Honda Pilot Complaints (2016)

1,724 consumer complaints on file.

#11664171June 1, 2025
ENGINE
The engine failed/died while being driven on the highway by my son, nearly causing a life threatening accident. I brought the car to our trusted Honda mechanic (certified mechanics specializing in Hondas/Acuras) and was told the problem was a rod bearing issue, there was a recall (23V-751) and to take the vehicle to a dealership. I paid to have the car towed to Honda of Annapolis and was told the engine failed because of rod bearing issue and that my VIN was not included in the recall. I requested the dealer provide a goodwill repair as the engine failed to the same reason listed in the recall and was denied. I filed a complaint with corporate (claim 15247280) which was denied because my VIN was not included in the original recall of only 249k vehicles. I then paid for it to be towed back to my home. It remains unsafe and inoperable.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663981May 30, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
I was on my way to work and was in a neighborhood going 25 mph and came to a stop. My engine cut off and would not restart. I bought the car with somewhere around 120,000 miles in 2021.. it is the end of May 2015 and the car has a little less than 152,000 on it. I kept up with required oil changes and I have been told that the engine is siezed. As well as the torque converter being stuck... sounds like the SAME ISSUES listed in the recall
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11664030May 30, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
While driving vehicle lost power and started smoking; and would not restart. Towed to honda, they stated engine siezed and connecting rod was protruding out of the side of engine. Took to another shop and they confirmed rod bearings failed and caused connecting rod to break causing it to go through the engine. When attempted to restart car check engine light was on. Heads to the engine were good. Had to replace engine at 157k with all service being done at honda on time or early with all maintenance being done on time. Vehicle lost power on highway in far left lane, very dangerous.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663783May 29, 2025
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Check engine light on emissions system problem and transmission system problem, there is loss power of engine light, after 2 gear transmission feel like it jerks I don't have save to drive my car, i would like to request a recall to be inspected and repair by warranty of Honda because my car is defective by manufacturer Code are: P0420 (rear bank catalyst system efficiency below threshold [bank 1]) P0430 (front bank catalyst system efficiency below threshold [bank 2]) P0300-P0306 (misfire) P219A (air-fuel ratio variation of cylinder [bank 1, rear bank]) P219B (air-fuel ratio variation of cylinder [bank 2, front bank])
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663142May 27, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Car electric system went down while driving and stopped in middle of the road. It happened sometimes before, usually when the car stops at the red light. All the warning light was turn on when that happen and it took a lot of try to restart the car. This time the car cannot turn on so I have to tow it to my mechanic. The mechanic checked everything including the alternator, battery, starter and told me that the problem is actually in the fuel pumps. I got the fuel pumps replaced and have not had the same issue since then. The mechanic said several Honda model had that issue. I contacted Honda as I see there is a recall on the same year model but Honda told me the VIN number isn't on their list, but I think the recall should cover my vehicle since the problem description and year model is matching.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663149May 27, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Car sound system distort and no sound after 10 minutes of driving. No bluetooth audio, radio, music working. Changing volume, sound setting, factory reset the info system but the problem still exist. Increase the A/C fan speed and driving through pumps seems make the problem start earlier. Sometimes, turn off the car and restart the car after 30 minutes, the sound system is back on, but after the 10-15 minutes the sound went off again. This problem could cause safety issue as I relied on navigation sound while driving. There seems to be the same problem that being recalled in newer model.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663296May 27, 2025
ENGINE
I had just left my house and, approximately five minutes or 1.2 miles into my drive, the engine suddenly stopped in the middle of the road, leaving me stranded and in a dangerous situation. I had the vehicle towed to a Honda dealership, where I was informed that the engine had failed. However, I was given no explanation as to why this happened—only the option to replace the engine at my own expense.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11662854May 23, 2025
ENGINE
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590 Subject: Report of Engine Stalling and Rattling Noise in 2016 Honda Pilot (VIN: [XXX] ) Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally report an issue with my 2016 Honda Pilot that appears to be similar to the problem described in Honda's recall 23V-751, but my vehicle is not included in the recall. Vehicle Information: - Year: 2016 - Make: Honda - Model: Pilot - VIN: [XXX] Incident Description: On the night of [XXX], at approximately [XXX], while traveling on a side road, my vehicle experienced a sudden engine stall accompanied by a loud rattling noise. With little power and momentum, I was able to pull into a gas station. Fortunately, no injuries were sustained during this incident. Service History: The vehicle was towed to Gunn Honda in San Antonio, TX. No repairs have been made to date. Owner Contact Information: - Name: [XXX] - Address: [XXX] - Phone: [XXX] Given the similarity of this issue to the one described in recall 23V-751, I am concerned that my vehicle may have the same defect. I request that the NHTSA investigate this matter and consider including my vehicle in the recall to ensure that it is repaired promptly and safely. Thank you for your attention to this important safety concern. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11662195May 20, 2025
ENGINE
1. The engine system failed, specifically due to a connecting rod bearing failure caused by improper machining of the crankshaft journals. This led to internal metal-on-metal contact and abnormal wear. The engine is still installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. 2. The engine failure caused jerking during acceleration, hesitation, and intermittent stalling, particularly when attempting to merge onto highways or accelerate from a stop. This significantly increased the risk of losing power while driving, which could have led to rear-end collisions or sudden stalls in traffic, putting both my safety and the safety of others at risk. 3. Yes. The problem was initially identified by an independent, authorized mechanical shop, which suggested that the failure resembled a known engine-related recall affecting other Honda Pilots. The issue was then formally confirmed by a certified Honda dealership (Honda Superstore of Lisle) on April 19, 2025, which diagnosed connecting rod bearing failure and recommended a full engine replacement. 4. Yes. An authorized third-party mechanical shop, which initially suspected the issue was linked to a known Honda recall. A certified Honda dealership, which confirmed the diagnosis and recommended engine replacement. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives. 5. There were no warning lamps or dashboard messages. However, physical symptoms began appearing around April 1, 2025, and included: Loud ticking and knocking noises on engine startup. Jerking and hesitation during acceleration. Occasional stalling and reduced power while driving. These symptoms worsened over time, prompting me to stop driving the vehicle due to safety concerns.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11662008May 19, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The alarm continuously goes off unprompted while the car is off. The dashboard lights will flash as if the car is attempting to start without any input from the driver. Clicking can be heard from the dashboard during this time. The battery is drained from this continuous issue. Other systems then seem to be impacted. The car has begun lurching out struggling to shift gears. In the last 3 years, all fluid systems have been flushed, battery replaced, oil gauge replaced, and keyless remote entry module replaced. The issue persists. All recalls have been completed as well. When the car is in ACC mode, the battery indicator is on and the flashing of the dashboard indicators still happens (as when the car is off right leading up to the alarm being tripped). Once the car is started , the indicator goes away. There is no apparent clicking or changes in the dashboard when the car is on and actively drawing from the battery.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11661135May 15, 2025
AIR BAGS
Car hit pole head on, airbags did not deploy. Dash indicated SRS airbag failure
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11658824May 4, 2025
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
December 2017 I was driving my 2016 Honda pilot back from Florida and the car immediately reduce speed to about 25 to 35 mph. I had my OBD2 in the car so I reset the code and the car start driving fine and every time I will leave the gas station it will do the same thing dealership took the car said it was a throttle position sensor fixed it and the car broke down two days after getting it. I was told it was corrected for sure this time. However I'm saying a recall on Honda engines 2016 but my engine is not included. In 2024 I took the vehicle in for service and they said there was a recall for the ignition switch however since they fixed the ignition switch I have issues at times starting the car. I've also had to pay to get the electronic steering fixed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11658488May 2, 2025
ENGINE
THERE IS A KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE BAY. YOU CAN HEAR IT WHEN THE VEHILE STARTS UP BUT IT GETS LOUDER AS THE VEHICLE GETS UP TO TEMP. MAINLY AT IDLE AND LOUDER AT ACCELERATION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GERMAIN HONDA IN WOOSTER OHIO AND THEY DETERMINED THAT THE VEHICLE HAS BAD ROD BEARINGS. WE PURCHASED IN FALL OF 2024 WITH ABOUT 64K MILES AND THE ENGINE AT THIS POINT HAS ABOUT 75K MILES ON IT. IT HAS AN EXCELLENT SERVICE RECORD AND HAS BEEN SERVICED AT HONDA SINCE IT WAS NEW AND I AM THE SECOND OWNER.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11658190May 1, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact's son owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that her son smelled a gasoline odor in the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated that the odor was very strong and that her son had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the fuel pump gasket needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that the vehicle had not been taken to another mechanic or dealer. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that her daughter-in-law had asked the dealer if the vehicle was covered under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and the contact was advised that the VIN was not included. The contact notified the manufacturer of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657797April 30, 2025
