2003 Honda Pilot problems
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.
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Common 2003 Honda Pilot problems
Based on the information gathered from the sources provided, here is a list of common problems with the Honda Pilot 2003 model based on complaints from owners:
- Transmission Failures: The 2003 Honda Pilot is known for transmission failure issues, which can be a serious and expensive problem. Symptoms include issues with acceleration, poor or low idle, and stalling when trying to accelerate. This problem can lead to difficulties in controlling the vehicle and potential safety hazards.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Another common problem reported by owners is excessive oil consumption, especially after reaching high mileage. Low oil levels can lead to engine damage, overheating, and increased maintenance costs. Regularly monitoring oil levels and topping them off can help manage this issue.
- Peeling Paint: While primarily a cosmetic problem, peeling paint on the Honda Pilot can become more severe in wet or rust-prone areas. Although not a critical issue, it may require repainting to maintain the vehicle's appearance and prevent further damage.
- Recurring Fault Codes: Owners have reported recurring fault codes in the Honda Pilot, which can be more of an annoyance than a safety concern. However, ignoring legitimate fault codes due to frequent false alarms can lead to unintentional damage to the vehicle. Promptly addressing and resolving fault codes is essential to prevent potential issues.
- Fuel Injector Failure: Fuel injector failures are another common issue with the Honda Pilot, which can be costly to repair. Proper maintenance and regular inspections can help detect and address fuel injector problems early to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
These common problems with the Honda Pilot 2003 model highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and awareness of potential issues to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
What are the problems with the 2003 Honda Pilot?
For the 1st gen pilot, the biggest problems were the rear subframe channel. They tend to rot out throughout the winters. If you think about buying one, that would be the first thing to check. The VTM-4 system has never failed me in the harsh Wisconsin snow.
How many miles can a 2003 Honda Pilot last?
Honda Pilot Life Expectancy Factors
The Honda Pilot's life expectancy is upwards of 200,000 miles if properly cared for by Lexington drivers. However, there are many factors that can affect how long a Honda Pilot lasts, from climate to regular maintenance.
Is a 2003 Honda Pilot good on gas?
Mileage is a little better than the competition's but still typical of mid-size SUVs – which is to say you'll make no friends with your Project Green friends if you buy a Pilot; 22 miles per gallon is about the best you'll get, by EPA estimate.
What year Honda Pilot has transmission problems?
Several Honda Pilot transmission problems have appeared in multiple years. Specifically, we noticed the worst transmission errors in the 2003, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2019 versions of the Honda Pilot. Watch for these flaws if you own any of these years.
2003 Honda Pilot car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Honda Pilot problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Structure problems
- Seats problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Honda Pilot vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Honda Pilot
The NHTSA has received 739 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Honda Pilot. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Honda Pilot vehicles.
2024-08-15
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- VIN: 2HKYF18593H
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Transmission, overheating, loss of oil, loss of gears when driving,
2023-11-14
STEERING,SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
- VIN: 2HKYF18563H
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: severe erosion of my undecarriage, metal just falls off from under the car. My fuel tank leaks and gas pours out. It has been deemed unsafe to drive by my Honda dealer, but has a good engine and other parts. It has been severely impacted by rust and erosion. The previous owner was a resident of Chicago, where salt is used, which I believe influenced this defect.
2023-08-16
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-15
- VIN: 2HKYF18533H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SRS airbag light stays on.
2023-07-30
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-28
- VIN: 2HKYF18783H
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: My 2003 Honda pilot rear subframe suspension is rusting and causing control issues. This is a common problem on the 2003-2008 Honda Pilots. In Honda TSB 21-019 Honda states " The subframe mounts may pull away from the body of the vehicle (see images below), but extensive testing has concluded that vehicle stability will be maintained." This is NOT true. Other Honda's have experienced similar issues and Honda has issued a safety recall. There should be a safety recall for the 2003-2008 Honda pilots for this subframe rust issue. Please see: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2023-07-25
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-24
- VIN: 2HKYF18573H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked unattended, the vehicle rolled out of the garage and crashed into the neighbor's home. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 146,000.
