Honda Pilot problems

honda logo

The Honda Pilot is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating manufactured by Honda since 2002. Primarily aimed at the North American market, the Pilot is the largest SUV produced by Honda. Pilots are currently manufactured in Lincoln, Alabama, and the Pilot was produced in Alliston, Ontario until April 2007. The first generation Pilot was released in April 2002 as a 2003 model.

The Pilot shares its platform with the Acura MDX, as well as the North American market Odyssey minivan. The Pilot's unibody construction and independent suspension are designed to provide handling similar to that of a car, and it has integrated perimeter frame rails to permit towing and light off-road use.

Prior to the introduction of the Pilot, Honda marketed the compact crossover CR-V and the Honda Passport (a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo). The Honda Passport that was sold between 1993 and 2002 was a truck-based design. The Pilot is Honda's largest SUV, although the 2010 Crosstour surpassed the Pilot in length. The Pilot is now currently in its fourth generation, with multiple design changes occurring from getting bigger and resembling a truck to downsizing and becoming sleeker to now a slight mix of both.

The Pilot is sold in North America and the Middle East, while the Honda MDX (first generation Acura MDX) was marketed in Japan and Australia for several years. The second-generation Pilot was also sold in Russia, Ukraine, South Korea, Latin America, and the Philippines.

photo of Honda Pilot car production

Social links

Honda Pilot model years

honda pilot 2024 photo
Pilot 2024
Honda

31

1

23

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2023 photo
Pilot 2023
Honda

46

1

27

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2022 photo
Pilot 2022
Honda

55

3

28

4.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2021 photo
Pilot 2021
Honda

202

8

22

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2020 photo
Pilot 2020
Honda

331

9

27

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2019 photo
Pilot 2019
Honda

573

11

26

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2018 photo
Pilot 2018
Honda

308

5

29

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2017 photo
Pilot 2017
Honda

657

2

20

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2016 photo
Pilot 2016
Honda

1265

7

21

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2015 photo
Pilot 2015
Honda

90

4

18

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2014 photo
Pilot 2014
Honda

103

3

18

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2013 photo
Pilot 2013
Honda

255

6

28

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2012 photo
Pilot 2012
Honda

160

9

26

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2011 photo
Pilot 2011
Honda

278

11

23

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2010 photo
Pilot 2010
Honda

110

10

21

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2009 photo
Pilot 2009
Honda

132

9

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2008 photo
Pilot 2008
Honda

127

9

24

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2007 photo
Pilot 2007
Honda

201

9

26

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2006 photo
Pilot 2006
Honda

259

10

27

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2005 photo
Pilot 2005
Honda

674

15

25

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2004 photo
Pilot 2004
Honda

539

13

26

4.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2003 photo
Pilot 2003
Honda

739

14

25

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Honda Pilot problems

Based on complaints from owners of Honda Pilot cars, several common problems have been reported over the years. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

  1. Transmission Failures: One of the most serious problems reported with Honda Pilots is transmission failure. This issue is particularly associated with the 2003 model but has also been observed in other model years. Transmission failure can be a costly repair and poses a safety risk, potentially leading to loss of control while driving.
  2. Excessive Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption is another common problem among Honda Pilots, especially in certain model years. This issue can lead to engine damage and overheating if not monitored and managed properly. Keeping track of oil levels and topping up regularly can help mitigate this problem.
  3. Peeling Paint: While primarily a cosmetic concern, peeling paint on Honda Pilots can lead to more severe issues in regions with wet weather or high rust levels. Although not a critical mechanical problem, it may require repainting to maintain the vehicle's appearance and prevent further damage.
  4. Recurring Fault Codes: Recurring fault codes can be frustrating for Honda Pilot owners, as they indicate false issues with the vehicle's sensors. While not inherently dangerous, these codes can mask real problems if ignored, potentially leading to unintended damage to the vehicle.
  5. Fuel Injector Failure: Fuel injector failures have been reported as a common issue with Honda Pilots. Repairing fuel injector problems can be expensive and impact the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.

These problems highlight the importance of thorough research and inspection when considering purchasing a used Honda Pilot. Being aware of these common issues can help potential buyers make informed decisions and be prepared for potential maintenance or repair costs associated with these specific problems.

Honda Pilot

Is the Honda Pilot a reliable car?

