2004 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 2004 Honda Pilot problems
The 2004 Honda Pilot, a popular midsize SUV, has been known for several common problems based on complaints from its owners.
- Powertrain Complaints: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received 140 reports of powertrain issues in the 2004 Honda Pilot. These complaints include rough shifting and total transmission failure. Some drivers have reported that the car refuses to go into gear, but it functions perfectly after being left overnight.
- Premature Rust: A number of 2004 Honda Pilot units have reported premature rust, especially in the rear subframe. This issue can be prevented with anti-rust spray, but it can be difficult to fix once the rust has settled in.
- Throttle Body Issues: The throttle body, which regulates the amount of air getting drawn into the engine, can cause acceleration problems if it malfunctions. Symptoms include slow or lagging acceleration, poor idle, and stalling during rapid acceleration .
- Transmission Failures: The 2004 Honda Pilot, particularly the 2003 model, has experienced transmission failures, which are one of the most expensive repairs a car can need. This issue can lead to difficulty controlling the vehicle and even result in a crash.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Some Honda Pilots, especially after 100k miles, consume oil excessively. While this isn't a severe issue if managed properly, it can burn a hole in the owner's pocketbook due to increased maintenance costs.
- Peeling Paint: Peeling paint is primarily a cosmetic issue but can lead to more severe problems if the vehicle is exposed to wet weather or rust-prone environments.
- Recurring Fault Codes: Recurring fault codes, often caused by sensors triggering non-existent issues, can be irritating and potentially hide real problems. These codes can be managed by staying vigilant and addressing legitimate fault codes promptly.
- Fuel Injector Failure: Fuel injector failures are a common issue in Honda Pilots and can be an expensive problem to fix. This issue can lead to poor performance and reduced fuel efficiency.
- TPMS Sensor Battery Life: The TPMS sensors in the 2004 Honda Pilot have batteries that last approximately seven years. If the vehicle is older than seven years, the TPMS sensors may need to be replaced .
These common problems should be considered when purchasing a used 2004 Honda Pilot. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or mitigate these issues.
Do 2004 Honda Pilots have transmission problems?
Honda Motor Company officially confirmed that a defect relating to motor vehicle safety existed in 2003-04 Pilots. Certain operating conditions resulted in heat buildup in the transmission second gear set and often led to gear tooth chipping. In very rare cases, actual gear breakage occurred.
Is a 2004 Honda Pilot a reliable vehicle?
Most dependable and low maintenance vehicle I've owned. Still running after 200,000 plus miles. Great engine. Good gas mileage.
How many miles do 2004 Honda Pilots 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 the 2004 Honda Pilot fuel efficient?
Based on data from 207 vehicles, 24,302 fuel-ups and 6,016,901 miles of driving, the 2004 Honda Pilot gets a combined Avg MPG of 17.23 with a 0.04 MPG margin of error.
2004 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
- Seats problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Honda Pilot vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Honda Pilot
The NHTSA has received 539 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Honda Pilot. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Honda Pilot vehicles.
2024-02-27
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the ignition briefly failed to turn. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.
2024-01-25
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-25
- VIN: 2HKYF18664H
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact entered the vehicle and the front passenger attempted to secure the seat belt however, the seat belt failed to retract. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,000.
2024-01-06
SEAT BELTS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-20
- VIN: 2HKYF18584H
- Components: SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: I heard a loud pop come from under my driver's seat and the seat started rocking backwards. I got out of my car and checked underneath the seat. The front-left bracket securing the seat to the seat frame had completely sheared in half and the seat was no longer securely attached to the seat frame. This is a significant safety issue. When the car accelerates the driver's seat rocks backwards by ~45 degrees, making it extremely difficult to stay in control of the vehicle and safely steer the vehicle. It is also extremely unsafe in the case of an accident because A) the seat would not hold the driver securely in place, B) the driver would not be properly in position and restrained for the air bags to deploy, C) the seat belt is attached to the seat base and would not be able to fully function properly, and D) any passengers sitting in the 2nd row behind the driver's seat would be in danger of having the full force of the driver and the driver's seat slamming back against them. This is a known issue widely reported in Honda Pilot owners' forums. Yet Honda has not issued a recall. I took the vehicle into a Honda dealership to inspect the issue. They said that Honda no longer makes the part that would be required to fix this safety issue. This issue affects all 2003-2008 model year Honda Pilots. There were over 800,000 2003-2008 model year pilots sold and because of Honda vehicle's longevity there is a massive number of these vehicles still on the roads.