2023-05-22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-21
- VIN: 2HKYF18523H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact attempted to start the vehicle however, the ignition switch failed to turn. The ignition switch warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
2023-05-16
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-02
- VIN: 2HKYF18693H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 256,000.
2023-05-03
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-13
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2HKYF18593H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact, an attorney, was filing a complaint on behalf of a client who owned a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while his client was driving at an undisclosed speed, another vehicle struck the client's vehicle, causing the air bags to deploy. The husband did not sustain any injuries; however, the client's wife was rendered quadriplegic. The client's wife fractured her spinal vertebra and later passed away. The cause of death was believed to have been caused by the accident. There was a police report filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
2023-02-10
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-01
- VIN: 2HKYF18433H
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at slow low speeds, the vehicle was difficult to shift into second gear. The SRS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed the contact about a possible recall. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed there were no open recalls on the VIN. The contact stated the failure was like NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V176000 (Power Train). The failure mileage was approximately 180,000. The contact stated 2nd gear is no longer working. Honda stated the recall was fixed, but the contact stated that was incorrect.
2022-11-15
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-18
- VIN: 2HKYF18583H
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Honda did not contact me for a year and a half I have been waiting for them to replace my air bag, no response!!! I’ve left numerous messages and still no response I gave a 1 year old daughter, we almost got hit by a car and if it had hit us something could’ve happened! Because I had to swerve off road my suspension and power steering are messed up because of pot holes,Just so I wouldn’t hit and impact the passenger side of me my car where airbag is bad and nothing would’ve happened to us, not that it was our fault the driver was driving almost right into us!I blame Honda for this disaster would could have been very bad! Of course the other driver drove away like nothing happened! So now I am stuck at home not able to go to work and bring my daughter to doctors appointments and invade of in emergency my vehicle is not safe enough to get us anywhere! I am asking god to bless us in this case and count all the blessings he has given us! I don’t have a lot of money to pay for repairs and this is the only car I’ve ever purchased and owned. If there is any way anyone could help please! Maybe a new Honda would be nice for Christmas, but hey a girl can dream right! Thank you for your time!
2022-08-31
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2HKYF18483H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owned a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated she was informed by her daughter that the inside passenger side of the vehicle was on fire. The contact extinguished the fire with water. The fire department arrived afterward and informed that the electronic software was the cause of the fire. The contact was unsure if a fire report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed. There were no injuries or medical treatments needed. The contact notified a local mechanic regarding the failure and was informed of the same information which the fire department provided. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 89,000.
2022-04-28
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-01
- VIN: 2HKYF18533H
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Both rear axel mounts rusted away from the subframe while being driven by my teenage driver. This caused the tires to lean inward and caused mounts to rest on the muffler system. The vehicle is available for inspection, but has not been inspected since it is not mobile or safe to drive. The safety of my child and others were at risk, as this failure could have caused an accident. There were not warning lamps or messages, but rust was noticeable underneath the vehicle.
2022-03-29
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-29
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated before accelerating. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the catalytic convertor was replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000.
2022-02-18
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-04
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the rear axle separated from the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic where it was diagnosed with needing the subframe replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 209,000. The VIN was not available.
