Parts for your 2017 Honda Odyssey-Oil pump

2017 Honda Odyssey oil pump — what it does and when to sort it

Based on Honda’s technical publications and parts catalogues, the 2017 Honda Odyssey absolutely uses an engine oil pump. The 2011–2017 Odyssey Service Manual (Lubrication System section) describes a crankshaft-driven internal-gear (trochoid) pump located in the front (timing) cover, and Honda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2017 Odyssey (J35 V6) lists a complete oil pump assembly, pick-up, and relief components. Honda ServiceNews and V6 training materials also note the pump’s role in maintaining oil pressure for bearings, VTEC, and cylinder deactivation systems. So yes — the oil pump is fitted and very relevant on this model.

The 2017 Odyssey’s oil pump is the quiet hero of the J35 V6. Spinning with the crank, it pulls oil through the pick-up strainer, pressurises it, and feeds everything that matters — crank and rod bearings, cam journals, VTEC components, and the Variable Cylinder Management hardware. Without steady pressure and flow, the engine wouldn’t last a kilometre. That’s why clean oil, the right viscosity (Honda specifies 0W-20), and a quality filter matter so much.

Is it a regular service item? Not usually. The pump itself is designed to last the life of the engine if oil changes are done on time and the pick-up screen stays clean. During routine servicing, a good workshop will:

• Check for any oil pressure warning lamp history, rattles at cold start, or low-pressure DTCs.
• Inspect for leaks around the front cover and oil pan, and note any metallic glitter in drained oil or the filter.
• Use the correct 0W-20 meeting the latest API spec, and reset the maintenance minder.

When does replacement make sense? Consider it if there’s persistent low oil pressure with verified gauge readings, noisy bottom-end on start-up even with fresh 0W-20, debris contamination from an internal engine failure, or during a high-kilometre rebuild. Replacing the pump isn’t a quick driveway job — it typically involves removing the sump (oil pan), crank pulley, and front cover, then resealing with the correct Honda RTV. Smart add-ons while in there include a new pick-up O-ring, front crank seal, and a fresh filter and oil. Priming the pump and verifying hot idle pressure with a mechanical gauge are must-dos before calling the job done.

For owners timing a bigger service, it’s worth asking the workshop to assess the pump condition when the timing belt and front-end components are off, as some labour overlaps can save a few dollars.

FAQs

Where is the oil pump on a 2017 Honda Odyssey?
The pump is housed in the front (timing) cover and is driven directly by the crankshaft. Access typically requires removing the crank pulley, lower covers, and oil pan so the front cover can come off safely and be resealed.

What are the common signs the oil pump needs attention?
Red oil pressure warning lamp, verified low pressure on a mechanical gauge at hot idle, rumbling or knocking on cold starts, and metallic particles in the oil or filter. Rule out low oil level, wrong viscosity, a clogged pick-up, or a faulty pressure switch before condemning the pump.

Should the oil pump be replaced during the timing belt service?
Not by default. The timing belt is a scheduled item