What is the weakness of the Honda Pilot?

The main weaknesses of the Honda Pilot are its lack of a hybrid option and only average fuel economy for the class, occasional transmission behavior that can feel hesitant, cabin tech that trails the largest-screen rivals, and pricing that climbs quickly on higher trims; depending on model year, there are also some reliability hot spots (notably older transmission and fuel-pump issues) that shoppers should check. In more detail, the Pilot remains a well-rounded three-row SUV, but it’s no longer the efficiency or value leader, and a few usability and refinement gaps show up in back-to-back comparisons with newer or hybrid-equipped competitors.

Contents

The core drawbacks in today’s Pilot (2023–2025 generation)
Reliability patterns and recalls to know
How the Pilot’s weaknesses compare with rivals
Ways to mitigate the Pilot’s weaknesses
Bottom line

The core drawbacks in today’s Pilot (2023–2025 generation)

Powertrain and efficiency

Since its 2023 redesign, the Pilot uses a 285-hp V6 with a 10‑speed automatic. It’s smooth and capable, but in an era of turbo fours and hybrid three-row rivals, its EPA ratings are middling and there’s still no hybrid variant in the U.S. As a result, real-world fuel economy typically trails options like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Grand Highlander Hybrid by 10–15 mpg in city driving. Some owners and reviewers also note that the 10‑speed can hesitate or hunt for gears during gentle throttle or highway passing.

Ride, noise, and everyday refinement

The latest Pilot rides comfortably overall, but wind and road noise can be more noticeable than in the class benchmarks, especially on trims with more aggressive tires. The TrailSport’s all‑terrain rubber aids light off‑roading but adds tread noise and a small fuel‑economy penalty. The third row is adult-usable, yet the cushion sits low, so taller passengers may wish for better thigh support on long trips.

Tech, value, and cabin details

While functionality is strong, the Pilot’s infotainment hardware lags on screen size and flash: most trims use a 9‑inch touchscreen (the base Sport has a 7‑inch), smaller than the 12–14‑inch displays common in newer rivals. Only the top trims get the fully digital instrument cluster and premium audio. Prices can climb quickly with options, and some rivals pack in more luxury features at the same or lower transaction prices. Driver-assistance features are standard, but tuning can feel conservative—adaptive cruise may brake more abruptly than expected, and lane-centering can ping-pong on poorly marked roads.

Reliability patterns and recalls to know

Overall reliability for the Pilot has been above average in many years, but there are clear trouble spots tied to specific generations. If you’re shopping used—or even new—these are the patterns most frequently cited by owners, independent shops, and safety regulators.

2003–2008 (1st gen, early 2nd gen overlap): Higher-than-average automatic transmission failure rates, often requiring rebuilds; check service history and any replacement documentation.

2009–2015 (2nd gen): Cylinder deactivation (VCM) complaints including vibration and, in some cases, elevated oil consumption; some owners disable VCM via aftermarket solutions (warranty implications apply).

2016–2017 (early 3rd gen): ZF 9‑speed transmission (Touring/Elite) reports of rough shifting, hesitation, and occasional shudder; multiple software updates mitigated many cases. Also monitor for early infotainment glitches.

2019–2021 (late 3rd gen): Intermittent head-unit resets, camera/display issues, and no‑start events tied to low‑pressure fuel pumps; Honda issued recalls/service campaigns—verify completion by VIN.

2020–2022 (3rd gen): Idle stop/start system complaints (harsh restarts, warning messages, battery drain in some cases); software updates help—confirm the latest calibrations.

2023–2024 (4th gen): Typical first‑year teething items plus a handful of recalls (for example, seat-belt/camera compliance items in early production runs). Fewer systemic powertrain issues so far, but always run a VIN recall check.

Because campaigns vary by build date and region, always input the VIN at the NHTSA recall site and ask a dealer to check for software updates and technical service bulletins. A pre-purchase inspection on used examples is strongly recommended, especially for 2016–2017 models with the 9‑speed automatic.

How the Pilot’s weaknesses compare with rivals

The Pilot’s shortcomings stand out more when cross‑shopping. Different competitors beat it in specific areas, which can help you decide whether those trade-offs matter to you.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid / Grand Highlander Hybrid: Far superior fuel economy and longer driving range; slightly firmer ride and different power delivery.

Kia Telluride / Hyundai Palisade: Quieter cabins and more upscale interiors per dollar; V6 fuel economy similar to Pilot but often more features at the price.

