How long do struts last on a Honda Pilot?
Front struts on a Honda Pilot typically last about 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. Many owners report replacement around the 70,000–90,000 mile mark, though rough roads, heavy loads, or winter salt can shorten that lifespan. The discussion here focuses on the front suspension struts, which are separate from the rear shocks in most Pilot configurations.
What affects strut longevity
Several factors influence how long the front struts will perform before replacement is needed. The main drivers are:
- Road quality and exposure to potholes, speed bumps, and off-road driving
- Vehicle load, including frequent carrying of heavy cargo or towing
- Climate and exposure to road salt, moisture, and temperature swings
- Maintenance history, including wheel alignment and condition of mounts/bushings
- Quality and installation of replacement parts (OEM vs aftermarket)
In practice, higher mileage and rougher driving environments typically shorten strut life, while smoother highway use and good maintenance can extend it.
Signs your front struts may be worn
Look for these indications that the front struts are nearing the end of their useful life and may need replacement:
- Excessive bouncing or a floaty ride after hitting bumps
- Hydraulic fluid leaking from the strut body
- Increased front-end dive when braking
- Uneven or accelerated tire wear, especially on the front axle
- Vague or wandering steering feel and reduced stability in turns
- Clunking noises or visible damage to strut mounts or dust boots
These symptoms can also involve related components (spring, mount, or control arm), so a professional inspection is recommended to confirm whether the struts are at fault.
Replacement guidance and maintenance tips
When replacement is warranted, follow these best practices to ensure safe handling and ride quality. The list below outlines common approaches and considerations.
- Replace front struts in pairs to maintain balanced damping and steering response
- Choose high-quality shocks/struts (OEM or reputable aftermarket) and ensure correct fit for your Pilot’s model year
- Inspect and, if needed, replace related components such as mounts, bushings, and end links during the same service
- Plan for a wheel alignment after replacement to prevent uneven tire wear and preserve handling
- Budget for potentially replacing both front and rear dampers in the future if the aging suspension shows wear in other corners
Following these guidelines helps maintain ride comfort, braking performance, and overall vehicle safety, while reducing the risk of premature wear on other suspension parts.
Summary
In summary, expect the front struts on a Honda Pilot to last roughly 60,000–100,000 miles under typical use, with life shortened by rough roads, heavy loads, and harsh climates. Regular checks, timely replacement in pairs, and attention to related suspension components help preserve ride quality and safety over the life of the vehicle.
What year to stay away from Honda Pilot?
You should stay away from the 2003, 2005, and 2016 Honda Pilot models due to recurring transmission problems. The 2003 and 2005 models had transmission flaws and other issues, while the 2016 model year experienced significant transmission, engine, and electrical problems, as it was the first year of a new generation.
Model years to avoid
- 2003: This model year had transmission problems, and was also a subject of a "Do Not Drive" advisory for its Takata airbag inflator.
- 2005: This year continued to have transmission issues, with complaints about leaks, rough shifting, and torque converter problems.
- 2016: As the first year of a new generation, this model year was plagued with transmission complaints, engine issues, and electrical problems.
- 2017: This model year is often cited as a year to avoid as well, potentially due to issues with the 2016 redesign that were still being worked out.
- Other years: The 2019 and 2020 models also had recalls and complaints related to their navigation, electrical, and entertainment systems. Some sources also mention potential engine issues in the 2008-2014 range.
Important considerations
- Check for recalls: Before purchasing any used Honda Pilot, use its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check for open recalls, especially for the airbag system.
- Transmission maintenance: For any Honda Pilot, proper and frequent transmission fluid changes are crucial for long-term reliability.
- Pre-purchase inspection: A professional pre-purchase inspection can help identify potential problems in any model year.
What are the signs of a bad strut?
Symptoms of a bad strut include a bouncy or uncontrolled ride, excessive vehicle body roll or sway when cornering, and the vehicle nose-diving during braking. Other signs are visible fluid leaks from the strut, unusual noises like clunking or grinding, and uneven tire wear (cupping or scalloping).
Ride quality
- Excessive bouncing: The vehicle continues to bounce up and down more than once after hitting a bump.
- Body roll: The car leans or sways excessively when making turns.
- Nose-diving: The front end dips down significantly during hard braking.
- Rear squat: The back end of the vehicle squats or dips down when you accelerate.
Handling and performance
- Poor handling: The vehicle feels unstable or wobbly, especially at higher speeds.
- Longer stopping distance: It takes longer for your car to come to a complete stop.
- Vibrating steering wheel: A slight vibration may be normal, but a noticeable shake when driving on bumpy roads can indicate bad struts.
Visual and auditory signs
- Fluid leaks: Look for oil or fluid leaking from the strut's exterior, which can cause dirt and debris to accumulate around it.
- Unusual noises: Listen for sounds like clunking, knocking, grinding, or creaking, especially when going over bumps or turning.
- Uneven tire wear: Check your tires for signs of "cupping" or "scalloping," which can be caused by the tire bouncing on the road.
- Visible damage: Inspect for any visible dents or damage to the strut itself.
How much does it cost to replace struts on a Honda Pilot?
The cost to replace the struts on a Honda Pilot varies, but typically ranges from $700 to $2,500 for a pair or all four, depending on the vehicle's model year, whether you replace just the front or rear, and the parts/labor costs. A typical range for replacing front struts is $1,500-$2,500, while rear strut replacement is often in the $700-$1,400 range.
Cost breakdown
- Parts: Costs vary by brand and model year, ranging from under $100 for individual shocks to a few hundred dollars for complete strut assemblies.
- Labor: Mechanic labor costs for replacing shocks and struts can range from $150 to $300 per assembly.
- Total Cost:
- Front Strut Replacement: Approximately $1,500 to $2,500
- Rear Strut Replacement: Approximately $700 to $1,400
- All Four Struts: Can range from $700 to over $2,500 depending on the specific model and parts selected.
Factors that can affect the cost
- Model Year: Older models may have different parts or labor requirements, affecting the price.
- Parts vs. Labor: The cost of the replacement parts themselves can vary significantly based on the brand and type of strut chosen.
- Alignment: It is highly recommended to get a wheel alignment after replacing struts to ensure proper performance and prevent premature tire wear.
- Shop vs. DIY: A DIY replacement will significantly lower the cost, but requires mechanical knowledge and tools. A mechanic can provide expertise but will add to the overall price.
Signs of worn-out struts
- Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps
- Nose-diving when braking
- Uneven tire wear
- Body roll or swaying when cornering
- Leaking fluid on the exterior of the shocks or struts
- Unusual noises from the suspension
Does a Honda Pilot have shocks or struts?
We'll install shocks in the rear, but in the front, we will install these Duralast loaded strut assemblies for a faster, easier install and better ride control. You can do this job at home with hand tools.
