When my Odyssey started feeling less like a comfortable family hauler and more like a bouncy castle, I knew it was time for new suspension. That classic minivan bounce often signals that the struts and shocks are exhausted. Over the years, I’ve put countless miles on various options, seeking the actual best struts for honda odyssey that deliver smooth ride quality and reliable performance. This comprehensive guide breaks down 10 of the top contenders to help you restore that crucial factory comfort.
Contents
- Detroit Axle – FWD Front 6pc Struts Kit for 13-17 Honda Odyssey, Struts with Coil Spring Sway Bars Rear Shock Absorbers 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Replacement Suspension
- COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2011-2017 Honda Odyssey – Set of 4, Black
- Detroit Axle – 6pc Front Struts Shocks Kit for 1999-2004 Honda Odyssey Ready Struts with Coil Spring Assembly Sway Bar Links + Rear Shock Absorbers 2000 2001 2002 2003 Replacement Suspension
- MOSTPLUS 2X Front Complete Struts 172560 172561 Compatible for 2011 2012 Honda Odyssey Front Struts Shocks Absorbers Coil Spring Assembly
- COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2008-2010 Honda Odyssey – Set of 4
- KAX Front Quick Struts for Honda Odyssey 2008 2009 2010 Front Shocks Complete Struts Assembly with Coil Spring Set of 2, Replace 172541 172542
- Detroit Axle – 2pc Front Struts for 2013-2017 Honda Odyssey, Struts w/Coil Spring 2014 2015 2016 Replacement Suspension Quick Install Ready Shock Assembly
- KUIPERAUTO 2PCS Front Left and Right Struts Shocks Assembly Compatible for 1999-2004 Honda Odyssey Mini Van 171597 171598
- Rear Hatch Liftgate Lift Supports Gas Spring Struts Shocks 6117 for Honda Odyssey 2005-2010, SG126007, Pack of 2
- KUIPERAUTO 172542 172541 Pair Front Struts Assembly Shocks Compatible for 2008 2009 2010 Honda Odyssey 3.5L Coil Spring Shock Absorber
- Comparison Short Insights on Best Struts For Honda Odyssey
- Final Verdict: Choosing Your Odyssey’s Next Suspension
- Best Struts For Honda Odyssey FAQ
- Q: What is the difference between a “Strut Assembly” and a “Shock Absorber” on a Honda Odyssey?
- Q: How do I know when my Honda Odyssey needs new struts or shocks?
- Q: Are quick struts really easier to install than traditional struts?
- Q: Do I need to replace all four suspension components (front struts and rear shocks) at the same time?
- Q: What is the estimated lifespan of the best struts for honda odyssey?
- Q: Should I choose gas-charged or oil-filled shock absorbers for my Odyssey?
Detroit Axle – FWD Front 6pc Struts Kit for 13-17 Honda Odyssey, Struts with Coil Spring Sway Bars Rear Shock Absorbers 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Replacement Suspension
This Detroit Axle kit is a fantastic, all-in-one solution if you’re looking to completely overhaul the suspension on your 2013–2017 Honda Odyssey. Instead of just replacing the front struts, this package includes rear shocks and new sway bar end links, addressing all major wear components at once. This completeness ensures a balanced, like-new ride quality without having to source individual parts. The front struts are quick-install assemblies, meaning the coil spring is pre-mounted, saving significant time and specialized tools during installation.
Key features that stand out:
– Complete 6-piece kit: Includes front quick struts, rear shock absorbers, and front sway bar end links.
– Ready for installation: No special tools or spring compressors required for the front struts.
– Extensive testing: Products undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing for durability.
– Bold 10-Year Warranty backing the components.
Pros:
– Comprehensive solution for total suspension renewal.
– Excellent 10-year warranty offers long-term peace of mind.
– Quick-install design simplifies the DIY process immensely.
– Addresses crucial supporting components like sway bars.
Cons:
– While complete, the price point reflects the inclusion of all components.
Best for:
Owners of 2013–2017 Odysseys who want a complete suspension system overhaul with maximum longevity assurance.
Expert Opinion: This package represents superior value for the late-model Odyssey owner. By including the sway bar links, you eliminate common front-end clunking noises that often accompany strut replacement, providing a truly quiet and restored ride.
COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2011-2017 Honda Odyssey – Set of 4, Black
COMPLETESTRUTS offers a practical 4-piece set designed specifically for the 2011 through 2017 Honda Odyssey generation. This kit focuses on the core dampening components: two front quick struts and two rear gas shock absorbers. They are engineered to match OE specifications, aiming to restore factory ride height and comfort. If you’re only interested in replacing the main springs and shocks, this set provides excellent value and straightforward installation.
Key features that stand out:
– 4-piece core kit: Includes front quick struts and rear gas shocks.
– Wide compatibility: Fits 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 models.
– Factory ride restoration: Designed to restore original handling and ride height.
– One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty for assurance.
Pros:
– Excellent choice for models spanning the entire fourth generation.
– Quick strut assembly minimizes installation time.
– Gas-charged shocks typically offer firmer control than hydraulic ones.
Cons:
– The warranty period is shorter compared to other brands offered.
Best for:
Drivers needing to restore primary ride components (struts and shocks) across the popular fourth-generation models (2011-2017).
Expert Opinion: This set is a reliable workhorse replacement. For a standard commuter vehicle, the quality and fitment are exactly what you need to remove that feeling of being “disconnected” from the road.
Detroit Axle – 6pc Front Struts Shocks Kit for 1999-2004 Honda Odyssey Ready Struts with Coil Spring Assembly Sway Bar Links + Rear Shock Absorbers 2000 2001 2002 2003 Replacement Suspension
Not forgetting the drivers who cherish the second-generation Odyssey, Detroit Axle provides another comprehensive 6-piece kit tailored for 1999–2004 models. Just like their newer model kit, this includes front complete struts, rear shock absorbers, and front stabilizer links, ensuring that older suspensions get a complete refresh. This is especially vital for older vehicles where rubber components in the suspension have often long since deteriorated.
Key features that stand out:
– Specific Fitment: Tailored precisely for 1999–2004 Honda Odyssey minivans.
– Complete Ready-to-Install Assemblies: Front struts come pre-assembled, saving complexity.
– Focus on durability: Components are impact and fatigue tested.
– Exceptional 10-Year Warranty included.
Pros:
– One of the few comprehensive kits available for the second generation.
– Full kit ensures balanced performance front-to-back.
– 10-year warranty is unmatched in this category.
Cons:
– Older models may require additional rust mitigation prior to installation.
Best for:
Restoring the ride quality of classic 1999–2004 Honda Odyssey models, ensuring renewed stability.
Expert Opinion: Finding quality best struts for honda odyssey parts for models over two decades old can be challenging. This Detroit Axle kit is essential for owners determined to keep these reliable older vans on the road safely and comfortably.
MOSTPLUS 2X Front Complete Struts 172560 172561 Compatible for 2011 2012 Honda Odyssey Front Struts Shocks Absorbers Coil Spring Assembly
The MOSTPLUS 2X front complete struts are designed specifically for the early years of the fourth-generation Odyssey (2011–2012). These are quick strut assemblies, meaning the spring and mount are included, making replacement a direct bolt-on process. They emphasize high-performance engineering, featuring chrome piston rods to prevent leaking and seamless sleeves to avoid gliding, translating to reliable dampening and a quiet ride.
Key features that stand out:
– Corrosion Resistance: Electrophoretic coating enhances anti-corrosion and anti-oxidation performance.
– High Durability Materials: Utilizes high silicon to resist metal fatigue in the coil spring.
– Low Noise Operation: Engineered for low vibration and no squeaking noise.
– Direct Replacement: Matches OEM numbers 172560 and 172561 for precise fitment.
Pros:
– Focus on material quality for long-term reliability.
– Engineered specifically for a quiet operation.
– Quick installation, as they are a complete unit.
Cons:
– Only replaces the front pair; rear shocks must be purchased separately.
Best for:
Owners of 2011 or 2012 Odysseys who only need to replace the worn front struts and seek high-quality, quiet performance.
Expert Opinion: MOSTPLUS focuses on the details that matter, like robust coatings and specialized piston rods. This is a reliable, cost-effective option for addressing common front-end sagging and bouncing issues.
COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2008-2010 Honda Odyssey – Set of 4
Addressing the popular third-generation models (2008–2010), this COMPLETESTRUTS kit provides a 4-piece solution that mirrors the structure of their newer model set. You get two front complete strut assemblies and two rear shock absorbers, designed after OE specifications for an exact fit and the expected factory ride quality. This set is ideal for eliminating the wallowing feeling often found in higher-mileage 2008–2010 Odysseys.
Key features that stand out:
– Third-Gen Specific: Perfect replacement kit for 2008, 2009, and 2010 models.
– OE Matched: Engineered to meet or exceed original equipment specifications.
– Full Dampening Kit: Provides both front quick struts and rear shocks in one purchase.
– Brand New Factory Direct supply ensures component quality.
Pros:
– Comprehensive solution for the 2008–2010 generation.
– Straightforward, ready-to-install design.
– Restores the original comfortable handling.
Cons:
– Does not include sway bar links or other smaller bushings.
Best for:
DIYers or shops looking for a reliable, comprehensive shock and strut replacement for the 2008-2010 model years.
Expert Opinion: For this generation, balancing cost and OE fitment is key. COMPLETESTRUTS hits that sweet spot, offering the main dampening components necessary to dramatically improve ride quality.
KAX Front Quick Struts for Honda Odyssey 2008 2009 2010 Front Shocks Complete Struts Assembly with Coil Spring Set of 2, Replace 172541 172542
If your 2008–2010 Odyssey only needs the front suspension refreshed, the KAX front quick struts are an excellent option. KAX specifically highlights the safety benefits of new struts, noting how they enhance tire-to-road contact, reduce body bounce, and improve maneuverability by up to 50%. By restoring vehicle body height, these struts help prevent grounding and provide necessary structural support.
Key features that stand out:
– Focus on Safety: Designed to shorten braking distances by improving tire contact.
– Bounce Reduction: Damping rods minimize body vibration and bounce.
– Improve Handling: Restores stability during turns and enhances overall vehicle handling.
– Direct Fit: Replaces popular OEM numbers 172541 and 172542.
Pros:
– High performance focus for better control and safety.
– Easy, complete bolt-on assembly.
– Effectively restores necessary body height.
Cons:
– Limited to 2008–2010 front suspension only.
Best for:
Drivers of third-generation Odysseys who prioritize improved handling and safety performance after noticing significant front-end wear.
Expert Opinion: KAX is dedicated to the functional benefits of quality suspension. Their emphasis on reducing braking distance is a crucial, often overlooked, benefit when searching for the best struts for honda odyssey, especially in heavy minivans.
Detroit Axle – 2pc Front Struts for 2013-2017 Honda Odyssey, Struts w/Coil Spring 2014 2015 2016 Replacement Suspension Quick Install Ready Shock Assembly
For those 2013–2017 Odyssey owners whose rear shocks are still in good condition, this Detroit Axle 2-piece front quick strut kit is a targeted solution. These are complete assemblies, meaning they are ready to install right out of the box, eliminating the hazardous and complicated step of compressing coil springs. Built with the same rigor as their comprehensive kits, these front struts are tested for impact and wear.
Key features that stand out:
– Targeted Front Repair: Perfect for addressing front-end nose dive or sagging only.
– Quick Install Ready: No need for special tools or spring compressors.
– Quality Tested: Undergoes Detroit Axle’s standard impact, wear, and fatigue testing.
– Generous 10-Year Warranty on the front pair.
Pros:
– Exceptional 10-year warranty, even on the two-piece kit.
– Ideal if you only need the front replacement.
– Saves money by not forcing a rear shock purchase.
Cons:
– While durable, replacing only two components may lead to unbalanced handling if the rear is severely worn.
Best for:
Odyssey owners who have confirmed that only the front struts are failing but still demand the security of a long-term warranty.
Expert Opinion: If you are comfortable with the condition of your rear shocks, this 2pc kit offers the best blend of installation ease and long-term security, thanks to Detroit Axle’s robust warranty commitment.