Mazda CX‑90 (inline‑6 or PHEV): Best-in-class driving dynamics and available plug‑in hybrid efficiency; tighter third row and firmer ride.

Chevrolet Traverse (redesigned): Class-leading cargo space and big screens; interior materials vary by trim, and real-world mpg still average.

Subaru Ascent: Standard AWD value and strong safety record; engine noise under load and fewer luxury cues than some.

If efficiency, screen size, or luxury-per-dollar are priorities, these alternatives may suit you better; if you value balanced dynamics, space, and Honda’s long-term ownership track record, the Pilot remains competitive despite its gaps.

Ways to mitigate the Pilot’s weaknesses

If you’re leaning toward a Pilot, a few smart choices can minimize the pain points and improve day-to-day satisfaction.

Pick trims carefully: EX‑L and above get the 9‑inch screen with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto; top trims add a fully digital cluster and better audio.

Test drive at highway speeds: Listen for wind/road noise and feel for 10‑speed shift behavior; verify you’re comfortable with adaptive cruise and lane centering.

Mind the tires: If you don’t need off‑road traction, non‑aggressive all‑season tires reduce noise and improve fuel economy versus TrailSport’s AT rubber.

Stay current on software: Ask the dealer to apply transmission, infotainment, and driver-assist updates; they can notably improve refinement.

Check recalls/TSBs by VIN: Especially critical on 2016–2017 and 2019–2021 models; ensure fuel‑pump and infotainment campaigns are complete.

Consider your efficiency needs: Heavy city drivers may be better served by a hybrid three‑row; suburban/highway use narrows the mpg gap.

Taking these steps won’t change the Pilot’s fundamentals, but they can address the rough edges that most commonly lead to buyer frustration.

Bottom line

The Honda Pilot’s primary weakness is strategic—no hybrid option—followed by average fuel economy, transmission behavior that can feel indecisive at times, smaller infotainment screens on most trims, and pricing that escalates quickly. Older model years also have specific reliability trouble spots worth vetting. If those trade-offs are acceptable, the Pilot remains a capable, spacious, and easy-to-live-with three-row; if not, hybrid or more luxury-leaning rivals may fit your needs better.

What’s the worst year for a Honda Pilot?

The 2016 Honda Pilot is widely considered the worst year due to widespread reports of transmission issues, electrical system glitches, fuel injector defects, and a failed engine start-stop system, which were all part of the vehicle’s major redesign for that year. The early 2000s models, particularly the 2003 and 2005, are also frequently mentioned as problematic due to significant transmission failures and other mechanical issues, including potential engine and airbag defects.

Key Issues by Year:

2016: This model year had numerous owner complaints about the new nine-speed automatic transmission, including jerks, delays, and stalls. The electrical system suffered from a failing push-button start, and there were reports of fuel injector problems affecting engine performance. A recall for connecting rod bearing wear also impacted some engines.
2003 & 2005: These early models are known for significant transmission problems, including overheating automatic transmission units and failures. The 2003 model also had issues with the ignition system and was affected by Takata airbag recalls.
2008-2014: This generation is sometimes cited for having engine issues related to ring problems, especially in later years after the initial release.

What to Avoid:

2016 Honda Pilot: . Opens in new tabIt is often listed as the least reliable year of the third generation due to the combination of its new transmission and electrical problems.
2003 Honda Pilot: . Opens in new tabThe first model year faced significant transmission and other issues, including those related to early Takata airbags that carry a “Do Not Drive” warning.
2005 Honda Pilot: . Opens in new tabTransmission failure was a prevalent issue, with problems including transmission fluid leaking into the radiator.

What is the common problem of Honda Pilots?

Common problems for the Honda Pilot include issues with the transmission (especially in certain model years), excessive oil consumption, engine noises, and peeling paint. Other frequent complaints involve the electrical system (such as sensor malfunctions and infotainment screen issues), brake system problems (like warped rotors and phantom braking), and concerns with steering and suspension components.
Transmission Issues

Major transmission failures: are a significant problem for some Pilot models, particularly in older versions.
Symptoms can include jerking, unexpected changes in speed, and complete vehicle failure.
Specific model years have been more prone to transmission problems.

Engine & Oil Problems

Some Pilots experience excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed.
Owners have reported various engine noises, which could point to underlying issues like differential fluid breakdown or worn suspension components.

Electrical & Sensor Issues

The electrical system is a frequent source of complaints, with issues like:
- Infotainment screens freezing or going black.
- Malfunctioning sensors, especially those in the forward collision avoidance system, causing unexpected braking.
- Problems with the auto start-stop system, which can lead to vehicle disablement.
- Recalls related to rearview camera malfunctions in some models.