2022-02-01
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- VIN: 2HKYF18413H
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: KEEP GETTING MISFIRES HAD MECHANIC REPLACE COILS & PLUGS BUT STILL GETTING OBD CODES FOR MISFIRES OF CYLINDERS WHY ?? ALSO KEEPS JERKING & I NOR A MECHANIC DO NOT KNOW WHY
2021-12-21
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-05
- VIN: 2hkyf18553h
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I notice you guys had other 2003 Honda Pilot transmissions recalls. I checked mine with the vin # and my car happens to not be included on that recall. To be honest everything stated on that recall is what exactly is happening on my car Can you please help thanks my car would get high rpms or jerk while driving or just rev and not move it changes all the time seems that also the colder the car is or not ran till the next day seems to drive normal but after car worms up it’s starts to drive then rpm’s jump high I got to let go of the gas in order for it to get its 2 nd shift and randomly it’ll like hard jerk while driving like a hard stop then countinues at speed
2021-10-23
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-23
- VIN: 2HKYF185X3H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021 We traveled down OLD Dallas Hwy toward Gastonia, North Carolina. Transmission slipped and motor revved very high without forward speed. Attempting to put transmission into reverse caused similar slippage. Returning on Hwy 321 toward Dallas, north carolina, the transmission slipped and the car would not reach highway speed. Turning onto Hwy 279 to go home, the Honda would not go into gear at first, then slippage so that other cars almost struck our car which was unreliably stumbling. We have found there is a recall number 04V176000
2021-10-21
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-01
- VIN: 2HKYF18533H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V501000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. 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.
2021-03-26
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-26
- VIN: 2HKYF18693H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: RECALL NOTICE FROM HONDA
2021-02-14
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-12
- VIN: 2HKYF18443H
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: REAR SUSPENSION MOUNTING LOCATIONS HAVE RUSTED THROUGH ALLOWING THE REAR SUSPENSION TO HANG DOWN. THE FRONT MOUNTING POINTS OF THE REAR SUSPENSION ARE NOT DAMAGED YET. WAS NOTICED AS A NOISE WHILE DRIVING AND FOUND DURING TIRE INSPECTION.
2020-10-12
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-02
- VIN: 2HKYF18123H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS NOTIFIED BY AMERICAN HONDA THAT MY VEHICLE REQUIRED A SAFETY RECALL OF THE TAKATA HONDA PASSENGER AIRBAG INFLATOR (RECALL # 19-076). UPON INSPECTION THE HONDA TECHNICIAN FOUND THAT "ONE OF THE SECURING STUDS FOR THE ASSEMBLY IS BROKEN AND REPLACEMENT OF THE DASHBOARD FRAME IS REQUIRED." AT THIS POINT MY "FREE" RECALL CAME WITH A CHARGE OF $820. AMERICAN HONDA WAS ONLY WILLING TO PAY 10%. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY RECALLED IN 2015 FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. IN ALL LIKELIHOOD THE SECURING STUD WAS BROKEN DURING THAT SERVICE. AMERICAN HONDA REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE MOST LIKELY SCENARIO AND INSTEAD HAS DECIDED TO HOLD ME PERSONALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR.
2020-09-18
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-14
- VIN: 2HKYF18443H
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN I ACCELERATE TO 40 MPH THERE IS A GRINDING SOUND COMING FROM MY TRUCK. IT WILL CONTINUE UNTIL ABOUT 45 MPH AND THEN STOPS. THIS ISSUE IS RANDOM AND INTERMITTENT AND THE MECHANICS HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO REPLICATE THE PROBLEM TO IDENTIFY IT. IT STARTED SHORTLY AFTER I PURCHASED THE USED VEHICLE IN 2011 BUT IT WAS INFREQUENT NOW IT IS HAPPENING A LOT MORE FREQUENTLY.
2020-09-14
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-09
- VIN: 2HKYF18123H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY 2003 HONDA PILOT HAS "SRS LIGHT ON" AT THE VEHICLE DASHBOARD. I WAS DRIVING IN OUR RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION AREA AND ABOUT TO PARK IN MY DRIVEWAY, THE SRS WENT ON. I AM NOT DRIVING THIS VEHICLE NOW UNTIL THIS FAULT HAS TO BE FIXED IMMEDIATELY. IF THERE IS A FAULT WITH THE INSTALLED AIR BAG, PLEASE HELP ME TO COVER THE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT COSTS OF THIS FAULTY AIRBAG. THANK YOU.
