Use synthetic oil Disable VCM Check oil level often Replace engine oil ahead of maintenance schedule Follow all recommended fluid change intervals. Also flush out your power steering fluid (easy to do) to save the seals in the steering rack and increase pump service life. Use Honda fluids (except engine oil) Clean out the water drain holes located at the bottom of all doors Clean off the rear a/c air intake located under the front cup holders near floor, passenger side. Plan for front camshaft failure at 140k, many of these engines have an oiling issue that destroys the front cam. Plan on replacing the VTEC solenoid gasket at around 100k, the engine will leak oil around the solenoid (near the dipstick hole) and the oil will eventually destroy the alternator if not fixed. This is an easy diy job. I've done all the maintenance/repairs myself. The Pilot is pretty easy to work on. Other than that it is a solid vehicle and holds up well, and is well designed. I am at 144k on my '10 Touring 4x4 -no squeaks or rattles. Probably never selling it.
Thanks for this post I am probably going to do eventually all the things you mentioned on mine. Question though... how does one prepare for a camshaft failure?
I wouldn't call it easy to work on. But yes I have had my VCM disabled... didn't help much still had to replace 2 cats and 2 O2 sensors one still is giving me issues VTEC Solenoid replaced after 3 alternator replaced did this myself Just now today replace dead HVAC mode motor that wasn't working and a aux mode door actuator that was doing the clicking. I have a 2010 Pilot AWD I bought it with 150k I have 190k on it now.
@@FreshTopEnd Learn what causes it. It is a common in the Pilot and Odyssey of this generation. Take preventative measures to avoid the problem: keep motor oil full, change oil on or ahead of schedule, use a synthetic motor oil. It is still unknown why only the front cam fails (it is rare for the front and rear to both fail). It is probably either a lack of oil (due to owner negligence or a design problem with the engine) or a problem in the hardening process for these cams.
Me too, I call the generation after the wimpy pilot... It has zero character...boring round lines. Also, it would be hell to work on as the front end is very short. It simply looks like a larger CRV, yet somehow they shoved a V-6 under the hood. My hands hurt just thinking about working in that tiny engine bay.
I have a 2014 Pilot with 80k miles, suv started shaking while driving and then the Check Engine Light came up… took it to the Stealership and was told Piston Ring Failed or something like that… $6500 price to fix, I said no!!! It had fouled up my spark plugs… I did some research and there is a plug and play item called S-VCM controller to disable the VCM on the vehicle which is the main problem…. I just ordered it and about to change my spark plugs…. I hope it works!!! Crossing my fingers!!!
@@KeyonnaDI added the VCM Muzzler at 80K on my 2014. Noticed an immediate shifting and operability improvement along with zero oil consumption. (Honda also issued a transmission software update if needed),140K with no issues other than oil leaks
My 2004 pilot has 263k on it. The transmission and engine are original and running strong. Its a great car and I expect at least another 100k out of it.
I do everything myself except the timing belt and water pump at the hundred thousand miles. I bought a VCM disabler and put it in myself, no problem. I do all the brakes and fluids, Honda only except for oil. Mobile one. I love this car. I bought it with 40,000 miles on it and now I’ve got 160,000.❤
The VCM (Eco Mode) has been a disaster. I had misfired, and took my vehicle to the dealership and was told I needed a new spark plug. At that time, I had 72K. Never once did they mention about the class action suit. Anyhow, when I hit 107K, I was having a misfire on the same cylinder. This time I was told I had the piston ring is the cause, so a rebuild was recommended. I had a non dealership mechanic do the work, and he told me the back cylinders were blackened, which are the three cylinders that shuts off during VCM mode (eco mode). Luckily, I got the rebuild done for a deal since this mechanic has worked with me for 15 years.
Mine fouled out the #1 spark plug about every 10,000 miles, and did drink some oil. Installed a VCMuzzler and the problem went away (still uses a little more oil than it should). It's been rock solid ever since, and now has about 175,000 miles on it. Wonderful vehicle otherwise. Minimal other problems and it sure is a great people/stuff hauler.
I would have gotten an undercarriage rust treatment if I had a do over. Also I replaced timing belt around 100k but three different mechanics have redone the timing belt cover. Weird. Must be a trick to it. I luv the engine,overall vehicle has been very reliable and nicely signals you of the need for a repair without it breaking down. 2012 owner here.