2023-09-06
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-14
- VIN: 2HKYF18454H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT IS ACTIVATED. I TOOK MY 2004 HONDA PILOT WITH CALIFORNIA LICENSE PLATE NUMBER [XXX] TO THE HONDA DEALERSHIP IN HEMET CALIFORNIA ON DECEMBER 14 2022 TO CHECK THE AIR BAG SYSTEM. I WAS TOLD THERE WAS A $100.00 DIAGNOSTIC FEE BECAUSE THE REPAIR IS NOT COVERED UNDER THE AIRBAG RECALL PROGRAM. MY VEHICLE IS 20 YEARS OLD AND I'M WORRIED THE DRIVERS SIDE AIR BAG IS UNSAFE AND COULD BE ACCIDENTLY ACTIVATED AND CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH. MY VEHICLE HAS OVER 300,000 MILES. AS OF TODAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2023, THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP IS STILL ON. IS THE ACTIVATED AIR BAG WARNING LAMP COVERED UNDER THE AIR BAG RECALL PROGRAM? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2023-08-25
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-19
- VIN: 2HKYF18584H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission locks up when vehicle has been driven for a short time
2023-05-25
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- VIN: 2HKYF18454H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT HAS BEEN ACTIVATED. THE HONDA DEALERSHIP CHARGES $100.00 TO DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE. I WAS TOLD IT'S NOT PART OF THE AIRBAG RECALL AND I WILL HAVE TO PAY. MY VEHICLE IS 20 YEARS OLD. I BELEIVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH AIRBAGS SHOULD BE COVERED BY THE RECALL. IN THE CASE OF AN AIRBAG ACTIVATION AND I AM INJURIED OR KILLED FROM A DEFECTIVE AIR BAG. I HAVE PROOF THAT THE HONDA DEALERSHIP WAS ADVISED ON DECEMBER 14, 2022. THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT HAS BEEN ON FOR SIX (6) MONTHS AND CANNOT GET IT CORRECTED.
2023-05-19
SEAT BELTS,SEATS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-20
- VIN: 5FNYF18464B
- Components: SEAT BELTS,SEATS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brakes seem to stop suddenly Must brake slowly to avoid a sudden stop Seatbelt locks up if I do not pull it forward and leave room in the belt so that it isn't completely holding me in Also the driver seat will only adjust sideways.
2023-03-13
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-15
- VIN: 5FNYF185X4B
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the transmission was shifted into drive(D) and the vehicle shuddered. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V176000 (Power Train). The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the transmission fluid was flushed 3 times; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the failure recurred while the vehicle is shifted into drive(D) and D3. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
2022-12-20
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-09
- VIN: 2HKYF18714H
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: lights that illuminate the functions/buttons of the climate control system burned out
2022-10-03
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-03
- VIN: 2hkyf18454h
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Confirmed with local mechanic that the rear cross member of the sub-frame needs to be replaced immediately. Badly rusted and is a safety issue.
