Was 2017 a good year for Honda Pilots?

Yes. 2017 was generally a solid year for the Honda Pilot, continuing the momentum from its 2016 redesign with steady sales, strong safety credentials, and positive owner sentiment.

To understand why, this article examines how the Pilot performed in 2017 across sales, safety, technology, and ownership experience, and how it stood up against key rivals in the crowded midsize SUV segment.

Background: The Pilot's 2016 redesign and 2017 positioning

The 2016 redesign gave the Pilot a more spacious cabin, improved cargo versatility, and a fresher overall look. In 2017, the model largely carried forward that refreshed package, relying on its updated interior and family-friendly practicality to remain competitive without notable mid-cycle changes.

Sales and Market Performance in 2017

Several factors helped the Pilot maintain solid sales in 2017, including its design, features, and brand reputation. The list below highlights the drivers behind its continued appeal.

• Refined interior quality and versatility after the 2016 redesign


• Strong three-row seating and cargo space for families


• Competitive pricing and attractive financing offers from Honda


• Wide dealer network and solid resale value in the used-car market

These factors contributed to the Pilot’s steady performance in the competitive midsize SUV segment during 2017, helping it attract buyers seeking space, reliability, and everyday practicality.

Safety and Technology in 2017

2017 continued to emphasize safety and usability, with Honda’s safety technologies playing a central role in how the Pilot was perceived by families and buyers who value protection and ease of use.

• Honda Sensing safety suite, including adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation braking, available on many trims


• Rearview camera and improved visibility features standard across most configurations


• Spacious interior with flexible seating arrangements suitable for larger families


• User-friendly infotainment options and smartphone integration on higher trims

Overall, 2017 Pilots benefited from a strong safety package and practical technology that appealed to family buyers, even if some advanced features carried extra cost on specific trims.

Ownership Experience and Reliability in 2017

Honda’s reputation for reliability extended to the Pilot in 2017, with owners commonly reporting dependable performance and reasonable ownership costs.

• Strong reliability history for Honda SUVs, contributing to positive buyer sentiment


• Moderate maintenance costs relative to rivals in the segment


• Solid resale value and continued demand in the used-car market


• Warranty coverage typical for the segment (3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper; 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain)

Taken together, these factors supported a favorable ownership experience for many 2017 Pilot buyers, reinforcing its standing as a practical, long-running family SUV.

Conclusion: Was 2017 a good year for the Honda Pilot?

In broad terms, yes. 2017 was a favorable year for the Pilot because it built on the successful 2016 redesign with strong safety features, dependable performance, and continued appeal in a crowded market. While the year did not bring a new generation or dramatic updates, the Pilot remained a reliable and well-rounded choice for families and everyday drivers alike.

Summary

2017 reinforced the Honda Pilot’s position as a practical, family-oriented SUV with solid reliability, competitive pricing, and strong safety features. The model’s strength lay in its everyday usability and value, rather than groundbreaking changes, helping it endure as a steady performer in its segment.

How long will a 2017 Honda Pilot last?

A 2017 Honda Pilot's life expectancy is typically between 200,000 and 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, which can equate to 15 to 20 years of driving at 15,000 miles per year. However, factors like climate, driving habits, and keeping up with major maintenance milestones, particularly a timing belt replacement around 100,000 miles, are crucial for reaching this longevity. Some owners have reported reaching over 200,000 miles with no major issues, while others have experienced some problems like fuel injector issues around the 40,000-mile mark.
 
Factors influencing life expectancy

• Maintenance: Consistent and timely maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is the most critical factor in extending a Pilot's life.
• Driving habits: Gentle driving, less stop-and-go traffic, and avoiding harsh terrain will help the vehicle last longer.
• Climate: Extreme temperatures can cause more wear and tear on a vehicle's components.
• Repairs: Using high-quality or genuine parts during repairs is recommended to prevent premature failures. 

