{"id":164218,"date":"2023-06-15T09:55:50","date_gmt":"2023-06-15T13:55:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mycarvoice.com\/news\/?p=164218"},"modified":"2023-11-02T06:49:49","modified_gmt":"2023-11-02T10:49:49","slug":"honda-pilot-years-to-avoid","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mycarvoice.com\/news\/honda-pilot-years-to-avoid\/","title":{"rendered":"Honda Pilot Years To Avoid"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
The Honda Pilot has been in production for a while, and its reputation has been fairly mixed. Some good, some bad. And, it\u2019s fair to say that if you don’t do your research, you may end up with a unreliable SUV. So, which Honda Pilot years to avoid, and why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The 2003 Honda Pilot is the least reliable with transmission issues like gear shifting problems, slipping, jerking, and early failure. Other problematic years are 2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2019. Recent models from 2018 onwards have been mostly trouble-free.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Are you in the market for a used Honda Pilot? Chances are, you\u2019ve already written down your wish list of desirable features. Features such as Bluetooth connectivity, third-row seating, and maybe even a panoramic sunroof. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But is there anything else you should consider when it comes to finding the perfect vehicle for you and your family? Absolutely! <\/p>\n\n\n\n Vehicle reliability<\/a> is critical, as purchasing a defect vehicle could easily put you and your family in danger, or financially devastated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And truth is, Honda has a strong reputation of manufacturing reliable products. But, with a long line of automobiles, Honda has put out some duds over the years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In this guide, we\u2019ll look at which Honda Pilot years should be avoided when shopping for a used vehicle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Honda Pilot’s initial generation marked its entry into the highly competitive midsize SUV market. While it offered a roomy interior, comfortable seating, and a capable V6 engine, this generation had a few drawbacks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Some of the major concerns reported by owners<\/a> were related to transmission problems, specifically with the 2003 and 2004 models. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Issues such as transmission failure, slipping gears, and faulty torque converters plagued these early years, causing significant inconvenience and costly repairs for many owners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In fact, the cost to rebuild a transmission for a 2003-2004 Honda Pilot can range from $1,500<\/strong> to $3,500<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s advisable to steer clear of the first-generation Pilot models, particularly those manufactured in 2003 and 2004.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The second generation of the Honda Pilot addressed many of the issues from its predecessor and introduced several improvements, making it a popular choice among buyers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, there are a few model years that should be approached with caution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, the 2009 Honda Pilot<\/a> saw reports of excessive oil consumption<\/a>, particularly in the V6 engine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, some owners experienced engine misfires and the need for frequent oil<\/a> top-ups, which could be indicative of more significant issues down the line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another year to be cautious of is 2011. While it generally offered a solid performance, the 2011 Honda Pilot experienced problems with its automatic transmission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Owners reported the 5-speed transmission as rough shifting, had excessive vibration and slipping gears. Honda recommended a transmission fluid<\/a> change was the recommended service to remedy the issue. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Unfortunately, most owners found these problems to intermittently continue to occur. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To make matters worst for the 2011 models, some batches are known to have torque converter issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The third-generation Honda Pilot showcased notable improvements, including a sleeker design, advanced safety features, and enhanced fuel efficiency. However, a specific model year stands out as one to avoid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And that model year is the 2016.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Truth is, the 2016 Honda Pilot<\/a> suffered from an infotainment system<\/a> that drew significant criticism from owners. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The system was reported to be slow, unresponsive, and prone to freezing, making it a frustrating experience for tech-savvy drivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To make matters worst, the 2016 model had a higher-than-average number of complaints related to unintended acceleration problems<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Some owners also reported issues with the engine idle stop system, with the vehicle turning off completely in the middle of traffic at a traffic light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 2017 Honda Pilot<\/a> also had similar issues as the 2016 model year. However, owners have reported that the biggest issue is engine related. More specifically, problems with the vehicle’s engine idle start\/stop system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In fact, the auto idle stop problem is so widespread that a class action lawsuit<\/a> over the issue has been filed. If you have your heart set on a 2016-2017 Honda Pilot \u2013 please proceed with caution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are shopping for a second car, or on a budget and not in a place to buy new then the 2008 Honda Pilot is an excellent choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In fact, the only serious issue to be aware of was an aigbag recall. If you find a clean 2008 Honda Pilot, and considering purchasing it, make sure these recalls<\/a> were performed.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy Avoid 2003-2004 Honda Pilot Models?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Why Avoid 2009-2011 Honda Pilot Models?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Why Avoid 2016-2021 Honda Pilot Models?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The 2008 Honda Pilot is the Top Pick Among Early Model Years<\/h2>\n\n\n\n