Common 2017 Honda Pilot Issues: What Owners Report and How to Address Them

The 2017 Honda Pilot is generally a dependable three-row SUV, but the most commonly reported issues include rough shifting on the 9‑speed automatic (Touring/Elite), fuel-injector-related misfires, air-conditioning condenser leaks, occasional infotainment and battery/auto start-stop glitches, power tailgate faults, engine-mount/VCM vibration, rear differential chatter, and isolated recalls such as the hood-latch campaign. Below, we explain these problems, how to spot them, and what fixes or warranties may apply.

Powertrain Problems

9-speed transmission (ZF 9HP) rough shifting and hesitation

Owners of Touring and Elite trims—equipped with the ZF 9‑speed—frequently report jerky low‑speed shifts, hesitation from a stop, or a light “shudder” during steady cruising. Honda issued software updates and, in some cases, performed torque‑converter or fluid interventions to improve shift quality. The 6‑speed (LX/EX/EX‑L) is typically smoother, though some owners note occasional harsh downshifts when cold.

Fuel-injector misfires and check-engine lights

Misfires, rough idle, and poor fuel economy—often with codes like P0300–P0306—are commonly traced to faulty direct fuel injectors on 2016–2020 Pilots. Honda has issued technical guidance and, in many cases, extended warranty coverage on injectors for affected VIN ranges; dealers can verify eligibility by VIN. Typical repairs include replacing the injector set and updating the PCM software.

VCM vibration and active engine-mount wear

Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) can contribute to low‑RPM vibration or a “buzz” at highway speeds. Over time, the front active engine mount may fail, amplifying vibration felt in the cabin—especially in gear at idle. Replacing worn mounts and ensuring the latest powertrain software can significantly improve NVH. Some owners also report improvement by keeping the engine in a higher gear or disabling auto start‑stop in heavy traffic.

Climate Control Troubles

Air-conditioning performance problems are among the most widespread complaints, especially in warm climates or after highway debris impacts.

• A/C not cold, dye at condenser: The condenser is prone to stone damage and leaks. Honda has provided extended warranty coverage for the A/C condenser on many 2016–2018 Pilots; dealers can confirm coverage by VIN.
• Evaporator leaks: Less common than condensers, but they do occur and are more labor intensive to repair.
• Compressor cycling and warm air at idle: Often linked to low refrigerant from a leak; a proper vacuum/charge with leak detection is key.

If your Pilot’s A/C fades or cycles warm at idle, a dealer leak test and VIN check for condenser coverage is a smart first step.

Electrical and Infotainment Glitches

Display Audio freezes and CarPlay/Android Auto instability

Some 2017 Pilots experience head-unit lag, random reboots, or dropped smartphone connections. Firmware updates, head‑unit resets, switching to high‑quality OEM‑grade USB cables, and avoiding hubs typically resolve issues. A dealer can confirm if your infotainment software is current.

Battery drain and auto start‑stop hiccups

Intermittent no‑starts, weak batteries, or auto start‑stop failing to restart smoothly are reported. Causes range from an aging AGM battery to control‑module calibration. Load‑testing the battery, checking parasitic draw, and applying software updates usually resolve the problem; replacing the original battery after 4–6 years is common.

Power tailgate won’t open/close or stops mid‑travel

Power liftgate issues often trace to weak struts, a misadjusted latch, or a failing control motor—especially after cold snaps. Inspect struts for oil seepage, verify the latch and pinch sensors, and recalibrate the gate. TSBs cover calibration and component checks; parts replacement may be needed if the issue recurs.

Chassis, Steering, and Brakes

These concerns affect ride quality and long-term ownership costs but are typically fixable with maintenance or minor repairs.

• Brake pulsation/early rotor wear: Some owners report steering wheel shake under braking by 30–50k miles. Quality rotors/pads and proper lug‑nut torque usually cure it.
• AWD rear differential chatter on tight turns: The i‑VTM4 unit can chatter if fluid ages. A drain/fill with Honda DPSF often restores smoothness; severe cases may need two services.
• Tire cupping and alignment drift: Heavy three‑row SUVs are sensitive to alignment and rotation intervals; cupped tires amplify road noise. Rotate every 5k–7.5k miles and align annually or with new tires.

Staying ahead on fluid services and tire/brake care keeps the Pilot riding quietly and braking smoothly.

Body, Seals, and NVH

Wind and water issues aren’t rampant, but they appear in owner reports, particularly in harsher climates.

• Wind noise from mirrors/A‑pillars: Weatherstrip adjustments and mirror triangle foam tweaks help.
• Water leaks from sunroof or tailgate: Commonly a clogged drain tube; cleaning and reseating grommets solves most cases.
• Interior rattles: Often temperature‑dependent; felt tape and clip replacements at panels can quiet them.

