You are crazy if you don’t replace the timing belt if your wife drives the car on the interstate. I don’t want my wife breaking down if I can help it. Plus you destroy the engine if it breaks
@@user-tb7rn1il3q He’s right. Having a blown engine because of a busted timing belt because the pistons interfere with the valves. Without the timing belt, the pistons will collide with the valve. The end! It’s false economy to skip timing belt replacement. You will likely have to junk the vehicle. The cost of vehicle replacement far exceeds the cost of service.
My 2016 blew the engine at 40k miles. Replaced all gaskets, injectors, timing belt, water pump, all while Under warranty, but now im paranoid going anywhere with it. Before that the touch screen was replaced due to an issue. Owning this car has made me somewhat of a J35 expert, currently looking at defeating the VCM system to help avoid the engine stress. Total warranty repairs were close to $15k. Watching that class action in the US, hoping that crosses into Canada as well.
Let me tell you this video is pure gold, I like how he shares his experience with the Pilot, I want one in the incoming years, but I dont like to do so many maintainance, so maybe I should think more about getting one, anyways I saw all the video and I feel this is a genuine owner review, so thanks for all the honesty and clear information I really appreciate it.
@@lwilliams55i m thinking about hack this. When you press a button it probably checks the current status and changes it on the opposite. Most probably over the CAN protocol (or whatever is used in new cars) it should be easy to inject a small device with microcontroller which will do it instead of you. I think solution will appear soon
I own a 2016 Honda Pilot and I'm surprised with the known issues it has, including the fuel injectors. It was replaced for free under extended warranty. The driveshaft went out, the start stop button was replaced, the hood had a reinforcement plate installed, the 9 speed transmission had a software update, and after 7 years it had the timing belt and water pump replaced. However, it is a well finished, specious and comfortable vehicle.
I agree with you about the fuel injectors. As for the timing belt kit replacement- most reputable independent shops will do it for under $1,500 in most places, using quality parts. Also, you don’t have to “tear apart the engine” to replace the timing kit - you just have to remove the timing cover. The parts bolt onto the side of the engine.
We are the original owner of a 2012 Honda Pilot now @ 156,000 miles, timing belt, water pump etc replaced @ 115,000 miles, 1-set of brakes, alternator replaced, on my 3rd set of tires (Michelins they are great) this vehicle has been problem free just needs required maintenance! Sounds like some of the newer models such as this 2019 are more problematic, similar to most new vehicles of the last 10 years!
Transmission oil change (drain and fill only) on Honda vehicle is very critical. I owned Civic, Odessey, HR-V and Fit. They are good vehicles. But you have to be on top of maintenance or thing will break down prematurely. Great tips, Mario!
Thank you for your review! I have a 2019 Honda Ridgeline RTL, which has essentially the same engine and transmission as the Pilot. I currently have about 64,000 miles on it. I did have the transmission shuttering shortly after 50,000 miles. After seeing what it was by watching another RUclips video, I had my local mechanic change the transmission fluid. That fixed it! It was suggested that I change the fluid around every 20,000 miles. So I plan to do that. Another Ridgeline owner did not change the fluid, and ruined the transmission. I do not know why Honda does not communicate this! I also just found out that spark plugs should be changed every 60,000 miles. So I will be getting that done at the next oil change coming up. I did have a small leak in my AWD transfer case recently. That cost $1,000 to fix that! Otherwise, it's been a great riding truck with sideways opening tailgate and in-bed trunk. I would buy it again. By the way, I don't get those maintenance reminders. How can I view those?
Excellent video. Honda and Toyota should never have any of the problems you mentioned. As for timing belt, you should definitely do it before it breaks altogether.
I have a 2016 pilot and it literally took 15 min to change the trans fluid and no filter to change. Highly recommend changing it yourself and save money
I bought a 2013 Touring model with 230K miles. Yeah I know it's high, but the service history is amazing on it. 15 pages of services on Carfax and the same on Honda website. All local Honda dealers. I can verify all the services on Honda website. Nothing was missed and had 2 timing belt and parts changed already. One thing I noticed is the a lot of transmission/trans axle/diff fluid changes at the dealer. I though to myself, maybe the owner was a sucker for the service advisor. But as I get to know more about this I can fully understand. Last change of the trans fluid has been 20K ago from when I bought it. I ordered the DW-1 fluid, 10 Quarts, and will do that myself. I am an advanced DIY. I come to Honda from Toyota, and I have seen Toyotas go150K on original trans fluid, so it is surprising the ridiculous low miles for trans service on this.
After watching your video, I'm even more convinced we may have got a lemon. Let me tell you about it and maybe you have some advice. 2020 Honda Pilot EX purchased in November 2019, 100k miles. I haven't done most of my maintenance myself but found your channel due to transmission issues going on currently (hard shifts mostly, holding gear for longer, and maybe a little power loss). We have replaced a pressure switch in the transmission at about 50k miles and done all the recalls. The TSB last year for the MOST connectors finally seemed to fix our entertainment system - no complaints since. We're on our second set of brakes on the front and 3rd set on the rear (just had to do those recently about 95k miles.) Our biggest gremlin and ongoing problem is the LIDAR system and functions that use it. Our adaptive cruise control brakes for cars in the lane to the left of us and frequently does not detect cars in our own lane. The car often warns me of a collision (by flashing lights and vibrating the steering wheel) when cars are approaching me on two lane roads (nearly all or driving is on two lane roads.). Dealer says the system is "within spec". Any ideas on how to adjust that?? Would love to see a video on the differential drain and refill. Also your opinion on using another brand of ATF instead of the Honda stuff. Would also love to see the video if you end up doing that timing belt change yourself.
@@alece9697 it’s possible that you might need some additional work. I always used the Honda ATF, but not sure if it’s truly needed. Glad the MOST cables are fixed. It was such a pain for me.
The shudder is a common issue on the 6 speed transmissions, not the 9 speed. Have had no issue with mine, 105,000 miles. My local dealer quotes a timing belt replacement at less than $1200.
I have a 2016, 6 speed. Everything you said so far. Is extremely accurate. Don't forget our pilots are now under investigation for major rod bearing issues with our engines. Potentially it can call if not most vehicles soon. Hopefully so
My 2019 Pilot, Touring, bought new, now with 68,000 miles has had one transmission fluid change/fill at 40,000 miles. No issues with the transmission at all... Will do this again at 80,000 miles...
@@daveroski yes. has the push button console for shifting, So far, all good. Can get up to an honest 30MPG from time to time, regularly in the 24-26 range.. I think impressive for the V6 engine/transmission... .
@ yeah. I have a 2021 Honda ridgeline. Pretty much same vehicle. But don’t get the greatest gas mileage. I disabled the auto stop start and the vvt so that has something to do w it.
I would be pissed if I had to spend that much on a vehicle to keep it running. Would you recommend it, after paying so much to keep it running with all the issues? In 140k for our 2019 Traverse we never replaced brakes, or a light bulb and paid less than $250 in total “repairs”. Our transmission fluid was replaced at 90k and we did our first tune up at 100k. That’s it. Our 2019 Traverse has gone 50k with ZERO issues besides 1 recall. We still haven’t replaced the transmission fluid, or had any repairs or issues.
