The Honda Pilot debuted in the U.S. market in 2003 as Honda’s first midsize SUV. Designed to bridge the gap between family-friendly minivans and rugged off-road vehicles, the Pilot quickly became a staple in the SUV segment. It offered spacious interiors, third-row seating, and a reliable V6 engine, making it a favorite among drivers seeking versatility and practicality. Over time, Honda introduced modern technology, better fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features to keep the Pilot competitive. Despite its overall reputation for dependability, some model years have been marred by significant issues, leaving drivers frustrated and repair bills high. Below are five Honda Pilot years to avoid. These models stand out due to higher-than-average complaints, costly repairs, and unresolved mechanical challenges.

2003 Honda Pilot

The 2003 Pilot was Honda’s inaugural midsize SUV, entering a growing market with great promise. However, it was plagued by severe transmission issues. A common complaint was torque converter failure, leading to slipping gears and unexpected vehicle stoppages. Many owners experienced total transmission failure, requiring replacements that cost upwards of $4,000. This issue was exacerbated by inadequate cooling systems, which caused overheating.

Additionally, electrical problems surfaced in this model year. Faulty ignition switches and malfunctioning door locks were frequently reported. While Honda issued recalls for some defects, the 2003 Pilot’s reputation took a hit due to its unreliability. Buyers of used models should beware of these transmission and electrical concerns, as repairs can be both frequent and expensive. As such, it’s the first version on our list of Honda Pilot years to avoid.

2005 Honda Pilot

Despite efforts to address earlier issues, the 2005 Pilot continued to exhibit transmission flaws. Fluid leaks were a persistent problem, often leading to rough gear shifting and premature wear of internal components. A defective torque converter meant many vehicles experienced surging or sudden stalls while driving, creating safety hazards.

Beyond the mechanical issues, cosmetic defects were rampant. Paint peeling and rusting plagued this model year, especially in darker colors like black and navy blue. These problems not only affected the vehicle’s appearance but also decreased resale value. Electrical malfunctions, such as failing dashboard displays and unresponsive key fobs, further frustrated owners. While the 2005 Pilot offered a comfortable ride, these recurring problems made it one of the least reliable options in the lineup.

2013 Honda Pilot

The 2013 Pilot aimed to deliver modern features and improved fuel efficiency, but it fell short in reliability. A major complaint was the poor quality of exterior paint, which tended to chip and peel prematurely. This issue, particularly noticeable in red and blue models, left many owners seeking costly repaint jobs.

Safety recalls also tarnished the reputation of the 2013 Pilot. Airbag malfunctions were a prominent issue, with some units failing to deploy during collisions. Engine problems, including excessive oil consumption and misfires, were widely reported. Additionally, the infotainment system, a key selling point for modern SUVs, was riddled with glitches. Owners frequently complained about frozen screens, unresponsive touch commands, and Bluetooth connectivity failures. These setbacks made the 2013 Pilot a model to approach with caution.

2016 Honda Pilot

The 2016 Pilot introduced a sleek redesign and advanced safety features, but new problems quickly emerged. The nine-speed automatic transmission, a key update for this model year, was a source of frustration. Drivers reported jerky gear shifts, delayed acceleration, and occasional transmission stalls. These issues often required software updates or, in severe cases, transmission replacements.

Electrical system glitches were another major drawback. The push-button start system often failed to respond, leaving drivers stranded. The infotainment system was equally problematic, with unresponsive screens and frequent crashes. Fuel injector defects further added to the woes, causing reduced engine performance and lower fuel economy. While the redesign was visually appealing, the 2016 Pilot’s mechanical and technological flaws made it a risky purchase for families seeking reliability.

2019 Honda Pilot

The 2019 Pilot showcased Honda’s commitment to innovation, featuring improved safety technology and a refined interior. However, its reliability fell short of expectations. The most glaring issue was persistent software bugs in the transmission and infotainment systems. Drivers reported inconsistent gear shifts in the nine-speed automatic transmission, leading to a lack of confidence during acceleration. These problems often required multiple dealer visits for reprogramming.

The infotainment system, designed to integrate seamlessly with smartphones, frequently froze or lost connectivity. Owners complained about laggy navigation and unresponsive touchscreens, which detracted from the driving experience. Brake wear was another concern, with some vehicles requiring replacements well before the expected mileage. Though it boasted modern amenities, the 2019 Pilot left many owners frustrated with its lack of mechanical reliability.

While we’re here, if you’re shopping around for a good used Pilot, be sure to check out MotorBiscuit’s seamless car buying tool to compare listings and find the best deal in your area.

The Honda Pilot remains a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, thanks to its spacious design, dependable engine, and advanced features. However, these five years stand out as examples of what can go wrong. Transmission failures, electrical glitches, and cosmetic defects plagued these models, leading to high repair costs and low owner satisfaction.

If you’re in the market for a used Honda Pilot, consider models that received better reliability ratings and owner reviews. By avoiding these problematic years, you can enjoy all the benefits of a Honda Pilot without the headaches.