How much will the 2023 Honda Pilot cost?
The 2023 Honda Pilot's price varies by trim and options. In broad terms, the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) stretched from the high-$30,000s for the base LX to the low-to-mid-$50,000s for the top Elite grade, before destination charges.
For buyers today, the exact price depends on the chosen trim and any added packages; destination charges apply and dealer fees can vary by region. The numbers below reflect typical MSRPs for the 2023 model year and are intended as a guide rather than a guarantee from a specific dealer.
Pricing snapshot by trim
The following figures provide a general sense of the 2023 Pilot's price ladder before destination charges and taxes. Actual prices can vary by region, dealer, and time of year due to incentives or incentives changes.
- LX: about $38,000
- EX: about $41,000–$42,000
- EX-L: about $44,000–$46,000
- Touring: about $50,000–$52,000
- Elite: about $54,000–$56,000
The above figures illustrate the typical stepping stones from a practical family SUV to the feature-rich flagship, before any destination charge is added. They help buyers understand where their preferred balance of price and equipment might lie.
What factors affect the price
Several elements can push the final transaction price beyond the base MSRPs listed above. Understanding these factors helps buyers evaluate true cost of ownership.
- Destination and handling charges that Honda applies to new vehicles
- All-wheel drive (AWD) versus front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration
- Popular option packages and standalone features (navigation, premium audio, advanced driver aids)
- Dealer-installed accessories and local fees
- Regional incentives, promotions, and financing terms
In practice, the final price a customer pays can be noticeably higher or lower than the base MSRPs depending on these variables. It’s common to see price negotiations and seasonal incentives influence the ultimate out-the-door cost.
How to verify current pricing for a 2023 Pilot
To get the most accurate price for a specific vehicle, use these steps to compare offers from multiple sources and avoid surprises at the dealership.
- Check Honda’s official site for the 2023 Pilot configuration and MSRP range by trim.
- Contact local dealerships to request a written out-the-door quote (including destination charge, taxes, and fees).
- Compare quotes from multiple dealers and note any bundled packages or incentives offered.
- Consider using third-party price aggregation tools to gauge market pricing in your area.
- Factor in potential incentives (loyalty, military, or financing offers) that could reduce the effective price.
Dealing directly with a few dealerships and requesting a written quote can help you secure a competitive price and better understand the total cost of ownership for a 2023 Pilot.
Notable notes for the 2023 model year
The 2023 Honda Pilot brought updates that influenced both pricing and value, including new or revised trims and available technology packages. Buyers should consider how features, powertrain choices, and standard equipment influence overall cost and resale potential.
Trims and notable features
Beyond the base LX, the Pilot’s trim ladder typically included EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite, with higher trims offering more comfort, safety tech, and convenience features. Packages such as enhanced driver-assistance suites or premium audio can add to the price but improve overall ownership experience.
Regional and market nuances
Prices can vary by region due to supply, demand, and regional incentives. Additionally, alternative financing or lease terms may affect the monthly cost even if the sticker price remains similar.
Summary
For the 2023 Honda Pilot, price varies considerably by trim and added options. Roughly, you could expect MSRPs in the high-$30,000s for the base LX and climbing to the low-to-mid-$50,000s for Elite configurations, before destination charges. Destination fees and dealer incentives can shift the final number, so prospective buyers should request formal quotes from multiple dealers and verify exact numbers for their location. The Pilot’s value proposition hinges on balancing ample seating and cargo space with modern safety tech, across a range of trims and packages.
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 is the most common problem with the Honda Pilot?
The most common problem with the Honda Pilot is transmission failure, often caused by a faulty radiator that allows coolant to leak into the transmission fluid, leading to expensive damage. Other widespread issues include problems with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, which can cause unintended braking, and various electrical and infotainment system malfunctions.
This video discusses common problems in the second generation Honda Pilot, including airbag recalls and engine issues: 59sMJ100kYouTube · Sep 30, 2025
Transmission and cooling system
- Coolant-transmission fluid mixing: A radiator design flaw can cause coolant to leak into the transmission fluid, leading to transmission failure.
- Symptoms: Drivers report shuddering, jerking, and sudden loss of power, with failures often occurring between 120,000 and 150,000 miles.
- Solutions: Repairs are costly and can involve a full transmission replacement.
Electrical and computer systems
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system: Some models experience the VSA system applying the brakes without driver input, which can be dangerous. This is often traced to a faulty yaw sensor.
- Infotainment system: Issues like blank screens, malfunctioning wireless chargers, and inoperable backup cameras have been reported, particularly in newer models.
- Auto start/stop system: The engine's auto start/stop system has been reported to malfunction, sometimes failing to restart the engine.
This video highlights trending issues in the 2023-2025 Honda Pilot, including broken battery sensor wires: 1mBCauto_YouTube · Jan 30, 2025
Engine and emissions
- Engine issues: Some older models have had issues with engine sludge due to piston ring deterioration.
- Emissions system: Warning lights may indicate a problem with the fuel injectors or catalytic converter.
- Oil consumption: Some models have reported excessive oil consumption.
You can watch this video to learn what the owner wishes they knew before buying the Honda Pilot, including infotainment and engine issues: 58sAdventure Gear TVYouTube · Apr 9, 2022
Other problems
- Brake issues: Warped front brake rotors causing vibration and problems with the anti-lock braking system have been reported.
- Water intrusion: Some models have reported water leaks, particularly in the rear, which can cause electrical problems.
- Airbag recalls: Certain model years, especially the second generation (2009-2015), have been affected by airbag recalls.
Will a Honda Pilot last 300,000 miles?
Most well-maintained Honda Pilots last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles, which is significantly higher than the average vehicle lifespan in the U.S., typically around 150,000 miles. Here's what that means in years: If you drive 15,000 miles a year, your Honda Pilot could likely last you 15 to 20 years or more.
Will there be a 2026 Honda Pilot?
Yes, the 2026 Honda Pilot will be available, and it features a significant refresh with updated styling, technology, and some standard features. The new model includes a redesigned front end, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen on all trims, a quieter cabin, and other upgrades like a power tailgate and standard roof rails on previously excluded trims.
This video provides a detailed overview of the 2026 Honda Pilot's design, technology, and standard features: 1mVehicle VisionaryYouTube · Nov 18, 2025
Key updates for the 2026 model
- Exterior: Redesigned front fascia, new grille patterns, and updated LED lighting for a more rugged look.
- Interior: All trims now come standard with a 12.3-inch HD color touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also now standard.
- Technology: Includes standard post-collision braking and improved steering feel and precision.
- Standard features: Roof rails are now standard on the EX-L trim, and a power tailgate is standard on all models.
- Comfort: New sound-deadening features and revised door seals result in a quieter cabin.
- Colors: Two new color options are available: Solar Silver Metallic and Smoke Blue Pearl.
- Release date: The 2026 Honda Pilot is expected to arrive at dealerships in December 2025.