2020-07-15
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-15
- VIN: 2HKYF18403H
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA PILOT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED AT INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR SUBFRAME WAS EXTREMELY CORRODED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE UNTIL THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED THE VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE DRIVEN. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 220,000. *JS
2020-05-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-11
- VIN: 2HKYF18593H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN I PURCHASE THE VEHICLE. I WAS INFORMED THAT IT HAD SOME ISSUES WITH THE IGNITION AND THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO FIGURE OUT WHAT WAS GOING ON. THE IGNITION SWITCH LOCKED UP ON ME. AND ENDED UP NOT BEING ABLE TO MOVE AT ALL. THERE WAS A PIECE STUCK INSIDE AND I WAS INFORMED THAT THERE IS A LOCKING MECHANISM WITH IT THAT WAS JAMMED AND THERE WAS NOTHING I WAS ABLE TO DO SO I EITHER NEEDED TO GET IT FIXED BECAUSE IT WAS WARPED OR MALFUNCTIONED. AND I NEEDED TO CHECK AND SEE IF THERE'S ANY RECALLS BECAUSE THEY RECALLED THE IGNITIONS BEFORE ON THIS YEAR,MAKE AND MODEL BEFORE. WHEN THIS HAPPENED MY VEHICLE WAS IN PARK. MY VEHICLE WAS IN A SHOP. MY WHEEL BEARING AND HUB WAS BEING PLACED ON. WHEN THEY WENT TO REMOVE THE VEHICLE FROM THERE MECHANIC GARAGE IT REFUSED TO TURN OVER THERE WAS AN IGNITION PIECE WAS BROKEN OFF. WHEN THEY ENDED UP GETTING IT OUT OF THEIR GARAGE IT I HAD TO BE PUT IN NEUTRAL MANUALLY FROM UNDERNEATH AND IT JUST STARTED TO ROLL. SO THEY HAD TO HOLD THE BRAKES. IT HAD TO BE TOWED BACK TO MY RESIDENCE. *TR
2003 Honda Pilot recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 14 recalls for different components of the 2003 Honda Pilot.
2019-06-27
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2012 RL, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are E5D and X5C.
2019-06-27
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2003-2006 MDX, 2001-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot and 2006 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are Q5A and Y58.
2019-03-06
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.
- Consequence: An explosion of an inflator within the driver frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver, front seat passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began April 10, 2019. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is O41. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is U40.
2018-04-26
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 CR-V, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed air bag may deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began June 22, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are K1P, and M1O.
2016-05-24
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2011 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2011 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2008 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2008 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2008 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling model year 2002-2004 Odyssey and model year 2003-2004 Acura MDX, Honda Element, and Honda Pilot vehicles originally sold, or registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began June 27, 2016. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KA0, KA1, KA2, and KA3.
2015-06-15
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic vehicles manufactured March 21, 2000, to January 20, 2005, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX vehicles manufactured June 14, 2000, to August 19, 2004, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid vehicles manufactured February 24, 2002, to January 18, 2005, 2003-2007 Honda Accord vehicles manufactured February 21, 2002, to August 28, 2007, 2002-2004 Honda CR-V vehicles, 2002-2003 Honda Odyssey vehicles manufactured June 19, 2001, to July 12, 2003, 2003 Acura MDX vehicles manufactured September 19, 2002, to June 19, 2003, 2003 Honda Element vehicles manufactured June 25, 2002, to July 31, 2003, and 2003 Honda Pilot vehicles manufactured November 26, 2001, to August 21, 2003. The affected vehicles have a passenger side frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture upon its deployment.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the passenger seat occupant or other occupants possibly causing serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are JU4, JU5, JU6, and JU7. Note: Vehicles that have already received a replacement passenger air bag inflator as part of the recall remedy for an earlier campaign such as 14V353 or 14V700 (Honda recall numbers S95, JH6, JH7, JH8, JH9, JJ0, JJ1, JJ2, JJ6, JM5 and JM6) are not included in this recall. However, this recall does supersede 13V132 and 14V349. Note: On December 18, 2015 Honda informed NHTSA of an expansion of this recall to include certain model year 2004 Honda CR-V vehicles in addition to additional model year 2003 CR-V vehicles.
