2008 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 2008 Honda Pilot problems
The 2008 Honda Pilot is known for a few common problems, primarily excessive oil consumption, burnt out lights, and broken window regulators. These issues are relatively minor compared to other SUVs from 2008, but they can still be frustrating for owners.
Excessive oil consumption is the most common complaint from owners, with around 100,000 miles being the point at which it becomes a significant issue. This problem is caused by the variable cylinder management system, which can be turned off to reduce oil consumption. Some owners simply add oil as needed instead of replacing the entire system.
Burnt out lights throughout the cabin are another issue reported by owners, happening around every 20,000 miles. The lights from Honda burn out quickly, and many people replace them with LED bulbs for about $3 per bulb, which last much longer.
Broken window regulators also show up on many Pilot models at around 110,000 miles. When the regulator fails, many people report the window falling into the door. Replacing the entire regulator assembly is about $400.
There are 9 recalls for the 2008 Honda Pilot, which is worse than average, but many are minor. The most serious recall is for the accelerator pedal binding, which can cause unintended acceleration and increase the risk of a crash.
A well-maintained 2008 Honda Pilot should last around 250,000 miles, similar to rivals like the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are average for a midsize SUV, at $479 per year, according to ownership data provided by Repair Pal. Since most 2008 Pilot models will have over 100,000 miles, owners should be prepared to replace the HVAC door actuator for $700, wheel speed sensor costing $150, and the timing belt tensioner which costs $500.
The engine found in the pilot is an average 3.5L V6 which makes 244 horsepower and gets up to 18 MPG combined. Performance is okay for its size, taking about 8.7 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH, but the towing capacity is low at only 3,500 pounds. The 2008 Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV, and a little larger than the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevy Trailblazer. Passenger room is great in the first two rows, but the third row is best suited for younger children since it has limited legroom. Cargo space is excellent for a midsize SUV with 15.9 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 47.6 cubic feet behind the second, and up to 87.6 with the seats folded flat. That’s enough for 3-4 suitcases behind the third row, and 6-8 with the third row folded flat.
In summary, while the 2008 Honda Pilot has some common problems, they are relatively minor compared to other SUVs from 2008. With regular maintenance and replacement of certain parts as needed, a well-maintained Pilot should last around 250,000 miles.
What is the most common problem with the 2008 Honda Pilot?
The problems found on the 2008 Honda Pilot include excessive oil consumption, burnt out lights, and broken window regulators. Overall, the problems found on the Pilot are relatively minor compared to other SUVs from 2008. Excessive oil consumption is the most common complaint from owners at around 100,000 miles.
Is 2008 Honda Pilot a good car?
2008 Honda Pilot Review
Only the 2008 Honda Pilot is both strong enough to go the distance and cunning enough to lead the way. The distinctive exterior of the Pilot cuts the air with clean straightforward lines and this vehicle practically snarls with an advanced 3.5-liter 24-valve 244-hp V-6 engine.
How long does a 2008 Honda Pilot engine last?
You can expect most Honda Pilots to make it to at least 150,000 miles before they have any serious repair needs, and some Pilots are effective for as many as 250,000 miles before they need repairs. It's relatively rare for a Honda Pilot to make it to 300,00 miles in good condition, however.
Do Honda Pilots have engine problems?
Pilots from the 2016 to 2020 model years were also investigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for problems related to the engine's stop-start system, which could leave drivers stranded if the engine fails to restart after a stop.
2008 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:
- Air bags problems
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Honda Pilot vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Honda Pilot
The NHTSA has received 127 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Honda Pilot. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Honda Pilot vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-04
- 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.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-18
- VIN: 5FNYF28218B
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Hello, I have a set of 4 Bridgestone Dueler LX tires that have been cracking for the past 8 months and now appear to be separating in between the treads. I’ve had America’s Tire Company look at them within the past 6 months and they always seem to state that it’s normal, but the cracks seem to be getting bigger and bigger. The wheels vibrate some, even after several re-balancing attempts. The tires were purchased on [XXX] and I don’t feel safe driving on these tires anymore to the point that I really hesitate driving on the freeway now for that they might fail/explode. I will be submitting a call/claim directly with Bridgestone at 800-847-3272 tomorrow as well. The tire size is P235/70R 16. There has been no incident yet, so I will use today's date. Of the photos uploaded, IMG's 3506 and 3507 were recently placed in the rear and IMG 3508 are in the back. Here are the DOT #'s in no particular order: [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
- VIN: 5FNYF18318B
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Left headlight went out in July 2023 while traveling in Oklahoma. I had it replaced at a NAPA shop in Kansas shortly after. The headlight went out again while home in Charleston, SC in November 2023. I had it replaced again. 2 weeks later around roughly November 15th 2023 the light went out again.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 5FNYF183X8B
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: When in the service garage for a noise, our independent service mechanic confirmed that the body of the Pilot has rusted from the frame.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-15
- VIN: 5FNYF18718B
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Driving 2008 Honda Pilot with Firestone WeatherGrip P235/70R16 at 70mph on the interstate, the rear driver tire failed causing almost instant and complete deflation. The tires have been maintained properly, to include rotation and proper inflation. The tires have less than 10k miles (65k mile warranty) and are one year old. Based on my knowledge, experience and evidence (attached photo), this failure was not caused by common road hazards, misapplication or abuse. Rather, the failure is a result of material failure of the tire.
