Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (power steering, steering column, rack and pinion).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 2006 Honda Odyssey owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
The contact owns a 2006 Honda Odyssey. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the power steering malfunctioned causing the steering wheel to become very difficult to turn in either direction. The vehicle was examined by an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the power steering pump hose had malfunctioned causing a power steering fluid leak. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 80,000.
One main problem I have consistently noticed is signs someone other than me is getting in my car or leaving at least impression they did inside the car alot although I am the only one supposed to have a key. It was happening so much I paid Lafontaine Honda more than $1000 to change out the keys including the ignition but that hasnt resolved the problem. I still see normal evidence they are actually touching things inside my car and even stealing alot of fuel which they took so much last night it was ridiculous. I keep sending my local police reports and photos of as much as I can using the tipline and they never contact me back like they either ignoring, staying anonymous, or have no time to read my messages. They fuel is being stolen everytime I fill the tank by someone nearbye. …
Vehicle steering is stiff on slow turns and parking. Steering column vibrates at a high rate of speed. Tie rods have been replaced. New tires, rotors and brake pads have also been replaced. High pitched sound also comes from steering column while idling in stationary position. Moisture appears around o-ring leading into the steering fluid pump. Regular maintenance has already been performed since purchase (new in April 2006). The steering issue concerns me as the 'symptoms' come and go. I've talked with others who have same model/year and they experience same problem. Honda owes it to their customers to issue a recall on this 2006 Honda Odyssey power steering problem. It's a costly repair that seems to be prevalent in quite a few 2006 Odyssey's. Service records for this vehicle are in owners possession.
Have had this vehicle since new (July 2006). Vehicle/steering/wheels experience significant vibration at 65 to 70mph. Have changed tires, all suspension parts and nothing seems to solve this problem. Been going on since vehicle was new. Have been to dealership many many times and spent a lot of money based on dealership service recommendation but still problem persists. This vehicle is defective and Honda needs to issue recall for this generation of odysseys as I have read about this issue with many owners of this same type vehicle.
Tl* the contact owns a 2006 Honda Odyssey. While driving approximately 5 MPH, there was an abnormal rattling sound and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The failure recurred multiple times. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 103,000. Updated 8/10/15
Tl* the contact owns a 2006 Honda Odyssey. While driving 20 MPH, the vehicle lost steering ability. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, but was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The VIN was unknown. The failure mileage was 58,000.
Tl* the contact owns a 2006 Honda Odyssey. While driving at low speeds, the power steering failed without warning and was unable to turn. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The VIN was unknown. The failure mileage was 51,000.
The rear lower motor mounts wear out prematurely and cause unwanted vibrations and steering play. This is a known issue and has not been rectified. The dealership charges $800 to replace the defective parts.....updated 11/13/15 updated 11/17/15.
Power steering stiff at low speeds or parking and very loud howling noise, mechanic state there is a recall but I do not see any, almost had numerous accidents due to this issue of stiff steering and unable to turn
ECO system causes vehicle front end to shake when activated thought it was wheel balance and nothing front alignment and still does the same thing
Steering complaints in other Odyssey years
Frequently asked questions
How common are steering problems on the 2006 Honda Odyssey?
NHTSA has 127 complaints about the steering of the 2006 Honda Odyssey, 18% of the model year's 703 complaints. The component named most often is hydraulic power assist › pump (9 mentions).
Is there a recall for 2006 Honda Odyssey steering problems?
No. NHTSA lists no steering recall for the 2006 Honda Odyssey, though it has 3 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 2006 Honda Odyssey steering problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 51,000 miles, and 18% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 2 crashes, 1 fire and 6 injuries to steering problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.