KUIPERAUTO 2PCS Front Left and Right Struts Shocks Assembly Compatible for 1999-2004 Honda Odyssey Mini Van 171597 171598
KUIPERAUTO provides another reliable option for the older 1999–2004 Honda Odyssey generation. These are complete front strut assemblies designed to significantly improve ride stability and comfort by providing excellent cushioning effect. They are built to be robust, utilizing materials that are resistant to oil, water, and corrosion, ensuring stable performance across various temperatures and environments—perfect for an all-weather family vehicle.
Key features that stand out:
– Excellent Cushioning: Specifically designed to quickly reduce body bounce and ease road bumps.
– Temperature Resilience: Engineered to work stably in various temperature environments.
– Quality Tested: Pre-assembled and tested to meet OE specifications for easy installation.
– Broad OEM Cross-Reference: Extensive list of replaceable OEM numbers ensures correct fitment.
Pros:
– Dramatically improves stability and comfort in older vans.
– Built to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
– Pre-assembled for a hassle-free, accurate installation.
Cons:
– Requires separate purchase of rear shocks.
Best for:
Restoring comfort and stable handling to 1999–2004 Odysseys that experience heavy road usage and varying climates.
Expert Opinion: The focus on adapting to various temperature environments suggests high-quality internal fluid and seals, which is critical for maintaining consistent dampening characteristics over the life of the strut.
Rear Hatch Liftgate Lift Supports Gas Spring Struts Shocks 6117 for Honda Odyssey 2005-2010, SG126007, Pack of 2
While often overlooked when discussing the best struts for honda odyssey, the rear liftgate supports are technically gas struts and are absolutely critical for minivan functionality. This pair is designed for the 2005–2010 Odyssey (specifically non-power liftgate models). If your hatch is constantly falling or requires significant effort to hold open, these are the necessary replacement. Installation is fast and requires no special tools.
Key features that stand out:
– Function: Supports the rear hatch liftgate.
– Specific Fitment: Tailored for 2005–2010 Odyssey (Non Power Liftgate Only).
– Quick Installation: Easily replaced in minutes with basic tools.
– Safety Feature: Ensures the heavy rear door stays open securely.
Pros:
– Extremely easy and fast DIY installation.
– Essential safety and convenience replacement.
– Affordable way to fix a common minivan annoyance.
Cons:
– Not applicable to models equipped with the power liftgate function.
Best for:
Any 2005–2010 Odyssey owner whose rear hatch struggles to stay open on its own.
Expert Opinion: Do not ignore failing lift supports; they pose a significant safety risk. This product offers a reliable, inexpensive fix that restores full utility to the van’s cargo area.
KUIPERAUTO 172542 172541 Pair Front Struts Assembly Shocks Compatible for 2008 2009 2010 Honda Odyssey 3.5L Coil Spring Shock Absorber
KUIPERAUTO provides another competitive set of quick-install front struts for the 2008–2010 model years, specifically featuring the 3.5L engine. These assemblies are meticulously constructed, including the strut, coil spring, mount, boot, and bumper kit. The focus here is on high material quality, featuring advanced alloy steel and an electrophoretic painted surface to resist wear and corrosion, promising exceptional performance even in extreme conditions.
Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive Assembly: Comes completely pre-assembled, requiring no spring compression.
– High Material Quality: Advanced alloy steel and corrosion-resistant coating.
– Extreme Condition Testing: Passed high and low temperature testing and air spring blasting testing.
– Meticulous Workmanship: Standard sizing ensures easy, accurate installation.
Pros:
– Built for prolonged reliability and resistance to environmental damage.
– Guaranteed accuracy of fitment due to OE design adherence.
– Restores front ride comfort and stability effectively.
Cons:
– While durable, they are slightly more expensive than some budget front-only options.
Best for:
Owners of 2008–2010 3.5L Odysseys who need robust, high-quality front struts designed to last through harsh weather conditions.
Expert Opinion: When looking for the best struts for honda odyssey, reliability in extreme conditions is paramount, especially if you live in a region with significant salt usage or temperature swings. KUIPERAUTO’s material science approach makes this a highly dependable choice.
Comparison Short Insights on Best Struts For Honda Odyssey
Choosing the best struts for honda odyssey often comes down to balancing cost, convenience, and how much of your suspension you need to replace.