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-22
- VIN: 5FNYF28568B
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: UNKNOWN
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-26
- VIN: 5FNYF28298B
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Passanger seatbelt will not retract. Took to dealership and was told there would be a $150 inspection fee before they would even look at it. Because it is a safety item no third parties are permitted to sell them. Understand that the part eventually wears out, but the dealership gouging coustomers is excessive. Right to repair should extend to seatbelts.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5FNYF18448B
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car accelerated on its own and when I applied the brakes, they didn’t work. I hit a tree on my property and damaged my property and my car.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-06
- VIN: 5FNYF18398B
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE
- Summary: STATE INSPECTION FAILD, check engine light, bank 1 Catalytic Converter Internal Failure and bank 2 Catalytic converter Internal Failure, passenger side axle to be leaking, power steering pump to be leaking, power steering reservoir tank to be leaking, front and rear brake pad
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-31
- VIN: 5FNYF18338B
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2008 Honda pilot Rear subframe on both sides rotted out! horrible design! Lots of Honda pilots with this issue!! you could've killed my family due to this!! This is a known issue now take care of your buyers!!!
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-03
- VIN: 5FNYF28218B
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I was starting my car and the steering column started smoking and smelling burnt. It was able to start up but started up rough. Car then turned off and when tried to turn on it would no longer start up again or even when key turned to start position was unable to move the car out of park. This happened on 12/03/2021 but has yet to be inspected due to mechanic has not had time. The safety of myself, son, and grandson was at risk due to the potential of it catching fire if smoking and burnt smell along with unable to move car out of park and could have been in an unsafe location and could have caused an accident. There were no warnings of any kind prior to the failure with the car.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-29
- VIN: 5fnyf18778b
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING NORMALLY IN ANY CONDITION THE VEHICLE WITHOUT ANY WARNING WILL MAKE A BANG NOISE, SHUDDER AND BRAKE WITHOUT APPLYING THE BRAKES. THE VSA LIGHT COMES ON AND THE VEHICLE WILL NOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY UNTIL AFTER THE CAR IS TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED. THIS HAS HAPPENED MANY TIMES. THE VSA RECALL WAS not applicable to THE VEHICLE yet it CONTINUES TO HAVE THE SAME ISSUES. MY Mechanic advised me of a VSA code 25-1. I did a google search and found numerous accounts of this happening to people. My daughter was extremely emotionally impacted by this when it happened to her at freeway speeds. While the fix is replacement of an expensive component, there is no guarantee that it will eliminate the condition. I have been a loyal honda owner for over 40 years and find it unbelievable that the company has not taken ownership of this incredibly dangerous design flaw.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-10
- VIN: 5FNYF18588B
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA PILOT. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE APPROACHING A STOP SIGN AND DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED HE SHIFTED GEARS TO NEUTRAL AND CONTINUED TO DEPRESS ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE FORCEFUL UNTIL THE VEHICLE STOPPED. THE CONTACT STATED HE WAS ABLE TO DRIVE TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT CALLED BIANCHI HONDA (8430 PEACH ST, ERIE, PA 16509, (814) 868-9678) AND THE DEALER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 179,942.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-22
- VIN: 5FNYF28598B
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA PILOT. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER AND WAS PULLED OFF THE ROADWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VSA SENSOR AND YAW RATE SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO THE NHTSA FOR ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-01
- VIN: 5FNYF28428B
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: HEATER AND AC HAS WORKED JUST FINE SINCE I BOUGHT THE SUV. ALL OF A SUDDEN MY FRONT CABIN HAS STOP BLOWING HOT AIR WHEN HEATER IS ON. IT WORKS JUST FINE IN THE BACK CABIN. I HAVE BEEN LOOKING IN TO THIS AND CAME TO FIND OUT THIS HAS BEEN A ISSUE WITH EVERYONE I HAVE INQUIRED THAT HAS OWNED A HONDA PILOT AND REPORTS OF THIS ISSUE I AM HAVING .