In general, the Honda Pilot can be considered a reliable SUV. Honda has been quick to respond to reports by owners. An early transmission issue was largely sorted out, as was a problem with the gearbox in 2005.

What are the most common problems with the Honda Pilot?

But also a serious safety risk rendering the vehicle dangerous. And unsafe to drive According to some reports. Problem number two sunroof explosions although only a single case has been reported.

Do Honda Pilots have transmission problems?

The Honda Pilot is just one of the Honda models that were known to have severe transmission problems. They were part of the huge recall in 2004. Sadly, many of the Honda Pilot's that were repaired as part of the recall had their transmissions fail a second or even a third time.

What is more reliable, the Honda Pilot or the Toyota Highlander?

Both the 2023 Honda Pilot and the 2023 Toyota Highlander scored high in this year's J.D. Power reliability rankings. They actually both scored 81 in terms of quality and reliability, which makes them above average compared to other vehicles.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Honda Pilot years

We have researched Honda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Honda Pilot cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Honda Pilot model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Honda Pilot model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Honda Pilot years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Honda Pilot car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Honda Pilot , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Power train problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Honda Pilot vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Pilot model years

A total of 306 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Pilot model years

There were a total of 84 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Pilot model years

There were a total of 432 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Pilot model years

There were a total of 104 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 7135 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Honda Pilot . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Honda Pilot vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Honda Pilot 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-04
  • Date Complaint: 2024-11-06
  • VIN: 5FNYF18308B
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Failure of Honda Pilot OEM jack. On 11/04/24 I was jacking up the right rear wheel of my 2008 Honda Pilot when the OEM scissor jack I was using suddenly and loudly broke, allowing the wheel to come down violently. Note that I was jacking the vehicle on a firm, level surface, using the reinforced jacking point as instructed in the vehicle manual, and that the vehicle did NOT fall off of the jack; the jack simply broke. I removed the jack from under the vehicle and inspected and tested it. The threaded rod in the jack would no longer turn smoothly and when testing the jack, it would not lift any weight without falling back down. Summary: Failure of 2008 Honda Pilot jack Failure did put me at risk when jacked wheel suddenly fell. Jack has not been inspected or tested by dealer, etc, Jack failed without warning. Incident not reported to police, insurance, etc. Jack IS available for inspection.
Honda Pilot 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-09
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
  • VIN: 5FNYF6H04KB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Connecting rod bearing failure. Engine was making knocking noise noticeable under 2000 RPM. Engine could experience sudden loss of power if engine failed. Dealer inspected engine internals and found a spun connecting rod bearing, requiring engine short block to be replaced. Vehicle falls in the production date range stated on recall 573 for this exact issue, however Honda Corporate stated VIN doesn't match affected units.
Honda Pilot 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
  • VIN: 5FNYF5H38GB
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I just purchased this vehicle this year if any components failed I do not know of it.
Honda Pilot 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
  • VIN: 5FNYF5H54HB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: On October 24th I was parked at a rest area and started the engine on my 2017 Honda Pilot. When I did I heard a knocking in the engine and the oil light came on. I immediately shut the engine off and checked the oil. I contacted a wrecker and had it towed to the nearest Honda Dealership. I was advised that it’s probably a faulty Rod bearing. I did research and found out there was a recall on the 2016, 2018, 2019 pilots but skipped my year except the 2016 Ridgeline. I contacted Honda Corporate and they stated I had to get a physical inspection done at the Honda dealer again and it might or might not be covered. I did not get a definitive answer. I don’t understand when the 2016 and 2018 have a recall for an issue that occurred on my car, but my car is not included on the recall and I will probably be out a minimum of $10k for a faulty designed engine. Make note my vehicle has only 80k miles
Honda Pilot 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
  • VIN: 5FNYF6H07JB
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
  • Summary: Warning lights for the ACC, LKAS and FCW have been blinking everyday. One day they just started blinking. I took to dealership and they said it's $180 to diagnose issue. I have seen 100s of pist of different forums about the issue which means it is a known problem. As of the last 6 months or so these features do not work on the car.
Honda Pilot 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
  • VIN: 5FNYF6H57MB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: When shifting from reverse into drive, there is a 5-10 second hesitation. I push the gas and the car does not go. It will eventually accelerate at a very high speed. Does not happen every time, but often enough to be very dangerous.
Honda Pilot 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • VIN: 5FNYF5H99JB
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I've brought the car to the Honda Dealer located at 2400 N State Rd 7 Hollywood FL 33021 for over a year I have complained that the car jumps and that there is a few recalls on my vehicle. I was told that the part isn't available and they can't fix it but did not offer any remedies to this issue. The car will shut off on me while I'm driving and it's very dangerous. I've mentioned this to them many times but they only try to convince me to buy another car and get me to trade in my car and pay a deposit.
Honda Pilot 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • VIN: 5FNYF5H58KB
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Pilot 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
  • VIN: 5FNYG1H83PB
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The panoramic sunroof exploded while driving on the highway towards Tappahannock, VA
Honda Pilot 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 5FNYF5H38LB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: 2020 Honda Pilot with 80000 miles. A car i loved and had for over a year. I was driving from Florida to Texas. Everything was fine when I started. About 600 miles down I was at 70 mph and had to go little faster to overtake a truck because the shoulder was too small and my lane is about merge in to truck lane. There were at-least 10 vehicles behind me. I hit the accelerator pedal all the way until it touched frame but the engine is not at all responding and slowly losing power. The lane I was in was about to merge in to truck lane. I had to hit brakes with vehicles behind me but some how i managed to not get hit by them. It could have gone worse.
Honda Pilot 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 5FNYF6H9XJB
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated and stalled. The contact stated that the vehicle occasionally failed to start. The contact stated that several attempts were needed before the vehicle started. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 139,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Pilot 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 5FNYF6H17JB
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Pilot 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 5FNYF5H38KB
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Honda Pilot 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 5FNYF6H70GB
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle hesitated with an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 126,000.
Honda Pilot 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
  • VIN: 5FNYF5H13KB
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Latest 5 recalls Honda Pilot

