Honda Pilot caters to an audience far removed from the Type R crowd with its conservative styling and spacious interior. The pilot market is more focused on buying a family vehicle that will be comfortable for everyone on road trips across the country and won’t break down when they need it.
There are some model years when the Pilot performs better than others, but as with any name plate that has been around for over two decades, some years are better than others. Analyzing recall data and complaints by model year, let’s see what makes the Honda Pilot great and what makes it bad.
Identifying The Most Reliable Honda Pilot Models
In order to determine the most reliable Pilots from the rest, we used resources such as Car Complaints and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Consumer complaints often provide a more complete picture than recalls. As a result, some bothersome issues with vehicles aren’t necessarily severe enough to warrant a recall, but they can affect the ownership experience significantly.
In conclusion, if you’re considering buying a Honda Pilot, here are the models to consider.
The Best Honda Pilot Model Years
You can obviously choose a new or almost-new Pilot model if you want one that is trouble-free. We will look beyond the more recent Pilots to determine which ones are the safest bets, since reliability data will not be available yet. At least five years have passed since all our assessed models were created, so we have ample time to find out if there are any serious gremlins.
2015 Honda Pilot
During the 2015 model year, the second-generation Pilot reached the end of its lifecycle. It is common for buyers to wait for the latest model, but after a vehicle has been in the market for a while, most of the kinks have been worked out.
Overall, the 2015 Pilot has 84 complaints with the NHTSA and 43 with Car Complaints, which is significantly fewer than the average for all Pilots. Millions of mainstream vehicles across a variety of brands were affected by three Takata airbag recalls.
In terms of quality and reliability, this Pilot earned a J.D Power score of 79 out of 100. With its rugged styling and V6 engine, this Pilot is one of its most distinctive models. It’s equipped with modern conveniences such as Bluetooth and a touchscreen interface, despite its age.
2014 Honda Pilot
There are a few more complaints regarding the 2014 Pilot compared to the 2015 version, with the same airbag recalls. Interestingly, it has an 84/100 ranking from J.D Power for quality and reliability. It is likely that they will have similar dependability between these two model years since there have been no major changes between them.
2008 Honda Pilot
When compared with other older models, the 2008 Pilot is among the least complained about on NHTSA and Car Complaints. The first generation Pilot was the last to be made, and it appears to be much less troublesome than the previous generations. In 2005, Honda added a new V6 engine to the Pilot, while also improving the five-speed transmission’s shifting system; transmission problems were fairly common on many Pilots over the years. According to J.D. Power, the 2008 Pilot scored 85 out of 100 in quality and reliability.
In case you are considering purchasing a 2008 Pilot, we recommend checking whether it has been recalled for any airbag issues. The price of a used example can be as low as $10,000, but finding one which has fewer than 100,000 miles will be harder.
Third-Gen Pilot: Not All Are Made Equal
The 2016 Pilot should be skipped altogether if you want to get the most modern, third-generation Pilot. We’ll explain why later. According to Car Complaints, the 2018 Pilot received significantly fewer complaints than the 2016-2017 Pilot. A nine-speed transmission that replaced it had all kinds of problems that led to a class action lawsuit. Therefore, we recommend the six-speed automatic transmission available until 2021.
From the third-generation Pilots, the 2018 Pilot with six-speed automatic seems to be the best option.
| Most Dependable Honda Pilot Model Years | Generation |
| 2015 | Second Gen |
| 2014 | Second Gen |
| 2008 | First Gen |
| 2018 (with six-speed automatic) | Third Gen |
The Best Honda Pilot Model Years
2016 Honda Pilot
It was announced that the third generation Pilot would be available for the 2016 model year. According to the NHTSA, despite being an improved crossover, this model received 1,171 complaints, the most of any model year. After the 2003 model, it is the second most troublesome Pilot according to Car Complaints.
Lastly, J.D. Power rates the 2016 Pilot at 74 out of 100 for quality and reliability, well below comparable vehicles such as Toyota Highlanders and Dodge Durangos.
According to the NHTSA, consumer complaints are primarily related to the electrical system and engine. There were several issues with the keyless starter system and radio, with several owners experiencing difficulty starting their cars. Nearly 250,000 Pilots were recalled mechanically as a result of the 2016 model year.
There was a recall of these engines due to the possibility that connecting rod bearings could wear out, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. The cost of replacing an engine for some owners was over $10k, and several complained that their 2016 models were not included in the recall despite suffering the same problem.
