The Honda Pilot has a solid reputation in the SUV market, known for its spaciousness and practicality. But is it a good car? This article delves into the Honda Pilot’s reliability, highlighting specific years to avoid and common problems encountered. We’ll also explore which model years stand out for their dependability.
Honda Pilot Years to Avoid: Reliability Concerns
While Honda is generally a trusted brand, the Pilot has had its share of problematic years. To make an informed purchase, consider avoiding the following model years:
- 2003, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, and 2016: These years have consistently shown more reliability issues than other Pilot model years.
Common Honda Pilot Problems
Understanding potential problems can help you decide if a Honda Pilot is right for you. Here are some common issues across various model years:
Transmission Failures
A significant concern, primarily affecting the 2003 model, is transmission failure. This expensive repair can be a safety hazard and should be a major consideration. While isolated incidents have occurred in other years, 2003 is particularly notorious for this issue.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Several Pilot model years are prone to excessive oil consumption, especially after reaching 100,000 miles. While manageable by regularly topping off the oil, this can be a recurring expense and potentially lead to engine damage if neglected.
Peeling Paint
A primarily cosmetic issue, peeling paint can lead to rust in humid climates or areas with harsh winters. While not a mechanical concern, it can affect the vehicle’s appearance and potentially require repainting.
Recurring Fault Codes
Recurring fault codes can be a nuisance, often indicating non-existent problems. While usually harmless, they can desensitize drivers to legitimate fault codes, potentially leading to overlooked issues and damage.
Fuel Injector Failure
Particularly affecting the 2016 model, fuel injector failure can be a costly repair, often occurring around 60,000 miles. This premature part failure can be a significant expense.
Brake Issues
Models from 2003 to 2017 have reported issues with warped brake rotors, causing vibrations and noise during braking. While often fixable by replacing brake pad shims, rotor replacement can be expensive.
Electrical Problems
Electrical problems have been reported in the 2020 Pilot, affecting the navigation, instrument panel, and infotainment system. While a service bulletin was issued, a definitive solution hasn’t been confirmed.
Reliable Honda Pilot Model Years
Despite the potential problems, many Honda Pilot years are considered reliable:
- 2004, 2006-2008, 2010, 2012, 2014-2015, and 2017-2020: These years generally have fewer reported issues and are good choices for used car buyers. The 2010 and models between 2015-2020 (excluding 2016) are particularly recommended.
Conclusion: Is the Honda Pilot a Good Car?
The Honda Pilot can be a good car, especially if you choose a reliable model year and are aware of potential issues. Avoiding the problem years and focusing on well-maintained examples from the recommended years will increase your chances of a positive ownership experience. Researching specific model years and getting a pre-purchase inspection are crucial steps in making an informed decision. Remember, a used car purchase requires careful consideration of factors like mileage, maintenance history, and overall condition.
