What is a good year for the Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot has been a popular choice among midsize SUVs for years, offering a blend of reliability, comfort, and practicality. However, not all model years are created equal. If you're considering purchasing a used Honda Pilot, it's important to know which years stand out for their performance, reliability, and features. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best years for the Honda Pilot and why they are worth considering.
Why the Honda Pilot Is a Popular Choice
The Honda Pilot has earned its reputation as a dependable family SUV. With its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and strong resale value, it appeals to a wide range of drivers. Over the years, Honda has refined the Pilot to address customer feedback and improve its design and performance. However, some model years have proven to be more reliable and better equipped than others.
Top Honda Pilot Model Years to Consider
Based on customer reviews, reliability ratings, and expert opinions, here are some of the best years for the Honda Pilot:
- 2015: The 2015 Honda Pilot is part of the second generation and is known for its reliability and practicality. It offers a smooth ride, a spacious interior, and a strong V6 engine. This model year also marked the end of the second generation, meaning Honda had worked out many of the earlier issues.
- 2016: The 2016 model introduced the third generation of the Pilot, featuring a complete redesign. It boasts a more modern look, improved fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features like Honda Sensing. This year is a great choice for those seeking a balance of style and functionality.
- 2019: The 2019 Honda Pilot received a mid-cycle refresh, adding updated technology, a more refined transmission, and enhanced safety features. It’s a solid option for families who want a reliable and tech-savvy SUV.
- 2021: For those looking for a newer model, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a standard 9-speed automatic transmission, improved fuel economy, and a host of standard features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Years to Approach with Caution
While the Honda Pilot is generally reliable, there are a few model years that have been reported to have more issues than others. For example, the 2003 and 2005 models, part of the first generation, have been noted for transmission problems. Similarly, some early third-generation models (2016-2017) experienced issues with their 9-speed automatic transmission. Always check the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection to avoid potential headaches.
Tips for Buying a Used Honda Pilot
If you’re in the market for a used Honda Pilot, here are some tips to ensure you make a smart purchase:
- Check the vehicle’s maintenance records to ensure it has been well cared for.
- Look for models with fewer miles, as they are likely to have more life left in them.
- Consider purchasing a certified pre-owned (CPO) Honda Pilot for added peace of mind.
- Test drive the vehicle to check for any unusual noises or performance issues.
- Research common issues for the specific model year you’re considering and ask the seller about any repairs or updates.
Conclusion
The Honda Pilot is a reliable and versatile SUV that has served families well for decades. While models like the 2015, 2016, 2019, and 2021 stand out as excellent choices, it’s always important to do your research and inspect any used vehicle thoroughly before making a purchase. With the right approach, you can find a Honda Pilot that will serve you reliably for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top Honda Pilot?
Elite
The Elite is the most expensive option of the Pilot trims at $52,030.
What is the most reliable year of the Honda Pilot?
Honda Pilots built between 2006 and 2008, as well as 2017 to 2021 models, have considerably fewer reported complaints than other model years. This is despite the investigation into engine stop-start system failures in the later model years and a recall involving the hood latch on 2016 to 2019 Pilots.
What year was a bad year for Honda Pilot?
But, certain Honda Pilot model years should be avoided due to reliability concerns. Years like 2003, 2005, and 2016 had issues, making them the worst. Knowing these years helps buyers looking for a reliable vehicle. The 2003 Honda Pilot was the start of a new line but had many problems.
Is Honda Pilot high maintenance?
The Honda Pilot has a relatively low operating costs with its longevity, low maintenance expenses, and high potential resale value, representing a smart investment for owners.
What is considered high mileage for a Honda Pilot?
100,000-mile
We've talked about the typical lifespan for a Honda Pilot landing around 200,000 miles. Thus, the high mileage for the Honda Pilot is anything in the mid-100,000-mile mark. If you see a vehicle around this point, it's closer to encountering serious repairs than other cars.
How long does a Honda Pilot transmission last?
The lifespan of a transmission can vary widely; some may last over 100,000 miles, while others could surpass 200,000 miles. Routine maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your Honda transmission. Regular checks and services help prevent major issues and ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition.
What is the top level Pilot?
Captain
However, climbing to the ranks of Captain at a major airline is the pinnacle of a pilot's career.
Why was 2013 a bad year for Honda Pilots?
The common problems on the 2013 Honda Pilot include chipping paint, worn-out spark plugs, and Bluetooth connectivity issues.