STEERING,AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-29
- VIN: 5FNYF18578B
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: NEW CAR, PROBLEMS JUST UNCOVERED.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-16
- VIN: 25NYF18788B
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WHEN YOU APPLY BRAKES ABOVE 30 MPH STEERING WHEEL SHAKES AND BRAKES PULSE.DTC 84-1 AND ABS SYSTEM TEST SAYS THAT THE VSC/ABS LOSES COMMUNICATION ABOVE 30 MPH WITH NO NUMBER CODE SHOWN.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5FNYF28568B
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: PURCHASED A HONDA PILOT EQUIPPED WITH KUHMO KR21 TIRES. WHILE ON A ROAD TRIP WITH THE FAMILY, ABOUT 400 MILES INTO THE DRIVE HEARD A THUMP SOUND I WENT TO A LOCAL LANE TO EXIT AND THEN THE TIRE LITERALLY EXPLODES AND SEPARATES ON THE HIGHWAY. WE DID TWO SPINS AND CRASHED INTO THE GUARD RAIL THANKFULLY INSTEAD OF INTO THE DITCH. WE WERE ON I10 HEADING EAST BOUND FEW MILES INTO LOUISANA.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-01
- VIN: 5FNYF18278B
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MAJOR WATER ENTERING VEHICLE WHEN PARKED,CARPET TOTALLY SOAKED,STARTED TO SEE FLYING INSECTS IN CAR,CARPET IS NOW STARTING TO MOLD,THERE IS A TSB ON THIS PROBLEM AND I THINK THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL BECAUSE THIS INVOLVES EARLY 2000-2016. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-08
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5FNYF18278B
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT AT WORK WHEN THE HONDA PILOT ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. I APPLIED THE BRAKES BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE.I WENT THRU A FENCE AND SLAMMED INTO ANOTHER CAR CAUSING DAMAGE.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-01
- VIN: 5FNYF28268B
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I CAN BE DRIVING LIKE ON FREEWAY AND CAR RUNS GOOD BUT AS SOON AS I EITHER STOP OR GET READY TO TURN ON STREETS I GET A VSA LIGHT COMING ON AND CHECK ENGINE. I HAVE FOLLOWED WHAT THE MANUFACTURES MENTIONS IN BOOK TO TURN OF CAR AND THEN TURN BACK ON. THEN I GET SOMETIMES THE ENGINE LIGHT TO STAY ON OR IT DOES STAY ON. SO I HAVE NOTICED THIS HAPPENING OFTEN WHEN I GOT LESS THAN 50 CAR WITH LIKE SHAKE AND ENGINE WILL NOT ALLOW FOR CAR TO MOVE IN GEAR.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-28
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5FNYF18478B
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE BACKING INTO THE DRIVEWAY, THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED CAUSING THE CAR TO SLAM INTO THE CONCRETE PART OF THE ATTACHED GARAGE TOTALING THE SUV
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-16
- VIN: 5FNYF18248B
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED, THE REAR OF THE CAR STARTED SWAYING SLIGHTLY. SEVERAL PASSING MOTORISTS MOTIONED ME TO PULL OVER. UPON INSPECTION, WE NOTICED THE REAR CHASSIS ON BOTH SIDES HAD PULLED AWAY FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE, CAUSING THE REAR WHEELS TO TILT IN FROM THE TOP AND OUT FROM THE BOTTOM.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-14
- VIN: 5FNYF28258B
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THIS COMPLAINT IS IN REGARDS TO THE WELDED NUTS THAT HOLD THE LICENSE PLATE ON THE REAR CARGO DOOR ON MY 2008 HONDA PILOT. BOTH OF THE NUTS WERE WELDED ON A VERY THIN METAL FRAME INSIDE THE REAR CARGO DOOR AND FROM THE WEIGHT OF MY LICENSE PLATE FRAME AND FROM THE VIBRATION WHILE DRIVING OVER THE YEARS, THE NUTS COMPLETELY BROKE OFF WHERE THEY WERE WELDED. THERE IS NO OTHER WAY TO ATTACH THE REAR LICENSE PLATE TO THE REAR CARGO DOOR AND IN MOST STATES THAT'S A TRAFFIC VIOLATION. I CONTACTED HONDA CORPORATE WITH THIS ISSUE AND WAS TOLD THAT MY VEHICLE WAS OUT OF FACTORY WARRANTY SO HONDA WAS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS ISSUE. MY 2008 HONDA PILOT HAS 80,000 MILES AND IS 11 YEARS OLD, THIS PROBLEM WAS CAUSED BY WEAR AND TEAR OVER THE YEARS AND HONDA SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL REPAIRS! IS THERE ANYONE ELSE THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TO WITH THE SAME BODY STYLE AS MY 2008 HONDA PILOT, IF SO WE ALL NEED TO STAND UP AND DEMAND A RECALL CAMPAIGN. SO LET'S ALL TOGETHER DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-22
- VIN: 5FNYF186X8B
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HONDA PILOT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HORN DID NOT OPERATE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SPORADICALLY FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE YEAR, BUT CURRENTLY DOES NOT SOUND AT ALL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO REFERRED THE CONTACT TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 192,000.