2022-07-24
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-12
- VIN: 2HKYF187X4H
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I bought this 2004 Honda Pilot new in 2004 in Louisville. In 2018 I drove to Florida without incident. While here in Florida I have had a problem with oil leaking. Than the compressor for the air went out and I took it straight to the dealer here. They told me it was not worth fixing. Since then I have had 2 mechanics look underneath the car and said it was so rusted that the frame was dangerous and they could not risk fixing it. I have checked with other Honda owners only to find out this is a problem with numerous Honda years and no one fix this problems because of liability . I have photos of the rusted out rear-end and the frame is not attached. You can find owners trying to weld the rear-end back on. No one will repair my compressor because of the rust and damage. When I had it at the dealers they did not mention this problem at all. They just said it was not worth fixing. My car has about 200000 miles but has has its service. This has to be a major recall or replacement. We could have had a major accident over this and didn't know [XXX] Please call or forward communication. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2022-03-28
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-26
- VIN: 2hkyf18564h
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I was approaching a stop sign and slowing down to < 10 miles and the engine continued to slow down and the car started to push forward while I was totally pressing on the brake - it did not want to stop and kept pushing forward. I wasn't sure what was happening and quickly put it in neutral. My daughter who drives the car to school was sitting in the passenger seat and was completely shocked. I have been driving for 30+ years and at that moment felt things were totally out of my control. Extremely off to see a car keep going when you are trying to stop. I could 100% have hit someone if there was a car in front of me as I went two car lengths before realizing what was happening. I turned the car off. Started again and it was fine. This happened on Saturday, March 26th, 2022. I have not taken the car to the dealer. There were no lights or anything indicating any warning.
2021-12-04
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-04
- VIN: 5FNYF18434B
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: My hood latch isn't holding when I'm highway driving at 60MPH. The hood will pop open. I've seen the new recall on the news for the newer vehicles but it is also happening on my 2004. I believe that year needs to be added to the list.
2021-08-31
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-31
- VIN: 2HKYF18134H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission locked up while driving and wont drive after I stored the vehicle Iam glad no one was behind me on the freeway there is a extremely huge problem with this transmissions the government needs to get this kind of vehicles checked out at Honda before someone loses his life
2020-12-28
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-30
- VIN: 2HKYF18634H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WAS ON HIGHWAY AND STARTED JERKING REAL HARD WHERE I ALMOST HIT A CAR HEAD ON WAS GOING 55 FOR SURE SCARED ME TO DEAD AND PULLED OVER AND CALLED MY BOYFRIEND HE CAME TO ME AND GOT IN IT AND IT WOULDN'T GO FORWARDS BACKWARDS NOTHING SO HE WENT AND GOT TRAILER AND HAULED TO HIS HOUSE COULD OF BEEN MY LIFE ALONG WITH MY KIDS
2020-12-21
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-26
- VIN: 2HKYF18444H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY CAR WAS RUNNING JUST FINE I'VE HAD NO ISSUES THE WHOLE ENTIRE TIME I HAVE OWNED IT TILL NOW AND I CANNOT PUT THE KEY IN THE IGNITION IT TAKES ME LIKE 10 MINUTES OR MORE TO PUT THE KEY IN AND IF I TAKE THE KEY OUT WHEN I GET TO MY DESTINATION IT TAKES ME 10 MINUTES OR MORE TO PUT THE KEY IN AGAIN JUST TO DRIVE SOMEWHERE ELSE OR BACK HOME. I'M PRETTY SURE THAT IT SHOULD BE ON A RECALL BUT I DON'T KNOW WHAT IT WOULD BE. AND IT DOESN'T MATTER WHICH WAY I PUT THE KEY IN IT WILL NOT GO IN AND I HAVE THREE KEYS AND EACH KEY DOES THE SAME THING.
2020-12-20
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-20
- VIN: 2HKYF18654H
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DRIVERS REAR STRUT METAL FATIGUE FAILURE AT KNUCKLE CAUSED SHOCK ABSORBER TO DROP AND SLICE WHEEL.
2020-07-17
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-10
- VIN: 2HKYF18514H
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WENT TO GO TRADE MY CAR IN AND I WAS TOLD THAT THE CAR-FAX IS SHOWING A POTENTIAL ODOMETER ROLLBACK INDICATED, I HAVE MADE A FEW CALLS AND I AM NOT GETTING ANY HELP. I AM VERY CONCERNED AND WOULD LIKE SOME HELP WITH THIS PLEASE THANK YOU.
