How long do honda pilot engines last

Honda’s largest SUV, the Pilot, entered the market in 2002 and was primarily aimed at North American buyers. With three rows, the Pilot’s roomy interior is one of the main attractions of this vehicle. The 2022 model is a popular option on the market thanks to its impressive fuel economy and a capable powertrain.

On the other hand, a used Honda Pilot can be a decent option for buyers on a budget. But not all Pilot’s model years are worthy of your hard-earned dollar. Without further ado, let’s look at the Honda Pilot’s worst years, its problems, and everything you need to know before buying one on a used market.

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2005, 2013, And 2016 Are Some Of The Worst Honda Pilot Years

2013 Honda Pilot Front ViewVia Honda

According to the Car Complaints website, the 2005 Honda Pilot has over 140 registered owner complaints, and almost half of them concern the SUV’s transmission system. According to these reports, the radiator cooling line leaked into the transmission and totaled it. Some owners spent as much as $3,730 to swap the entire transmission with a new one, while others just scrapped the car. The average mileage for transmission failure is 122,250 miles.

Another frequently-reported issue pertains to the 2005 Pilot’s powertrain. Several owners have complained about the motor mounts getting loose and breaking prematurely, costing over $800 to fix on average. “Replaced engine mounts at under 70k, now having to replace again at 112k. Seems very unusual and no warranty for the 1st ones replaced,” quoted one owner on Car Complaints.

The 2013 Honda Pilot has a problem with the white paint peeling off on different panels. The issue comes from the manufacturer forgetting to coat some panels. Therefore, the peeling occurs regardless of keeping the vehicle in a garage or not. Owners have spent $800 to $1200 to repaint different parts of their 2013 Pilot.

Several owners of the 2013 Honda Pilot equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine have dealt with excessive oil consumption. The reports indicate that the engine eats up a quart of oil every 1,000 miles.

Transmission jerking and failing is the 2016 Honda Pilot’s most widespread issue. Dealers advise owners to change the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles to avoid transmission failure, but the manufacturer’s suggested interval is much more. A failed transmission can cost over $5,000 to replace.

Last but not least, some 2016 Honda Pilot owners have mentioned issues with the fuel injector. “Yesterday, the engine light warning popped on: Emissions System Problem. After looking for discussions on this topic via the internet, it seems this is a very common problem with the 2016 Pilots due to prematurely worn fuel injectors,” said one owner, expressing their frustration with their vehicle. Replacing fuel injectors costs over $1,000.

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A Honda Pilot Can Reach Over 150,000 Miles With Proper Maintenance

2016 Honda Pilot in SilverVia Honda
 

According to reputable auto sources online, a Honda Pilot typically lasts anywhere between 150,000 to 200,000 miles with the original engine and transmission. That is, of course, if the vehicle is maintained adequately. According to the Kelley Blue Book website, the average driver in the U.S. puts out around 14,000 miles in a year; that translates to 10 to 14 years of service for the Honda Pilot.

Other competitors, such as the Toyota Highlander, have no problem offering 300,000 miles of reliable service.

Following the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule is vital to keep the Honda Pilot up and running. Some of the essential services include:

  • Every 15,000 miles: check all the fluids, and inspect the brakes, brake lines, the steering, and the suspension.
  • Every 30,000 miles: change air cleaner element, change spark plugs if necessary, and check valve clearance.
  • Every 45,000 miles: replace engine coolant, inspect the brake fluids and replace them if needed.

According to the Repair Pal website, the Honda Pilot costs around $500 to maintain annually, which is average for its class. Other SUVs, such as the Ford Explorer, can cost up to $200 more.

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Avoid Honda Pilot’s Problematic Model Years If You’re Buying One On The Used Market

2016 Honda Pilot Side ViewVia Honda

The Pilot is certainly not the longest-lasting vehicle that Honda makes. Although proper maintenance can stretch the Pilot’s lifespan to 200,000 miles, if you’re the third or the fourth owner, you should expect significant overhauls around the 100,000-mile mark.

Most 2005 models have over 100,000 miles on them. You should also skip the 2013 and 2016 models due to severe problems with the powertrain.

Other Honda SUVs, such as the CR-V, can boast over 300,000 miles on the odometer, hence safer options to buy used. Regardless of the car you choose, make sure to check the engine and transmission with a trusted mechanic to avoid purchasing a lemon.

How reliable is Honda Pilot engine?

Honda Pilots Are Known to Last Well Over 150,000 Miles Thanks to a Durable 3.5L V6 Engine. You can expect a well-maintained Honda Pilot to last for 150,000 to 300,000 miles, or even more. Industry professionals consistently cite the 3.5L V6 engine as a large part of its long-lived reputation.

What problems do Honda Pilots have?

The most common problems owners of the 2022 Honda Pilot complain about relate to forward collision avoidance and the vehicle's brakes and braking system. Drivers report that the SUV frequently flashes BRAKE when there is no reason to brake. There are also major issues with auto braking.

What are the best years for Honda Pilots?

According to CarComplaints data, four models stand out as the best years: 2007, 2008, 2014, and 2015. The 2007 Honda Pilot was part of the first generation, and it's one of the best. Only 66 total complaints were noted.

How long does Honda Pilot timing belt last?

The Honda Pilot Timing Belt has a maintenance schedule of every 105,000 miles or at seven years, whichever arrives first.