How much does it cost to replace a transmission on a Honda Pilot?

A Honda Pilot transmission replacement typically costs about $3,000 to $7,000 in the United States, depending on the year, the type of replacement chosen (remanufactured/rebuilt vs. new OEM vs. used), and the local labor rates. The final number can be higher if additional components or repairs are needed.

The following article breaks down what drives the price, provides ballpark ranges for common options, and offers guidance on how to shop for a reliable quote. It aims to help you understand where costs come from and what to expect when weighing your repair options.

What drives the price

The following factors largely determine how much a transmission replacement will cost for a Honda Pilot.

• Type of replacement: remanufactured/rebuilt with a core, new OEM transmission, or a used/refurbished unit.


• Labor rates and time: shop labor rates vary by region and shop, and installation typically takes 8–15 hours depending on the year and transmission type.


• Parts and ancillary components: torque converter, seals, gaskets, fluids, cooling lines, filters, and any required software updates or programming.


• Transmission type by model year: Pilots from different years use different automatic transmissions, which can affect both cost and installation complexity.


• Warranty and service plans: longer warranties or dealer-installed units can raise upfront cost but offer greater protection over time.

Understanding these factors helps you compare apples to apples when you receive quotes from shops or dealerships.

Typical cost ranges

Below are ballpark installed price ranges as of 2024–2025 for common options. Prices include both parts and labor but can vary by location and shop.

• Remanufactured/rebuilt transmission (with core exchange): typically about $3,000 to $5,000 installed.


• New OEM transmission (brand-new unit): typically about $5,000 to $8,000 installed.


• Used or salvaged transmission (with core charge and limited warranty): typically about $2,000 to $4,000 installed.


• Additional costs to expect (if applicable): torque converter replacement, sensors, wiring harnesses, cooling lines, disposal fees, and potential towing if the car isn’t drivable, which can add several hundred to over a thousand dollars.

While most pilots fall within these ranges, the exact price depends on the specific year, transmission type, and local labor rates. Dealers often charge higher rates than independent shops, and a particularly busy shop can add to the estimate.

What to consider before replacing

Before deciding on a replacement, weigh these considerations to avoid overpaying or missing a repair that could extend the life of your current transmission.

• Obtain multiple quotes from both independent shops and Honda dealerships to compare pricing and warranty terms.


• Ask about a repair-first option (such as a valve body, seal, or solenoid replacement) if a full replacement isn’t strictly necessary.


• Confirm exactly what the quoted price includes (parts, labor, fluids, and a warranty period) and whether a core charge is waived or included.


• Clarify the transmission type specific to your VIN to ensure the correct unit is installed.


• Check warranty terms for the replacement (length, coverage, and whether labor is covered) to protect your investment.

Careful preparation and quotes from several shops can help you find a balance between cost and reliability.

Next steps

If you’ve noticed signs of transmission trouble in your Honda Pilot—slipping gears, flaring, harsh shifts, or warning lights—schedule a diagnostic with a qualified shop. Ask for a written estimate detailing parts, labor, and warranty, and request a breakdown of any additional items the shop anticipates may be needed once work begins.

Summary

Replacing a Honda Pilot’s transmission is a major repair with a wide cost range. Expect roughly $3,000 to $5,000 for a remanufactured unit, $5,000 to $8,000 for a brand-new OEM transmission, or about $2,000 to $4,000 for a used or salvaged unit, all depending on model year, labor rates, and included components. Always compare multiple quotes, verify the exact transmission type, and review warranty coverage to ensure you make a well-informed decision.

What year do Honda pilots have transmission issues?

The main years for Honda Pilot transmission problems are 2003, 2005, and 2016, with the 2003 model being particularly prone to transmission failure. While the 2003 and 2005 years are known for significant issues, the 2016 model also has many owner complaints related to its new transmission, as well as engine and electrical problems. Other models like 2017-2020 have been investigated for issues with the 9-speed transmission and the stop-start system. 
This video demonstrates a common Honda Pilot transmission issue and explains what to do: 58sAleksandr UsovichYouTube · Aug 27, 2021
Specific model years with notable transmission issues

• 2003: This year is infamous for transmission failures, which can be very expensive to fix or replace. 
• 2005: Also experienced transmission problems, with owners reporting issues. 
• 2016: This model year saw a high number of complaints, including a new transmission, engine problems, and electrical system issues. 
• 2017-2020: The 6-speed transmission in some of these models, and the 9-speed in others, can have issues, and the stop-start system has also been a source of complaints. 

