Hi, new here and looking for some help.
Six months ago we bought a 2001 Honda Odyssey EX with 130,000 miles on it. It was in excellent condition inside and out. Original transmission had been replaced under recall by Honda at 30k miles, but not a single problem since then.
It started shifting harder (usually on the first drive of the day) and would bang from 1st to 2nd gear and from 1st to reverse. Last week the transmission failed with the three annunciator lights (TCS, check engine, and D4).
We brought it to a transmission shop, and the owner gave me the "it's impossible to say how much unless we tear it apart" line. He said it would be $2500-$3000 tops if everything needs to be replaced (transmission, plus electronics, switches, seals, etc.). He said he always replaces the electronics in the transmission because they are the weak link in the Honda.
Everything else looks great from the catalytic converter to the engine mounts and exhaust (that checks with several other mechanics who've done general maintenance on it since we've had it).
So, a few questions:
1. Transmission aside, are there any major (above $250) Odyssey repairs to expect beyond the 140k mile range?
2. How long can a completely rebuilt transmission last?
3. Is this price within reason for an Odyssey?
4. Would you guys get the transmission replaced/rebuilt, or get a newer vehicle?
We'd like to have this car or its replacement last 100,000 miles, but we aren't sure if we should get a newer car for that, or if this van can do it on a rebuild transmission.
Thanks for any help you guys can give!