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 169 recalls for different components of the Honda Pilot.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Honda Pilot 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
  • Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
  • Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
  • Model: Honda Pilot 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
  • Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
  • Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
  • Model: Honda Pilot 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
  • Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
  • Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
  • Model: Honda Pilot 2015
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-18
  • Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
  • Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
  • Model: Honda Pilot 2018
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-18
  • Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
  • Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.

Latest negative Honda Pilot car reviews

  1. Eloy Ledner 2024-11-26

    Vehicle year: 2013

    My wife had this vehicle for a month. While driving, when the engine went into ECO mode, there would be a stutter and hesitation. The entire floor would vibrate. After researching this problem, it seemed that a lot of people were having the same issue without a fix. We decided to trade the vehicle in instead of dealing with this. We bought a Highlander and it runs much better now.

  2. Deondre Mann 2024-11-22

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I recently purchased a 2016 Pilot Touring after experiencing some electrical problems with my previous 2014 Pilot Touring. Unfortunately, I encountered some issues with my new vehicle after only 33 days of ownership. While backing out of my garage, I noticed a large puddle of fluid and drops leading out of the garage. I immediately took the vehicle to the dealer the next day. Although it was a scary experience, the dealer was able to diagnose the issue as a transmission problem and informed me that they would need to order a part to fix it. Despite the inconvenience, the dealer was able to fix the car within 3-4 days. While I did have some concerns about the vehicle, the dealer was able to offer me a fair price for it and I was able to move on from the experience. Although it was a difficult lesson to learn, I am now excited to start the car shopping process again and find a vehicle that better suits my needs. Thank you Honda for your continued commitment to quality and customer service.

  3. Grady White 2024-11-22

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I was really looking forward to getting this car, as my family of six needed something bigger than my 2017 Honda Accord. However, since buying it brand new in 2020, I've experienced some electrical issues, particularly during the summer months. Sometimes my audio cuts out or my Garmin won't function, even mid-drive, and my backup camera won't work if it gets too hot. Additionally, the sensors for the car are very sensitive, with the front one flashing and trying to brake even on a two-lane road with oncoming traffic, and the reverse sensors being similarly sensitive. The middle area between the captain's chairs is quite narrow and doesn't offer much legroom. Despite these issues, I really appreciate how well this car has performed. It's taken hits from three toddlers and a sports-playing teenager, and we've driven it through mud and snow with ease. Overall, it's been a smooth ride and I'm happy with my purchase.

  4. Bradley Ruecker 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 2013

    In ECO mode, you may notice a slight vibration and droning noise when encountering a light grade with a light engine load. This can occur at speeds of 35mph and higher, including highway speeds. While the shop mechanic initially dismissed this as 'normal', I have owned over 20 cars in the last 50 years and have never experienced this before. The mechanic later informed me that this is a common issue with the 2013 Pilots, likely due to a design change made by Honda that they are still working to resolve.