What to keep in mind when buying an older Honda Pilot

• Check maintenance records: Properly maintained transmissions are less likely to have problems. 
• Consider the model year: 2003, 2005, and 2016 are known problematic years. Newer models (2017-2020) may have issues with the stop-start system. 
• Get a pre-purchase inspection: Have a mechanic thoroughly inspect the vehicle, paying close attention to the transmission, before buying. 
• Be aware of recall status: Check if any recalls have been performed, especially for models like 2016, which had several recalls. 

How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a Honda Pilot?

Honda Pilot Transmission Cost
The price of a new Honda Pilot transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the vehicle, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less lavish, in some cases costing less than $150.

Is it worth it to replace a transmission?

Whether replacing a transmission is worth it depends on the vehicle's overall condition, age, and the cost of replacement versus buying a new car. It is likely worthwhile if the car is in good shape, has a reasonable purchase price after the repair, and the repair cost is less than the vehicle's value, especially since a broken transmission significantly lowers a car's resale price. For a vehicle with high mileage and other potential issues, it may be more practical to buy a new car. 
When to replace the transmission
This video discusses the factors to consider when deciding whether to replace a transmission: 58scar PROblemsYouTube · Apr 17, 2025

• Cost vs. vehicle value: If the cost of replacing the transmission is less than the car's value after the repair, it is often a good investment. 
• Overall condition: If the rest of the vehicle is in good shape, it makes sense to extend its life with a new transmission. 
• Your plan: If you plan to keep the car for several more years, replacing the transmission can be a smart choice that provides reliability and avoids the immediate financial burden of buying a new vehicle. 
• Car's reliability: If the car has a good history of reliability and is a make and model that tends to last a long time, it is a worthwhile investment. 
• Warranties: Many replacement transmissions come with a warranty, which can provide peace of mind and make the cost more reasonable when spread over the extended life of the vehicle. 

When it might not be worth it 
This video explains the 50% rule to determine if replacing a transmission is financially justified: 42sNexologyYouTube · Sep 4, 2025

• Cost vs. vehicle value: If the repair cost is more than the car's current value, or a significant percentage of it (some experts suggest the "50% rule" where if the repair is over half the car's value, it might not be worth it). 
• Age and mileage: If the vehicle is very old and has high mileage, other components may start to fail, and it may not be a good investment. 
• Other issues: If the car already needs other expensive repairs, replacing the transmission may not be cost-effective. 
• Poor transmission history: If the transmission has a history of frequent, recurring issues, it may indicate a chronic problem that will lead to future costly repairs. 

How to decide 
This video offers advice on deciding whether to replace or rebuild a transmission: 58sMercie J Auto Care, llcYouTube · Nov 14, 2024

1. Get a professional diagnosis and quote: Have a mechanic thoroughly inspect the vehicle and provide a detailed estimate for the transmission replacement, including parts and labor. 
2. Determine your vehicle's current value: Find out what your car is worth on the open market. 
3. Compare the costs: Compare the repair estimate to your car's current value. Calculate if the repair cost is less than the value of the car after the repair is done. 
4. Consider your options: If it is not worth it, consider if a new or different used car would be a better long-term investment, even with the trade-in value of your current car being low. 
5. Factor in future costs: Take into account the age and condition of other components. If other parts are likely to need replacement soon, it might be better to buy a new car. 

How long does a transmission last on a Honda Pilot?

Honda Pilot transmissions can last well over 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting them lasting 300,000 to over 350,000 miles, provided they receive diligent maintenance. The most critical factor is regular transmission fluid changes, especially for models with the 9-speed and older 5-speed/6-speed automatics, and following the service intervals in the owner's manual.
 
Factors affecting transmission longevity

• Regular fluid changes: This is the most crucial maintenance item. For example, one 2016 Pilot with a 9-speed transmission failed at 137,000 miles, with the failure attributed to the original fluid never being serviced. 
  • The recommended service interval for the transmission fluid is often at 50,000 miles initially, then every 30,000 miles afterward for the 9-speed. 
• Proper fluid type: Using the correct Honda transmission fluid (ATF) is essential to avoid premature failure. 
• Driving habits: Driving responsibly and avoiding excessive strain on the transmission can significantly increase its lifespan. 
• Model year: Some model years had issues, particularly with the 9-speed transmission in earlier versions, but later models have been improved. 

Signs of potential issues

• Shuddering: Some models, particularly with the 9-speed, have reported shuttering that can be caused by heat breakdown of the fluid and can damage the transmission if not addressed promptly with fluid changes. 
• Noises or rough shifting: These can be early signs of a problem that may be related to fluid condition and could indicate internal failure.