Can you drive a Honda Passport with the hatch open?

Yes, you can technically drive a Honda Passport with the hatch open, but it is unsafe and not recommended; if you notice the hatch is unlatched, pull over safely and close it as soon as possible.

What happens when the hatch is open on the road

When the rear hatch is left ajar, the instrument cluster typically displays a warning such as “Rear Hatch Open.” The vehicle will continue to operate normally, but you should not drive far with the hatch open due to safety and practicality concerns. Expect increased wind noise and drag, and reduced visibility of cargo through the rear window.

Dash warnings and vehicle behavior

Most Honda dashboards will alert you to the hatch being open with a dedicated warning light and message. The car does not automatically close the hatch or impose a hard speed limit because of a partially open tailgate; safely driving at highway speeds is technically possible, but not advisable.

Safety risks and practical considerations

Driving with the hatch open introduces several hazards and practical drawbacks that owners should weigh before continuing the trip:

• Cargo can shift or fall out, creating road hazards for other drivers.


• Wind and air flow can cause unsecured items to move or detach.


• Reduced rearward visibility and increased wind noise disrupt driving comfort and concentration.


• Exhaust fumes or fumes from the cargo area could potentially enter the cabin under certain conditions.


• High-speed driving with the hatch open can stress the tailgate and nearby hinges or latching mechanisms.

In short, while the Passport will mechanically run with the hatch open, the safety and comfort penalties are significant, and officials advise closing the hatch promptly.

What to do if you find the hatch is open while driving

If you realize mid-drive that the hatch is open, follow these steps to minimize risk and restore secure operation as soon as possible:

1. Find a safe, legal place to pull over and stop.


2. Engage hazards if you’re on a busy road or highway to alert other drivers.


3. Close the hatch using the interior liftgate button or the exterior handle, ensuring it latches firmly.


4. Permanently verify that the hatch is fully closed and that no cargo has shifted into obstructive positions.


5. Resume driving only once you’ve confirmed everything is secure.

Following these steps helps prevent cargo loss, wind-related damage, or a distraction that could affect your driving.

Honda Passport specifics and guidance by year

Across most model years, the Passport uses a power liftgate with an interior switch and an exterior handle. Official guidance from Honda emphasizes securing the liftgate before driving and heeding any hatch-open warnings on the dash. Exact warnings, indicators, and available safety features can vary by year and trim, so consult your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle and year to confirm any model-year nuances.

Manual guidance and official statements

Automakers typically advise drivers to avoid driving with an open tailgate, due to safety and cargo concerns. The Passport’s system will alert you when the hatch is ajar, but it does not automatically prevent driving with it open. For the most precise instructions, refer to the owner’s manual that corresponds to your Passport’s year and trim level.

Summary

Technically, a Honda Passport can be driven with the hatch open, but it is unsafe and strongly discouraged. The safest course is to pull over, close the hatch securely, and only resume driving once you are sure the cargo area is secured and the hatch is latched. Always heed dash warnings and consult your owner’s manual for year-specific guidance.

Is the Honda Passport being discontinued?

The Honda Passport was discontinued in 2002 but was brought back in 2019 after a hiatus, and a redesigned fourth generation is scheduled for the 2026 model year. The original discontinuation was due to the introduction of the Honda Pilot and a shift in Honda's SUV strategy, but the nameplate was revived to meet renewed consumer interest in rugged, mid-size SUVs.
 
First generation and discontinuation

• The first-generation Passport was sold from 1993 to 2002. 
• It was a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo and was a key part of Honda's entry into the SUV market. 
• In 2002, Honda discontinued the Passport to focus on the new Honda Pilot, a car-based crossover with a focus on comfort and fuel efficiency. 

Hiatus and revival

• The Passport name was absent from Honda's lineup for nearly 17 years, during which the company focused on other models like the CR-V and HR-V. 
• As interest in more rugged, mid-size SUVs grew, Honda revived the Passport nameplate. 
• The third-generation Passport, which is still in production, was released for the 2019 model year. 

Current and future models

• The current Passport is a two-row, mid-size SUV built on the same platform as the Pilot. 
• A completely redesigned fourth generation is slated to debut for the 2026 model year. 
• This new generation will feature a more rugged design, updated technology, and enhanced off-road capabilities, according to Honda Newsroom. 

What year Honda Passport to stay away from?

The years to potentially avoid for a Honda Passport are the first-generation models (pre-2002, which were rebadged Isuzu Rodeos) and the initial model year of the second generation, 2019. While other years may have minor recalls or software issues, the pre-2002 models have a history of significant issues like frame and suspension problems, and the 2019 model is often cited as the year to avoid to bypass early-production bugs. 
Pre-2002 models

• Recall history: These models, based on the Isuzu Rodeo, are known to have issues including frame corrosion and suspension problems that led to recalls.
• Safety concerns: The recall for excessive corrosion of rear suspension lower link brackets could lead to poor handling and a higher crash risk. 

2019 model year 

• "First year production" rule: Following a general rule of thumb for new model releases, it is often best to avoid the first model year of a new generation to allow the manufacturer to work out bugs. 
• Owner reports: Some owners report this as a year to avoid, though others have reported no issues. 

Other years to consider

• 2020 and later: Many owners have reported good experiences with 2020 models and later, though it's important to check for any recalls on specific vehicles. 
• Recalls: Be aware that multiple recalls have affected different years of the current generation Passport (like 2023 and 2024). Before purchasing any used Passport, use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check for and complete all outstanding recalls at a Honda dealership. 
• Minor issues: Some model years may have minor issues like infotainment system glitches, which are often resolved with software updates. 

Can you drive with your back hatch open?

Driving With An Open Trunk With Bulky Cargo
If you operate a car, truck, or SUV, you can legally drive with the trunk open when transporting bulky cargo like large appliances, construction materials, and furniture that stick out from the back.

What is the most common problem with the Honda Passport?

The most common problems with the Honda Passport include infotainment system malfunctions, such as the display going blank and speakers crackling, and issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, which can include delayed or harsh acceleration. Other frequent complaints involve body hardware issues like a rear hatch that won't open and occasional electrical problems with features like the fuel filler pipe or air bags.
 
Infotainment and electrical issues 

• Display screen and audio: The infotainment screen may go blank, and speakers can crackle or pop. 
• Fuel system: Some models have had issues with a faulty fuel filler pipe, leading to fuel leaks. 
• Body and interior: Common problems include a rear hatch button that breaks, a gas smell inside the vehicle, and fading or peeling paint. 

Transmission problems 

• 9-speed transmission: Some owners report delayed, harsh, or erratic shifting with the 9-speed transmission, particularly in models from 2019-2022. 
• Engine and related systems:
  • Varnish buildup: This can cause a ticking noise from the engine. 
  • Oil in spark plug tubes: This can lead to misfires. 
  • Timing belt: Newer models have a timing belt that requires replacement, which is an expensive but necessary maintenance item to prevent engine failure. 

Other potential problems

• Steering: Some 2023 models have been recalled for a risk of steering loss due to a loose ball joint. 
• Brakes: Some reports mention premature brake wear and issues with the ABS light coming on. 
• Vibration: Some owners have experienced vibration, particularly at highway speeds.