How Reliable is a Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that has been in production since 2002. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for being a reliable and trustworthy vehicle. But how reliable is it really? In this article, we’ll dive into the details to give you a comprehensive answer.
Reliability Index
To determine the reliability of a Honda Pilot, we need to look at various factors such as:
- J.D. Power Ratings: J.D. Power is a renowned automotive research firm that conducts surveys and studies to measure the reliability and satisfaction of vehicle owners.
- Consumer Reports: Consumer Reports is a non-profit organization that tests and evaluates vehicles based on their reliability, performance, and overall value.
- Repair Frequency: This refers to the number of times a vehicle requires repairs within a certain period.
- Maintenance Costs: This includes the cost of routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations.
J.D. Power Ratings
According to J.D. Power’s 2020 Vehicle Dependability Study, the Honda Pilot ranked 4th out of 14 midsize SUVs in terms of reliability. The study surveyed over 32,000 original owners of 2017 model-year vehicles and found that the Pilot had an overall reliability index score of 134, which is well above the industry average of 100.
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports rates the Honda Pilot 4.5 out of 5.0 in terms of reliability. The organization’s survey of over 420,000 vehicles found that the Pilot had a lower-than-average number of problems per 100 vehicles, with only 34 problems reported.
Repair Frequency
According to RepairPal, a leading provider of repair estimates and maintenance records, the Honda Pilot has a lower-than-average repair frequency. On average, the Pilot requires repairs every 59,000 miles, which is significantly lower than the industry average of 83,000 miles.
Maintenance Costs
The Honda Pilot has a relatively low maintenance cost compared to other midsize SUVs. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average maintenance cost for a Honda Pilot over a 5-year period is around $3,500, which is lower than the industry average of $4,500.
Common Issues
While the Honda Pilot is generally a reliable vehicle, there are some common issues that owners may encounter:
- Transmission Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, including hesitation and slipping.
- Engine Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the engine, including oil leaks and excessive noise.
- Suspension Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the suspension, including uneven tire wear and noise.
Model Years to Avoid
If you’re considering purchasing a used Honda Pilot, there are some model years that you may want to avoid:
- 2009-2011: These model years had issues with the transmission and engine.
- 2012-2015: These model years had issues with the suspension and brakes.
- 2016-2018: These model years had issues with the infotainment system and navigation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Honda Pilot is a reliable vehicle that has a reputation for being trustworthy. While it’s not perfect, it has a lower-than-average repair frequency and maintenance costs compared to other midsize SUVs. If you’re considering purchasing a used Honda Pilot, make sure to research the model year and check for any common issues. With proper maintenance, the Honda Pilot can provide years of reliable service.
Table: Honda Pilot Reliability Comparison
| Category | Honda Pilot | Industry Average |
|---|---|---|
| J.D. Power Rating | 134 | 100 |
| Consumer Reports Rating | 4.5/5.0 | – |
| Repair Frequency (miles) | 59,000 | 83,000 |
| Maintenance Costs (5-year period) | $3,500 | $4,500 |
Bullets: Key Takeaways
- The Honda Pilot is a reliable vehicle with a reputation for being trustworthy.
- It has a lower-than-average repair frequency and maintenance costs compared to other midsize SUVs.
- Some common issues include transmission, engine, and suspension problems.
- Certain model years (2009-2011, 2012-2015, and 2016-2018) may have issues that you should research before purchasing a used Honda Pilot.
- With proper maintenance, the Honda Pilot can provide years of reliable service.
