Parts for your 2017 Honda Odyssey-Struts

2017 Honda Odyssey struts — what they do and when to sort them

Struts are relevant and used on the 2017 Honda Odyssey. Technical references — including Honda factory service information and the 2017 Odyssey Owner’s Manual suspension specifications — show a MacPherson strut front suspension with separate rear shock absorbers. Major aftermarket application catalogues (KYB and Monroe) also list complete front strut assemblies for this model. So, on this Odyssey, struts are fitted at the front, while the rear runs conventional shocks.

Up front, each MacPherson strut combines a shock absorber and coil spring into one structural unit. It supports vehicle weight, locates the wheel, and controls body movement over bumps and through corners. Good struts help the Odyssey track straight, brake predictably, and keep tyres wearing evenly — all with less bounce and fewer rattles for the family on board.

There isn’t a set replacement interval, but struts are wear items. As a rule of thumb, many owners see best performance for 80,000–150,000 kilometres depending on driving, loads, and road quality. It’s smart to have the front end inspected at every service or at least every 20,000 km, looking for leaks, play at the top mounts, and uneven tyre wear. When it’s time, replace struts in pairs on the same axle and book a wheel alignment afterwards because geometry is affected when a strut is removed.

• Tell-tales they’re tired: oil weeping down the strut body, clunks over small bumps, nose-diving under brakes, a floaty or bouncy feel, steering wander, or cupped/feathered tyres.

On the 2017 Odyssey, consider complete loaded struts (spring, mount, bearing, boot, and damper together) to refresh everything in one go. If fitting bare struts, inspect and often replace the strut mounts/top bearings, bump stops, and dust boots. Sway bar links commonly seize or knock with age and are easy to swap while the strut is out.

After installation, get a proper alignment to dial in camber and toe. Re-check torque after a short settling period, keep tyres at the correct pressures, and avoid chronic overloading — all of which helps new struts last longer. Remember, the rear of this Odyssey uses shocks, not struts, so front and rear service parts differ.

Does the 2017 Honda Odyssey have struts or shocks?
It runs MacPherson struts at the front and conventional shock absorbers at the rear. That’s why you’ll see “front struts” listed in parts catalogues, and “rear shocks” as the separate rear dampers.

How long do the front struts typically last?
Many owners see 80,000–150,000 km, but life varies with roads, loads, and driving style. Replace when there are leaks, clunks, poor ride/handling, or uneven tyre wear, and always do both fronts together with a wheel alignment.

Do you need an alignment after replacing front struts?
Yes. Removing and refitting struts can shift camber and toe. An alignment protects tyre life and ensures the Odyssey steers straight and brakes confidently.