireless Charger Overheating: Especially common in higher trims.
➤ Fix: Replace charging pad or use external chargers.

Shared Issues Across All Odyssey Generations

Engine and Electrical

Excessive Oil Use (VCM Engines): Cylinder deactivation leads to oil loss.
➤ Fix: Use high-mileage oil and check PCV system regularly.
Alternator Trouble: Power loss or warning lights at highway speeds.
➤ Fix: Replace alternator and test battery for damage.
Worn Engine Mounts: Vibration at idle or while shifting.
➤ Fix: Replace both front and rear mounts.

Interior and Body

Water Intrusion: A-pillar and sunroof leaks in heavy rain.
➤ Fix: Seal roof drains and install improved weatherstripping.
Sun-Damaged Dashboards: Cracks form over time in hot climates.
➤ Fix: Cover with a dashboard mat or replace damaged panels.

What Creech Import Repair Can Do for
Your Honda Odyssey

🔧

Engine Repairs

Timing belt and water pump service
Valve cover gasket replacement
VCM diagnostics and bypass installation
Spark plug and coil pack replacement
Oil leak detection and repair

⚙️

Emissions & Diagnostic Services

OBD-II check engine light diagnosis
Evaporative emissions system testing
EGR valve and catalytic converter inspections
Fuel injector and throttle body cleaning
Sensor testing (O2, MAP, MAF)

❄️

Climate and Cooling

Compressor and condenser replacement
Cabin air filter and blower motor repair
Coolant flush and thermostat replacement
A/C system recharge and leak testing

❄️

Suspension and Steering

Shocks, struts, and coil spring replacement
Control arm and ball joint replacement
Power steering pump and rack service
Four-wheel alignment and tire balancing

❄️

Electrical and Interior

TPMS sensor programming
Power door motor and latch repair
Alternator, battery, and starter replacement
Infotainment diagnostics and updates

Maintenance Schedule for a Healthy Odyssey

Service	Recommended Interval
Oil & Filter Change	5,000–7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change	30,000–40,000 miles
Brake Fluid Service	Every 2 years
Timing Belt (3.5L V6)	Every 105,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement	Every 100,000 miles
Cabin Air Filter	15,000–20,000 miles
Coolant Flush	Every 60,000 miles

Contact us today

For an estimate with the most trusted auto repair shop in Wake County, Creech Import Repair!

Shop Location

1818 St. Albans Dr #106
Raleigh, NC 27609

Monday - Friday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Call us 919-872-1999

Our Commitment to You

At Creech Import Repair, our philosophy is simple: Treat customers with kindness, respect, and honesty, and success will follow. Contact us for any and all of your automotive repair needs.

Please Note

Online bookings are not considered confirmed appointments until verified by a member of our Service Team.
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Real Feedback from Odyssey Owners

Carlos D., Raleigh

My power sliding door was stuck halfway open. Creech found the issue fast and had it fixed in one day.

Denise P., Wake Forest

I trust Creech with all the major maintenance on my ’08 Odyssey. Their team knows these vans really well.

Brian M., Cary

They were honest about my transmission options. No scare tactics, just solid advice and professional work.

Honda Odyssey Repair Services in Raleigh, NC

Reliable Care for a Minivan You Count On Every Day