Key maintenance milestones

• Timing belt: Around 100,000 miles, the timing belt (and water pump) should be replaced. This is a major and expensive maintenance item to plan for. 
• Fluid changes: Regularly changing all fluids, including transmission and differential fluids, is important for long-term health. 

Potential issues to be aware of

• Fuel injectors: There have been reports of fuel injector issues, but Honda has issued a service bulletin and extended the warranty for this problem. 
• Engine problems: Some owners have reported engine issues, such as a rod bearing failure, though this is not a widespread problem. 
• Infotainment system: There were some complaints about the infotainment system, which resulted in a class-action lawsuit. 

What to do if you want your 2017 Pilot to last

• Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule diligently.
• Address any warning lights or unusual sounds promptly.
• Be prepared for the 100,000-mile major service, which includes the timing belt replacement.
• Keep records of all maintenance and repairs. 

Is the 2017 Honda Pilot reliable?

The 2017 Honda Pilot has a generally positive reliability record, with an above-average predicted reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 from J.D. Power. However, it is affected by some specific issues, including potential problems with the transmission (such as juddering or failure), engine problems like rod bearing failure in some cases, and the auto idle stop system. Other reported issues include problems with the infotainment system and occasional electrical malfunctions. 
You can watch this video to learn about the 2017 Honda Pilot's long-term reliability from an owner's perspective: 1mYakfish TacoYouTube · Dec 23, 2019
Positive aspects

• Overall Reliability: Has a slightly above-average predicted reliability rating, with many owners praising its comfort, space, and performance. 
• Safety: Earned a 5-Star Overall Rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. 

Common issues

• Transmission: Some owners report issues like juddering or failure, especially after the warranty period, with a potential defect in the torque converter lock-up clutch. 
• Engine: While many pilots are reliable, some models have experienced engine problems like rod bearing failure. This seems to be a known defect that can occur around 70,000 miles. 
• Auto Idle Stop System: Newer models, including the 2017, can have issues with the auto idle stop system causing stalling at intersections. 
• Infotainment System: Some owners have reported connectivity problems and a complex user interface with the infotainment system. 
• Electrical and Other Issues:
  • Randomly going off car alarms or dashboard lights 
  • Jolting while shifting at low speeds 
  • Issues with the fuel injection system 
  • LED headlights that may need adjustment 

Important considerations

• Maintenance: Proper and timely maintenance is crucial to avoid some of these issues. Neglecting maintenance can lead to bigger problems down the road, especially concerning the engine and transmission. 
• Recall: While U.S. News notes there were no safety recalls from the NHTSA for the 2017 model, other sources do mention recalled issues, so it is important to check for any specific recalls related to a vehicle you are considering. 

This video discusses some of the common issues experienced by owners of the 2017 Honda Pilot: 56sAdventure Gear TVYouTube · Aug 18, 2024

Does the 2017 Honda Pilot have transmission problems?

If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2017 Honda Pilot transmission will slip.

What are the best and worst years for Honda Pilots?

The best Honda Pilot years are generally considered to be the 2006-2008 and 2017-2021 models, while the worst years to avoid are the 2003, 2005, 2016, and 2017 models due to common issues like transmission problems and high numbers of complaints. For a reliable used option, the 2006-2008 models are solid first-generation choices, and the 2017-2021 models are highly rated for reliability and modern features.
 
Best years

• 2006-2008: Part of the first generation, these models are praised for their solid construction and reliable performance. 
• 2017-2021: These are third-generation models known for significant improvements in technology and safety features, with the 2019 model year frequently cited as a top choice for reliability. 
• 2014: This model is also considered a recommended year by Consumer Reports. 

Worst years

• 2003, 2005, 2016: These years are frequently mentioned as having the most reported problems, particularly with the transmission. 
• 2003: The first model year, it had significant issues with its transmission and interior accessories. 
• 2017: While often considered a good year, some sources list it as a year to avoid due to a higher number of complaints than other models. 
• 2003, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, and 2016: Some sources recommend avoiding these years due to recurring issues, such as transmission and electrical problems.