NHTSA Complaint #11703796 — 2019 HONDA ODYSSEY

On November 27, 2025, my 2019 Honda Odyssey experienced a sudden and catastrophic engine failure while traveling at highway speed. The vehicle had been serviced at an authorized Honda dealership the previous day (oil change and tire rotation), and the failure occurred approximately 55 miles after that service. While driving on the interstate, the engine abruptly lost power, expelled a large quantity of engine oil onto the roadway, and then caught fire in the engine compartment. The driver managed to pull over safely and extinguish the fire. This was a significant safety hazard to the driver, passengers, and surrounding motorists. The dealership later reported that the engine suffered internal mechanical failure involving broken connecting rods, which caused extensive engine damage and oil loss. I reviewed public information and discovered that certain Honda 3.5L V6 engines from similar model years have been recalled for internal engine defects that may lead to connecting-rod issues or catastrophic engine failure. However, my vehicle’s VIN is not currently included in those recalls, despite experiencing a similar failure pattern. This incident involved: Sudden loss of engine power at highway speed Immediate oil loss onto the roadway Engine compartment fire Risk of collision or injury Given the severity of the incident and the similarities to known recalls for related engine failures, I am submitting this report to request that NHTSA review this event as part of potential broader safety concerns involving this engine family. The underlying cause should be evaluated to determine whether a defect or pattern exists that could affect additional vehicles not currently included in recall campaigns. No injuries occurred, but the incident posed a serious risk to life and traffic safety.