The Hondamatic five-speed transmission really tanked this van's desirability. It made Chrysler look good by comparison
It's a great vehicle otherwise, but there was a period around the turn of the millennium where any V6+5AT Honda or Acura product was a serious dice-roll.
I thought it was the four speed that was the biggest problem, but I guess both were bad. I have one in a 2000 Accord V6. The damn transmission doesn't have a fucking filter. No wonder they crap out.
You're right about it being an otherwise great vehicle. The third row seats in the Honda are comfier than the middle row of a Ford Freestar van.