What is the major problem of Honda Pilots?

The Honda Pilot is a popular midsize SUV, but it has faced some significant issues that have been a source of concern for many owners. The primary problem with the Honda Pilot is its tendency to experience transmission failures, which can be a costly and inconvenient problem for drivers.

Transmission Failures in Honda Pilots

One of the most common complaints about the Honda Pilot is its transmission problems. Many owners have reported that their Pilot's transmission has failed prematurely, often before the vehicle has reached 100,000 miles. This can be a significant issue, as transmission repairs can be extremely expensive, often costing thousands of dollars.

The transmission problems in Honda Pilots have been attributed to a variety of factors, including design flaws, poor manufacturing, and inadequate maintenance. Some of the specific issues that have been reported include:

• Sudden loss of power or acceleration


• Difficulty shifting gears


• Transmission slipping or hesitating


• Transmission fluid leaks


• Transmission overheating

These transmission problems can be particularly frustrating for Honda Pilot owners, as the vehicle is generally known for its reliability and durability. Many owners have reported that they have had to replace their transmission multiple times, which can be a significant financial burden.

Potential Solutions and Recalls

Honda has acknowledged the transmission issues with the Pilot and has issued several recalls and technical service bulletins to address the problem. Some of the solutions that have been offered include:

• Replacing the transmission fluid more frequently


• Updating the transmission control module software


• Replacing the entire transmission in some cases

However, these solutions have not always been effective, and many owners have reported that they have continued to experience transmission problems even after the recommended repairs have been made.

Conclusion

The transmission problems in the Honda Pilot are a significant issue that has affected many owners. While Honda has taken steps to address the problem, the solutions have not always been effective, and many owners have had to bear the financial burden of repeated transmission repairs. As a result, the transmission issues in the Honda Pilot have been a source of frustration and concern for many drivers.

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. 

Is the Honda Pilot a reliable car?

Yes, the Honda Pilot is generally considered a reliable car, known for its long-term durability, with many owners reporting their vehicles lasting well over 200,000 miles. It has a strong reputation for dependability thanks to its robust engineering and durable build quality. While some model years have had specific issues like recalls, overall reliability is strong and supported by high consumer ratings and positive owner reviews.
 
Reasons for its reliability

• Longevity: The Pilot is built to last, with many owners experiencing high mileage from their vehicles. 
• J.D. Power ratings: J.D. Power has given the 2025 model a high reliability score of 81/100. 
• Engine and performance: The 3.5-liter V6 engine is known for being dependable. 
• Safety: The Pilot includes a strong suite of standard safety features like the Honda Sensing suite and ACE™ Body Structure, which adds to its overall value and peace of mind. 

Things to consider

• Model year variations: Some years are more reliable than others. For example, models from 2006-2008 and 2017-2021 have fewer reported complaints than others, according to Capital One. The original 2003 model and 2016 model have been identified as having more issues, notes CarGurus.com. 
• Specific issues: Some users report specific issues, such as problems with the air conditioning system or the auto start/stop feature in certain model years, says Reddit users. 
• Maintenance: While overall repair costs are considered average or lower than some competitors, as shown by Honda of Cleveland Heights and RepairPal, regular maintenance is still key to ensuring long-term reliability. 
• Used vs. New: As with any used vehicle, condition depends on the previous owner's maintenance habits, says Autotrader. 

What Honda Pilot to stay away from?

Honda Pilot years to avoid include 2003, 2005, 2016, and 2017 due to major transmission, engine, and electrical issues. Other problematic years include 2004 and 2011, and the 2016-2020 models were also investigated for problems with the engine's stop-start system. It's also wise to be cautious of 2008-2014 models, which may have engine ring problems. 
This video explains which years of Honda Pilot to avoid and which are the best to buy: 52sCar ComfyYouTube · Sep 26, 2025
Specific years to avoid and their common problems:

• 2003, 2005: Primarily plagued by transmission problems, including torque converter failure. 
• 2004, 2011: Both have been cited as problematic years. 
• 2016: Had a high number of complaints and was the first year of a new generation, leading to multiple issues including transmission problems, engine issues, electrical malfunctions, and problems with the stop-start system. 
• 2017: Faced issues such as transmission and electrical problems. 
• 2016-2019: These years, particularly the 2016, had numerous owner complaints and official recalls, including issues with electrical systems, navigation, and the stop-start system. 
• 2008-2014: Certain models from these years can have problems with the V6 engine, specifically with piston rings. 
• 2025: While newer, some 2025 models have been recalled for issues with the third-row seat belt assembly. 
• 2023-2024: Also have a recall for potential fuel leaks from the fuel filler neck tube. 

What to consider before buying

• Used models: If buying used, look for meticulous service records, especially for oil changes and transmission services. 
• Recalls: Always check for open recalls on any model year you are considering. 
• Repairs: Some years had issues that were addressed through recalls, while others may require more extensive or costly repairs if problems have occurred. 
• Warranty: Consider purchasing a used model with a warranty or buying a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle with an extended Honda warranty. 

What is the class action lawsuit against Honda Pilot?

Multiple class action lawsuits have been filed against Honda regarding the Honda Pilot, including those alleging defects in the nine-speed automatic transmission, the infotainment system, and the engine. Recent legal actions also address engine rod bearing failure, the "Auto Idle Stop" feature, and "phantom braking". Some cases have resulted in a settlement, while others are ongoing. 
This video discusses the recall of Honda vehicles due to engine problems: 43sWDRB News - OfficialYouTube · Feb 3, 2025
Infotainment system

• Alleged Defect: Malfunctioning infotainment systems, including freezing, crashing, and failure to boot, in various 2018-2019 models, as well as 2020-2022 Pilot, Passport, and Odyssey vehicles.
• Alleged Harm: Caused navigation and audio systems to malfunction.
• Status: A settlement was reached for certain 2018-2019 models. A more recent lawsuit alleges defects and "phantom braking" in 2020-2022 models. 

Transmission

• Alleged Defect: A programming defect in the nine-speed automatic transmission.
• Alleged Harm: Caused violent shaking, acceleration problems, and gear shifting issues.
• Status: The case is ongoing. 

This video shows a Honda owner's experience with engine issues: 51sABC 7 News - WJLAYouTube · Nov 14, 2025
Engine

• Alleged Defect:
  • Rod bearing failure: In 2016-2020 models with a 3.5L V6 engine, which can cause the engine to seize.
  • Idle Stop feature: The engine may not automatically restart when the brake is released.
• Alleged Harm:
  • Rod bearing failure: Engine failure and immobilization.
  • Idle Stop feature: Vehicles become temporarily undriveable.
• Status: The rod bearing failure is under a federal investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The idle stop feature lawsuit has resulted in a settlement. 

Braking

• Alleged Defect: "Phantom braking" issues in certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Passport, and Odyssey vehicles. 
• Alleged Harm: Caused unexpected and dangerous braking situations, increasing the risk of accidents. 
• Status: This is a part of an ongoing lawsuit. 

This video discusses the recall of Honda vehicles due to engine problems: 59sThe Car Guy OnlineYouTube · Nov 13, 2024