You had a LOT of issues with your car. I'd sell the car if I were you ... immediately. I own both a2016 and a 2017 Pilot and they both run great. I'm just changing the oil every 3-5,000 miles. I've also replaced the tires and brakes on both cars. That's it. Now, I can't STAND the transmission on the 2017. I hate it. the 2016 is "ok", but the transmission isn't the best . Most timing belts easily last to 150,000. Mine broke on my old CRX, but I was at 200,000. I love Hondas. All they do is run :)
Dont service your Honda at Walmart, 1st off I had to fix my gf car twice after she had it serviced there. The techs dont care, spend the money and have it serviced by the pro...i would never let a Walmart tech maintain my Pilot
I owned 3 new Hondas back in the 80-90s. Put a combined total of 200,000+ miles on them and did nothing but change oil every 3000 miles. Quality seems to have gone away or your vehicle is a victim of all the electrical “features” of newer vehicles. I would sell that before you’re forced to replace the transmission.
My dad owns two hondas, civic and pilot. He's spent a lot of money for replacing parts for years just like this guy, but worse since he's not maintaining the cars by himself. This isn't a new car problem. It's been like that all the time.
I have 2012 Pilot bought new. 220,000 miles. Timing change water pump and 130,000,alternator at 170,000 miles oil change every 5,000 miles, just had recent transmission flush. Just recently has a rear main oil leak replaced. Been stranded once in 12 years due to failed alternator. It’s been a great vehicle .
Had a 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline with the same tranny. Drove them both to about 70k and never changed the transmission fluid once nor did I have any issues with it. I have since owned a 2021 and now 2024 which have the 9 spd. No issues or oil change done on my 2021 either.
@ I think they made it better. No phantom breaking but sensors still go off a little but not as often when I meet other vehicles on regular single lane roads.
2020 pilot touring and driven 94000 miles. I’m the only owner. Those fluid maintenance are pricey. Just done trans fluid drain and fill and brake fluid and it was $500 and $300 respectively. I didn’t have any of those issues you had. I had the infotainment static and popping noise but has been corrected by recall. Next up is the timing belt and spark plug service. Might have to find a local mechanic to do those.
i have a 2020 and has been pretty trouble free with regular maintenance. i’m surprised you had some any issues. i have about 47k though. i need tires and was going to get the crossclimate 2 or the goodyear weather ready no squeaks or rattles either.
I put Michelin CrossClimate 2 on my wife's 2016 Pilot Touring 4WD four years ago and 30K miles on them now. Same ride quality as the factory tires, not noisy and gas mileage is same as new. Some reviews on aggresive tread tires are not so kind. Got a good deal (with $150 rebate) at Costco back then and I get the free rotation every 6K miles. They are "directional tires" so the driver side stay on that side and rotate front to back. (Of course, same for passenger side) They still have excellent tread wear. NE Ohio snow belt area.
I have a Honda crv 2004, 2L petrol 180,000 miles, no major problems over 5 years, but I have had done reinforced wheel arches, sills, this car is bullet proof, it's towed up mountains, pulled cars from beaches etc etc, travelled all around Europe in it and I live in it 😁🤜🤛respect
What’s absolutely crazy is that you have spent more money in maintenance on your Honda pilot than I did on a BMW X5. One transmission fluid change at 60,000 miles along with spark plugs and then other than that it’s just been oil changes and other maintenance maintenance items like air filters. At 100,000 miles I did front and rear differentials and the transfer case. And then 120,000 miles was spark plug and another transmission fluid drain and fill. Other than that, though the check engine lights totally flawless.
13 RDX here, I believe we have same engine and tranny. This car loves its tranny drain and fills no more than every 15K miles. I might even do sooner. Oil changes every 3K miles. I do all myself. Timing belt was done at 90K miles or so by a Honda tech friend I am blessed to have, and just did plugs at just past 100K miles. RDX currently at 110K miles. We have owned this car since 77K miles. Fun comfy car. Don’t risk your engine over timing belt. Get it done and take care of the car and it will take care of you.
Im giving my 2014 Honda Pilot to my son, with 190 thousand miles, with requital maintance done, and now looking for a used Honda Pilot, my mechanic said to avoid the six speed transmission, and look for one with the nine speed.
I have a 2019 pilot, 140k miles and I just changed the transmission fluid, hopefully it stops the jerking back and forth between the 1st and 2nd gear. I also have an “ All Wheel Drive System Problem” I have no idea what that means, any idea?
Sounds like you had a pretty good vehicle! No CATASTROFIC failures/ major system (engine, trans, axles, radiator etc). Try saying that with a Chrysler or a GM product. If maintainece is all you have to complain about... you're lucky.
What brand of universal roof rack cross bars are you using? I'm at 100,000 miles, i bought my pilot used at 88,000 miles. I've had an issue with the battery but so far that's it (thank god). I'm planning on putting another 100,000 more miles on this thing and hope she can handle it with routine maintenance. Thank you in advance.
We have a 2019 Touring 2WD and haven't had all your issues. Our Pilot just hit 100k miles. We just replaced the timing belt at the dealer for about $1200. My biggest gripe is it is on its 3rd battery. Also, we have only done the ATF every 30K miles with no noticeable issues as you have described. We also had a radio popping issue that was repaired under warranty.
I have a 2019 with 77,000 and just replaced the battery for the first time. Make sure you are getting the AGM battery and not a standard battery, if you didn't it will not last.
2005 Honda pilot with like 230k miles on it. Still kicking. Recently had an intersection with a deer which has inspired us to check out the newer models. Treacherous, indeed.
I bought out Pilot EX in 2005. Oil's been changed every 5K with dealer bulk oil. Trans and transaxle ever 30K. Valve adjustment at 140K. Two timing belt services to date. The vehicle has 270K on it and purrs and shifts like new. I just bought a slightly used 2023 Passport and it's lightyears ahead of our 2005 but I don't expect to get that kind of trouble free service.
We have a 2016 Honda Odyssey which I think has the same drive train. I got rid of the shudder with a drain and fill (oil capacity is 3.7 quarts). The shudder hasn't returned. Replaced timing belt, no other problems with 125k (praying).
we have a 2016 2 175k miles... we found it to be very reliable..V6 engines last but the maintenance costs have been quite a lot (transmission fluid hell for sure)
I had a Mazda 6 with Jatco 5 speed. It ran so hot that the tranny fluid started stuttering needed changing at 30k miles. I performed a flush and fill using Amsoil full synthetic universal tranny fluid. That fixed the issue for another 110k miles when I sold it.
You got scammed on the fuel injectors. There’s a recall for those. AHM should have changed those for you at no cost. The bulletin says is your car has less than 150k or is less that 10 years old from the 1st purchase of the vehicle they would change those.
2004 Honda Pilot owner here. 200,000 miles and no major issues. My favorite vehicle. oil change regular, timing belt done at 100k and 200k miles. Just a little rusty paint on top of hood, side of body is still good. Tire rotation from good year for free because I brought tires three years ago.
You have a 2004 that’s pretty reliable. I think this video is about 17-22 which have been notoriously have bad trannys and emissions/fuel system issues
Check your motor mounts and you're way overdue for a valve adjustment. I had our valve adjustment along with 6 plugs and gained 3 mpg. The thing flies. Well worth it.
We have had every generation- except the current one. We leased the last 3 cars. The digital volume was the worse part of one of them. To this day we still believe that the first one has the best quality.
I owned a 2014 Pilot that I just replaced with a new Pilot. Never had any problems, ever! Don't really know if because you did work yourself, probably didn't do the recommended services, if you caused your own problems!
