Honda Odyssey Dilemma

[mccloskeyjl]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Florida

I bought a used Honda Odyssey through a reputable Honda dealer in 2008 with an extended warranty. Two years after the purchase, the car started to make loud noises whenever we would apply the brakes. At first, the noise would only occur at low speeds - for example while picking up the kids from school. Eleven months later the problem still exists. The car has been serviced nine times in the last year, and only once did the dealer give me a free rental. I contacted Honda corporate, and was told that it was to be expected on a car that has 86k miles. It was wear and tear. I find that answer unacceptable for a $42k car. Nobody knows what is causing the problem, and the service manager has told me that it cannot be fixed. Today my husband picked up the kids and was steaming mad. We would like some legal advice, since we cannot afford a new car at the moment, and was hoping that this would last for at least another 100k miles. HELP!

 

[cyjeff]

What is the source of the noise? Is it still under the extended warranty?

And how did you pay 42K? I can pick up a brand new one with every option for less than that.

 

[mccloskeyjl]

Honda Odyssey

Well, at first I thought it was the brakes. We had the fluid exchanged, new brakes put on. Then I was told it could be the rotors. They were also exchanged twice. Then I was told it had to do with the mechanism which holds the rotors, and that this sound is typical on all the Honda Odyssey's. I tried to look up information on this topic, but nobody seems to be complaining about the same problem. I honestly think the service guys have no idea what is causing the problem. However, I spend at least four hours at the Honda dealership each time the car is being repaired. I also have to tolerate the fact that the car sounds like it is falling apart literally. I gather the Lemon Law does not apply here?

 

[cyjeff]

Well, at first I thought it was the brakes. We had the fluid exchanged, new brakes put on. Then I was told it could be the rotors. They were also exchanged twice. Then I was told it had to do with the mechanism which holds the rotors, and that this sound is typical on all the Honda Odyssey's. I tried to look up information on this topic, but nobody seems to be complaining about the same problem. I honestly think the service guys have no idea what is causing the problem. However, I spend at least four hours at the Honda dealership each time the car is being repaired. I also have to tolerate the fact that the car sounds like it is falling apart literally. I gather the Lemon Law does not apply here?

No, the Lemon Law does not apply.

When you answer the questions, we can help you.

 

[mccloskeyjl]

It is a top of the line Honda Odyssey. I looked up the Blue book value at the time I bought it. It was purchased originally by someone else. We bought it used. It has all the bells and whistles. Really love this car. It is so perfect for a big family.

 

[mccloskeyjl]

No idea what the source of the noise is. Nobody does. Since the noise only happens when you apply the brakes, I would say the brakes.

Yes, I still have 10,000 miles left on the extended warranty.

 

[Zigner]

Sounds like you may have a problem with bearings. Maybe you need to see a different mechanic for an opinion.

 

[mccloskeyjl]

Ok, maybe I will do that. However in order for my warranty to cover the charges it will have to be a Honda dealer. The next one is about 90 minutes away. I will ask about the bearings.
Thanks

 

[Zigner]

Ok, maybe I will do that. However in order for my warranty to cover the charges it will have to be a Honda dealer. The next one is about 90 minutes away. I will ask about the bearings.
Thanks

Then go to the other Honda dealer. There are many other things it could be. When you apply the brakes, you shift the weight around...even though it "sounds" like the brakes, it might not be.

 

[mccloskeyjl]

Ok, appreciate the advice. I thought it could be the axle. Had all four tires replaced too. Just worried that this problem will continue another year and my warranty ends. What then? Very frustrating.

 

[mccloskeyjl]

BTW, the Honda Odyssey Blue Book value for the Touring Elite is $43k. Serious $$ for a car with so many problems.
I just cannot believe that the car manufacturers are not responsible for fixing problems. I grew up in Germany, and the laws are a bit different.
I appreciate the advice.

 

[swalsh411]

The are responsible for fixing problems. In accordance with the warranty. Which you agreed to by purchasing the car. Unless we are talking about a recall here, they don't have to fix it for free unless the warranty says so.

How do you think dealerships make most of their money? Selling cars? Most dealerships make the majority of their profit on service.

 

[mccloskeyjl]

The are responsible for fixing problems. In accordance with the warranty. Which you agreed to by purchasing the car. Unless we are talking about a recall here, they don't have to fix it for free unless the warranty says so.

How do you think dealerships make most of their money? Selling cars? Most dealerships make the majority of their profit on service.

So once I tell them of a problem, how often can they charge me for repairs? Can they tell me the problem cannot be fixed? It is part of the car, for example?