Honda Odyssey Owners Eligible for Power Tailgate Defect Repairs

Imagine returning from a shopping trip, arms full of packages, only to find your Honda Odyssey's power tailgate refusing to open - or worse, closing unexpectedly or emitting alarming warning sounds. This frustrating scenario isn't isolated. Numerous Odyssey owners report similar tailgate failures. If you're among them, this guide outlines your legal options.

Owners or lessees of 2018-2021 Honda Odyssey vehicles experiencing power tailgate malfunctions due to water leakage may qualify for inclusion in a class action lawsuit.

• Unexpected opening/closing of tailgate
• Complete failure to open/close
• Electrical short circuits

These malfunctions compromise vehicle functionality, potentially requiring costly repairs and diminishing resale value.

The collective lawsuit against Honda aims to secure compensation for affected owners through unified legal action.

• Shared grievances: Combines individual claims into a stronger collective case
• Cost sharing: Distributes legal expenses across participants
• Efficient resolution: Consolidates similar cases for streamlined processing
• Potential recovery: May compensate for repair costs and diminished value
• Expert representation: Managed by specialized law firms with relevant experience

Successful litigation could yield reimbursement for:

• Repair expenses
• Vehicle depreciation
• Related incidental costs

The case is managed by Nye, Stirling, Hale, Miller & Sweet LLP and Sauder Schelkopf LLC, firms specializing in automotive defect litigation.

Honda Odyssey power tailgate problems span multiple model years with these frequent manifestations:

• Operational failure: Unresponsive to key fob, dashboard controls, or manual buttons
• Intermittent function: Works only during specific vehicle states (e.g., shortly after startup)
• Automatic activation: Opens/closes without user input
• Warning signals: Persistent beeping or error messages
• Support strut failure: Inability to maintain open position

While no official recall exists, Honda issued TSB 22-018 (July 19, 2022) addressing tailgate operation issues:

Faulty right-side tailgate spring dampers failing to provide adequate support pressure.

Replacement of right tailgate spring assembly requiring:

• Component disassembly (cargo lights, headliner, trim panels)
• Proper tailgate support during repair
• Spring replacement with part #74981-THR-A01
• Trim clip replacement (part #91561-TA5-A11)

This 1.1-hour repair is covered under standard warranty.

Persistent defects in 2020+ models may qualify for lemon law claims when:

• Multiple repair attempts (typically 3-4) fail to resolve issue
• Defect substantially impairs use, value, or safety
• Claim falls within state-mandated timeframe (usually 12-24 months/12,000-24,000 miles)
• Detailed repair documentation exists
• Manufacturer had reasonable repair opportunities

Approximate average settlements by model year:

• 2020 Odyssey: $70,523
• 2021 Odyssey: $70,103
• 2022 Odyssey: $72,236
• 2023 Odyssey: $76,458
• 2024 Odyssey: $77,928

Note: Settlement values vary case-by-case and shouldn't be interpreted as guarantees.

Owners experiencing unresolved tailgate issues should consult qualified legal counsel to evaluate individual or class action options. Proper documentation of all repair attempts and communications with dealerships is essential for building a strong case.