Why does the Odyssey shake when the speed exceeds 120 km/h?
3 Answers
The reasons why the Odyssey shakes when the speed exceeds 120 km/h are: 1. Loose chassis and aging ball joints; 2. Deformation of the front axle or frame, and bending of the drive shaft; 3. Issues with the stiffness of the front leaf springs, the effectiveness of the shock absorbers, or loose rivets on the spring brackets; 4. Problems with wheel static balance or excessive tire deformation. The Odyssey's body dimensions are: length 4847mm, width 1820mm, height 1702mm, wheelbase 2900mm, and fuel tank capacity 50 liters. The Odyssey is equipped with a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine, with a maximum power of 107kW at 6200 rpm, a maximum torque of 175Nm at 3500 rpm, and is paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission.
My Odyssey also used to shake badly when reaching 120 km/h. After checking at the repair shop, we found the main issue was tire dynamic imbalance. When speed exceeds 100 km/h, even minor tire imbalance gets amplified into noticeable vibration - especially common for vehicles with patched tires or new replacements. I also had the mechanic check for wheel rim deformation, as I once hit a pothole hard causing slight edge deformation. Aging suspension components are another potential hazard - cracked lower arm bushings or leaking shock absorbers can also cause high-speed instability. I recommend getting a four-wheel dynamic balance adjustment - inexpensive but effective. If shaking persists, inspect the driveshaft and half-shafts, as wear on these components can cause resonance during high-speed rotation.
I've encountered the exact same situation where the car body vibrates noticeably as soon as I hit the highway. Focus on three key areas: Wheel dynamic balancing is a must—many shops don't rebalance the tires after repairs and just put them back on. Also check for wheel rim deformation, as aluminum alloy rims can easily warp after impacts. Don't overlook chassis components—loose front suspension ball joints or deformed lower control arms can compromise stability. Once, excessive wear on the driveshaft universal joint also caused vibrations, costing me several hundred to replace. These issues are quite common in 6-7 year old Odysseys—it's best to do a full tire and chassis check before highway driving. When driving, avoid deep potholes, and don't force the wheels against curbs when parking to minimize rim damage.