2020-06-25
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-12
- VIN: 2HKYF18644H
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN GETTING WORK DONE BY LICENSED MECHANIC, I WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE REAR FRAME BEING SOO RUSTED THAT THE SHOCK ABSORBER WAS NOT ATTACHED BECAUSE THERE WAS NOTHING LEFT TO ATTACH IT TO. I WAS TOLD THEY COULDN'T FIX IT AND I SHOULD CONSIDER GETTING RID OF IT. *TR
2020-06-04
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-03
- VIN: 2HKYF18544H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION LOCK-CYLINDER/ASSEMBLY WAS DEFECTIVE AND A RECALL WAS ISSUED WHICH THE DEALER DID NOT HONOR. IGNITION KEY COULD NOT BE EXTRACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS PARK IN DRIVEWAY AND TURNED OFF TO OPEN GATE. THE KEY COULD NOT TURN NOR BE EXTRACTED. *TR
2020-05-14
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 2HKYF18474H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE VEHICLE IN OPERATION. MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY, 65 MPH, NO IMPACT, NOTHING HIT OUR CAR, NO REASON. I WAS SITTING IN PASSENGER SEAT. THE AIRBAG BLEW, SOME BURNING AND BRUISING TO MY ARM, EAR IS RINGING. NO REASON FOR THE AIRBAG TO DEPLOY! VERY DANGEROUS. CALLED HONDA, CAR [XXX]. WE'VE HAD OUR FRONT AIRBAGS RECALLED. DO THE SIDES HAVE PROBLEMS TOO? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2020-02-04
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-04
- VIN: 2HKYF18634H
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA PILOT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT COASTED TO THE CENTER MEDIAN. THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BLACK SMOKE WAS EMERGING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ODOR OF BURNING OIL PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS RE-STARTED BUT LACKED FORWARD MOMENTUM. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN HOME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A DIAGNOSTIC. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC PREVIOUSLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,300.
2020-01-27
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-26
- VIN: 2HKYF18574H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 HONDA PILOT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45MPH THE VEHICLE MADE A GRINDING SOUND AND THE RPM'S FELL WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT HAD NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. UPON INVESTIGATION THE CONTACT HAD ASSOCIATED RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V176000(POWER TRAIN) WITH THE VEHICLE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 203,300.
2020-01-25
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-29
- VIN: 2HKYF185X4H
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2004 HONDA PILOT DRIVER SIDE REAR SUBFRAME CROSSMEMBER RUSTED AND FALLING APART. STARTED TO RUST AROUND 2010 THEN WORST AT 2019. ONLY THE DRIVER SIDE IS RUSTED AND BAD. THE PASSENGER SIDE HAS NO ISSUES.
2019-12-16
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-12
- VIN: 2HKYF18574H
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WENT TO GET A OIL CHANGE FOR MY CAR AT AN AUTO REPAIR SHOP AND THE TECH SHOWED ME THE RUST ON THE SUB FRAME, ESPECIALLY AROUND THE REAR MOUNT. THE RUST WENT THROUGH THE FRAME AND THERE IS A BIG HOLE AROUND THE DRIVER SIDE REAR MOUNT. I WAS TOLD THIS HAPPENED TO SOME OTHER HONDA PILOT.
2004 Honda Pilot recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 13 recalls for different components of the 2004 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.
2015-05-28
- 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.
2004-08-11
- Manufacturer: HONDA (AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.)
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLE'S CERTIFICATION LABELS MAY CONTAIN INCORRECT VEHICLE WEIGHT AND TIRE SIZE INFORMATION.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE REQUESTED TO INSPECT THE CERTIFICATION LABEL OR TO CONTACT A DEALER TO PERFORM THE INSPECTION FOR THEM. IF THE LABEL IS INCORRECT, OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT THEIR DEALERS TO ARRANGE TO HAVE A CORRECTION STICKER PLACED OVER THE INCORRECT INFORMATION. THIS RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 11, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.
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.
Negative 2004 Honda Pilot car reviews
Positive 2004 Honda Pilot car reviews
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Hi there! I've been the proud owner of this SUV for six and a half years now. It's been a really reliable car overall, with just a few minor issues. We've had to replace the rear shocks (which cost $450 at 66K miles) after overloading the car on a long trip, but that was our fault! We've also had to replace two engine mounts (which cost $650 at 68K miles), but apparently that's a common issue for Odysseys and Pilots. Despite these minor setbacks, we absolutely love this car - it's powerful and gets the job done!
