Honda Pilot problems

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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

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Honda Pilot model years

honda pilot 2024 photo
Pilot 2024
Honda

31

1

49

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2023 photo
Pilot 2023
Honda

46

1

46

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2022 photo
Pilot 2022
Honda

55

3

48

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2021 photo
Pilot 2021
Honda

202

8

47

1.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2020 photo
Pilot 2020
Honda

331

9

48

1.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2019 photo
Pilot 2019
Honda

573

11

46

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

308

5

47

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2017 photo
Pilot 2017
Honda

657

2

49

1.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2016 photo
Pilot 2016
Honda

1265

7

46

1.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2015 photo
Pilot 2015
Honda

90

4

33

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2014 photo
Pilot 2014
Honda

103

3

34

1.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2013 photo
Pilot 2013
Honda

255

6

50

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2012 photo
Pilot 2012
Honda

160

9

50

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2011 photo
Pilot 2011
Honda

278

11

50

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2010 photo
Pilot 2010
Honda

110

10

46

1.7
  • 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

46

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2007 photo
Pilot 2007
Honda

201

9

50

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

259

10

47

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2005 photo
Pilot 2005
Honda

674

15

47

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2004 photo
Pilot 2004
Honda

539

13

47

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2003 photo
Pilot 2003
Honda

739

14

50

2
  • 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. Gerhard Runolfsdottir 2025-11-12

    Vehicle year: 2014

    If you're looking for a reliable vehicle with good resale value, excellent safety features, and plenty of space, the 2009-2015 Honda Pilot is a great choice. However, if you're after a more modern design with updated technology and a more comfortable ride, you may want to consider other options. As previous Honda owners (Accord, CRV), we considered the Odyssey before ultimately deciding on the Pilot. Honda has made it easy for consumers to choose from pre-designated trim levels. The Pilot was the only option that offered both navigation and a factory entertainment system (DVD), but it came with a higher price tag of $42k. It's worth noting that the 2014 Pilot was well behind the competition in terms of features, with no major updates since 2009. In comparison, the 2014 Toyota Highlander came with LED lights, adaptive cruise control, panoramic moonroof, blu-ray DVD player, heated steering wheel, and a 12-speaker JBL sound system, all for almost the same price as the Pilot. While the Pilot is a dependable and utilitarian vehicle with a history of few mechanical issues and plenty of interior space, it falls short in terms of comfort. The hard leather seats and plastic interior make for a less-than-plush ride, as we experienced during a 19-hour road trip over Thanksgiving. However, it's still a good option for those who prioritize reliability and practicality over luxury and comfort.The navigation system may be difficult to use as it requires the user to turn a knob to select each character, similar to a rotary phone. Additionally, it is recommended in the manual to flush the rear differential fluid at 15k and 30k miles, which may come as an unexpected maintenance cost. It's worth noting that some Honda Pilot owners have reported issues with their engines, specifically related to the VCM system. However, the newer 2016 Pilot model has addressed many of these issues. If you're in the market for a Pilot, you may be able to find a good deal on a low-mileage 2014 or 2015 model. The Pilot has good gas mileage, with up to 23-24mpg on the highway, and is generally reliable with many over 100k mile Pilots still on the road. The interior is spacious and flexible, with plenty of room for cargo. The sound system is also of decent quality. On the downside, some may find the seats uncomfortable and the interior materials may feel cheap.I was disappointed to find that the leather stains easily and that the hard plastic covering the interior of the vehicle from the dash to the door panels is less than ideal, even in the 'top of the line' trim. The ride is also less plush compared to other models such as the 14 Pathfinder, 14 Tahoe/Suburban/Yukon, 14 Highlander, 14 Enclave/Traverse/Acadia and even the 14 Durango. Additionally, the design is outdated, having not been refreshed since 2009, while almost all its competitors have something new. While I wouldn't choose this vehicle again, I don't regret my decision as I am confident it will run for a long time and hold its value well. However, it's not a good feeling to make car payments on a car that you 'settle for' and feel the urge to trade it in almost every month.

  2. Ervin Kassulke 2025-11-09

    Vehicle year: 2019

    I purchased the Touring AWD model in May and unfortunately experienced several issues with the vehicle. Despite several visits to the dealership and discussions with Honda corporate, the issues persisted and the car has been at the dealership for the past 29 days. However, I am confident that the issue is being worked on and will hopefully be resolved soon. As a long-time Honda customer, I have always had positive experiences and this situation is not reflective of the brand's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. I am hopeful that this issue will be resolved and I will continue to be a loyal Honda customer in the future.

  3. Pedro Wunsch 2025-11-08

    Vehicle year: 2018

    This is my 4th Honda, but unfortunately, it is my least favourite. I have noticed an unusual noise coming from the rear area when driving over uneven pavement and small bumps. Despite taking it to the dealer, they were unable to replicate the noise. As a result, I am feeling quite frustrated after spending a significant amount of money on this vehicle. While I am considering my options, I am confident that I will be able to resolve this issue and continue to enjoy my Honda for years to come.

