Component
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Manufacturer
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
What Happened
The Transmission Control Unit (TCU) is like the brain of your Odyssey's automatic transmission. It helps decide when to shift gears. In some 2018-2019 models, the TCU can lose its connection to the battery, causing it to restart unexpectedly.
Risk if Unfixed
If the TCU restarts, it might shift the transmission into park, but the parking rod could be damaged. This means your vehicle could roll away when parked, which could cause a crash or injury.
Free Fix
Your Honda dealer will make sure the battery connections are secure and update the TCU software to prevent this issue. They'll also check to ensure your parking rod is working properly. This repair is free of charge.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Odyssey vehicles. Loose battery terminal connections or a degraded battery may cause the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) to unexpectedly reboot. Upon rebooting, the TCU may shift the transmission to the "Park" position, possibly damaging the parking rod.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
A damaged parking rod can allow the vehicle to roll when parked, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Original — Remedy
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will ensure the battery terminal connections are secure and will update the TCU software, free of charge. Additionally, the parking rod effectiveness will be checked. The recall began May 31, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are Z4J, Y4K.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →