Honda Pilot Complaints

9,418 consumer complaints on file.

#11760496August 28, 2026
STEERING
Clicking sound when turning steering wheel.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759992August 27, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I own a 2012 Honda Pilot Touring equipped with the factory navigation system. The navigation system clock recently developed a problem where the time displays as 0:00 and does not operate normally. I attempted the available clock-setting procedures through the navigation system. I was temporarily able to set the correct time, but after exiting the settings the clock returned to the incorrect 0:00 display. This appears to be an electronic/software or GPS-related issue rather than a normal mechanical failure. I am concerned because other Honda owners with similar factory navigation systems appear to be experiencing the same issue. I contacted American Honda regarding the problem, and Honda opened Case #16589920 on August 27, 2026 under In-Car Technology / Navigation. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA has a record of the issue and can determine whether this represents a widespread defect affecting these Honda navigation systems and whether further investigation, manufacturer corrective action, or a recall is appropriate.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11760170August 27, 2026
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
The vehicle came to a complete stop while attempting to enter the Highway. As I accelerated to gain speed, and the vehicle halted down to stop, all sensor warning systems started to light up on the dashboard: Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency braking, Lane Departure Warning, Parking Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assistance -- all sensors flashing simultaneously. As our vehicle stopped, the vehicles around us in the Highway had to abruptly stopped as well, causing a serious hazard, not only to myself and my family, but also the potential for a serious injury to other as well. This incident happened to us twice, and my passenger was able to record a video of the dashboard, as all the sensors were flashing and the vehicle switch to neutral on its own coming to a stop. We explained to the Honda dealership service department and after the second time, they kept the vehicle for service and it has been over (30) days since we had any update. The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership, and it is still there as parts are in back order, but there are not sure of what the real problem is. There were no previous warnings of this problem, the vehicle is a 2024 Honda Pilot Elite with 30,174 miles, and still under dealer warranty. This is the 3rd Honda Pilot I ever owned and never experienced anything like this before. My biggest concern is that if they do not fix this vehicle properly or if it is defective, my life and my family's will be in danger every time we drive it, as we do not know when it will decide to stop while driving.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11760139August 27, 2026
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2021 Honda Pilot has repeatedly failed to restart after the Auto Idle Stop system shuts the engine off while the vehicle is stopped. When the system activates, the engine can fail to restart when I need to move, leaving the vehicle stalled in active traffic. This has happened multiple times and creates a serious safety risk, particularly at busy intersections. Honda previously performed the software update intended to address the Auto Idle Stop failure-to-restart condition, but the problem continued after the update. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Honda dealership because the problem persisted. The dealership has now diagnosed the starter as the cause of the failure-to-restart problem and recommended starter replacement. The vehicle and affected components are available for inspection. Honda has acknowledged Auto Idle Stop failure-to-restart problems on Honda Pilots and has extended warranty coverage for starter replacement on certain affected vehicles. However, American Honda has informed me that my specific vehicle is not included in the starter warranty extension, despite experiencing the same failure-to-restart condition, despite Honda's software update failing to correct it, and despite the Honda dealer diagnosing the starter as the cause. American Honda is considering partial goodwill assistance toward the starter repair but has told me that the repair will not be covered at 100%. I am reporting this because the Auto Idle Stop system can intentionally shut off the engine and the vehicle can then fail to restart, leaving the driver unable to move out of the way of traffic. I am concerned that Honda's existing remedy and the VIN population included in the starter warranty extension may not adequately address all vehicles experiencing this safety-related failure.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759960August 27, 2026
STEERING, POWER TRAIN, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am filing this complaint regarding my new Honda Pilot with only approximately 300 miles. The vehicle has multiple serious problems that I believe should be investigated as potential safety defects. Steering/Rack Clicking: The steering system produces a loud clicking/rattling noise that sounds like loose marbles, especially at low speeds and during slow turns. This appears to come from the steering rack/steering assembly. There are multiple reports from Honda Pilot owners on online forums describing the same or very similar steering noise dating back to the 2023 redesign. It is extremely concerning that the issue continues in newer vehicles. A potential defect involving the steering system could affect steering control and represents a serious safety concern. Transmission Jerking: The transmission jerks, lurches, and rocks the vehicle at low speeds, particularly when shifting into Drive, Reverse, and between 1st and 2nd gear. There is sometimes hesitation followed by an abrupt engagement. Unexpected movement during parking, reversing, or stop-and-go traffic could create a safety risk. A/C Not Cooling: The A/C is not properly cooling the cabin and has a condenser/refrigerant leak. In extreme temperatures, inadequate cabin cooling can also become a safety concern, particularly for children and other vulnerable passengers. It is unacceptable for a vehicle with only 300 miles to have these significant issues. Given the multiple owner reports and the apparent persistence of the steering problem across model years, I strongly believe NHTSA should investigate these complaints and determine whether Honda should be required to conduct a safety recall. Honda should not wait for accidents or injuries before taking action. If these are widespread defects, Honda should issue a recall and provide a permanent repair to affected owners. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate these issues and take appropriate action to protect Honda Pilot owners and the public.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759921August 27, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
On at least 5 occasions this vehicle has gone completely dead as slowing down to stop or being completely stopped. Nothing electrical is available. No tail lights, headlights, or emergency flashers. After a long waiting period it has suddenly re-energized so far. This was purchased as Certified Honda used car and never serviced anywhere but a Honda delaership. They allegedly replaced the start/stop system under "extended warranty". The occurence is random. The dealership pushes back on taking any action because they can't repeat the problem on the spot. The car has staranded us at very major interesections twice and had to be towed. The risk driving this car is unacceptably high. We have video evidence of the failure. There may be a police report as we called them to control traffic.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759895August 27, 2026
STEERING
The steering box has failed twice in under 60000 miles 53601-TG7-A02
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759646August 26, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Beginning last week, when shifting into reverse, the infotainment display (showing camera image) displays distorted, scrambled, or rolling color lines. Although Many 2019–2022 Honda Pilot SUVs are covered by an official safety recall (NHTSA Campaign 23V431) due to a defective coaxial cable connector (MOST connector) that deforms terminals and loses connection, this particular vehicle is not included in this safety recall. As we have young children, our safety is at risk because the rear-facing camera is not functional. Vehicle has not yet been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. There were no warning lamps, messages or other indications or symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. I am happy to make the vehicle available for inspection.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759738August 26, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
There's an old recall called FAKRA Service Cable Safety, Recall Number #23V-431, The recall issue was fixed, but it is now recurring. The cracking windshield sound, along with the screen shutting off or going blank, increases the risk of a crash or injury when backing up or driving while using the navigation system. We contacted Honda about this issue, but they don't seem keen on fixing it, especially now that it's out of warranty.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759754August 26, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Unknown
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759798August 26, 2026
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING, LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST
The front camera has been identified as having a malfunction and needing repair. It causes all of the Honda sensors to show error lights. Adaptive Cruise, LKAS system, Lane Departure, and breaking lights all are lit up as errors. The vehicle's built-in safety protocols do not work due to the malfunctioning camera. This problem has been verified by the Honda Dealership. There were no warning signs prior to the malfunction. This is a $1,700 repair. It is caused by a faulty part on the vehicle. A quick Google search shows that this is a KNOWN fault, and that there is a pending Class Action Lawsuit against Honda for this very issue and cost of repair. This desperately needs to be addressed in a recall ASAP.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759716August 26, 2026
AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2025 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked on a neighborhood street, a vehicle crashed into the front driver’s side of the vehicle. The vehicle was driving approximately 60 MPH at the time of the crash and came to a stop upon impact. The air bags did not deploy. The vehicle was towed a local law enforcement parking lot. No warning lights were illuminated. A Police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed. The contact and mother were injured. The contact was seated in the driver’s seat and suffered injuries to the left arm, back, and ribs, and the contact’s mother was seated in the rear driver’s side seat and suffered injuries to the left arm and both knees. No injuries were reported outside of the vehicle. Medical Treatment was required for the injuries sustained. The air bag warning light was not illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 16,000.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
2
Deaths:
0
#11759604August 26, 2026
SUSPENSION
I purchased a brand new 2026 Honda Pilot Elite AWD in March of 2026. Since then, I've taken my vehicle in service 3 times, with the first time being 1 week of purchase after noticing loud noises, rumbling, shaking and clunking as I drove over speed bumps, potholes, etc. The first service, the Honda technicians weren't able to identify the issue. The second and third times I've taken the vehicle in for service, it was determined that the stabilizer link components were prematurely worn on both the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle. As a result, both parts were replaced through the Honda warranty but unfortunately, I am still experiencing significant issues with the overall handling and reduced stability, and the vehicle's quality and driver experience has decreased and has been significantly impacted and has caused major safety concerns.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759352August 25, 2026
ENGINE
Diagnosed by CMA Honda dealership - need piston ring replacement due to the ongoing issue and Service Bulletin SB-10099310-9340. This was under 8 year warranty from date of purchase, but this just started happening at 155k miles and in 2026. I purchased this in 2016. Although it is out of the extended warranty timeframe, it is still an ongoing issue with these models and should be covered. Cost estimated for repair is $5700 and a new engine isn't an option since they all of the same issues.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759365August 25, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. While the contact's son was driving at an undisclosed speed, there was smoke inside the vehicle. There were several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the contact's son noticed an abnormal sound. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that there was a hole in the rear of the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle received an oil change forty days prior to the failure. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759416August 25, 2026
BACK OVER PREVENTION
The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera displayed a purple and green screen. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by a dealer or an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by email, but no response was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759532August 25, 2026
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS, LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING, LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST
All safety alerts started showing as the forward camera has an internal failure as diagnosed by the dealer
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759599August 25, 2026
VISIBILITY/WIPER, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This vehicle exhibits an issue with the fold down sun visors on both sides whereby the hinge mechanism is extremely tight. So much to the point that the sun visors will no longer fold up out of the drivers view. Additionally, if the vehicle was to be involved in an accident the front driver and passenger's heads would likely impact the partially lowered sun visor possibly resulting in additional injury. When brought to the attention of the service department at my local dealer, I was told there is no way to lubricate the hinge mechanism and I'd have to purchase new sun visors as it is a trim item not covered by my extended warranty. This issue started to occur around the 90,000 mile mark and has continued to get worse. The vehicle currently has approximately 120,000 miles now.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759563August 25, 2026
SEAT BELTS
The 2nd row passenger side seat belt buckle sensor begins to report "un-buckled" status that cannot be remediated by re-buckling the belt. Honda replaced the same belt buckle twice already for the same issue. First defect manifested and was corrected by Honda 18 months from purchase, the second one - manifested and corrected 17 months after first one. NHTSA bulletin 26-027 describes this exact issue in detail.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759404August 25, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Known design defect under Special Coverage for some vehicles, but does not include my VIN for a 2020 Chevy Traverse. Full details are provided in the attachment, including photos of the broken exhaust weld bracket and costs incurred so far. Additional expenses are expected to be incurred in the coming days when parts are available to prevent exhaust emissions from entering the vehicle during operation while doors and windows are closed, which is an issue caused by failure of the exhaust weld bracket.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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