Picture this: cruising down the highway in your trusty Honda Odyssey, only to be jolted by a sputtering engine and a nauseating whiff of burnt oil. Your minivan, once a symbol of family adventures, is now plagued by a notorious issue – excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings. But you’re not alone.
In 2015, a class action lawsuit, Soto v. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. , ignited a firestorm against Honda, accusing them of knowingly installing defective piston rings in Odyssey models between 2008 and 2013. These faulty rings allowed oil to seep into the combustion chamber, leading to:
Excessive oil burning: Say goodbye to top-offs between oil changes, hello to frequent refills and a plume of blue smoke trailing behind you.
Engine misfires: That annoying hiccup in your engine’s rhythm? It’s your Odyssey protesting the oil party happening inside.
Premature engine failure: The worst-case scenario – your Odyssey, once a loyal steed, throws in the towel, leaving you stranded with a hefty repair bill.
The lawsuit argued that Honda knew about the defective piston rings but chose to keep it under wraps, prioritizing profits over the safety and wallets of their customers. The result? A settlement in 2017 that offered:
Extended warranty coverage: Honda extended the powertrain warranty for affected Odysseys by 8 years or 120,000 miles, whichever came first. This provided some relief for repairs associated with the piston ring issue.
Reimbursement for repairs: Owners who had already paid for repairs related to the piston rings could seek reimbursement from Honda.
But here’s the catch: The settlement only covered specific model years and had deadlines for filing claims. If your Odyssey falls outside this scope, you’re likely on your own, facing the choice between costly repairs or trading in your beloved minivan for a lemon tag.
So what can you do?
Check your Odyssey’s year and mileage: If it falls under the covered period, investigate whether it experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above.
Contact Honda: They might offer goodwill repairs even outside the settlement’s timeframe, especially if you have documented maintenance records.
Consult a mechanic: A trusted mechanic can diagnose the issue and advise you on the best course of action.
Stay informed: Join online communities and forums dedicated to Honda Odysseys, where you can share experiences and seek advice from fellow owners.
The Honda Odyssey piston ring saga serves as a stark reminder of the importance of consumer vigilance and the power of collective action. While the class action lawsuit provided some relief, it’s crucial to remain informed and proactive to protect yourself from similar situations. Remember, your Odyssey deserves to be more than just a smoke-spewing oil guzzler – keep it running smoothly and safely for many miles to come.
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FAQs:
Does the class action lawsuit still apply to my Odyssey?
No, the settlement only covered Honda Odysseys between 2008 and 2013.
What if my Odyssey experiences excessive oil burning but falls outside the covered years?
Contact Honda and explain the situation. They might offer goodwill repairs or extend warranty coverage based on individual circumstances.
Is there anything I can do to prevent excessive oil burning?
Maintaining proper oil levels and regular oil changes can help, but ultimately, the issue lies with the faulty piston rings.
What are the alternatives if my Odyssey needs repairs?
You can choose to repair the engine, trade it in, or sell it as a salvage vehicle. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so careful consideration is necessary.
Are there any other legal options available?
While the class action lawsuit has concluded, you might have individual legal recourse depending on your specific situation. Consulting with a lawyer specializing in consumer protection can help determine your options.
Where can I find more information and support?
Online forums dedicated to Honda Odysseys, consumer advocacy groups, and your local Honda dealership can provide valuable resources and assistance.
References:
https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/honda-engine-misfire-class-action-settlement-gets-final-ok/
https://www.fixdapp.com/auto-warranty/honda-engine-misfire-warranty-extensions-what-you-need-to-know/
Piston ring replacement/check engine light
byu/Jamergurl921 inHondaOdyssey
Remember, knowledge is power. By staying informed and taking action, you can ensure your Honda Odyssey remains a reliable and enjoyable ride for years to come.
