Honda Pilot common problems: what to check before you buy
Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Honda Pilot is known for (2013–2019), 2 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
Known problems on the Honda Pilot
Deep engine knock
Safety risk
2016–2019 · petrol · Engine
What to look for: Listen at a cold start for a rhythmic deep knock low in the engine that rises with revs.
Why it matters: Honda recalled 2018-2019 Odyssey, 2016 and 2018-2019 Pilot and 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline, along with Acura TLX and MDX, because a manufacturing error means the connecting rod bearing may wear and seize, damaging the engine, with the engine running improperly or stalling while driving and a fire risk. Honda's remedy ran to replacing the engine, so a knocking example is a write-off-grade repair, not a service item.
What to look for: Ask for the fuel pump recall paperwork, and listen for a long crank when restarting hot after ten minutes.
Why it matters: Honda's fuel pump recall spans model years 2013 to 2023 across most of the models NZ dealers stock, though each model has its own band, and the failure mode is an engine stall while driving. A Japanese import in this range is very unlikely to have had a NZ owner letter, so the campaign status is worth confirming before the car goes on your yard.
Got a question about a Honda Pilot? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
Also check on every car
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.