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

29

2.3
  • 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

30

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda pilot 2012 photo
Pilot 2012
Honda

160

9

27

3.6
  • 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

22

3.5
  • 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

27

3
  • 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

28

4
  • 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

26

3.8
  • 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. Waino Heller 2025-01-08

    Vehicle year: 2022

    Is the oil pressure switch covered under the powertrain warranty? Despite having to pay for a transmission fluid flush at 30K miles, which was not covered, I was recently informed that the Emission System Problem was caused by a bad oil pressure switch. However, the dealer has refused to cover it under the powertrain warranty. UPDATE 08/25/2022: Unfortunately, one day after the dealer charged me to replace the oil pressure sensor, the Emission System Problem showed up again, and now the Transmission System Problem is also showing up. The car is kicking up at 30MPH and the panel is flickering.

  2. Jakob Beahan 2025-01-05

    Vehicle year: 2013

    I purchased my 13 Honda Pilot 5 months ago with 17k miles. Unfortunately, at around 10k miles, I began experiencing the known and accepted (by Honda) Shudder Vibration in the VCM. As someone who drives a lot, this is not a characteristic that I can accept. The shuddering and vibrating occurs at about 1500-2200 rpm and can make long trips disgustingly frustrating. While I plan to write to Honda, I don't expect much to come of it since the dealership is already aware. If you're not concerned about long trips being frustrating, then this car may be a good fit for you. However, if you're looking for a smoother ride, I would recommend staying away until Honda gets it right. Additionally, the Bluetooth microphone is outdated (Toyota fixed theirs years ago) and doesn't work well with cell phones. Overall, I think I may trade for a better ride, but it will be difficult since many of the features are nice.

  3. Urban Effertz 2025-01-04

    Vehicle year: 2013

    The vibration issue in ECO mode at 1500 RPMs is not acceptable in my Pilot, especially considering its low mileage of 5K. As a confident buyer, I would have preferred to know about this issue beforehand to make an informed decision. It is important to thoroughly test drive a Pilot at 1500 RPMs before making a purchase. If this issue persists, I would have considered investing my $38K in a different vehicle.

  4. Ervin Jerde 2025-01-04

    Vehicle year: 2008

    Although I sold a 4-runner to get this Honda, I must admit that it has been more problematic than expected. However, there are some pros that I would like to highlight. The seats are comfortable and roomy, it has a third row, good power, and a good view out. On the other hand, there are some cons that I would like to mention. The handling is not great around corners, and there is more road noise than I would have preferred. Additionally, the interior has many squeaks and rattles, and there were various delivery defects such as tire belt problems, warped rear brake rotor, and multiple key FOB problems. Despite these downsides, I am confident that the long-term reliability of this Honda will outweigh the negatives.

  5. Payton Gusikowski 2025-01-02

    Vehicle year: 2010

    I strongly advise against purchasing the Pilot between '09 and '13 due to the oil consumption issue that caused problems with spark plugs, timing belt, and other components. However, I did enjoy the car otherwise and would recommend it outside of those model years.

Latest positive Honda Pilot car reviews

  1. Donavon Cartwright 2025-01-09

    Vehicle year: 2014

    Great vehicle! It has real 4x4, not just all-wheel drive. I've never had a single issue in 7 years and 80,000 miles. It still runs and handles just like the day I drove it off the lot.

  2. Edgardo Ebert 2025-01-09

    Vehicle year: 2016

    If you're looking for a spacious and family-friendly SUV that is comfortable to travel in, handles well, and looks great, then your search ends here. However, if you're someone who values electronics in a car, then I must tell you that the electronics package in this SUV is not up to the mark. The designers seem to have prioritized concept over usefulness, which has resulted in a package that is distracting for the driver and can be dangerous on the road. The display is large and gorgeous, but it takes a few extra seconds to find anything, which can take your eyes off the road for 2-3-4 seconds, leading to accidents. There is too much information crammed into one place. It is beyond bad decision-making that the geniuses put Apple Carplay in their cheaper vehicles but not in the high-end Pilot. I must say that I love this car (IT'S A GREAT VEHICLE). I have owned it for nearly a year, and it replaced my recent model LEXUS RX, which was smaller, got worse mileage, had no 3rd row seats, and cost about $12k more. Everything about this SUV is GOOD NEWS, except for the poorly designed entertainment center, which is distracting.

  3. Quinten Olson 2025-01-08

    Vehicle year: 2007

    I bought the pilot brand new in 2007 and my family absolutely loves it! The front and rear seats are very comfortable, although the seats in the far back are more suitable for kids or smaller people. The ride is comfortable and not at all annoying, although it's not the quietest SUV out there. It's a great sized SUV that handles well, but it's not a sports car. As expected with a larger SUV, the gas mileage isn't the greatest, but I usually get around 15mpg city and 19mpg on the freeway. It's worth noting that my little sister, who is a bit of a speed demon, calls me Mr. Slow poke, but I prefer to take things at a more relaxed pace. I've had a few minor issues with the car, such as having to adjust the valves earlier than recommended by Honda, a broken air tube between the air filter and the engine, and a broken plastic cover on the left side of the driver's seat where the seat controls are located. However, there is plenty of room to haul all sorts of things in this SUV, from 12-foot 2x4s to fencing material and bicycles. I've even made use of the roof rack (for a Christmas tree) and installed a trailer hitch. Overall, I highly recommend this SUV for anyone in need of a spacious and reliable vehicle.

  4. Rolando Fadel 2025-01-07

    Vehicle year: 2020

    Hi there! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your car so far! It sounds like it has a smooth ride, good acceleration, and is very comfortable and quiet. I noticed that you were considering getting another Odyssey, but ended up choosing a Pilot instead. I'm happy to hear that your wife found it easy to get in and out of, despite her previous concerns. The Pilot's size and roominess seem to be a great fit for you both. It's great to hear that you're getting good gas mileage and haven't had any issues with it after 4 years. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!

  5. Murray Jerde 2025-01-06

    Vehicle year: 2008

    Solid on road handling, easy to learn interior features (like the Navigation system), lots of room for 8, and great safety and reliability. Although it gets 16 MPG in the city, it is very efficient on long distance drives. The drive is so comfortable... great job Honda!

Are you having problems with your Honda Pilot?

Add car complaint
Honda Pilot photo