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The 2018 Honda Pilot and the 2018 Chevy Traverse are two of the most recognized used 3-row SUVs on the road, and the vehicles are surprisingly similar to one another. Both are as stylish as they are sought after, and those who have a need or a desire for a large used 3-row SUV may find that either of these two cars is just what they are looking for. However, despite the similarities, there still are a few differences, resulting in one SUV having the slightest of edges over the other. So, let’s take a look at the 2018 Honda Pilot vs. the 2018 Chevy Traverse and decide – which of these used three-row SUVs is the better choice?

A comparison of the two used 3-row SUVs

According to J.D. Power, those looking to buy a used 3-row SUV like the 2018 Honda Pilot should expect to see prices ranging from $19,650.00 to $33,077.00, as compared to the 2018 Traverse, which ranges from $17,181.00 to $32,224.00. Both cars have excellent fuel economy, with the Traverse achieving 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The 2018 Pilot does just a bit better, getting 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, so the number of trips to the gas station will be roughly the same for both SUVs.

With the Pilot having a reliability score of 81/100 and the Traverse having a reliability score of 81/100, it’s easy to see how comparable these two vehicles actually are. When it comes to resale value, however, the Pilot has a slight advantage over its competitor.

What are the most common problems with the Pilot as well as the Traverse?

It goes without saying that any vehicle comes with an issue or two. Beginning with the 2018 Honda Pilot, Car Complaints reports that owners have had a few electrical problems, such as the engine not turning over and the dash icons flashing. There have also been some complaints about the transmission, including rough shifting and the transmission jerking from first to second gear. Customers have complained about the brakes in the Pilot as well, reporting that they make a clicking sound while driving.

As for the 2018 Chevy Traverse, there are a few more complaints than were reported with the 2018 Pilot. According to Car Complaints, more than a few owners have had a problem with the transmission.

One person said of the car that “On a long stop light, I placed my car in park. When the light turned green I turned the gear to D for drive but the transmission did not engage. If felt as if it was in N (neutral) but it most certainly was in D (drive).”

Another commented, “This is the second time my Chevy Traverse had a problem with the transmission not engaging after placing the car in park then trying to get it to drive.” In addition to transmission issues, there have been several complaints regarding electrical issues, steering problems, and problems with the engine.

Which used 3-row SUV is better?

The two SUVs have quite a lot in common, but it’s clear that there is one that has slight superiority. The 2018 Honda Pilot ranks a bit better than the 2018 Chevy Traverse, with fewer complaints and somewhat more reliability. According to CarsDirect, the Pilot has slightly better features and while it is priced just a bit higher than the Traverse, the extra money is well worth it for those looking for a car that will be dependable and also bring excellent resale value in the future. 

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