I have the same issue with my 2019 Pilot transmission and change the transmission fluid every 10-15 thousand miles. Some people have switched to a different fluid and claim that fixed the problem.
Good video. Thank you for creating it. Currently, I drive a 2015 Cadillac SRX. Looking to buy a brand new Pilot or Toyota Grand Highlander. Do you believe the new Pilots have these issues or has Honda corrected the problems? Thanks.
I have a 2019 Honda Pilot and what I would like to fix is the radio. The FM signal is not good, it gets lost very quickly when I am listening to a radio station.
Good video thanks. I have a 2018 Pilot that has been in service 6 times for code p2101 affecting the throttle body and now drive train modules. I am now being told it needs a new transmission at 55K miles. Limp mode 4 times and had I towed to dealer twice. Engaged with Honda America now.
No modern vehicle should require this level of detailed maintenance to stay reliable. Transmission fluid changes every 15 to 20 thousand miles? I was considering buying a used 2010 but there is no way the previous owners were this meticulous.
Make sure you have the oil pump seal and pick up tube seal replaced when you have the timing belt service done. Maybe yours falls under the engine recall.
I originally bought a 2020 Civic Sport Hatch brand new. Cool car but I am almost 7ft tall so that didn't pan as a good idea, plus it started losing a lot of coolant. Sold it with 50k miles in 2023 and took my parents 2017 Honda Pilot over that they originally bought new. They don't drive as much as I do so they only racked up 37k miles. I now have 44k and I can't complain too much. The transmission works ok but on occasion it will clunk between gears while driving around 40mph and that is a bit concerning. Otherwise the infotainment screen is a lot more sluggish than my civic but I will survive.
Before replacing those fuel injectors did you try cleaning them first with fuel injector cleaner? Techron fuel additive comes to mind. In your case since you haven't been cleaning your injectors regularly at every oil change you would have to add a whole bottle to a quarter tank of gas. Or put 2 or 3 bottles per tank and keep doing that until things are running smoothly. You might not have needed new injectors. They might have simply needed cleaning. People call stuff like "Techron" fuel additive snake oil, but it does work. The FTC would have had these products pulled from the shelves years ago if it was a scam. If you used fuel injector cleaner every 5,000 miles that would have cost a whole lot less money then $1,200 for new fuel injectors at 100,000 miles. I'm guessing you never used HEET fuel additive that removes water from the fuel tank with easier engine starts in the cold of winter? Water in the fuel causes metal to corrode and could have caused your fuel injectors to corrode out way too soon.
If you have the 6 speed, switch to amsoil ss atf that will fix your shudder permenantly. If you have the 9 speed, use the liqui moly 1800. Works amazing in zf transmissions.
Have a 2005 Honda Pilot with 278k miles, timing belt changed 2 twice. I get coupons from dealerships for oil changes, tire rotation. Most maintenance by mobile techs still strong.
I a have a 2019 exl res but the 2wd. I use a google tv for the screen. My rear entertainment was my issue. The cable in the back was reconnected and I’ve been good since. I replace my trans fluid every 30k. Oil at 20 percent. Never left me stranded. I don’t get the shutter ever and I’ve gone over the 30k. Just did the 100k and replaced plugs, all fluids, front control arms, sway bar links, timing belt, serpentine belt and bunch of other things at the dealership $4500 for everything. I’m at 97k. I don’t want to gamble. Good luck
Honda isn’t what it used to be. I have a 2023 Cr-v hybrid and it’s had 3 recalls so far and many people on the forums are saying their injectors are failing within 10,000 miles. At this point i feel like it’s a matter of time before something major goes wrong. Im very nervous keeping this outside of the warranty.
Constant limited slip torque converters cook the friction inhibitors fairly quickly so when you have this technology in your transmission you need to change that fluid frequently , especially if you do a lot of city driving in the warmer locations.
That transmision only hold 3.5 quarts on a drain and fill and 7.9 quarts on an initial fill. I you are putting 10 you are over filling by a large margin.
Currently have a 2010 Honda Pilot. Bought it when it was 2 years old from US. Had it maintained in Regina Honda Saskatchewan. For almost a decade. The services cost in the dealership is ridiculous. Thousands dollars per year. They are always finding an issue. Their services doesn't last that long. Trully a money pit. Rear door and passenger door is all rusty. Rear door is very bad now. And then guess what, majority of the 2010ish have bad rusty rear door. The same ridiculous service charges and recommendation when i go to Calgary Honda. Anytime you go to their shop, they fix one things and they discover a lot other issues. I have decided to use a local shop for some services. I am definitely not getting a jonda pilot again.
I have a 2020 honda pilot exl with res and nav 47k miles.i bought it at 25k .first thing I did was disable the vcm in the pilot.at 30k I had a transmission shutter I did the 3x drain and fill transmission flush with tranny filter.then after I drain and fill every 10 to 15k ,and did the rear diff fluid change and transfer case fluid .I don't follow the reminder on car .I do all my own work .I also changed the tires at 25k from those terrible bridgestone duelers worst tires every .and bought michelin ltx tires best tires ever.and I just changed all 4 brakes at 45k cost me 450 bucks remind I do my own work.disabling the vcm helps the transmission over heating and stops the 3 injectors shut down when on highway for gas milege" and makes the car now a full v6 at all times and more power and stops injectors failures. The vcm is what made your injectors fail and transmission fluid over heat .I had to adjust headlights down also and fog lights up because mine were pointed to high also. I run fuel injector cleaning and also I put high octane 93 octane or 92 what ever is available. I got the recall for infotainment but I've never had issues with it yet so if it's not broken don't touch it.and also I'll be changing the coolant at 55k also.ive had good luck with my car so far been a great car
I have a 2019 2WD EXL with six speed transmission. When my transmission began buzzing and vibrating at 52,000 miles, I disabled the VCM and did a drain and fill on the transmission myself. Now at 117,500 miles, I have yet to have the buzzing or vibration return. I lost about 1/2 mpg after installing the VCM disabler. Definitely worth the investment.
@tonydietz7262 definitely well worth it .I installed it as soon as I got the car .after reading about the car and the transmission and the injectors and disabling half the engine when vcm is kicking on and off I believe the car will go 200k+ miles with vcm disabled .but if it's not i have 2 friends with the these pilots never disabled and lots of issues and injectors, mount problems and carbon build up and they both replaced the tranny already by 80k from fluid burning up .I do tranny fluid every 10 to 15k it's easier then oil change
I would personally never cheap on maintenance. I go to a good Machanic I have a relationship with, and trust him. I can watch him work if I choose to do that. Have had a CRV and a Fit, both of which required nothing other than routine maintenance. When timing belt work was due on the cRV, I paid for it. That car ran for over 300k and had no problems, just routine maintenance. The fit runs like new with 140k miles. I think cheating on the maintenance is a mistake
You let walmart employees wrench on your car? Dude...what are you thinking? Also, at 80$ per oil change that's about double the cost of the oil and filter and 10 minutes of your time.
On the advice of Scotty Kilmer I don't rotate my tires any more. Actually I only did it for the one car I bought new. Never noticed any uneven wear patterns. Most of my 40 or so cars I never touched my tranny fluid. Some went as high as 260,000 miles. Never any trouble. Once again, on my one new car I've changed it twice, now have 160,000. But I don't drain and fill. I change it all. Would you only change half your oil? Get rid of that money pit.