2015-05-28
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2007 Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2006 Ridgeline, 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2003-2006 Acura MDX, and 2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion and other factors, including manufacturing variability that, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238, select option 4. Note: Vehicles that have had their driver frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy prior to September 12, 2014 need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Vehicles that, on or after September 12, 2014, received a remedy for a prior driver frontal air bag inflator recall already received an inflator of a different design, and therefore are not included in this recall and do not require additional servicing. Note: This recall fully supersedes recalls 08V-593, 09V-259, 10V-041, 11V-260, 14V-351 and 15V-153. Honda's numbers for this recall are JQ9, JR0, JR1, JR2, JR3, JR4, JR5, JR6, JR7, and JR8.
2014-11-04
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic, 2003-2004 Civic CNG and Element, 2002-2005 CR-V, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2005 Accord, Pilot, Civic Hybrid, and Acura MDX, 2005 Acura RL and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa are addressed by this recall. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
2014-06-20
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: American Honda Motor Company, Inc.'s (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2003-2005 Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot and Acura MDX, model year 2003-2004 Odyssey and Element, and model year 2005 Acura RL, and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in California, and equipped with Takata-brand air bag inflators. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflators in all affected vehicles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during August 2014. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
2012-12-11
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Honda is recalling certain model year 2003 and 2004 Pilot and Odyssey and 2003 through 2006 Acura MDX passenger vehicles manufactured from November 26, 2001, through August 30, 2006. The interlock lever of the ignition switch may deform, which can allow the interlock function of a vehicle with an automatic transmission to be defeated.
- Consequence: Removal of the ignition key when the gear selector of a vehicle with an automatic transmission has not been shifted to the park position can allow the vehicle to roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners and instruct them to take their vehicle to a Honda or Acura dealer. The dealer will install an updated shift interlock lever and, if necessary, replace any necessary part of the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on February 22, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
2012-03-30
- Manufacturer: HONDA (AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.)
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2004 CR-V; MODEL YEAR 2003 THROUGH 2005 PILOT; AND MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 CIVIC VEHICLES. IN MARCH 2012, HONDA FILED A DEFECT REPORT TO RECALL CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2004 CR-V AND CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003 PILOT VEHICLES. IN AUGUST 2012, HONDA INFORMED THE AGENCY THAT IT WAS INCLUDING AN ADDITIONAL 820,789 VEHICLES INCLUDING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AND 2005 PILOTS AND MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 CIVICS. THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VEHICLES BEING RECALLED IS NOW 1,375,217. DUE TO TENSION FROM THE COMBINATION SWITCH WIRING HARNESS, WEAR ON THE SURFACE OF THE ELECTRICAL TERMINAL CAN OCCUR, YIELDING COPPER OXIDE, WHICH INCREASES ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE. INCREASED ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE MAY CAUSE THE TERMINAL ENDS TO MELT WITHIN THE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR.
- Consequence: IF THE TERMINAL ENDS MELT WITHIN THE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR, THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE, REDUCING DRIVER VISIBILITY AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE LOW BEAM TERMINAL HARNESS OR REPLACE THE LIGHTING SWITCH AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE ORIGINAL RECALL BEGAN IN APRIL 2012. OWNERS OF VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THE SEPTEMBER 2012 EXPANSION WILL BE NOTIFIED IN SEPTEMBER 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.
2008-02-05
- Manufacturer: HONDA (AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.)
- Components: EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:CARRIER/RACK
- Summary: HONDA IS RECALLING 2,032 HITCH STYLE BIKE RACKS SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE ON MY 2003-2007 AND SOME MY 2008 HONDA PILOT, RIDGELINE, AND ACURA MDX VEHICLES. A PINCH BOLT EXISTS BETWEEN THE BIKE ARM BRACKET AND THE UPRIGHT ASSEMBLY OF THE "HITCH" STYLE BICYCLE RACK.
- Consequence: WHEN MOVING THE BIKE ARM BRACKET TO ITS DOWN POSITION, THIS PINCH BOLT HAS THE POTENTIAL OF CAUSING SEVERE LACERATION OR AMPUTATION TO THE USER'S FINGERTIPS OR HAND.
- Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT THULE AT 800-THULE91 (800-848-5391) TO OBTAIN A FREE REPAIR KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS OR OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.
2004-04-15
- Manufacturer: HONDA (AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.)
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: ON SOME MINI VANS, SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES, CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS CAN RESULT IN HEAT BUILD-UP BETWEEN THE COUNTERSHAFT AND SECONDARY SHAFT SECOND GEARS IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, EVENTUALLY LEADING TO GEAR TOOTH CHIPPING OR GEAR BREAKAGE.
- Consequence: GEAR FAILURE COULD RESULT IN TRANSMISSION LOCKUP, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: ON VEHICLES WITH 15,000 MILES OR LESS, THE DEALER WILL UPDATE THE TRANSMISSION WITH A SIMPLE REVISION TO THE OIL COOLER RETURN LINE TO INCREASE LUBRICATION TO THE SECOND GEAR. ON VEHICLES WITH MORE THAN 15,000 MILES, THE DEALER WILL INSPECT THE TRANSMISSION TO IDENTIFY GEARS THAT HAVE ALREADY EXPERIENCED DISCOLORATION DUE TO OVERHEATING. IF DISCOLORATION EXISTS, THE TRANSMISSION WILL BE REPLACED IF DISCOLORATION IS NOT PRESENT, THE DEALER WILL PERFORM THE REVISION TO THE OIL COOLER RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 21, 2004, FOR PILOT, ODYSSEY, AND MDX OWNERS. OWNERS OF THE ACCORD VEHICLES WILL START RECEIVING LETTERS ON JUNE 28, 2004, AND ON JUNE 29, 2004, FOR OWNERS OF THE TL AND CL VEHICLES. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.
2002-08-28
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, SEDANS, COUPES, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V6 ENGINES, A TIMING BELT TENSIONER PULLEY ON THE WATER PUMP IS MISALIGNED AND COULD CAUSE THE TIMING BELT TO CONTACT A BOLT ON THE CYLINDER HEAD. EVENTUALLY THE BELT COULD BE DAMAGED AND FAIL.
- Consequence: IF THE TIMING BELT BREAKS, THE ENGINE WILL STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WATER PUMP AND IF IT IS ONE OF THE DEFECTIVE PUMPS, THE WATER PUMP AND TIMING BELT WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 30, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.
Negative 2003 Honda Pilot car reviews
Positive 2003 Honda Pilot car reviews
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The Honda Pilot is an excellent vehicle, especially in snowy conditions. In my experience, it has outperformed any SUV I have ever owned, and I have never gotten stuck in the snow here in Michigan. The leather seating is comfortable, and the heating and cooling systems work superbly. In the five years that I have owned it, I have had minimal problems, and I still love driving this thing! However, there are a few issues to note. The power door lock actuator on the driver's door is broken, which is a common problem. The VTM sensor light may pop on, and the oil temp sensor on the differential is often faulty. The transmission light may also pop on, but this is usually a common problem that does not require a transmission replacement. After a couple of months, the light eventually stops popping up on its own. Additionally, the second-row seats may eventually not fold down flat, which is also a common issue. Overall, my Pilot has 193,000 miles, and the body has only a quarter-sized rust spot on the passenger side lower rear wheel area. It doesn't leak a drop of any fluid anywhere, and all electronics work as they should. The steering is tight, as if it were new. I am ready to replace it only because it's starting to rust, so I am hoping to find another one from 2003 to 2005 with low miles and from the south so I can start all over again.
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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.
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This is a tank. But when my daughter moved to an area with snowy and rainy weather, I sent her in this SUV after driving it cross country fully loaded with her belongings. I have complete trust in it. It has had regular repairs and airbags replaced. It may not be the most beautiful SUV, but it is my go-to for any event, whether fully loaded or just for one person. It's steady, ready, and willing to go.