For Maximum Convenience and the Best Overall Solution, Detroit Axle’s 6pc kits (available for both 1999–2004 and 2013–2017 models) stand out. They include not only the front quick struts and rear shocks but also critical sway bar links, ensuring a complete, balanced suspension renewal supported by an industry-leading 10-year warranty.
If you drive a fourth-generation Odyssey (2011–2017) and prioritize replacing the core components quickly, the COMPLETESTRUTS 4-piece set is an excellent general replacement option that covers both front and rear dampening at a competitive price.
DIYers concerned solely with the dangerous and difficult task of spring compression should focus on the products labeled as “Quick Struts” or “Complete Strut Assemblies,” such as the MOSTPLUS or KAX front pairs. These are bolt-on solutions that dramatically simplify the installation process.
Finally, remember to verify your model year carefully. The suspension specifications for the 1999-2004, 2005-2010, and 2011-2017 generations are distinctly different.
Final Verdict: Choosing Your Odyssey’s Next Suspension
Selecting the best struts for honda odyssey depends on your vehicle’s age, your budget, and how extensive you want the replacement job to be.
Top Recommendation for Value and Warranty (2013–2017 Models):
The Detroit Axle 6pc Front Struts Kit offers unparalleled peace of mind. Getting a complete front-to-back suspension overhaul, including key accessories like sway bar links, paired with a full 10-Year Warranty, makes this the smart long-term investment for newer models.
Best Option for Cost-Effective Full Replacement (2008–2010 Models):
The COMPLETESTRUTS 4-Set for 2008–2010 provides all four crucial dampening components, restoring original ride quality without requiring accessory replacements. It’s the perfect mid-range solution for balancing budget and performance.
Best Strut for Specific Performance and Durability:
The KUIPERAUTO Pair Front Struts Assembly (2008–2010 fitment) is a compelling choice for drivers in harsh climates. Their specialized anti-corrosion materials and rigorous testing promise superior longevity and consistent performance under stress.
Best Struts For Honda Odyssey FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a “Strut Assembly” and a “Shock Absorber” on a Honda Odyssey?
A: On the Honda Odyssey, the front suspension uses strut assemblies (also called “quick struts”). A strut assembly is a structural component that handles the vehicle’s weight, combines the dampening mechanism, coil spring, and upper mounting plate into one unit. The rear suspension typically uses separate shock absorbers, which handle only the dampening (cushioning) and are not structural components.
Q: How do I know when my Honda Odyssey needs new struts or shocks?
A: Common symptoms of worn best struts for honda odyssey parts include excessive “nose diving” when braking, significant body roll when turning, and poor ride quality, often described as a “bouncy” or “wallowing” feeling. Another clear sign is visible fluid leakage on the exterior of the shock body or strut housing.
Q: Are quick struts really easier to install than traditional struts?
A: Absolutely. Quick struts (or complete strut assemblies) come fully assembled with the spring, strut, and mounting plate pre-compressed and ready to bolt in. Traditional strut replacement requires a dangerous and time-consuming process using a specialized spring compressor to transfer the old spring onto the new strut body. Quick struts are highly recommended for DIY mechanics and save significant labor costs at a garage.
Q: Do I need to replace all four suspension components (front struts and rear shocks) at the same time?
A: While it is generally recommended to replace them in pairs (both fronts, or both rears) to maintain balanced ride quality and consistent handling, you don’t always need to replace all four simultaneously. However, if your vehicle has high mileage (over 80,000 miles) and you are replacing one component, replacing all four dampening units provides the best results for restoring the original comfort and stability of your minivan.
Q: What is the estimated lifespan of the best struts for honda odyssey?
A: The lifespan varies significantly based on driving conditions and road quality, but most original equipment (OE) Honda Odyssey struts last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. High-quality aftermarket replacements, particularly those with strong warranties like the Detroit Axle components, should aim to achieve or exceed the longevity of the original suspension.
Q: Should I choose gas-charged or oil-filled shock absorbers for my Odyssey?
A: The best struts for honda odyssey are almost always gas-charged. Gas-charged shocks contain pressurized nitrogen gas which helps prevent the shock oil from aerating (foaming) under heavy use. This ensures more consistent dampening and superior ride control, especially crucial for a heavy vehicle like the Honda Odyssey.
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