Does the Honda Passport have transmission issues?
Overall, the Honda Passport's 9-speed automatic is generally reliable, but a subset of owners reports transmission issues such as rough shifting or hesitation. Honda has issued software updates and service bulletins to address reported behaviors where applicable.
Overview of the Passport transmission
The Passport uses a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) that shares lineage with Honda’s Pilot and Ridgeline models. Since its introduction, most owners report smooth operation, strong low-end torque, and consistent performance, but some model years have drawn attention for shifting feel and reliability concerns. As with any modern automatic, driving style, maintenance history, and environmental conditions can influence perceived transmission quality.
Common issues reported by owners
Below is a concise look at the transmission-related issues most frequently mentioned in owner reports and media reviews.
- Rough shifting or shuddering at low speeds or during first few minutes of driving.
- Hesitation or delay when accelerating from a stop or during upshifts, especially at light throttle.
- Harsh or abrupt downshifts, along with occasional slipping or RPM overshoot in certain conditions.
- Occasional transmission warning lights or error codes prompting a service visit.
- In rare cases, reports of more serious failures requiring service or replacement parts under warranty.
Within the field of ownership reports, these issues appear sporadically and are not universal across Passport models. Many drivers report years of trouble-free operation with routine maintenance.
Manufacturer responses, recalls and service notices
Honda has addressed some shifting concerns through software updates and service bulletins (often referred to as TSBs) aimed at recalibrating the transmission control module, torque converter behavior, and related software. In some cases, dealers have performed reprogramming or replaced faulty components under warranty. Recalls and notices related to the 9AT have affected Passport and related models (Pilot, Ridgeline) in various regions, so owners should check for open recalls using their VIN and consult a local dealer for the latest service actions.
Because transmission behavior can be influenced by operating conditions, keeping up with recommended service and ensuring your vehicle is up to date on software and recalls is advisable for drivers who notice any shifting irregularities.
What to do if you’re experiencing transmission issues
What to expect from service
Dealerships typically begin with diagnostic tests and software reprogramming to address shifting behavior, followed by component inspection if needed.
Before taking action, it helps to prepare by documenting symptoms, timing, and conditions (temperature, speed, throttle position). The following steps are commonly recommended by dealers and consumer guides.
- Check for open recalls and any applicable service bulletins for your VIN at Honda’s recall site or the NHTSA database.
- Schedule a diagnostic with an authorized Honda technician to review the transmission control module software and gear shifting behavior.
- Ask the dealer to verify whether any software updates or TSBs pertain to your vehicle and to perform any recommended reprogramming or component inspection.
- Ensure the vehicle is properly maintained according to Honda’s service schedule (including transmission fluid checks if applicable to your model year), and report any changes in shifting promptly.
- If a defect is identified, have the repair documented and, if under warranty, request coverage; otherwise consider paid service options or extended warranties as appropriate.
In many cases, issues are resolved through software updates or minor component replacements. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should be addressed promptly to prevent potential damage.
Summary
The Honda Passport generally delivers reliable performance with its 9-speed automatic, but reports of transmission shifting quirks exist among a subset of owners. The manufacturer has taken steps to address possible problems via software updates, service bulletins, and recalls affecting the 9AT across Passport and related models. For prospective buyers and current owners, staying up to date with recalls and maintenance, and seeking dealership diagnosis if symptoms appear, are prudent approaches.
Bottom line: Transmission issues are not endemic to all Passport models, but they are part of the discussion for certain model years. With proper maintenance and timely software updates, most drivers experience smooth operation.
What is the Honda Passport transmission lawsuit?
5:23-cv-05011-BLF. The lawsuit alleges, among other things, that Honda: failed to disclose that these vehicles contain certain defects that cause rough and delayed shifting; loud noises during shifting; harsh engagement of gears; sudden, harsh accelerations and decelerations; and sudden loss of power; and.
Does the Honda Passport have transmission problems?
Many owners of 2019—2022 Honda Passport SUVs have submitted complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These complaints report shifting problems, delayed acceleration, sudden or harsh acceleration and other problems related to Honda 9-speed transmissions.
Which Honda models have transmission problems?
Drivers often report a delay when shifting into Drive or experiencing vibrations when cruising. Some older Odyssey models were subject to recalls due to serious transmission faults. The Pilot, especially in early 2000s models, also had problems related to transmission fluid overheating or failing pressure switches.
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.