  5. Mortimer Daugherty 2024-11-16

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I purchased my 2017 Honda Pilot EX-L AWD in December 2017 and overall it's a great SUV with a nice design. However, I did notice that the cabin of the car is quite noisy, which can be a bit unpleasant when driving at speeds of 45+mph. Unfortunately, this seems to be a common issue that many people have reported, and it's a shame that Honda hasn't done more to address it. I've visited my local car dealer multiple times to try and find a solution, but unfortunately, they haven't been able to offer a proper fix. If you're considering purchasing this car, I would recommend paying attention to this detail and seeing if your car has the same issue. It could save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run.

Latest positive Honda Pilot car reviews

  1. Isai Boyer 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I absolutely love this car and all of its amazing options! If you're considering purchasing an Elite model, I highly recommend haggling for a better price. While the navigation and other options may seem a bit overpriced, you can easily use your phone's navigation and the built-in Apple Play instead. The entertainment system is a great addition, especially for kids who love the rear sunroof (even though it doesn't open for air). The amount of technology in this car is impressive, although it can be overwhelming at times, especially when backing up. However, the constant beeping and flashing alerts are a small price to pay for the added safety features. Speaking of safety, the mileage on this car is not quite what they advertise. I'm only getting about 12-13mpg for city driving, which is much lower than expected. Unfortunately, the Econ button doesn't seem to help much in the city, so I recommend turning it off. Overall, I'm extremely pleased with the amenities and style that this car offers!

  2. Wiley Koelpin 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2021

    This SUV is fantastic with its 8 seats and impressive driver assisting features. The smooth ride and handling make it a joy to drive. The 3.5L V6 produces a nice punch when needed, especially in Sport mode, and we love the 9 speed transmission. Living in snow country, we opted for the AWD version and although we haven't used it in snow mode yet, it handled very well on wet roads. The seating is versatile, allowing us to lay down each of the back rows to increase cargo space as needed, and then seat 8 when needed as well. The middle seats are adjustable to allow slightly more room for the rear seat. We compared it to the Acura MDX and found that the Pilot had more room for all passengers. The USB charging ports located throughout the vehicle are a great feature, and connecting our android devices is easy. We also appreciate the wireless charging station. We have owned an Accord and a Civic and have been pleased with those vehicles, so we expect great things from this SUV as well. (Over a year later and we still love this vehicle!)

  3. Adelbert Boehm 2024-11-27

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I hope this helps everyone who is still considering purchasing a vehicle. As an engineer who has worked in the car industry since 2007, I have experience with various makes and models. In my youth, I worked as a lot tech for Honda and drove new and used vehicles. I have also worked for GM, Ford, Acura, and Toyota. Currently, I am back at Honda as an Inventory Specialist dealing with new and used cars. When it comes to family SUVs, I would only purchase a Honda or Toyota. PERIOD. My experience with the Highlander, which I will be comparing, has shown some transmission issues that are typically fixed under warranty. However, in some cases, the transmissions are replaced with rebuilt transmissions. The 9sp is newer for the Touring, which I am considering, although Honda partnered with ZF, who has been designing transmissions for decades, and is a very solid transmission. Shifting points are corrected by way of computer through Honda. This comes down to ride and tech. For the money, Toyota is just too expensive for the options that Honda gives you at the price point! Rear heated seats, navigation, rear-entertainment, and heated steering wheel are all available options! Since Honda holds its value pretty well, the residual is good on the lease. The 2020 Honda Pilot was simply the best choice!

  4. Chelsey Terry 2024-11-27

    Vehicle year: 2016

    The Honda Pilot is a car that my whole family loves. After being hit by an inattentive driver and rolling my car two times, I had to replace my 2016 Pilot. However, I was able to walk away from the accident, which reinforced my belief in the car's safety. Therefore, I immediately bought another one after receiving the insurance payout.

  5. Madison Pfannerstill 2024-11-26

    Vehicle year: 2003

    This is a fantastic SUV. It has plenty of power, space, and comfort. It can haul everything we need, both inside and by trailer. It is very reliable, and the build quality is obvious.

Are you having problems with your Honda Pilot?

Add car complaint
Honda Pilot photo