I regret buying our 2019 pilot because I don’t feel like I can trust it. We have to change trans fluid often as you say for the same reason. Also there is a recall on the fuel pump. Dealers didn’t have the parts so we had to wait until our pump actually failed to get it replaced. Dealer talked me into a timing belt at 90,000 based on oil leak/soak. My 2015 Silverado has been much more reliable and I thought the Chevy would be the one with problems and the Honda bulletproof based on the reputation from earlier Pilots. We have 95000 miles on the Pilot, 150,000 on the Silverado. I’ve changed the trans fluid once in the Chevy.
Own a 2022 Pilot and we've had none of those issues. The worse thing is the back seat squeaks, which is surprising for a Honda. I can tell the build quality is not what it used to be, but I wonder if that was because of COVID. We'll see, but the Japanese car companies need not forget the poor perception of American built cars.
My 2005 Pilot has excellent build quality. My 2023 Passport Trailsport built by the good old boys in Alabama is excellent too. I might of bought a Mazda but being 6'2" I found the interiors to be cramped.
I’ve never been a huge fan of these cars. They’re just big and ungainly and just not attractive to me. But I see a TON of them so Honda must have done something right in the minds of the people that buy these things. Heck 3/8 of my neighbors own one of these things. With that being said, overall it sounds like the car has been fairly good to you as far as reliability. I know some things may be annoying, but these machines are complex and require maintenance and should be maintained properly. It seems like you’ve been doing just that and I’m sure the your wife (and the car) appreciates it. I think with these new cars a HUGE part of the problem is just knowing what’s wrong with the car, and in the case of the Pilot it seems like though the maintenance items may be frequent, at least it’s well known so owners don’t have to guess. And when it comes time to fix it, I think those prices are very reasonable. $15 for a quart of fluid is child’s play in my world. One quart of transmission fluid for my BMW 328d (diesel) is anywhere between $80 - $100 PER QUART lol. One diesel injector on that car is anywhere between $330 and $400 PER INJECTOR lol. So yeah, that Honda has been very good to you mate. Hope she continues to be good to you and the family. Here’s to another 100,000 miles 🙂💪🏾
Bottom line: the only real issue was with the injectors, most likely to crappy local gas supplier (too much ethanol). Timing belt lasts around 150k, you don't need to worry. Do it before you hit 110k using OEM parts like water pump, tensioner and pulley . What is coming next: alternator fail at around 120k-130k. Front suspension wear showing at 140K. Random engine sensors failing giving codes ($30 DIY fixes). Increased cabin noise due to door seals drying out. Inside rattle here and there. You will absolutely get increased oil consumption after 130k - get ready to consume up to a quarter of oil between oil changes. All and all Honda v6 cars are good cars
I am not convinced that the shudders were caused by the transmission fluid being old. There is something else that is causing the shuddering. You should consult with a transmission specialist to find where it went wrong instead of guessing by yourself..
Yes, it is caused by the transmission fluid. I had it happen with my Ridgeline, that has same engine and transmission as the Pilot. Changing the transmission fluid fixed the problem.
Depending on your financial situation, of course. And how much you drive. It's a bit unwise to hold on to "modern" vehicle for more than 80-90K. I own a '20 Passport and constant fluid changes get a bit tiresome. Engine oil, transmission oil, diff oil, brake fluid. It seem like every few month I have to tend to some sort of fluid change. Also, you are correct, timing belt is a big drawback. On top of that, the engine is direct injection only. Which, if you not careful with gas, you can get fouling issue fairly early. Honda "recommends" taking a head off and cleaning valves at 56K miles!! That's easy $2K+ job. I got 4 years 80K extended warranty for $900 when the car was at 35K. So once I hit 75K, I am out. As consolation, this is about the only NA v6 in a mid-size SUV on a market today. Turbo 4-bangers are even worth. I am not a huge fan of leasing, but looks like there is not much choice going forward.
I have a 2016 pilot with 105,000 mile. Transmission fluid change is a must radio for seri X satellite radio stop working . Honda wanted $2500 to change antenna. I switched to $10 a month and Bluetooth great music again . Have to change timing belt soon. Will used my local garage maybe . The seats are very wrong for my wife and I both over 6’ tail. Drive to Florida each winter 2400 miles
Fuel injectors were covered by extended warranty 150,000 miles or ten years. If you did before the warranty, they are to refund that. I have the Ridgeline (2018) and it will probably be my last Honda. Too many problems and maintenance required for a late model vehicle.
Yep, I was going to say the same thing. I've had the injectors replaced 2 times under the extended warranty. I think it's 10 years 120k miles, but regardless you should not have had to pay for this replacement of the injectors
Nice video I have a 2018 pilot elite i have problem with the automatic high beam it just kept the light in high most of the time or just lower it when the coming traffic car is about 20 foot, so people always put the high beam on m
You are crazy if you don’t replace the timing belt if your wife drives the car on the interstate. I don’t want my wife breaking down if I can help it. Plus you destroy the engine if it breaks
You shouldn’t have to do it. It’s crazy in this day of age that they are still using a rubber timing system.
2K for timing belt outweighs engine replacement and safety hazards all day!
@@4Runner21 Most people can’t afford $400, never mind $2000.
@@user-tb7rn1il3q He’s right. Having a blown engine because of a busted timing belt because the pistons interfere with the valves. Without the timing belt, the pistons will collide with the valve. The end! It’s false economy to skip timing belt replacement. You will likely have to junk the vehicle. The cost of vehicle replacement far exceeds the cost of service.
@@kenandbarbie-b6c If you don’t have the money you don’t have the money. A rubber timing belt is the perfect setup for bankruptcy.
My 2016 blew the engine at 40k miles. Replaced all gaskets, injectors, timing belt, water pump, all while Under warranty, but now im paranoid going anywhere with it. Before that the touch screen was replaced due to an issue. Owning this car has made me somewhat of a J35 expert, currently looking at defeating the VCM system to help avoid the engine stress.
Total warranty repairs were close to $15k. Watching that class action in the US, hoping that crosses into Canada as well.
Please do disable that VCM. odyclub talks at length about this. This caused so many issues for me with my Odyssey.
Let me tell you this video is pure gold, I like how he shares his experience with the Pilot, I want one in the incoming years, but I dont like to do so many maintainance, so maybe I should think more about getting one, anyways I saw all the video and I feel this is a genuine owner review, so thanks for all the honesty and clear information I really appreciate it.
@@kenneth2405 thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Which car would you recommend?
I have a push button to turn auto stop off- i hate it's function and keep it off unless I forget.. button has to be reset each drive....
@@lwilliams55i m thinking about hack this. When you press a button it probably checks the current status and changes it on the opposite. Most probably over the CAN protocol (or whatever is used in new cars) it should be easy to inject a small device with microcontroller which will do it instead of you. I think solution will appear soon
I own a 2016 Honda Pilot and I'm surprised with the known issues it has, including the fuel injectors. It was replaced for free under extended warranty. The driveshaft went out, the start stop button was replaced, the hood had a reinforcement plate installed, the 9 speed transmission had a software update, and after 7 years it had the timing belt and water pump replaced. However, it is a well finished, specious and comfortable vehicle.
I agree with you about the fuel injectors. As for the timing belt kit replacement- most reputable independent shops will do it for under $1,500 in most places, using quality parts.
