Honda SX4A 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle · Honda / Acura · Expert rebuild service since 1987. Lifetime warranty. Free diagnostic.
1999–2004 Honda Odyssey, 2002–2004 Honda Pilot (early), 2001–2004 Honda MDX
| Configuration | 4-speed automatic FWD transaxle |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratios | 1st 2.76:1 · 2nd 1.55:1 · 3rd 1.03:1 · 4th 0.71:1 · Rev 2.05:1 |
| Fluid Type | Honda ATF-Z1 |
| Fluid Capacity | 8.4 qts total, 3.8 qts service refill |
SX4A in Odyssey/Pilot applications is severely undersized for minivan weight and load. 3rd gear failure is extremely common, often occurring under 100,000 miles.
Symptoms: Loss of 3rd gear, limp mode (1st and 2nd only), DTC P1768, metal in ATF
The stock radiator transmission cooler is insufficient for heavy Odyssey use. Units overheat under sustained highway driving with passengers or cargo.
Symptoms: Transmission temperature warning, harsh shifts when hot, delayed engagement after heat soak
The torque converter hub wears the pump bushing, causing internal ATF leakage and pressure loss.
Symptoms: Delayed engagement when cold, slipping at highway cruise, ATF contamination with metallic particles
SX4A rebuild always includes an upgraded 3rd gear clutch pack (5- or 6-plate). Pump bushing is replaced. An external auxiliary cooler is strongly recommended at time of rebuild. Torque converter is rebuilt. All clutch packs, seals, and solenoids are replaced.
Honda ATF-Z1 every 30,000 miles. If you own a 1999–2004 Odyssey and haven't had the transmission serviced in 30,000 miles, do it immediately — these are among the highest-failure-rate Honda transmissions ever produced.
Yes — the SX4A is notoriously unreliable. Honda significantly undersized the 3rd gear clutch pack for a minivan application. Failure before 120,000 miles is very common.
A full SX4A rebuild ranges $1,700–$2,200. We strongly recommend adding an auxiliary cooler ($189) to prevent recurrence.
No — 3rd gear failure distributes metallic debris throughout the valve body and torque converter, requiring complete disassembly and rebuild.
The 2005 Odyssey received a substantially redesigned 5-speed transmission that is much more reliable.
With upgraded clutch packs, auxiliary cooler, and regular ATF-Z1 service, a rebuilt SX4A typically lasts 150,000+ additional miles.
Free diagnostic, written estimate, lifetime warranty. Chicago's SX4A rebuild specialists since 1987.