This issue is attributed to a “manufacturing defect of the engine crankshaft.” Atypical engine noises, decreased power, and stalling are some of the symptoms.
As a result of all this, as well as the class action lawsuit with regard to the nine-speed automatic, the 2016 Pilot is not the reliable vehicle one would expect from Honda.
2003 Honda Pilot
This vehicle is over 20 years old, as it is the first model year of the Pilot. Because the first Pilot was a totally new model for Honda at the time, it shouldn’t be surprising that some people complained about it.
According to Car Complaints, it receives 738 NHTSA complaints and is the worst-rated Pilot model year. The Pilot has also been recalled 14 times, making it one of the most recalled cars in history.
When the 2003 Pilot reaches around 100,000 miles, it is often plagued by transmission problems and ignition switch malfunctions. The average cost of repairing the transmission is $3,470.
The auto transmission of an early Pilot, since it sells for under ten thousand dollars nowadays, may be worth checking the history of the car you are considering buying, as a replacement may end up costing a significant amount.
A jerky transmission or slipping gears are among the most common complaints filed with the NHTSA about the powertrain.
The Pilot was linked to recalls related to the Takata airbag debacle if you’re worried about safety. Before you buy a 2003 Pilot, check if its airbags have been repaired if you want to know if it has been assessed.
2005 Honda Pilot
Despite Honda’s efforts, the transmission issues of the first-generation Pilot did not get resolved. It was reported that transmission fluid was leaking into the radiator multiple times, requiring transmission flushes or radiator replacements.
An example of this problem is when a vehicle reaches around 120,000 miles and requires over $2,000 to fix. In one case, the customer had to replace both the transmission and radiator at a cost of around $5k, though it is not clear how many miles this vehicle had accumulated.
Pilots from 2005 have been recalled 15 times (the most of any Pilot) and 673 complaints have been reported to the NHTSA. A large number of these recalls were related to defective airbags.
Metal fragments may be released as a result of ruptured inflators, causing injury or death to occupants. There were still two unresolved airbag investigations as of the date of this article.
2017 Honda Pilot
It is the second model year of the third-generation Pilot, which has improved over the 2016 model, but still comes with its fair share of complaints. According to the NHTSA, there have been 609 complaints for the 2017 Pilot, with the majority of complaints being about the engine (296), electric system (212), and powertrain (84).
The 2017 Pilot also suffered from transmission problems, including rough shifts, similar to the 2016 version. Customers were sometimes required to replace their transmissions. One problem area was the start/stop system, with some Pilots not restarting after stopping, which can cause accidents.
It is quite concerning that both recalls have been issued. It was recalled over 700,000 Pilots and Passports because the hood had the potential to fly open while the vehicle was in motion. In addition, a fuel pump failure recall was also issued for the 2017 Pilot.
| Honda Pilot Complaints (NHTSA) | Model Year |
| 1,171 | 2016 |
| 738 | 2003 |
| 673 | 2005 |
| 609 | 2017 |
| 539 | 2004 |
| <500 | All other model years |
Are Honda Pilots Generally Reliable?
It doesn’t matter if you choose the Honda Pilot’s most reliable year, as long as it is reliable. As we consider all Honda Pilot years, let’s look at its performance.
A lot of people are satisfied with the Pilot’s performance on the market. In accordance with withclutch.com, the Honda Pilot scores 64.55. When compared to other SUVs, this score makes it a good choice.
When examining the reliability of a vehicle, you should also get a second opinion. On repairpal.com, the Honda Pilot earns a rating of 3.5⁄5, placing it thirteenth out of 26 other midsize SUV models. In terms of performance, it sits right in the middle of the pack.
In comparison with other midsize SUVs, the Honda Pilot’s annual repair costs are $542. It is 13% more likely that an unexpected repair will be severe if it occurs. As far as similar vehicles go, this number is about average.
According to Honda, owners take the Pilot approximately .4 times a year, again right in line with similar SUVs. As far as reliability is concerned, it is a good option.
Which Honda Pilot Years Are The Least Reliable?
The ideal situation is to get as much for your money as possible, particularly when purchasing a used car. Whenever you can, avoid the least reliable years so that your money goes further. To make your life easier, we’ve compiled a list of the worst Honda Pilot options.
You should stay away from these years of Honda Pilot if you want to get the most out of its reliability:
In order to find the most reliable Honda Pilot year, you should look elsewhere.
