How much is a Honda Pilot transmission?
Prices for replacing a Honda Pilot transmission vary by model year and by what you choose for the part. In general, installed costs range from around $2,000 for a used unit to as much as $9,000 or more for a new OEM transmission, with remanufactured units typically in between. These figures include parts and labor and can shift based on location, shop rates, and warranties.
Generations and Transmission Types
The Honda Pilot has transitioned from a traditional automatic to more advanced designs over its generations. Understanding which transmission your Pilot uses is key to pricing.
2009–2015 Honda Pilot: 5-speed automatic
Early Pilot models use a 5-speed automatic transmission. Replacement costs tend to be lower than newer designs, and parts for these units may be more readily available from the aftermarket. Labor times and pricing can still vary by shop and region.
2016–Present Honda Pilot: 9-speed automatic (9AT)
Since 2016, many Pilots use a 9-speed automatic transmission. The 9AT is more complex and typically commands higher price for both parts and labor, especially if a dealer-installed unit is chosen. Remanufactured options remain common, but sourcing can influence availability and price.
Prices by Part Type
The following ranges reflect installed prices, including parts and labor, and are subject to regional differences and diagnostic needs.
- Used/Salvage transmission (installed): approximately $2,000–$4,500
- Remanufactured transmission (installed): approximately $3,500–$6,500
- New OEM transmission (installed): approximately $5,500–$9,000
Prices vary with the Pilot’s model year, the specific transmission type, and the shop’s labor rates. Warranties, core charges, and whether additional work (like a full fluid flush or replacement of related components) is needed can alter final costs.
What Affects the Price
Several factors consistently influence the total cost of replacing a Honda Pilot transmission. The most impactful are listed below.
- Model year and transmission type (5-speed vs 9-speed)
- Source of the part (used, remanufactured, or new OEM)
- Labor rate and shop location
- Core charges and warranty terms
- Diagnostic requirements and any related maintenance or repairs
As a rule, dealers tend to price higher for new OEM units, while independent shops may offer stronger remanufactured options and more flexible warranties. Always confirm whether taxes, disposal fees, or towing are included in the quote.
How to Get an Accurate Quote
To obtain a precise figure for your Honda Pilot, follow these steps and compare multiple estimates.
- Identify your exact model year and transmission type (5-speed or 9-speed) for your Pilot.
- Collect your vehicle identification number (VIN) and a brief service history to share with shops.
- Get written quotes from several reputable shops and dealers, asking for installed prices and warranty details.
- Ask about core charges, fees, and what’s included (fluids, filters, labor time, and towing if needed).
- Clarify warranty length and what it covers (parts, labor, and any remanufacturing guarantees).
After gathering quotes, evaluate total cost, warranty terms, and the shop’s reputation. A lower upfront price may come with shorter warranties or fewer included services, while a higher quote could offer more comprehensive coverage and greater peace of mind.
Summary
The price to replace a Honda Pilot transmission depends heavily on the model year and the type of part you choose. Expect lower costs with a used transmission and higher costs with a new OEM unit, with remanufactured options usually sitting in the middle. Always obtain multiple quotes, verify warranties, and consider total value over the life of the vehicle rather than just the initial price. A well-chosen replacement can extend your Pilot’s life and avoid costly future repairs.
How much does a new transmission cost for 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.
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.
How do I know if my Honda transmission is bad?
6 Signs Your Honda Needs a Transmission Service
- Unresponsive to Gear Changes. The vehicle may stop responding when you attempt to change gears if there's a problem with the transmission.
- Difficult Gear Changes.
- Fluid Leak.
- Burning Aroma.
- Gears Slipping.
- New Sounds in Neutral.
Is it ever worth replacing a transmission?
Whether replacing a transmission is worth it depends on a cost-benefit analysis of the vehicle's age, its total value, the cost of the replacement, and your own plans for the car. If the repair cost is less than 30-40% of the car's current value, or if you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacement may be a good investment. However, if the car is older and has other issues, or if the replacement cost is close to or exceeds the car's worth, it may be better to consider selling the vehicle.
Factors to consider
This video explains the factors to consider when deciding whether to replace your car's transmission: 42sNexologyYouTube · Sep 4, 2025
- Vehicle's value: Compare the cost of replacement to the car's current market value. If the repair is more than 30-40% of the car's worth, it may not be a good financial decision.
- Vehicle's condition: If the rest of the car is in good condition with no major issues, a transmission replacement can be a worthwhile investment. However, if the car has many other problems, it may be better to cut your losses.
- Your plans for the car: If you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacing the transmission is more likely to be worth the cost. If you only plan to keep it for a year or two, it may not be.
- Cost of the replacement: Costs can range from $1,500 to over $8,000, depending on the vehicle and the type of transmission (new, rebuilt, or used). Be sure to factor in labor costs as well.
- Reliability of the model: Some car models have a history of transmission problems, which may make replacement less desirable.
Options for replacement
- New transmission: This is often the most expensive option, but it comes with a new warranty.
- Remanufactured transmission: A remanufactured unit has been rebuilt to "as-new" condition and often comes with a good warranty, making it a solid choice.
- Used transmission: This is the cheapest option but comes with the highest risk, as you don't know its history. It is generally not recommended unless you can test it first.