  4. Edwardo Schuster 2025-11-07

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Honda's reputation from the 90's and 2000's is no longer a reflection of their current standards. Despite negative reviews of the touring and elite models with the 9-speed transmission, we confidently purchased a fully loaded EX-L with only 8,000 miles from a reputable dealer. However, we noticed moisture in the front passenger floorboard and mold on the seatbelt shortly after. We took the vehicle to the Honda dealer for repair and, after some investigation, they found some seepage on the top rail molding and repaired some bad welds or seams under the vehicle. They also ordered new carpet to replace the saturated one. Although there were some delays, the service advisor was transparent and kept us informed throughout the process. We appreciate their commitment to resolving the issue and ensuring our satisfaction.We informed them that we could not accept the vehicle without a replacement seatbelt. The safety of our baby is our top priority, and we were not willing to compromise on that. Unfortunately, we also discovered mold and bad welds in the vehicle, which further reinforced our decision. We test drove a 2017 touring pilot as an alternative, but found that the carpet on the passenger side was soaked. As a result, we made the decision to switch to a 2017 Toyota Highlander. We are now very satisfied with our new vehicle and have decided to move on from Honda.

  5. Guido Goldner 2025-11-04

    Vehicle year: 2016

    We purchased the vehicle almost a year ago and after driving it for about 2k miles, we started hearing a knocking sound when reversing. We took it to Honda multiple times, but they couldn't find any issues. Today, we took it in again, and they said that the brake pads are moving back and forth, causing the sound. We asked them to fix it, but unfortunately, they said that it's not a mechanical issue and cannot be covered. We are disappointed because we bought a Honda for its reliability, and while we understand that no one is perfect, it's frustrating that the issue cannot be fixed.

Latest positive Honda Pilot car reviews

  1. Jo Schmitt 2025-11-12

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I love the design of the 2017 Honda Pilot! It's so attractive on the outside and incredibly comfortable on the inside. While the rear seats could be a little more comfortable, they're not used every day, so it's not a big issue. Additionally, the heat takes a while to kick in, which was unexpected for a brand-new vehicle, but it's understandable given the large space. Unfortunately, the Bluetooth hasn't consistently worked, but overall, I still think it's a five-star car. It's great in snow and ice, and it has very good gas mileage for this type of vehicle.

  2. Ward Heaney 2025-11-11

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I've put 1100 miles on my new car so far and I'm really enjoying the smooth ride. Although I do miss my 2016 Toyota Highlander, the Pilot has so many more options that make up for it. While I don't necessarily need the DVD player that comes with this version, I'm sure it will add value later on. The car's ApplePlay is okay, but I do wish I didn't have to plug in my phone every time I want to use it. The auto engine idle is a great feature, and the navigation is really neat - it shows you exactly where you are as if you're looking from the sky, and even has pictures of exit signs. While some people have said that the sensing isn't very sensitive, I think it's doing exactly what it's supposed to do. There's also plenty of interior storage and leg room, and the car seems so much bigger from the inside. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase!

  3. Gussie Ortiz 2025-11-10

    Vehicle year: 2018

    The car is great! We're still learning about all the technology in the car. The only downside is the auto engine shut off. We find the on/off function a bit weird and don't like the roughness of it. However, the system can be shut off and will stay off until the next engine start. We've had the car for a year now, but we still don't like the AUTO SHUT OFF feature. Hopefully, Honda will program the system to stay off.

  4. Kole Goodwin 2025-11-09

    Vehicle year: 2005

    We bought our Pilot used in 2009 and now even at 187,000 miles it still drives just as good.We have not had any major issues and only do the Honda recommended maintenance.We do change the oil at 3000 mile intervals, not 5,000.The Pilot has been a great car overall.The only thing that I wish was better was the gas mileage.We have also owned two CRV's and currently own a 2005 Accord, and all have been great.We have had no major issues even with our 2003 CRV with 197,000 miles that we just traded in on the Accord.

  5. Gerald Marks 2025-11-09

    Vehicle year: 2005

    I'm so glad to hear that you had a great experience with your Honda Pilot! Your recent long trip really put your car to the test, and it sounds like it passed with flying colors. Even with a class-3 trailer hitch and a 6x12 U-haul trailer full of furniture and household goods, your Pilot had no trouble pulling the load in the mountains or in the city. It's great to hear that you felt safe and confident while driving, especially since it was your first time pulling a trailer. And it's impressive that the temperature gauge never wavered off the 'normal' level, even in the mountains. You clearly made the right choice with your Pilot, and I'm sure it will continue to perform well for you in the future!

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