I have a 2009 Honda pilot ,I bought new and have 180 thousand miles on it, and not one major problems, just normal maintenance. And one timing belt kit at 125thousand miles. Just hangs the fluids ontime,did bypass the vcm
Just stared driving a 2018 and love it ! Have almost 70k miles. Poor design on putting in a rubber timing belt instead of a chain like everyother auto maker has gone to !
@@NaztyNapkinz this is partially true, however if the rings are already frozen in place you may still have oil consumption issues. Valvoline Restore & Protect Full Synthetic Motor Oil, is claimed to clean an engine slowly over a few oil changes and my help frozen rings. Slow is the key, you don't want all the loosened sludge debris to clog anything.
Pilot is one of the most reliable cars lmao. Surely, VCM disable is the way to go. But like seriously, dude, they last 350K+ miles well maintained like nothing. Every, I mean, EVERY SINGLE CAR will have "plenty" of issues, but is the severity of these issues that varies. Guy on the video like to sell fear.
For ring issues/oil consumption / if the rings are already frozen in place Valvoline Restore & Protect Full Synthetic Motor Oil, is claimed to clean an engine slowly over a few oil changes and may help frozen rings. Slow is the key, you don't want all the loosened sludge debris to clog anything.
The 2009 pilot is the way to go. I bought a 2009 pilot ex-l myself and absolutely love it, has 192,000 on it and drives like new!!!!! Those terrains are garbage
Any quality synthetic motor oil is fine. As for the other fluids stick to the Honda OEM fluids for: trans, rear differential, power steering. They are designed to work with the Honda guts. The transfer case just requires gear oil (hypoid I believe) -doesn't have to be from Honda.
Honda fluids really are superior and not really any more expensive than the "universal" stuff on the shelf at the parts store. Many Honda owners have ended up with problems when they fall for a "recommended maintenance" at a chain tire and repair shop, who then does a transmission flush or service. The shop uses the same Automatic trans fluid they put in everything they work on, and it causes transmission issues. My 2014 CRV has 260K miles and runs well. I expect to drive it to 350-400K miles with no problems. It gets mostly DIY service. 5K oil changes with any brand of full synthetic and a Honda OEM filter. I do the rear differential and the trans ever 15K miles. Coolant and brake fluid flush every two years. Oil and brake fluid are any reputable brand. Trans fluid. Differential fluid and coolant are Honda products.
I have a 2013, other than having a cheap timing belt put on and less than a year snapping.(miraculously it didn't destroy the motor) its a decent vehicle.And here on out Ill spend a bit more for a better quality Timing belt kit when the time comes.
Use synthetic oil
Disable VCM
Check oil level often
Replace engine oil ahead of maintenance schedule
Follow all recommended fluid change intervals. Also flush out your power steering fluid (easy to do) to save the seals in the steering rack and increase pump service life.
Use Honda fluids (except engine oil)
Clean out the water drain holes located at the bottom of all doors
Clean off the rear a/c air intake located under the front cup holders near floor, passenger side.
Plan for front camshaft failure at 140k, many of these engines have an oiling issue that destroys the front cam.
Plan on replacing the VTEC solenoid gasket at around 100k, the engine will leak oil around the solenoid (near the dipstick hole) and the oil will eventually destroy the alternator if not fixed. This is an easy diy job.
I've done all the maintenance/repairs myself. The Pilot is pretty easy to work on.
Other than that it is a solid vehicle and holds up well, and is well designed. I am at 144k on my '10 Touring 4x4 -no squeaks or rattles. Probably never selling it.
Thanks for this post I am probably going to do eventually all the things you mentioned on mine. Question though... how does one prepare for a camshaft failure?
How do we disconnect the VCM
@@dustin1870 buy a vcm disabler it's plug and play and costs 80-100 bucks plugs into a coolant sensor that's easily accessible
I wouldn't call it easy to work on. But yes I have had my
VCM disabled... didn't help much still had to replace 2 cats and 2 O2 sensors one still is giving me issues
VTEC Solenoid replaced after 3 alternator replaced did this myself
Just now today replace dead HVAC mode motor that wasn't working and a aux mode door actuator that was doing the clicking.
I have a 2010 Pilot AWD I bought it with 150k I have 190k on it now.
@@FreshTopEnd Learn what causes it. It is a common in the Pilot and Odyssey of this generation. Take preventative measures to avoid the problem: keep motor oil full, change oil on or ahead of schedule, use a synthetic motor oil. It is still unknown why only the front cam fails (it is rare for the front and rear to both fail). It is probably either a lack of oil (due to owner negligence or a design problem with the engine) or a problem in the hardening process for these cams.
