Here Are The 7 Honda Pilot Years To Avoid (Common Problems Explained) 

The Honda Pilot has been one of the most popular crossover SUVs for several years. However, several models have received multiple quality complaints, so it’s essential to avoid these models when buying a used Honda Pilot. 

Let’s explore which Honda Pilot models you should avoid at all costs, which ones to choose from, and the common problems you may face with this vehicle. 

What is the Strongest Year for a Honda Pilot?

When buying a Honda Pilot, you should avoid the first generation and go for the most recent one, the 2022 Honda Pilot. However, all the recent models from 2019 onwards are ideal. This is because the latest models are the most reliable regarding engine quality and exterior strength. 

If you’re looking for a cheaper option, you can go for second-generation models from 2009 to 2015, which are far better and more reliable than first-generation models. 

After 2017, the Honda Pilot models don’t face the same problems they used to with the previous generations. However, the 2017 and 2018 models aren’t too great either. 

The newer models have better engines, brakes, and safety protocols, which resulted in better consumer satisfaction. 

What Honda Pilot Years Should You Avoid?

While the Honda Pilot is regarded as an excellent option for those looking for SUVs, some issues arose in the earlier and later models. To avoid these issues, you should steer clear of the models that received negative reviews.  

Here are the Honda Pilot model years you should avoid:

The 2003 Honda Pilot

The 2003 Honda Pilot was part of the first generation of crossover Honda SUVs introduced in the 2000s. Unfortunately, according to consumers, the 2003 Honda Pilot Model has been the worst model to date.

This model had a 5-speed automatic transmission and one 3.5L V6 engine, which produced around 255hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. 

The 2003 Pilot model is infamous for its problems with its transmission, its engine, and the airbags. These problems often cost thousands of dollars to fix, so this isn’t an ideal choice. 

The 2004 Honda Pilot  

The 2004 Pilot model was an improvement in terms of a reduced number of complete transmission failures, but it still had a number of other related issues. For example, the transmission would make noises, shudder and cause gears to slip.

Some buyers reported problems with the A/C compressor not functioning to its capacity or failing entirely. Some buyers even faced an issue with the shocks, having to replace them and needing regular wheel alignment done. 

The 2005 Honda Pilot

The 2005 Honda Pilot also received negative reviews from many users. It had recurring issues of engine failure, rusting and corrosion of the frame, malfunctioning control panel lights, and headlight failure. 

The 2005 Honda Pilot’s problems are similar to the first generation Pilot’s issues with the transmission, engine, and airbags. In addition, the transmission fluid in this model also often leaked into the radiator, which had to be replaced in many cars.

The 2007 Honda Pilot

The 2007 Honda Pilot had issues such as engine stalls, flaws with the car’s structure, electrical failures, and drivetrain issues. All of these problems combined caused severe consumer backlash. 

The poor paint quality also caused rust, corrosion, and water ingress, which then further caused electrical issues in the car. If you buy this, you’ll be paying a lot for repairing damages, so it’s better to avoid this model. 

The 2009 Honda Pilot

2009 Honda Pilots also have problems with their airbags and were recalled for safety reasons. If you get in an accident, you cannot trust the safety systems to work. 

2009 Honda Pilots also burn oil very quickly – as much as half a quart each month. While oil is easy to afford, you have to be more careful not to run out of oil. 

The engine sometimes also has problems, and it can misfire or fail. While the 2009 model didn’t receive as many complaints as some other models, it is still bad enough to avoid. 

Other 2009 Honda Pilot Issues

While 2009 Honda Pilots are not quite as bad as 2003/2005 Pilots, they are still bad. Some of the other problems 2009 Pilots have include: 

• The electrical system may fail. This
• The Rear AC Blower Transistor may fail. 
• The suspension may fail. 
• The tire pressure monitor system may fail.
• The coolant hose may leak. 

The 2013 Honda Pilot 

Honda started to fix the problems in their models manufactured after 2005. The 2013 Honda Pilot’s new 3.5L V6 engine produced 280hp and 262 lb-ft of torque.

The new transmission was a 6-speed automatic and a 9-speed automatic. It also improved in terms of fuel economy. 

However, this 2013 model still faced issues with its engine, brakes, drivetrain, and body. In addition, the 2013 model experienced multiple recalls over the years of its production due to safety issues. These issues include airbag failure or engine and body problems. So, avoid this model. 

The 2016 Honda Pilot 

The 2016 Honda Pilot doesn’t fare well either when it comes to its competitors. The model received numerous complaints due to electrical, engine, and drivetrain problems. 

Some consumers also faced problems with the ignition button and the AC, as both would often malfunction. Buyers also reported having to pay a lot for repairs and numerous complaints about the infotainment system malfunctioning and not being user-friendly. 

It would be best to avoid this model as these problems are to repair and come with significant safety concerns. 

Which Year Did the Honda Pilot Have Transmission Problems?

The Honda Pilot models from 2003 to 2005 had issues with their transmissions, which would often fail. Unfortunately, fixing these transmission problems was also very expensive, which made maintaining these models a headache for the owners. 

Sometimes, it’s easier just to buy a new transmission system. However, transmissions are supposed to last as long as the vehicle does.

Therefore, there’s no use in replacing the transmission on an older model, considering that you’ll have to search for this particular transmission system. 

What are the Most Common Problems in a Honda Pilot?

The most common Honda Pilot problems are transmission problems, high oil consumption issues, paint damage, and fuel injector failures. 

Let’s look at these problems in detail: 

Transmission Problems

In the first generation models, from 2003 to 2008, the vehicles faced transmission failure, especially in the first two years of the 5-speed transmission system.