If you notice new wind or water intrusion, a targeted inspection of seals, drains, and panel clips generally resolves it without major parts.

Recalls and Service Campaigns to Know

Recall applicability varies by build date and VIN. Always verify your specific vehicle with the NHTSA VIN tool and Honda’s owner site; dealers perform recall work free of charge.

• Hood latch/hood-to-grille gap (select 2016–2019 Pilots): A campaign addressed the potential for the hood to open at speed due to insufficient support and latch performance. Dealers install supports/adjust latches.
• Second-row seat issues (select early production years): Some 2016–2017 Pilots had recalls or service actions for second-row seat latching/adjustment concerns to ensure seats lock properly.
• SRS/airbag module software (varies by VIN): Certain Honda models around these years had SRS control-unit updates; some 2017 Pilots may be included. Check VIN to confirm.

Because recall coverage can differ even within a model year, a quick VIN lookup is the most reliable way to see what applies to your Pilot.

What to Inspect on a Used 2017 Pilot

Targeted checks will help you avoid costly surprises and spot a well-maintained example.

• Road test: Note shift quality from 0–25 mph, steady‑speed shudder, and any clunks on light throttle.
• Scan for codes: Misfire history or fuel‑trim anomalies can hint at injector issues.
• A/C function: Verify vent temps at idle and highway; look for dye or oily residue at the condenser.
• AWD operation: Do tight parking-lot circles and listen for rear diff chatter.
• Vibration at idle/in gear: Check engine mounts and observe for excessive engine movement.
• Electronics: Test tailgate, camera, sensors, and infotainment; confirm software is current.
• Brakes and tires: Look for rotor lip, pad thickness, and even tire wear; ask about alignment history.
• Recalls/warranties: Run a VIN check for open recalls and any injector or A/C condenser coverage.

A pre-purchase inspection by a Honda-experienced technician plus a thorough VIN check can quickly validate condition and remaining coverage.

Typical Repair Costs and Maintenance Tips

Costs vary by region and parts choice, but these ballparks can help you budget.

• Fuel injectors (full set with seals/programming): often $900–$1,800 at independent shops; dealers may be higher—some VINs eligible for extended coverage.
• A/C condenser replacement and recharge: $600–$1,100; may be covered under Honda’s condenser warranty extension for eligible vehicles.
• Active front engine mount: $500–$1,000 parts and labor depending on source and shop.
• Rear differential fluid service: $120–$220; sometimes repeated to eliminate chatter.
• Brake rotors and pads (axle): $350–$700 depending on component grade.
• Battery (AGM): $180–$300; ensure proper registration/charging checks.

Proactive maintenance—timely fluids, quality tires/brakes, and software updates—cuts down on the most common complaints and preserves resale value.

Bottom Line

The 2017 Honda Pilot remains a strong family SUV with a good reliability record overall. The most frequent trouble spots are the 9‑speed transmission’s shift behavior, fuel-injector misfires, and A/C condenser leaks, plus intermittent electrical/tailgate glitches and wear‑related vibration from engine mounts. Many issues have known fixes, software updates, or even extended coverage. Verify recalls and campaigns by VIN, keep up on fluids and firmware, and a properly maintained 2017 Pilot should deliver many more miles of comfortable service.

What problems does a 2017 Honda Pilot have?

Common 2017 Honda Pilot problems include transmission issues (especially the optional nine-speed automatic), engine problems like a crankshaft failure in some models, electrical faults including a keyless start system malfunction, infotainment system issues such as a slow touchscreen, and water leaks from the side marker wire harness or roof seals. Other issues reported are brake vibration from warped rotors and problems with emissions control systems. 
Powertrain

• Transmission: . Opens in new tabThe optional nine-speed automatic transmission has been described as finicky, with reports of rough shifting, torque converter problems, and unexpected speed changes. 
• Engine: . Opens in new tabSome 2016-2018 models have experienced engine problems, including crankshaft failure due to a bad rod bearing. 

Electrical & Infotainment

• Infotainment System: The touchscreen can be slow to respond, making it laggy and not up to par with competitors, according to Edmunds. 
• Keyless Start: Some drivers have faced issues with the keyless start system, which could be related to a shorted push-button. 
• Electrical Faults: Other problems include intermittent electrical issues, such as dashboard lights not working correctly and battery drain issues, potentially linked to wiring or fuse box problems. 

Body & Chassis 

• Water Leaks: Some owners have reported leaks into the car, sometimes from the side marker wire harness or near the roof and windshield.
• Brake Vibration: Warped front brake rotors can cause vibrations when braking.
• Noises: Some owners have reported squeaks, rattles, or grinding noises from the front end, which could be related to suspension components like the stabilizer links.