Also, you don’t have to “tear apart the engine” to replace the timing kit - you just have to remove the timing cover. The parts bolt onto the side of the engine.
You do have to tear into the engine. This is crazy to have to spend this kind of money on an appliance.
We are the original owner of a 2012 Honda Pilot now @ 156,000 miles, timing belt, water pump etc replaced @ 115,000 miles, 1-set of brakes, alternator replaced, on my 3rd set of tires (Michelins they are great) this vehicle has been problem free just needs required maintenance!
Sounds like some of the newer models such as this 2019 are more problematic, similar to most new vehicles of the last 10 years!
Transmission oil change (drain and fill only) on Honda vehicle is very critical. I owned Civic, Odessey, HR-V and Fit. They are good vehicles. But you have to be on top of maintenance or thing will break down prematurely. Great tips, Mario!
@@MoBangFoYoBucks absolutely true.
I’ll just stick with toyota/lexus
Thank you for your review! I have a 2019 Honda Ridgeline RTL, which has essentially the same engine and transmission as the Pilot. I currently have about 64,000 miles on it. I did have the transmission shuttering shortly after 50,000 miles. After seeing what it was by watching another RUclips video, I had my local mechanic change the transmission fluid. That fixed it! It was suggested that I change the fluid around every 20,000 miles. So I plan to do that. Another Ridgeline owner did not change the fluid, and ruined the transmission. I do not know why Honda does not communicate this!
I also just found out that spark plugs should be changed every 60,000 miles. So I will be getting that done at the next oil change coming up.
I did have a small leak in my AWD transfer case recently. That cost $1,000 to fix that!
Otherwise, it's been a great riding truck with sideways opening tailgate and in-bed trunk. I would buy it again.
By the way, I don't get those maintenance reminders. How can I view those?
Excellent video. Honda and Toyota should never have any of the problems you mentioned. As for timing belt, you should definitely do it before it breaks altogether.
I have a 2016 pilot and it literally took 15 min to change the trans fluid and no filter to change. Highly recommend changing it yourself and save money
They do have filters. I change mine when I service, but it's not required
@@NiceGarage it’s a quick job for sure.
This is insane coming from a 2014 CRV Owner. Your pilot sounds like it's been nothing but headaches, very sorry to hear
I bought a 2013 Touring model with 230K miles. Yeah I know it's high, but the service history is amazing on it. 15 pages of services on Carfax and the same on Honda website. All local Honda dealers. I can verify all the services on Honda website. Nothing was missed and had 2 timing belt and parts changed already. One thing I noticed is the a lot of transmission/trans axle/diff fluid changes at the dealer. I though to myself, maybe the owner was a sucker for the service advisor. But as I get to know more about this I can fully understand. Last change of the trans fluid has been 20K ago from when I bought it. I ordered the DW-1 fluid, 10 Quarts, and will do that myself. I am an advanced DIY. I come to Honda from Toyota, and I have seen Toyotas go150K on original trans fluid, so it is surprising the ridiculous low miles for trans service on this.
In past 25 years, I had / have Odyssey, Acura TL (V6), TLX, Passport (V6), CRV Hybrid, MDX (V6), RDX (V6). No engine or transmission trouble.
After watching your video, I'm even more convinced we may have got a lemon. Let me tell you about it and maybe you have some advice.
2020 Honda Pilot EX purchased in November 2019, 100k miles. I haven't done most of my maintenance myself but found your channel due to transmission issues going on currently (hard shifts mostly, holding gear for longer, and maybe a little power loss).
We have replaced a pressure switch in the transmission at about 50k miles and done all the recalls. The TSB last year for the MOST connectors finally seemed to fix our entertainment system - no complaints since. We're on our second set of brakes on the front and 3rd set on the rear (just had to do those recently about 95k miles.)
Our biggest gremlin and ongoing problem is the LIDAR system and functions that use it. Our adaptive cruise control brakes for cars in the lane to the left of us and frequently does not detect cars in our own lane. The car often warns me of a collision (by flashing lights and vibrating the steering wheel) when cars are approaching me on two lane roads (nearly all or driving is on two lane roads.). Dealer says the system is "within spec". Any ideas on how to adjust that??
Would love to see a video on the differential drain and refill. Also your opinion on using another brand of ATF instead of the Honda stuff. Would also love to see the video if you end up doing that timing belt change yourself.
@@alece9697 it’s possible that you might need some additional work. I always used the Honda ATF, but not sure if it’s truly needed. Glad the MOST cables are fixed. It was such a pain for me.
This is an absurd amount of maintenance for a modern vehicle right? Especially on a Japanese vehicle.
The Honda Pilot is made in the US.
@@AgentGrand12 fyi when someone says a country before the word vehicle they mean a Japanese car company…. Dense
@@Luciferisking512 whatever makes you feel better....Dense 😂
@@AgentGrand12 says the guy trying to make up his own meanings for common used language
Designed and built in the US
The shudder is a common issue on the 6 speed transmissions, not the 9 speed. Have had no issue with mine, 105,000 miles. My local dealer quotes a timing belt replacement at less than $1200.
I have a 2016, 6 speed. Everything you said so far. Is extremely accurate. Don't forget our pilots are now under investigation for major rod bearing issues with our engines. Potentially it can call if not most vehicles soon. Hopefully so
I had same issue with transmission shudder in my wifes CR-V........must be a Honda issue?
My 2019 Pilot, Touring, bought new, now with 68,000 miles has had one transmission fluid change/fill at 40,000 miles. No issues with
the transmission at all... Will do this again at 80,000 miles...
you have the 9 speed, i am guessing he has 6 speed , big difference in reliability
@@daveroski yes. has the push button console for shifting, So far, all good. Can get up to an honest 30MPG from time to time, regularly in the 24-26 range.. I think impressive for the V6 engine/transmission...
.
@ yeah. I have a 2021 Honda ridgeline. Pretty much same vehicle. But don’t get the greatest gas mileage. I disabled the auto stop start and the vvt so that has something to do w it.
I would be pissed if I had to spend that much on a vehicle to keep it running. Would you recommend it, after paying so much to keep it running with all the issues?
In 140k for our 2019 Traverse we never replaced brakes, or a light bulb and paid less than $250 in total “repairs”. Our transmission fluid was replaced at 90k and we did our first tune up at 100k. That’s it.
Our 2019 Traverse has gone 50k with ZERO issues besides 1 recall. We still haven’t replaced the transmission fluid, or had any repairs or issues.
You had a LOT of issues with your car. I'd sell the car if I were you ... immediately. I own both a2016 and a 2017 Pilot and they both run great. I'm just changing the oil every 3-5,000 miles. I've also replaced the tires and brakes on both cars. That's it. Now, I can't STAND the transmission on the 2017. I hate it. the 2016 is "ok", but the transmission isn't the best . Most timing belts easily last to 150,000. Mine broke on my old CRX, but I was at 200,000. I love Hondas. All they do is run :)
If you are referring to hard shifts for the ZF 9 speed, especially 1-2 gear shift, there is a PCM update that will smooth it out.
Dont service your Honda at Walmart, 1st off I had to fix my gf car twice after she had it serviced there. The techs dont care, spend the money and have it serviced by the pro...i would never let a Walmart tech maintain my Pilot
I owned 3 new Hondas back in the 80-90s. Put a combined total of 200,000+ miles on them and did nothing but change oil every 3000 miles. Quality seems to have gone away or your vehicle is a victim of all the electrical “features” of newer vehicles. I would sell that before you’re forced to replace the transmission.