The transmission was reported to be jerking or lurching, and some completely failed. 

This is one of the most expensive repairs for your car, especially if they occur while driving. These issues can lead to a loss of control while driving and could result in a crash.

Paint Damage

Car paint has protective properties that buffer your car’s exterior against the harsh climate. Unfortunately, the second generation of Honda Pilots faced many paint issues. Drivers complained the paint would chip away under normal conditions. 

If your car’s paint ends up peeling, you could end up with rust on your car’s surface, which may weaken the vehicle’s body, making it unsafe to drive. Moreover, repainting a car is not cheap, and most buyers would prefer not to repaint a new car so soon.  

Oil Consumption Problem

A common problem in the first-generation Honda Pilot models was oil consumption. The 3.5L V6 engine tended to use up a lot of oil. While this is a common problem among SUVs, the low oil can end up causing engine damage and cause the engine to overheat. 

Moreover, frequent replacement of the oil will end up costing a lot over time. The second generation faces the same issue. The 2009 Pilot model had numerous complaints about high oil consumption. 

This problem continued until 2015, when a fix was released. 

Ignition Switch

In the earlier models, there was a problem with the ignition switch. In addition, there was a recurring problem with the codes in some of the models, which caused the check engine light to appear for no reason. Troubleshooting the code only provided a temporary fix to this problem. 

Brake Issues

Some drivers have reported issues with the Honda Pilot’s brakes. There seems to be an issue with the rotors in some of the models, which causes the brakes to vibrate severely, resulting in safety concerns. 

Fuel Injector Failure 

The 2016-2018 Pilot Models faced errors in their emission and transmission systems. This often resulted in poor speed control and caused the vehicle’s fuel efficiency to drop.

In addition, the fuel injectors must be replaced or repaired to fix this issue, which is very expensive. 

Honda Pilot Engine Problems

Honda Pilots from the last few model years have remarkably good engines. However, some older Honda Pilots have engines that do not respond right away when you shift gears. The engines can also misfire or run rough. 

Airbag Problems

Another very bad thing about some Honda Pilot models is that the airbags can fail. Both the driver’s side airbag and the passenger’s side airbag may have problems. 

Other Problems

A lot of Honda Pilot owners have complained about the lights turning off at random. I experienced this myself with my 2009 Honda Pilot.

Are Honda Pilots From Bad Years Really That Bad?

Some Honda Pilots from bad years are better than others. You won’t necessarily encounter the more serious problems that I warn you about. Some people bought Honda Pilots from bad years and had them last for a long time with few problems. 

However, there is a much higher risk of the problems for Honda Pilots from bad years than for other Honda Pilots. Just because you probably won’t have a transmission failure while you are driving fast in traffic doesn’t mean a Honda Pilot from a bad year is safe. 

You should avoid Honda Pilots from bad years. Even if nothing dangerous happens, which it might, you could still have to pay thousands of dollars to repair your transmission or powertrain. There is no guarantee a Honda Pilot from a bad year has a lot of problems, but it’s not worth the risk. 

Why Newer Honda Pilots Are Much Better

For relatively large vehicles, Honda Pilots are nimble and easy to handle. Even in the snow, they are easy to control. Newer and more technologically advanced models are particularly nimble. 

The steering system that the last few years of models use is very advanced and responsive. There is also great gas mileage for SUVs of this size, both in the city and on highways. The new Honda Pilots are well-built vehicles that don’t need repairs for a long time. 

There are also comfortable and heated seats, plus leg room and spacious interiors. The engines are amazing, and the new Honda Pilots fully take advantage of the new technology. 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 Honda Pilots are all reliable and safe SUVs.

Are Honda Pilots Good SUVs?

Yes, Honda Pilots are great mid-size SUVs. They are great to buy used as long as you get a good deal on a model from a good year. New Honda Pilots don’t seem to have problems. 

While Honda Pilots are not the biggest SUVs you can get, they still have plenty of room for luggage and passengers. Honda sells more than 130,000 Pilots per year, which would not be possible if the SUVs were unsafe and had a bad reputation. 

New Honda Pilots are certainly safe, and they get 5/5 or at least 4/5 safety ratings from the NHTSA. Honda Pilots are also reliable and can last for much more than 200,000 miles if you take care of them. Honda Pilots have 7 or 8 seats, so they are great family cars.

Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander: Which is More Reliable?

The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are two of the most sought-after crossover SUVs with third-row seats. When looking at prices, the 2022 Honda Pilot starts at $37,580, going up to $51,370. The Toyota Highlander ranges from $35,405 to $47,560. 

In terms of reliability, the 2022 Toyota Highlander is better when compared to a Honda Pilot. 

Cargo Space

In terms of cargo space, the Pilot still comes out on top with 18.5 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats compared to the Highlander’s 16 cubic feet space. 

Interior

Both cars’ interiors are similar in design, with muted colors, contrasting top trims, and a pleasant material of soft-touch plastic. The interior features are similar to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, an in-cabin microphone, etc.  

The Pilot has a lot of interior space, with great amenities and technology. The Pilot’s interior is also more spacious and comes with heated seats, making it more comfortable than the Toyota Highlander.

Acceleration

Regarding acceleration, the Pilot edges out on top with its lower curb weight. Both cars have identical engines, but the Pilot has more horsepower with 295 horsepower, while the Highlander has 280 horsepower. 

However, despite beating the Toyota Highlander in several aspects, the durability and reliability of the Toyota Highlander give it the upper hand.