Emissions 

• Emissions System Issues: A recurring problem involves the Emissions Control (EVAP) system, leading to error codes like P2422, which is for a stuck closed canister vent shut valve.

Safety Systems 

• Oversensitive Safety Features: Some safety systems, such as the adaptive cruise control, have been reported as being too sensitive.

Was 2017 a good year for Honda Pilots?

Yes, the 2017 Honda Pilot is generally considered a good used SUV, especially for families, due to its spacious interior, ample cargo space, and available family-friendly features. It also boasts strong safety ratings and a good reputation for reliability. 
Here’s a more detailed look:

• Spacious and Versatile: The 2017 Pilot offers a roomy cabin with three rows of seats, making it suitable for larger families. It also has a generous cargo area. 
• Safety First: The 2017 Pilot received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was designated a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, particularly when equipped with Honda Sensing. 
• Reliability: Honda is known for its reliable vehicles, and the Pilot is no exception. The 2017 model is generally considered reliable, though some minor transmission issues have been reported by some owners. 
• Family-Friendly Features: It comes with a variety of standard and available driver-assistance features, including a rearview camera, and the Honda Sensing suite (on higher trims) which includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. 
• Potential Drawbacks: Some reviewers noted that the available touchscreen infotainment system can be difficult to use without physical knobs and buttons, and the transmission controls may not be intuitive for all users. 

Overall: The 2017 Honda Pilot is a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment, particularly for families seeking a reliable and spacious vehicle with a good safety record and a wide range of features.

What years to avoid with a Honda Pilot?

Years to avoid for the Honda Pilot include the early models of the first and third generations, particularly 2003, 2005, 2016, and 2017, due to frequent complaints about transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, and other significant mechanical issues. The second generation models, from 2009-2015, also have specific problem years like 2009, 2011, and 2013 that are linked to transmission troubles. 
Specific Problem Years & Issues

• First Generation (2003-2008) 
  • 2003, 2005: These years are often cited for transmission problems and other mechanical issues, including interior accessory failures. 
  • 2008-2014: This range, especially 2008-2014, had issues with the V6 engine, including problems with piston rings, notes this TikTok video. 
• Second Generation (2009-2015)
  • 2009, 2011, 2013: These model years are highlighted for transmission problems. 
• Third Generation (2016-2022)
  • 2016, 2017: These are considered some of the most problematic years, receiving numerous owner complaints for transmission issues, oil consumption, and peeling paint. 

What to Look For Instead

• 2012-2014: These years are often seen as among the most reliable within the Pilot’s history, with vehicleaccidentinjury.com noting them as having fewer problems. 
• 2018 and later: The 2018 models, and 2019 with its refresh, are known for improvements, with the 6-speed transmission being more reliable and generally considered a solid choice. 
• 2021: This model year also received a recommendation from Consumer Reports for reliability. 

How many miles should a 2017 Honda Pilot last?

A 2017 Honda Pilot, with proper maintenance, can be expected to last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more, though some may require major repairs to reach higher mileage. Key factors for longevity include consistent oil changes, timely timing belt and water pump replacements, and regular transmission fluid maintenance. Driving habits, climate, and keeping up with recommended service intervals are also critical for extending the vehicle’s lifespan. 
Factors that influence a Honda Pilot’s lifespan:

• Maintenance Schedule: Following Honda’s recommended maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks, and timely replacement of wear items like the timing belt and water pump, is essential for extending engine life. 
• Driving Habits: Driving with a smooth, steady hand and minimizing stop-and-go traffic can reduce wear and tear on the engine and transmission. 
• Climate: Vehicles in consistently hot or cold climates, or those that experience frequent temperature shifts, may experience more stress on their components than those in moderate climates. 
• Quality of Parts and Repairs: Using genuine or high-quality replacement parts for repairs helps ensure compatibility and durability, preventing premature failures. 
• Underlying Issues: Some owners have reported engine problems, such as a blown engine, or issues with injectors or excessive oil consumption, which can impact longevity if not properly addressed. 

How to extend the life of your 2017 Pilot:

• Perform Regular Oil Changes: Keep the engine lubricated by following the recommended oil change intervals. 
• Service the Timing Belt and Water Pump: This is a critical maintenance item for the 2017 Pilot and should be addressed around the 100,000-mile or 7-year mark to prevent potential engine damage from belt failure. 
• Maintain Transmission Fluid: Regular transmission fluid maintenance is crucial for the durability of the transmission. 
• Address Issues Promptly: Don’t ignore warning lights or unusual noises; prompt repairs can prevent small problems from becoming major, costly issues. 
• Drive Conservatively: A gentle driving style, especially on open roads, can significantly reduce wear and prolong the vehicle’s life.