Braking & Suspension Problems

Warped front brake rotors: are a common issue, causing vibrations when braking.
Steering instability: and knocking noises from the front end can occur due to worn stabilizer links or other suspension issues.

What are the downsides of the Honda Pilot?

Cons for the Honda Pilot include a cramped third row with limited adult-friendly space, transmission issues like rough shifting and hesitation, and a lack of luxury features found in some competitors. Some models may also exhibit build quality and electrical problems, such as sensor failures and connectivity issues. Additionally, it lacks hybrid options, offers less impressive acceleration and braking than some rivals, and can be more expensive than comparable SUVs.

Interior & Space

Cramped Third Row: While the first and second rows are spacious, the third-row seating is tight for adults, making it more suitable for children or short trips.
Lack of Luxury Features: The Pilot misses some premium options like cooled second-row seats or a power-folding third row that are available on competitors like the Kia Palisade.

Performance & Powertrain

Transmission Issues: Some models have reported transmission problems, including rough shifting, unexpected jerking, hesitation, or even complete failure.
Lackluster Performance: Acceleration and braking performance have been described as lackluster compared to some competitors.
No Hybrid Option: There is no hybrid powertrain available, which can affect fuel efficiency for a vehicle of this size.

Build Quality & Reliability

Build Quality Concerns: Some owners report ongoing build quality issues, such as misaligned fenders, sharp edges, and peeling paint.
Electrical Problems: There are widespread reports of electrical issues, including random car alarm activations, erratic lights, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
Sensor Malfunctions: Sensor failures have been noted, which can negatively impact safety features and cause the vehicle to stall.

Other Considerations

Price: . Opens in new tabThe Honda Pilot can be more expensive than comparable three-row SUVs, such as the Nissan Pathfinder.
Small Infotainment Screen: . Opens in new tabIn some models, the standard touchscreen interface is considered too small.

What is the class action lawsuit against Honda Pilot?

Recent class action lawsuits involving the Honda Pilot accuse the automaker of selling vehicles with defective 9-speed automatic transmissions that cause shaking and transmission failure, a faulty auto idle-stop system that causes stalling, and malfunctioning infotainment systems. Affected vehicles include various model years of the Honda Pilot, Odyssey, Passport, and Ridgeline. There have also been past investigations and lawsuits regarding 6-speed transmissions and a potential engine defect.
What the lawsuits are about:

9-Speed Transmission Defect: . Opens in new tabA class action lawsuit alleges that 9-speed automatic transmissions in 2016–2022 Honda Pilots and other models suffer from a programming defect that results in shaking, poor acceleration, rough shifting, and potential transmission failure, according to Lemon Law Help and ClassAction.org.
Auto Idle-Stop System Malfunction: . Opens in new tabA current class action lawsuit claims that a defective auto idle-stop feature can cause the engine to stall while the vehicle is idling, creating a safety risk.
Infotainment System Defect: . Opens in new tabA lawsuit was filed over issues with the infotainment systems in certain 2018-2019 Honda Pilots, 2019 Pilots, and 2019 Passports, which could freeze, fail to boot up, or have other malfunctions.
6-Speed Transmission Failure: . Opens in new tabAn investigation was underway for a potential class action lawsuit related to 6-speed automatic transmissions in 2017-2020 Honda Pilots, with reports of gear slippage, loss of acceleration, and burning smells.
Potential Engine Defect: . Opens in new tabThere have been reports and discussions about an engine defect that can render some vehicles inoperable.

Affected Vehicles:

2016–2022 Honda Pilot: Affected by the 9-speed transmission defect.
2015–2023 Honda Pilot: Affected by the idle-stop system defect.
2018–2019 Honda Odyssey: Affected by the 9-speed transmission defect and the infotainment system defect.
2019 Honda Passport: Affected by the infotainment system defect.
2019–Present Honda Passport: Affected by the 9-speed transmission defect.
2020–Present Honda Ridgeline: Affected by the 9-speed transmission defect.
2017–2020 Honda Pilot & 2017–2019 Honda Accord: Affected by the 6-speed transmission issue.

What You Should Do:

Check Your Vehicle’s History: Determine if your vehicle has experienced any of these issues.
Consult a Class Action Website: Visit sites like ClassAction.org or the website for the specific lawsuit you may be affected by to find more information.
Seek Legal Guidance: If you believe your vehicle is affected, contact an attorney or a firm that handles class action lawsuits.