Is the 2013 Honda Pilot a reliable car?

The 2013 Honda Pilot is generally considered a reliable used SUV, especially given Honda’s reputation for durability. Its reliability hinges on regular maintenance and the specific vehicle’s history, so a thorough pre-purchase check is important.

Reliability profile of the 2013 Pilot

The Pilot’s reputation rests on Honda’s long-standing emphasis on longevity and straightforward engineering. The 2013 model sits in the early-to-mid 2010s era of Honda’s mid-size SUVs, sharing proven drivetrain and chassis components with its peers. In reliability surveys and consumer feedback from that period, it was typically viewed as above-average for its class, with strong safety results helping to reinforce its overall appeal.

Independent ratings and safety

Industry evaluators have generally given the 2013 Pilot solid scores for safety and reliability when compared with other used midsize SUVs of the same era. Real-world ownership experiences vary based on maintenance quality, mileage, and prior use, but the model’s fundamentals are widely respected for long-term durability.

• Solid safety credentials in IIHS and NHTSA testing for the era, contributing to overall confidence in its long-term value.


• Reliability ratings from major outlets (where available) tend to be above average for its class, reflecting Honda’s engineering approach and parts availability.


• A durable V6 engine and well-proven drivetrain help support high-mileage ownership when properly serviced.

In practice, a well-maintained 2013 Pilot can deliver many miles of service, but aging components and wear items will require attention as with any aging vehicle.

Buying guide and inspection checklist

Before purchasing a used 2013 Pilot, it’s important to check for signs of wear that commonly affect reliability and ownership costs. This list highlights key areas to review.

• Transmission behavior: Look for smooth shifting and no slipping or hard shifts. If the transmission feels behind the throttle or hesitates, the fluid and service history should be examined.


• Brakes and suspension: Inspect for warped rotors, pulsation, unusual noises, and worn shocks/struts or ball joints, especially if the vehicle has high mileage.


• Electrical and interior systems: Check power window regulators, door locks, and infotainment controls for proper operation, as aging components can fail over time.


• Engine seals and leaks: Inspect for oil leaks around the valve covers and oil pan, and verify coolant leaks or hose wear, which become more common with age.


• Climate control and HVAC: Ensure the air conditioning and heating systems function reliably, as failures can be costly to repair.

A pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified tech is strongly recommended to assess the transmission, brakes, suspension, engine seals, and electrical systems before you buy.

Ownership costs and maintenance expectations

Ongoing maintenance costs for a 2013 Pilot are generally in line with other mid-size SUVs of its age. Routine service items—oil changes, fluid replacements, brake work, and tire maintenance—are widely available and affordable, given Honda’s extensive service network. Reliability tends to reduce the frequency of major repairs when the vehicle is kept up to date with maintenance.

• Pros: durable drivetrain, strong resale value for a Honda, broad parts availability, and a well-supported maintenance ecosystem.


• Cons: aging wear items (brakes, suspension, seals, electrical components) can incur noticeable repair costs if not addressed promptly.

Bottom line, the 2013 Pilot can be a solid long-term choice if you buy a well-maintained example and stay on top of routine service and inspections.

Summary

The 2013 Honda Pilot remains a solid, reliable option among used mid-size SUVs, benefiting from Honda’s durability, a capable V6, and a robust service network. Its reliability is highly dependent on maintenance history, so prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, verify maintenance records, and address wear items promptly to maximize long-term reliability and ownership satisfaction.

Does the 2013 Honda Pilot have transmission problems?

2013 Honda Pilot Powertrain Failure and Slipping Issue Pilot models often face transmission slipping and powertrain warning lights due to worn clutches or torque converter issues. Powertrain failure codes combined with slipping at freeway speeds often indicate transmission wear.

How many miles can a 2013 Honda Pilot last?

Yes, with proper care, a Honda Pilot can last up to 200,000 miles, and in some cases even longer, reaching close to 300,000 miles for owners who are very meticulous with their care. So, Honda Pilots can last a long time with proper maintenance.

What year of Honda Pilot should you stay away from?

The Honda Pilot years to avoid include 2003, 2004, 2005, 2011, 2016, and 2017 due to common issues like transmission failures, airbag problems (especially the 2003 model), electrical glitches, and premature brake/suspension issues. The 2016 model is also frequently cited as one to avoid as it was the first year of a new generation and had many initial problems.
 
This video discusses the best and worst years for the Honda Pilot: 52sCar ComfyYouTube · Sep 26, 2025
Model years to avoid

• 2003: Suffered from a significant number of complaints and recalls, including a major airbag defect that led to a "Do Not Drive" advisory in some cases. 
• 2004 and 2005: Faced recurring transmission issues, leading to costly repairs. 
• 2011: Had a high number of owner complaints and a range of issues, including transmission problems. 
• 2016: This model year was the first for the third generation and had numerous problems, including transmission failures and electrical system issues. 
• 2017: Continued to have many of the issues from the 2016 model, as Honda was still working to fix them. 

Common problems across multiple years 

• Transmission: Problems were particularly prevalent in the 2003-2005 and 2016-2017 model years. Older models may have issues with the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which can be addressed with a disabler device. 
• Brakes: Owners of 2003-2017 models reported problems with warped brake rotors, leading to vibrations while braking. 
• Electrical: Some models, especially the 2016 and 2019, experienced issues with the infotainment system, including frozen screens and loss of connectivity. 
• Airbags: The 2003 model was affected by the Takata airbag defect, leading to safety concerns and recalls. 

Is a 2013 Honda Pilot a good year?

No, 2013 is not considered a great year for the Honda Pilot, as it is often cited for reliability issues, particularly with the transmission. While some consumers praise its reliability and comfort, more objective sources like CoPilot and Consumer Reports highlight potential problems with the powertrain and other systems. 
Drawbacks of the 2013 Pilot

• Transmission problems: Transmission issues, including rough shifting and hesitation, are frequently reported by owners. 
• Reliability issues: It is listed among the model years to avoid due to general inconsistency and reliability concerns. 
• Higher maintenance costs: Annual maintenance costs are estimated to be higher on average than other years. 
• Trouble spots: Owner-reported trouble spots include the suspension, paint, exhaust, and climate system. 

Potential positives of the 2013 Pilot 

• Consumer satisfaction: Some owners have reported high satisfaction with the vehicle's reliability and comfort. 
• Safety: It was named an IIHS Top Safety Pick and comes with standard safety features like a rearview camera and airbags.