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I'm so glad to hear that your 2003 Pilot has been such a reliable vehicle for you! It's great that you've been so diligent about keeping up with oil changes and using higher octane gas. Even with 230,000 miles on it, it's impressive that you've only had to repair common issues like rusted struts and brake and exhaust mounts. It's a testament to the toughness of the vehicle that it's been able to withstand harsh winter conditions and still start up every time. I can understand why you're so attached to it, especially with how comfortable it is for both you and your passengers. It's always tough to say goodbye to a beloved car, but I'm sure you'll know when the time is right to downsize. Thanks for sharing your story with me!
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After driving a mini-van for 11 years, we were really excited to try something different. This SUV has been an amazing kid-hauler and traveler. The kids absolutely love the DVD system, which means no more hearing 'are we there yet?' We've been really impressed with the climate control system, especially since the other passengers have the ability to control the temperature. Additionally, we've been blown away by all the storage and the sound system - both are of great quality. The only issue we've had is with the noise when only the back window is down. However, we were told by Honda that this is common in SUVs. If you crack the front window, the road noise disappears. Overall, we highly recommend this SUV!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Honda Pilot problems:
Top 10 Common Honda Pilot Problems (2003-2008) - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8KfSMdp39Y
Mar 3, 2021 ... ISupport our Build and get Merch on Patreon! https://patreon.com/GotterAdventure Bookmark Our Amazon Affiliate Page to help support our ...
2003 Honda Pilot Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-honda-pilot/problems
Problem with your 2003 Honda Pilot? Our list of 16 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Honda Pilot.
Top 5 Problems Honda Pilot SUV 1st Generation 2003-08 - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1U-aAXFlo04
Mar 4, 2021 ... In this video, Len explains the top 5 most common problems with the 1st gen pilot. He also gives you tips on ways you can fix those problems ...
2003 Honda Pilot - Few transmission issues | Honda Pilot - Honda ...
https://www.piloteers.org/threads/2003-honda-pilot-few-transmission-issues.178702/
Dec 27, 2022 ... Your transmission has been neglected; the ATF is full of debris, and the clutch seals are worn due to high mileage. IMO, the first thing to do ...
1st Gen Honda Pilot - How Reliable Are They Really? - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5E2ERTjCi7Y
May 5, 2020 ... We all know of Japanese-designed cars' reputation for reliability. But how do they hold up in the real world?
Other years of Honda Pilot
Are you having problems with your 2003 Honda Pilot?
Antonio Corkery 2024-08-26
I also have a 2003 Honda Pilot. We have kept up on all maintenance on this vehicle. Recently, the drive light started flashing and we were told that the 4th gear pressure sensor was bad. We had that fixed, but unfortunately, a month later the transmission started acting up. We took it to the dealer and they informed us that we needed a whole new transmission, which was going to cost us $3000.00 to fix.
Ian Fadel 2024-08-14
Most everything is OK with the Pilot, except for the transmission. If you're considering buying a Pilot, it's important to keep in mind that the power train warranty has an expiration date. I would recommend trading in the Pilot before that date arrives to avoid a costly $2500 repair. While there was a transmission recall for the Pilot, the fix wasn't very effective. Additionally, the radio and CD player are of poor quality and may need to be replaced.
Connor Wilkinson 2024-07-04
The torque converter and transmission were replaced at 89k miles under normal driving conditions, with a total cost of over $3600. It is important to note that Honda repairs can be costly due to the high quality of their parts.
Dante Rath 2024-02-09
My 2003 Pilot EX-L with RES has 79,000 miles and has unfortunately experienced some issues. The A/C, door locks, leather quality, driver's side visor mirror cover, plastic on the bottom side of the driver's side, and one of the rear A/C vents have all required attention. Additionally, there is some rust in the middle of the passenger's side door. While these issues are frustrating, they are not uncommon and can be addressed. I have researched these problems and found that they are not unique to my vehicle. I am confident that Honda will work with me to resolve these issues and restore my vehicle to its former quality. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Ari Schmidt 2024-01-01
Great family vehicle. Comfortable ride and handling (after replacing OEM tires). Good ergonomics for a big man.