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
When the Auto Idle feature is on, the car will often completely turn off when at a red light or in stop & go traffic. When it is time to move again, I cannot go. Cars are honking at me to move, but the car will not start. I have to put the car in park, completely turn it off, and restart it. This sometimes happens on the interstate in heavy traffic, which can be extremely dangerous. My car’s engine light had been having a warning sign “emissions system problem”. I took it to the dealer, and told them about the auto idle problem & the light, but they could not find anything wrong. A few months later, my engine failed & they said it wasn’t covered under the recent recall so I had to pay $7,000 for a new engine. Now a few months later, the auto idle problem is happening again & the emissions system problem light is back on again. The new engine is only a few months old
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657804April 30, 2025
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart, and the contact heard a loud knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657425April 29, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My name is [XXX] . I am submitting this formal complaint regarding the repeated and serious transmission failures on two 2016 Honda Pilot vehicles that I own. Both vehicles were purchased together and have developed nearly identical transmission problems, posing serious safety concerns. Despite regular maintenance, including expensive and frequent transmission fluid changes, both vehicles have experienced significant drivability issues. I brought one of the Pilots to an authorized Honda dealership, where I paid out-of-pocket for an inspection, but Honda refused any assistance, citing mileage. However, I believe the nature of the defect, not the mileage, is the true concern, as transmission failure affects the safe operation of the vehicle. Transmission failure at any speed, especially in family SUVs like the Pilot, presents a real danger to occupants and others on the road. High mileage should not excuse serious mechanical defects that directly impact vehicle safety. Given that there are many similar complaints online from other Honda Pilot owners, I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether a broader manufacturing defect exists with the 2016 Honda Pilot’s transmission systems. I appreciate your time and attention to this important safety matter INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657643April 29, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This is my second complaint regarding my other 2016 Honda Pilot (VIN: [XXX] ). Like my first Pilot, it suffers from serious transmission issues — jerking, rough shifting, and occasional loss of power. Both vehicles were maintained properly and now have the same safety-related defect. Honda refused to replace the transmission, citing that the vehicle is over the mileage limit for warranty coverage. I believe this is unacceptable, as safety issues like this should not be dismissed based on mileage. A known defect that puts lives at risk must be addressed, and I urge NHTSA to investigate this pattern. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657264April 28, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the Lane Departure, Adaptive Cruise Control, and two additional warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the Blind Spot System and Cross-Traffic warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the START/STOP button failed to start the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the multi-purpose camera and all safety system features, and the START/STOP system had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer confirmed that the repair was not covered under recall or warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657313April 28, 2025
POWER TRAIN
On 4-24-25 my engine had a knocking sound. I took it to a Honda Service center and they ran a diagnostic and found a rod bearing issue. Their recommendation was to replace the engine and quoted me an estimate of about $9000. I was told to not drive my car anymore and the rod can blow at any time and it is not safe for me to drive back home. I left my car at the Honda dealership. I have done regular maintenance- oil changes, filter changes, tune ups, etc. My car is at 171,000 miles and had no issues up until this. I purchased the car ten months ago. I saw that many consumers complained of the same issue and had got stuck on the side of the road, and paying costly repairs. I contacted Honda today and they told me that my VIN number is not affected by the rod bearing recall and they might try to get me into their "Goodwill Program" to help me with the cost of repair. I can't drive my car or else I would risk my safety and others' safety on the road. I had to Uber home. I don't have a drivable car now, and have to take my duaghter to school everyday. I am a single mom and saved up for this vehicle and paid cash, because Honda had the reputation of being reliable and built to last. Now I am at the mercy of their corporate department for the cost of the huge repairs that need to be done. It is not a guarantee that they will help me. I am glad that my daughter was not in the car with me or anything horrible happened like injury or death. This is a very concerning issue and I hope Honda will rectify this issue soon and acknowledge the safety hazards of this defect.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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