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You'll be pleased to know that this machine performs excellently in snowy conditions and requires minimal repairs. It's a reliable and efficient piece of equipment that will serve you well.
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This car is truly amazing! It's practically bulletproof and can withstand anything, even the mistakes of an 18-year-old driver like myself. It handles like a ballerina in the snow and is incredibly comfortable for long drives. The brakes are simply amazing and have saved me from an accident with a friend. The power is excellent and the sound it makes when you step on it is just great. It even gets decent mileage when driven correctly! My friend even likes it better than her 6-month-old Grand Cherokee. The back is very roomy and can easily fit four friends. It's truly a beast of a car!
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This is a lovely car
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I'm so glad to hear that your car is still running great even after 90K miles! It sounds like it's been a reliable and comfortable ride for you, especially during those long 1000+ mile trips. I agree that the storage space between the front seats is a unique and useful feature that sets it apart from other SUVs. It's unfortunate that you've had some issues with the brakes and gas mileage, but it's great that you're still satisfied with your car and don't see anything else on the market that you'd prefer. Here's to many more happy miles with your trusty SUV!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Honda Pilot problems:
Top 10 Common Honda Pilot Problems (2003-2008) - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8KfSMdp39Y
Mar 3, 2021 ... 07 EX-L here. 15:16. Go to channel · Things I love about my 1st gen 2004 Honda Pilot. Aleksandr Usovich•20K views · 14:37. Go to channel ...
ANOTHER 2004 Pilot with transmission problem | Honda Pilot ...
https://www.piloteers.org/threads/another-2004-pilot-with-transmission-problem.26860/
Oct 9, 2010 ... Actually, transmisson failure in a Pilot is not common like it is on Honda's other V6 models. The 2004 Pilot transmission has a less than 1% ( ...
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 ...
2004 Honda Pilot Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2004-honda-pilot/problems
Problem with your 2004 Honda Pilot? Our list of 16 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Honda Pilot.
Looking at buying 03-04 Pilot? Transmission Worries? | Honda Pilot ...
https://www.piloteers.org/threads/looking-at-buying-03-04-pilot-transmission-worries.27708/
Mar 2, 2011 ... A lot of the 2003 issues were actually pcv valve issues that mimicked tranny issues. The 2004 has a "much better than average" major tranny ...
Other years of Honda Pilot
Are you having problems with your 2004 Honda Pilot?
Gene Schiller 2024-10-09
I bought a Honda to avoid the issues I had with GM vehicles, but unfortunately, this car has been to the dealer so many times that it should be kept there! I am surprised by the high ratings this vehicle has received. Do all publications assume that just because it is a Honda, it has great quality and design? There are several issues that I have encountered with this car, including weld splash in the front strut area, loud popping noises from the rear, airbag and transmission recalls due to design problems, and the need to replace the rear differential, which is currently on backorder. Is this a common problem with other Pilots?
Merle Wilderman 2024-07-11
The paint on my pilot is peeling off and it started when the vehicle was about 3 years old. I contacted Honda but they told me it was due to using car washes instead of hand washing, even though it has never been in a car wash. Unfortunately, they were unable to help me and now I must pay for a paint job before winter to prevent rusting. I have a blue metallic Honda and the paint is not looking good. It's a shame that Honda couldn't assist me with this issue.
Jeremie Osinski 2024-05-24
I recently purchased a used 04 Pilot with 100K from a used car lot for 9,000. During the test drive, the car drove great. However, on the way home, I noticed a 'rumble strip' like noise under the car when exiting the highway at about 40 mph. After some research, I discovered that the torque converter is a common problem that leads to transmission failure on the 03 to 05 Pilots. Although Acura has recalled this same problem, Honda has not yet done so. I am disappointed that my car was bought 'as is' and I am unable to receive any assistance. Despite this, I am still a Honda fan and have had great experiences with their products in the past, including an 08 CRV for my wife which performs flawlessly, as well as two ATV's which I have put through their paces. However, I do believe that a class action suit may be necessary to address this issue.