There were many complaints from customers regarding several features during these years. There are a variety of problems associated with transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, peeling paint, and recurring fault codes. Drivers experience problems and high costs during these years.
It will be necessary to make frequent and expensive repairs during these years. Although there are some common problems with the Honda Pilot, they are not unique to this model. Here are some of the things you can expect.
Open Investigations
It is still possible to find open investigations for certain Honda Pilot model years at the time of writing. Here are the details you need to know.
Desiccated Airbag Inflator Rupture
In the context of the Takata airbag recall, this investigation applies to the 2005 Pilot. As these airbags were installed in vehicles produced between 2000 and 2017, they affected multiple models from multiple manufacturers.
It is possible to suffer severe or fatal injuries during deployment if some airbag inflators rupture due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and humidity.
A second investigation, which is related to the rupture of the airbag inflator, also affects pilots from 2003 to 2007.
No Restart After Auto Start/Stop Engages
In addition to the automatic stop/start features discussed above, this pertains to more modern Pilots. As soon as the car reaches a traffic light/intersection and stops, it automatically switches off, however it fails to restart. Those who purchase the more expensive Touring and Elite models of the 2018 Pilot are affected by this feature. There are however also models from 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020 that are affected.
What Are The Most Common Issues With A Honda Pilot?
When investing in a car, it is a good idea to consider the most common problems. It is true that Honda Pilots suffer from some issues across the board, even during the most reliable years.
The Honda Pilot has the following common problems:
In the event that these symptoms appear, you may need to have your car repaired unexpectedly.
Regardless of your year’s reliability or unreliability, these troubles may arise. The best thing to do is to be prepared.
Honda Pilot reliability has been discussed in detail in many of our previous articles. Here is the ultimate question – is it worth it to buy a Honda Pilot?
Is The Honda Pilot Worth It?
The Honda Pilot is a great midsize vehicle if you’re on the lookout for a quality option. You get excellent value for your investment with this product since it is generally reliable. In terms of ultimate dependability, you have plenty of options.
It is common for the Honda Pilot to experience a few issues. Used Honda Pilots are far less likely to suffer from these problems in the most reliable years. Make the right choice and you won’t have any problems.
It is a worthy competitor on the market to the Honda Pilot. A Honda vehicle proves once again to be a high-quality product.
Honda Pilot History
A mid-sized crossover introduced in 2002 to replace the older Passport, Honda Pilot was the first generation to be sold in 2003. Passports built in the earlier days had a body-on-frame construction based on the Isuzu Rodeo.
On the other hand, the Pilot boasted a unibody design that allowed it to be much more comfortable to drive. Besides being more practical than the popular CR-V, the Pilot gave Honda a more affordable crossover option.
Introducing the second-generation Pilot in 2008, it boasted a more butch appearance and an enhanced V6 engine. The Pilot enjoyed its best sales year ever in 2009 because it was well received by buyers.
The third-gen Pilot came out in 2015 with another complete redesign, which was also more aerodynamic. In spite of its shorter exterior dimensions, this Pilot had a spacious interior, influenced by the Odyssey minivan.
Late in 2022, the fourth-gen Pilot finally arrived, now with a TrailSport option for adventurous types.
Since the Pilot was introduced, Honda has remained with naturally aspirated V6 power, although the automatic transmission has evolved from a simpler five-speed to a ten-speed version.
In 20 of the 22 years since it was released in the USA, Pilot sales have exceeded 100,000. There were only two exceptions to this, in 2002 (its launch year) and 2022 (when sales plummeted to 99,567 units ahead of the fourth-generation model’s arrival).
| Honda Pilot | 1st Gen | 2nd Gen | 3rd Gen | 4th Gen |
| Model Years | 2003 – 2008 | 2009 – 2015 | 2016 – 2022 | 2023 – present |
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 | 3.5-liter V6 | 3.5-liter V6 | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 240 – 255 hp | 250 hp | 280 hp | 285 hp |
| Transmission | Five-speed automatic | Five-speed automatic | Six- or nine-speed automatic | Ten-speed automatic |
Conclusion
A study found that the Honda Pilot delivered the best overall performance among long-lasting cars, ranking only behind Toyota Land Cruisers and Toyota Sequoias. In spite of the issues we discussed here, it’s clear any Pilot is a dependable, sturdy vehicle that will outlast most of its competitors. Despite Honda Civics being considered high-reliability cars, no single nameplate is perfect. This is what we discovered in our review of the best and worst Honda Civics.