2017 Honda Odyssey Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in Your 2017 Honda Odyssey

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Honda Odyssey has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Honda Odyssey has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2017 Honda Odyssey?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Honda Odyssey, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. Start with the simplest solutions, such as checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to observe any other dashboard indicators, as they may provide additional context or clues about the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can direct you to the exact area of concern. After that, inspect the condition of the spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can significantly impact engine performance. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can also lead to engine issues. Don’t overlook the importance of examining wiring and connections around the engine for any signs of damage or corrosion, which could be contributing to the problem. Finally, consulting your vehicle's owner's manual can provide valuable insights into what the check engine light may indicate and offer guidance on potential fixes. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the check engine light issue in your Honda Odyssey.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Honda Odyssey?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2017 Honda Odyssey, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which is an easy fix that can often be overlooked. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to more significant engine problems if not addressed. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, indicating a need for immediate attention to avoid costly repairs. Worn-out spark plugs are another potential cause, as they can disrupt engine performance and lead to misfires. Furthermore, issues with the mass airflow sensor can result in an improper air-fuel mixture, affecting overall engine efficiency. Lastly, a malfunctioning ignition coil can cause rough idling and misfiring, signaling that it’s time for a closer inspection. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issues that may be causing the check engine light to illuminate in their Honda Odyssey.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 Honda Odyssey?

Addressing the check engine light in a 2017 Honda Odyssey is of utmost importance due to the potential risks associated with ignoring it. The check engine light is not merely a nuisance; it serves as a critical warning system that alerts drivers to underlying issues within the engine or emissions system. Neglecting this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including decreased fuel efficiency and significant engine damage, which can escalate repair costs and compromise vehicle safety. Moreover, some issues indicated by the check engine light may pose immediate safety risks while driving, making it essential to act swiftly. By seeking a professional diagnosis as soon as the light illuminates, you can identify the root cause of the problem and take necessary actions to prevent further damage, ensuring your Honda Odyssey remains reliable and safe on the road.

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