Mine is the 2009 EX-L with 194,000 miles runs & drives like a dream!!!! No complaints at all
Mine has 300+ k miles so I can’t complain
Have you ever had a valve adjustment done on your pilot?
I guess my 2011 with 300k is gonna be good for awhile
so when normal driving, it is in awd mode? like power will go front to rear? it has a 4WD for under 30km/hr but normal driving it is awd?
I like the boxy design of these, I wish they didn’t move so far away from it
The new ones are going back to it beautiful design.
Me too, I call the generation after the wimpy pilot... It has zero character...boring round lines. Also, it would be hell to work on as the front end is very short. It simply looks like a larger CRV, yet somehow they shoved a V-6 under the hood. My hands hurt just thinking about working in that tiny engine bay.
I have a 2014 Pilot with 80k miles, suv started shaking while driving and then the Check Engine Light came up… took it to the Stealership and was told Piston Ring Failed or something like that… $6500 price to fix, I said no!!! It had fouled up my spark plugs… I did some research and there is a plug and play item called S-VCM controller to disable the VCM on the vehicle which is the main problem…. I just ordered it and about to change my spark plugs…. I hope it works!!! Crossing my fingers!!!
update?
Did it work? I’m looking at buying a 2014 Pilot… I’m doing my research to see if it’s a good idea
@@KeyonnaDI added the VCM Muzzler at 80K on my 2014. Noticed an immediate shifting and operability improvement along with zero oil consumption. (Honda also issued a transmission software update if needed),140K with no issues other than oil leaks
My 2004 pilot has 263k on it. The transmission and engine are original and running strong. Its a great car and I expect at least another 100k out of it.
I have a 2009 running 199k now. Just done changing the timing belt, it’s still running great.
I do everything myself except the timing belt and water pump at the hundred thousand miles. I bought a VCM disabler and put it in myself, no problem. I do all the brakes and fluids, Honda only except for oil. Mobile one. I love this car. I bought it with 40,000 miles on it and now I’ve got 160,000.❤
I had a 2009 Touring, it died in 2023 with 350K km, i love that car!
The VCM (Eco Mode) has been a disaster. I had misfired, and took my vehicle to the dealership and was told I needed a new spark plug. At that time, I had 72K. Never once did they mention about the class action suit. Anyhow, when I hit 107K, I was having a misfire on the same cylinder. This time I was told I had the piston ring is the cause, so a rebuild was recommended. I had a non dealership mechanic do the work, and he told me the back cylinders were blackened, which are the three cylinders that shuts off during VCM mode (eco mode). Luckily, I got the rebuild done for a deal since this mechanic has worked with me for 15 years.
Mine fouled out the #1 spark plug about every 10,000 miles, and did drink some oil. Installed a VCMuzzler and the problem went away (still uses a little more oil than it should). It's been rock solid ever since, and now has about 175,000 miles on it. Wonderful vehicle otherwise. Minimal other problems and it sure is a great people/stuff hauler.
My spark plug #1 always get fouled in 10000 miles or so. Started at 250k miles though. It does lose oil too.
Have you ever had a valve adjustment done on your pilot?
@@StabChem1Have you ever had a valve adjustment done on your pilot?
What exactly is a VCmuzzler? And how does it remedy the problem if the burning is due to the Piston rings?
@@OurEssentialEssence Nope. Just passed 200k at it still runs great.
I would have gotten an undercarriage rust treatment if I had a do over. Also I replaced timing belt around 100k but three different mechanics have redone the timing belt cover. Weird. Must be a trick to it. I luv the engine,overall vehicle has been very reliable and nicely signals you of the need for a repair without it breaking down. 2012 owner here.
is your rear tailgate showing signs of rust? Mine has rust on the main face of the rear hatch and by the joint of the rear window wiper
Just got a safety recall for fuel pump. Free replacement not available til fall 6+ months away
I have a 2009 Honda pilot ,I bought new and have 180 thousand miles on it, and not one major problems, just normal maintenance. And one timing belt kit at 125thousand miles. Just hangs the fluids ontime,did bypass the vcm
160,000 on ours. Only complaint is the paint. Pearl white. Peeling like crazy. Mechanicall has been excellent.
saqme thing with my 2011 and blue paint
I just bought a 2010 with 80 K miles ,we’ll see how it goes!
How did they keep the miles so low? I always hear of people messing with odometers
Looking at 2012 with 56k not believable, right?
@@karladelagdo9712 I just bought a 2012 EXL with 64,000! Got it for $14,000. Mint condition from a Honda dealer. Pretty stoked.