2008 Honda Pilot recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the 2008 Honda Pilot.
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain Accelerator Pedal Assemblies part numbers 699-114 and 825-5029-1, sold as replacement parts for 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2004-2008 Acura TL and TSX, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2007-2011 Honda Element, 2005-2008 Honda Pilot and 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. The rotating portion of the accelerator pedal assembly may bind. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 124, "Accelerator Control Systems."
- Consequence: If the accelerator pedal binds, the engine may not quickly return to idle after the pedal is no longer pressed, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and qualified service facilities will replace the affected accelerator pedal assemblies, free of charge. The recall began December 9, 2019. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, using option 5. Dorman's number for this recall is AS1019XXXX.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2011 Honda Element vehicles, 2005-2012 Acura RL vehicles, 2006-2012 Honda Ridgeline vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles and 2005-2008 Honda Pilot vehicles originally sold, or ever 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, if not included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2009 Acura RL and Honda Element vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles, 2005-2008 Honda Pilot vehicles and 2006-2009 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever 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." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2008 Acura RL, Honda Element and Honda Pilot vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles and 2006-2008 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever 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 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 front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall bagan March 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KD9 and KE0.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Negative 2008 Honda Pilot car reviews
Positive 2008 Honda Pilot car reviews
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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!
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*Jan 2018 Update: still going strong...nearly 160K miles and still love this SUV. Minor issues such as a few burned out interior button lights. My 15-year-old daughter starts driving this summer and wants this one, but I'm not sure I want to give it up! I bought my SE Pilot in December 2007 with only 4 miles on the odometer...and have about 145K miles now. Yes, I'm on my 4th set of tires in that time...but it's a heavy truck and I also like having some chunkier tires for the snow and ice in Maryland, so those don't have great longevity. My husband complains about the body roll, but I drive this SUV daily and love it. We've done long trips and been comfortable overall, and I can certainly pack plenty of stuff in it, including the dog, when necessary. We've had lots of preventative and routine maintenance done on it to keep it going. A few minor electrical issues, including one time when the rear A/C stopped working, but my husband looked it up and bought a $300 part from the dealer to fix it himself. Some of the interior panel lights are out now, so at night I can't see all of the buttons (such as for the A/C or vent controls), but I haven't bothered replacing those, and my front map lights stopped coming on when the doors opened. I know what it will take to replace that...but I'm not sure I want the challenge of it quite yet. Also, the very back bass speaker has always been just horrible, but when I read what it would take to replace that...again, I'm not sure it's that big of a deal to me. We replaced the brakes a few years ago with some high-quality aftermarket ones that have been better than the original brakes. Overall, I love driving this truck. It's done great for me in snow and rain, and I'm in no hurry to part with it as long as it keeps driving as well as it does. It has some great acceleration when needed.I noticed that my check engine light has been turning on and off intermittently. I had the code read at a local auto store for free and it seems like the catalytic converter may not be operating as efficiently as it should. However, since this only happens about once a month and doesn't constantly happen, I'm planning on dealing with it for now.