My dad owns two hondas, civic and pilot. He's spent a lot of money for replacing parts for years just like this guy, but worse since he's not maintaining the cars by himself. This isn't a new car problem. It's been like that all the time.
I have 2012 Pilot bought new. 220,000 miles. Timing change water pump and 130,000,alternator at 170,000 miles oil change every 5,000 miles, just had recent transmission flush. Just recently has a rear main oil leak replaced. Been stranded once in 12 years due to failed alternator. It’s been a great vehicle .
Had a 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline with the same tranny. Drove them both to about 70k and never changed the transmission fluid once nor did I have any issues with it. I have since owned a 2021 and now 2024 which have the 9 spd. No issues or oil change done on my 2021 either.
Would you say the 2024 has better safety tech than the older ones? Do you get phantom braking with it?
@ I think they made it better. No phantom breaking but sensors still go off a little but not as often when I meet other vehicles on regular single lane roads.
2020 pilot touring and driven 94000 miles. I’m the only owner. Those fluid maintenance are pricey. Just done trans fluid drain and fill and brake fluid and it was $500 and $300 respectively. I didn’t have any of those issues you had. I had the infotainment static and popping noise but has been corrected by recall. Next up is the timing belt and spark plug service. Might have to find a local mechanic to do those.
i have a 2020 and has been pretty trouble free with regular maintenance. i’m surprised you had some any issues. i have about 47k though. i need tires and was going to get the crossclimate 2 or the goodyear weather ready no squeaks or rattles either.
I put Michelin CrossClimate 2 on my wife's 2016 Pilot Touring 4WD four years ago and 30K miles on them now. Same ride quality as the factory tires, not noisy and gas mileage is same as new. Some reviews on aggresive tread tires are not so kind. Got a good deal (with $150 rebate) at Costco back then and I get the free rotation every 6K miles. They are "directional tires" so the driver side stay on that side and rotate front to back. (Of course, same for passenger side) They still have excellent tread wear. NE Ohio snow belt area.
I have a Honda crv 2004, 2L petrol 180,000 miles, no major problems over 5 years, but I have had done reinforced wheel arches, sills, this car is bullet proof, it's towed up mountains, pulled cars from beaches etc etc, travelled all around Europe in it and I live in it 😁🤜🤛respect
@@Travelling-Tim from an era of dependable Hondas. Nice.
What trim level is that? What transmission?
What’s absolutely crazy is that you have spent more money in maintenance on your Honda pilot than I did on a BMW X5. One transmission fluid change at 60,000 miles along with spark plugs and then other than that it’s just been oil changes and other maintenance maintenance items like air filters.
At 100,000 miles I did front and rear differentials and the transfer case. And then 120,000 miles was spark plug and another transmission fluid drain and fill. Other than that, though the check engine lights totally flawless.
13 RDX here, I believe we have same engine and tranny. This car loves its tranny drain and fills no more than every 15K miles. I might even do sooner. Oil changes every 3K miles. I do all myself. Timing belt was done at 90K miles or so by a Honda tech friend I am blessed to have, and just did plugs at just past 100K miles. RDX currently at 110K miles. We have owned this car since 77K miles. Fun comfy car. Don’t risk your engine over timing belt. Get it done and take care of the car and it will take care of you.
How does dust and debris get into the sealed transmission?
I had the same transmission issues. I replaced the Honda OE fluid with Valvoline - no more problems.
What year and kind of Honda do you have?
@ 2021 Pilot with the 9 speed. I spoke to Valvoline before I did it - they sold me and they were right. Good stuff.
Im giving my 2014 Honda Pilot to my son, with 190 thousand miles, with requital maintance done, and now looking for a used Honda Pilot, my mechanic said to avoid the six speed transmission, and look for one with the nine speed.
I have a 2019 pilot, 140k miles and I just changed the transmission fluid, hopefully it stops the jerking back and forth between the 1st and 2nd gear. I also have an “ All Wheel Drive System Problem” I have no idea what that means, any idea?
@@oliedumszthem it might just need a new sensor in the rear differential. Have you ever changed the rear differential fluid?
@@AdventureGearTV I haven’t but I’m
Going to give it a try
Honda actually has come up with a fix for the infotainment system. Did you have the recall done?
Yes they fixed mine
Sounds like you had a pretty good vehicle! No CATASTROFIC failures/ major system (engine, trans, axles, radiator etc). Try saying that with a Chrysler or a GM product. If maintainece is all you have to complain about... you're lucky.
@@Ram14250 excellent perspective. Never been stranded. The fuel injectors were frustrating, but it kept running.
Do you have the 6 or 9 speed transmission? My guess is the 6.
What brand of universal roof rack cross bars are you using?
I'm at 100,000 miles, i bought my pilot used at 88,000 miles. I've had an issue with the battery but so far that's it (thank god). I'm planning on putting another 100,000 more miles on this thing and hope she can handle it with routine maintenance. Thank you in advance.
did you put a muzzler or vcm tuner?
Is the transmission issue because it is a CVT rather than an old school torque converter transmission?
It’s not CVT
Would you tell us your long term gas milage
We have a 2019 Touring 2WD and haven't had all your issues. Our Pilot just hit 100k miles. We just replaced the timing belt at the dealer for about $1200. My biggest gripe is it is on its 3rd battery. Also, we have only done the ATF every 30K miles with no noticeable issues as you have described. We also had a radio popping issue that was repaired under warranty.
I have a 2019 with 77,000 and just replaced the battery for the first time. Make sure you are getting the AGM battery and not a standard battery, if you didn't it will not last.
2005 Honda pilot with like 230k miles on it. Still kicking. Recently had an intersection with a deer which has inspired us to check out the newer models. Treacherous, indeed.
I bought out Pilot EX in 2005. Oil's been changed every 5K with dealer bulk oil. Trans and transaxle ever 30K. Valve adjustment at 140K. Two timing belt services to date. The vehicle has 270K on it and purrs and shifts like new. I just bought a slightly used 2023 Passport and it's lightyears ahead of our 2005 but I don't expect to get that kind of trouble free service.
We have a 2016 Honda Odyssey which I think has the same drive train. I got rid of the shudder with a drain and fill (oil capacity is 3.7 quarts). The shudder hasn't returned. Replaced timing belt, no other problems with 125k (praying).
Never had an issue on my ridgeline. Now i have a pilot trailsport. So far so good.
we have a 2016 2 175k miles... we found it to be very reliable..V6 engines last but the maintenance costs have been quite a lot (transmission fluid hell for sure)
I had a Mazda 6 with Jatco 5 speed. It ran so hot that the tranny fluid started stuttering needed changing at 30k miles. I performed a flush and fill using Amsoil full synthetic universal tranny fluid. That fixed the issue for another 110k miles when I sold it.
I'm pretty sure the warranty on the injectors was extended to 130k miles a couple of years ago.
You got scammed on the fuel injectors. There’s a recall for those. AHM should have changed those for you at no cost. The bulletin says is your car has less than 150k or is less that 10 years old from the 1st purchase of the vehicle they would change those.
2004 Honda Pilot owner here. 200,000 miles and no major issues. My favorite vehicle. oil change regular, timing belt done at 100k and 200k miles. Just a little rusty paint on top of hood, side of body is still good. Tire rotation from good year for free because I brought tires three years ago.