Just stared driving a 2018 and love it ! Have almost 70k miles. Poor design on putting in a rubber timing belt instead of a chain like everyother auto maker has gone to !
Completely different year
Different generation
If you disable the vcm, the oil issue goes away!
How do you disable the vim?
@@thomasboyle1552 svcm disabler
@@thomasboyle1552buy a vcm muzzler
@@thomasboyle1552 add on part, piggybacks off a sensor in the engine bay
@@NaztyNapkinz this is partially true, however if the rings are already frozen in place you may still have oil consumption issues. Valvoline Restore & Protect Full Synthetic Motor Oil, is claimed to clean an engine slowly over a few oil changes and my help frozen rings. Slow is the key, you don't want all the loosened sludge debris to clog anything.
Never mind, bro just killed my purchase
It’s a super reliable car. Only major thing to replace is the timing belt.
Pilot is one of the most reliable cars lmao. Surely, VCM disable is the way to go. But like seriously, dude, they last 350K+ miles well maintained like nothing. Every, I mean, EVERY SINGLE CAR will have "plenty" of issues, but is the severity of these issues that varies. Guy on the video like to sell fear.
I did my front driver side wheel bearing not to bad of a job.
Best suv
For ring issues/oil consumption / if the rings are already frozen in place Valvoline Restore & Protect Full Synthetic Motor Oil, is claimed to clean an engine slowly over a few oil changes and may help frozen rings. Slow is the key, you don't want all the loosened sludge debris to clog anything.
gmc terrain 2011 and honda pilot 2009 please which is better to buy in 2024
The 2009 pilot is the way to go. I bought a 2009 pilot ex-l myself and absolutely love it, has 192,000 on it and drives like new!!!!! Those terrains are garbage
Do u recommend this car in 2023? Looking to buy one for my wife and what year would u recommend?
Same question for me!!!!!
I do. I just have that vibration problem they were talking about when going 70. Other than that it’s great at 83k miles
Drives like a truck as well. It’d great in the snow well. Haven’t had oil problems.
@@CO.Electrical what year model do u have
@@smileyk4129 2013 pilot EL
The timing belt at 60 ?
No, 105K normal driving.
Naw, 105K for most all drivers. I just do mine every 100k. Easier to keep track of that way, using the odometer as the mileage record.
These are mostly just regular maintenance stuff.
What about the 2013
Mine has been good. Needed transmission work at 150k. Needed timing belt at 170k. Needed crank shaft seal at 230k.
@@sathdk79how many miles are you at now,thanks
@@ROMEO-so2jw 245k. driving less for a bit. just did brakes/tires again
10 miles per gallon, any advice? 2011 pilot.
Replace
I have a 2009 Touring. Tell me why you say use Honda fluid except engine oil??
Any quality synthetic motor oil is fine.
As for the other fluids stick to the Honda OEM fluids for: trans, rear differential, power steering. They are designed to work with the Honda guts. The transfer case just requires gear oil (hypoid I believe) -doesn't have to be from Honda.
Honda fluids really are superior and not really any more expensive than the "universal" stuff on the shelf at the parts store. Many Honda owners have ended up with problems when they fall for a "recommended maintenance" at a chain tire and repair shop, who then does a transmission flush or service. The shop uses the same Automatic trans fluid they put in everything they work on, and it causes transmission issues.
My 2014 CRV has 260K miles and runs well. I expect to drive it to 350-400K miles with no problems. It gets mostly DIY service. 5K oil changes with any brand of full synthetic and a Honda OEM filter. I do the rear differential and the trans ever 15K miles. Coolant and brake fluid flush every two years. Oil and brake fluid are any reputable brand. Trans fluid. Differential fluid and coolant are Honda products.
لدي سياره بايلوت٢٠١٣ ضهرت فيها هذه العلامه
Engine blown…oil consumption was crazy. 😢
สวยจังอยากได้รุ่นนี้แหละ😊
WOW OH WOW. I am thinking about getting one. Between a 12 to say a 16.
12-15, 16 was problematic with the 9 speed gearbox.
Looks like a truck to me
lol!!! 300 for a wheel bearing. 😂😂😂 where?
Probably the dealership. Fuck that lol! 😂
Anything else? lol 😂
I keep my 2010 Toyota Sequoia it's the best SUV ever made
What about the 2013
I have a 2013, other than having a cheap timing belt put on and less than a year snapping.(miraculously it didn't destroy the motor) its a decent vehicle.And here on out Ill spend a bit more for a better quality Timing belt kit when the time comes.