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I must say that our Pilot is very nice to drive. The comfortable seats, navigation system, and interior bike mounts make it an excellent vehicle for road trips. I also appreciate the integration of the radio, navigation system, CD player, and back-up camera. My wife loves the commanding view of the road. Although there are some minor issues, such as wheel noise which seems to be a common complaint, and the lack of an MP3/iPod hook-up.
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I recently upgraded from a 2005 CRV because my lease was up and we also had a baby on the way. I am thrilled to say that I am extremely satisfied with this SUV. As someone who is fairly short, I find the 8-way power seat to be very comfortable for me to drive. The only downside is the lack of rear space when the 3rd row is up, and it can be a bit challenging to get car seats in and out of the 3rd row. My husband and I both agree that a telescoping steering wheel would be a great addition, and I personally wish that the SE came standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Overall, we are very pleased with this vehicle and will definitely consider purchasing it when our lease is up next year.
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It's great to hear that you received your Pilot LX 2WD on May 30th after returning your Mazda MPV. It's always nice to try something new and it sounds like you're enjoying the change. It's great that you don't feel like you've sacrificed anything except indoor parking. The Pilot is wider than your old van, but it's a much finer vehicle. It's still perfect for carpooling and has the added power needed to accelerate and overtake. With all the incentives, it sounds like you made a great purchase. I agree that it looks nicer than the new 2009. Enjoy your new ride!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Honda Pilot problems:
Top 10 Common Honda Pilot Problems (2003-2008) - YouTube
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2008 Honda Pilot Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
Problem with your 2008 Honda Pilot? Our list of 16 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2008 Honda Pilot.
Top 5 Problems Honda Pilot SUV 1st Generation 2003-08 - YouTube
Mar 4, 2021 ... size SUV available as model years 2003 to 2008. In this video, Len explains the top 5 most common problems with the 1st gen pilot. He also ...
2008 Honda Pilot What can I expect? | Honda Pilot - Honda Pilot ...
Dec 26, 2019 ... It only has 72.000 miles on it but I am a little concerned with the age of the vehicle being 12 years old. What type of repairs/issues can I be ...
2008 Honda Pilot Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2008 Honda Pilot? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Honda Pilot
Are you having problems with your 2008 Honda Pilot?
Ervin Jerde 2025-01-04
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.
Isaiah Marquardt 2024-11-06
Despite being 9 years old and having 127k miles, we have kept up with the recommended maintenance. However, we have experienced numerous issues, particularly with the electric/sensors, and even had to replace the catalytic converter. As someone who grew up with Hondas, this will unfortunately be my last one.
Rolando Cummings 2024-11-05
Although I had high expectations for my 08 Pilot, I was ultimately disappointed with my purchase. The suspension was not suitable for off-road driving, and I found the interior fit and finish to be subpar. Additionally, there was noticeable tire noise and a rattle in the passenger side door. These issues detracted from my overall satisfaction with the vehicle.
Tavares Leannon 2024-10-01
The 2008 Honda Pilot has received mixed reviews. Some people have found it to be overrated, especially considering the cost. The vehicle has heavy low-speed steering, adequate power, and a fidgety transmission. It also tends to plow and doesn't handle well, and the brakes are mediocre. Additionally, it is a gas guzzler and the stereo system is not great unless you like rap music. Some owners have reported issues with the A/C, brakes, transmission, and electrical system, which can be expensive to repair. Honda service can also be costly compared to other brands. However, it's important to note that everyone's experience may vary and some people may find the Pilot to be a reliable and enjoyable vehicle to drive.
Laverna Parisian 2024-09-21
I purchased this vehicle when it had 60,000 miles on it and initially, everything was great. I drove it mostly on highways and it ran well until it reached 130,000 miles. However, I had to frequently replace the brakes, rotors, and calipers. Unfortunately, the situation got worse as the ATM, VSA, brake, emergency brake, and ABS lights all came on the dashboard. I tried to fix the issue by replacing all the ABS wheel sensors, new battery terminals, and flushing the brake system, but to no avail. The last resort would be to replace the ABS module, but I am not willing to spend another $500-$1,000 on this SUV. I am also disappointed that my 4x4 is failing. I had electrical issues in the past where the dash and inside lights would go crazy, but that problem has been resolved. If you are looking for a 4x4, I would suggest not considering a Pilot as it only engages under 20mph. In my opinion, it is best to stay away from this SUV, especially if it is used. It is probably better to sell it wholesale.