Sounds like a gem! Thanks for sharing your experience.
You have a 2004 that’s pretty reliable. I think this video is about 17-22 which have been notoriously have bad trannys and emissions/fuel system issues
Not the same engine and transmission as his 2019 which is under recall.
I am thankful I did not buy a new Pilot (not the turn of the century Pilot.)
Check your motor mounts and you're way overdue for a valve adjustment. I had our valve adjustment along with 6 plugs and gained 3 mpg. The thing flies. Well worth it.
We have had every generation- except the current one. We leased the last 3 cars. The digital volume was the worse part of one of them.
To this day we still believe that the first one has the best quality.
I owned a 2014 Pilot that I just replaced with a new Pilot. Never had any problems, ever! Don't really know if because you did work yourself, probably didn't do the recommended services, if you caused your own problems!
I'm glad I have watched your experience with this car. I was shopping for passport, pilot or a ridgeline. Not any longer.
Same here. I’ve always wanted a Pilot. I’m bummed….☹️
How are you driving backwards green screen?
I think If you change the transmission fluid the 3x to get it to 97% you should be good.
I have the same issue with my 2019 Pilot transmission and change the transmission fluid every 10-15 thousand miles. Some people have switched to a different fluid and claim that fixed the problem.
Good video. Thank you for creating it. Currently, I drive a 2015 Cadillac SRX. Looking to buy a brand new Pilot or Toyota Grand Highlander. Do you believe the new Pilots have these issues or has Honda corrected the problems? Thanks.
Get Goodyear assurance tires they lasted 80,000+ miles on my Acura MDX.
I have a 2019 Honda Pilot and what I would like to fix is the radio. The FM signal is not good, it gets lost very quickly when I am listening to a radio station.
Good video thanks. I have a 2018 Pilot that has been in service 6 times for code p2101 affecting the throttle body and now drive train modules. I am now being told it needs a new transmission at 55K miles. Limp mode 4 times and had I towed to dealer twice. Engaged with Honda America now.
Coolant?
No modern vehicle should require this level of detailed maintenance to stay reliable. Transmission fluid changes every 15 to 20 thousand miles? I was considering buying a used 2010 but there is no way the previous owners were this meticulous.
Make sure you have the oil pump seal and pick up tube seal replaced when you have the timing belt service done. Maybe yours falls under the engine recall.
Great video. I like the roof rack you have there, what's the part number if you don't mind, thanks.
I originally bought a 2020 Civic Sport Hatch brand new. Cool car but I am almost 7ft tall so that didn't pan as a good idea, plus it started losing a lot of coolant. Sold it with 50k miles in 2023 and took my parents 2017 Honda Pilot over that they originally bought new. They don't drive as much as I do so they only racked up 37k miles. I now have 44k and I can't complain too much. The transmission works ok but on occasion it will clunk between gears while driving around 40mph and that is a bit concerning. Otherwise the infotainment screen is a lot more sluggish than my civic but I will survive.
Before replacing those fuel injectors did you try cleaning them first with fuel injector cleaner? Techron fuel additive comes to mind. In your case since you haven't been cleaning your injectors regularly at every oil change you would have to add a whole bottle to a quarter tank of gas. Or put 2 or 3 bottles per tank and keep doing that until things are running smoothly. You might not have needed new injectors. They might have simply needed cleaning. People call stuff like "Techron" fuel additive snake oil, but it does work. The FTC would have had these products pulled from the shelves years ago if it was a scam. If you used fuel injector cleaner every 5,000 miles that would have cost a whole lot less money then $1,200 for new fuel injectors at 100,000 miles. I'm guessing you never used HEET fuel additive that removes water from the fuel tank with easier engine starts in the cold of winter? Water in the fuel causes metal to corrode and could have caused your fuel injectors to corrode out way too soon.
Honda ain’t what it used to be to be. Too many issues for 110,000 miles.
Good review.
Switch to Valvoline Maxlife ATF. Change it every 30-40K
If you have the 6 speed, switch to amsoil ss atf that will fix your shudder permenantly. If you have the 9 speed, use the liqui moly 1800. Works amazing in zf transmissions.
Chains don't last forever either. My 2021 EX-L has been great. Mine has the ZF 9-speed transmission which is a much better transmission.
They outlast the engine and rest of the car unless it’s a GM 3.6.
Honda/Acura never the best with transmissions but Pilots now have the newer 10 speed transmission.
Have a 2005 Honda Pilot with 278k miles, timing belt changed 2 twice. I get coupons from dealerships for oil changes, tire rotation. Most maintenance by mobile techs still strong.
It’s awesome that it’s still going strong after so many miles.
I have the same year and model. So far one tail light and the visors have gone bad at approximately 70k
I a have a 2019 exl res but the 2wd. I use a google tv for the screen. My rear entertainment was my issue. The cable in the back was reconnected and I’ve been good since. I replace my trans fluid every 30k. Oil at 20 percent. Never left me stranded. I don’t get the shutter ever and I’ve gone over the 30k. Just did the 100k and replaced plugs, all fluids, front control arms, sway bar links, timing belt, serpentine belt and bunch of other things at the dealership $4500 for everything. I’m at 97k. I don’t want to gamble. Good luck
was thinking about a 2020 ?
Honda isn’t what it used to be. I have a 2023 Cr-v hybrid and it’s had 3 recalls so far and many people on the forums are saying their injectors are failing within 10,000 miles. At this point i feel like it’s a matter of time before something major goes wrong. Im very nervous keeping this outside of the warranty.
Constant limited slip torque converters cook the friction inhibitors fairly quickly so when you have this technology in your transmission you need to change that fluid frequently , especially if you do a lot of city driving in the warmer locations.
I’d change that timing-belt. The good news is that most of the work isn’t difficult to perform yourself.
That transmision only hold 3.5 quarts on a drain and fill and 7.9 quarts on an initial fill. I you are putting 10 you are over filling by a large margin.
Don’t forget to change your timing belt tensioner, with all the above you listed
And water pump when changing timing belt!
My friend had a 2019. He got the shudder starting at 50,000. Eventually traded it in.
Currently have a 2010 Honda Pilot. Bought it when it was 2 years old from US. Had it maintained in Regina Honda Saskatchewan. For almost a decade. The services cost in the dealership is ridiculous. Thousands dollars per year. They are always finding an issue. Their services doesn't last that long. Trully a money pit. Rear door and passenger door is all rusty. Rear door is very bad now. And then guess what, majority of the 2010ish have bad rusty rear door. The same ridiculous service charges and recommendation when i go to Calgary Honda. Anytime you go to their shop, they fix one things and they discover a lot other issues. I have decided to use a local shop for some services. I am definitely not getting a jonda pilot again.
I had a 2019 Pilot and put 130k on it. Did the trans service 1 time at 30k.
Now have a 2024 pilot. Almost to 30K now.
How is it going with the 2024? Do you feel like the safety features and tech are better than the 2019?
I have a 2020 honda pilot exl with res and nav 47k miles.i bought it at 25k .first thing I did was disable the vcm in the pilot.at 30k I had a transmission shutter I did the 3x drain and fill transmission flush with tranny filter.then after I drain and fill every 10 to 15k ,and did the rear diff fluid change and transfer case fluid .I don't follow the reminder on car .I do all my own work .I also changed the tires at 25k from those terrible bridgestone duelers worst tires every .and bought michelin ltx tires best tires ever.and I just changed all 4 brakes at 45k cost me 450 bucks remind I do my own work.disabling the vcm helps the transmission over heating and stops the 3 injectors shut down when on highway for gas milege" and makes the car now a full v6 at all times and more power and stops injectors failures. The vcm is what made your injectors fail and transmission fluid over heat .I had to adjust headlights down also and fog lights up because mine were pointed to high also. I run fuel injector cleaning and also I put high octane 93 octane or 92 what ever is available. I got the recall for infotainment but I've never had issues with it yet so if it's not broken don't touch it.and also I'll be changing the coolant at 55k also.ive had good luck with my car so far been a great car
I have a 2019 2WD EXL with six speed transmission. When my transmission began buzzing and vibrating at 52,000 miles, I disabled the VCM and did a drain and fill on the transmission myself. Now at 117,500 miles, I have yet to have the buzzing or vibration return. I lost about 1/2 mpg after installing the VCM disabler. Definitely worth the investment.
@tonydietz7262 definitely well worth it .I installed it as soon as I got the car .after reading about the car and the transmission and the injectors and disabling half the engine when vcm is kicking on and off I believe the car will go 200k+ miles with vcm disabled .but if it's not i have 2 friends with the these pilots never disabled and lots of issues and injectors, mount problems and carbon build up and they both replaced the tranny already by 80k from fluid burning up .I do tranny fluid every 10 to 15k it's easier then oil change
I would personally never cheap on maintenance. I go to a good Machanic I have a relationship with, and trust him. I can watch him work if I choose to do that. Have had a CRV and a Fit, both of which required nothing other than routine maintenance. When timing belt work was due on the cRV, I paid for it. That car ran for over 300k and had no problems, just routine maintenance. The fit runs like new with 140k miles. I think cheating on the maintenance is a mistake
You let walmart employees wrench on your car? Dude...what are you thinking? Also, at 80$ per oil change that's about double the cost of the oil and filter and 10 minutes of your time.
I've never seen a walmart with an auto service center? but I live in the northeast so not here I guess
On the advice of Scotty Kilmer I don't rotate my tires any more. Actually I only did it for the one car I bought new. Never noticed any uneven wear patterns.
Most of my 40 or so cars I never touched my tranny fluid. Some went as high as 260,000 miles. Never any trouble. Once again, on my one new car I've changed it twice, now have 160,000. But I don't drain and fill. I change it all. Would you only change half your oil? Get rid of that money pit.
I regret buying our 2019 pilot because I don’t feel like I can trust it. We have to change trans fluid often as you say for the same reason. Also there is a recall on the fuel pump. Dealers didn’t have the parts so we had to wait until our pump actually failed to get it replaced. Dealer talked me into a timing belt at 90,000 based on oil leak/soak. My 2015 Silverado has been much more reliable and I thought the Chevy would be the one with problems and the Honda bulletproof based on the reputation from earlier Pilots. We have 95000 miles on the Pilot, 150,000 on the Silverado. I’ve changed the trans fluid once in the Chevy.
Talk about transmission, VCM and transmission fluid change. I own an accord. We do transmission every 30k. But it is way too smooth compared to pilot
Own a 2022 Pilot and we've had none of those issues. The worse thing is the back seat squeaks, which is surprising for a Honda. I can tell the build quality is not what it used to be, but I wonder if that was because of COVID. We'll see, but the Japanese car companies need not forget the poor perception of American built cars.
My 2005 Pilot has excellent build quality. My 2023 Passport Trailsport built by the good old boys in Alabama is excellent too. I might of bought a Mazda but being 6'2" I found the interiors to be cramped.
I’ve never been a huge fan of these cars. They’re just big and ungainly and just not attractive to me. But I see a TON of them so Honda must have done something right in the minds of the people that buy these things. Heck 3/8 of my neighbors own one of these things. With that being said, overall it sounds like the car has been fairly good to you as far as reliability. I know some things may be annoying, but these machines are complex and require maintenance and should be maintained properly. It seems like you’ve been doing just that and I’m sure the your wife (and the car) appreciates it. I think with these new cars a HUGE part of the problem is just knowing what’s wrong with the car, and in the case of the Pilot it seems like though the maintenance items may be frequent, at least it’s well known so owners don’t have to guess. And when it comes time to fix it, I think those prices are very reasonable. $15 for a quart of fluid is child’s play in my world. One quart of transmission fluid for my BMW 328d (diesel) is anywhere between $80 - $100 PER QUART lol. One diesel injector on that car is anywhere between $330 and $400 PER INJECTOR lol. So yeah, that Honda has been very good to you mate. Hope she continues to be good to you and the family. Here’s to another 100,000 miles 🙂💪🏾
Bottom line: the only real issue was with the injectors, most likely to crappy local gas supplier (too much ethanol). Timing belt lasts around 150k, you don't need to worry. Do it before you hit 110k using OEM parts like water pump, tensioner and pulley . What is coming next: alternator fail at around 120k-130k. Front suspension wear showing at 140K. Random engine sensors failing giving codes ($30 DIY fixes). Increased cabin noise due to door seals drying out. Inside rattle here and there. You will absolutely get increased oil consumption after 130k - get ready to consume up to a quarter of oil between oil changes. All and all Honda v6 cars are good cars
I am not convinced that the shudders were caused by the transmission fluid being old. There is something else that is causing the shuddering.
You should consult with a transmission specialist to find where it went wrong instead of guessing by yourself..
Yes, it is caused by the transmission fluid. I had it happen with my Ridgeline, that has same engine and transmission as the Pilot. Changing the transmission fluid fixed the problem.
Depending on your financial situation, of course. And how much you drive. It's a bit unwise to hold on to "modern" vehicle for more than 80-90K. I own a '20 Passport and constant fluid changes get a bit tiresome. Engine oil, transmission oil, diff oil, brake fluid. It seem like every few month I have to tend to some sort of fluid change. Also, you are correct, timing belt is a big drawback. On top of that, the engine is direct injection only. Which, if you not careful with gas, you can get fouling issue fairly early. Honda "recommends" taking a head off and cleaning valves at 56K miles!! That's easy $2K+ job. I got 4 years 80K extended warranty for $900 when the car was at 35K. So once I hit 75K, I am out. As consolation, this is about the only NA v6 in a mid-size SUV on a market today. Turbo 4-bangers are even worth. I am not a huge fan of leasing, but looks like there is not much choice going forward.
I have a 2016 pilot with 105,000 mile. Transmission fluid change is a must radio for seri X satellite radio stop working . Honda wanted $2500 to change antenna. I switched to $10 a month and Bluetooth great music again . Have to change timing belt soon. Will used my local garage maybe . The seats are very wrong for my wife and I both over 6’ tail. Drive to Florida each winter 2400 miles
Fuel injectors were covered by extended warranty 150,000 miles or ten years. If you did before the warranty, they are to refund that.
I have the Ridgeline (2018) and it will probably be my last Honda. Too many problems and maintenance required for a late model vehicle.
Yep, I was going to say the same thing. I've had the injectors replaced 2 times under the extended warranty. I think it's 10 years 120k miles, but regardless you should not have had to pay for this replacement of the injectors
Nice video I have a 2018 pilot elite i have problem with the automatic high beam it just kept the light in high most of the time or just lower it when the coming traffic car is about 20 foot, so people always put the high beam on m
Those lights can be annoying for sure.