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    Honda Pilot

    EPA MPG: 21 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2018 Pilot is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

    The 2018 Honda Pilot has been recalled 5 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2018 Honda Pilot owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    Keyless entry

    "Going back several months the rear passenger side door does not lock or unlock with the FOB or automatically. Problem has not yet been fixed due to cost."

    Anonymous A., NH (2018 Honda Pilot LX 3.5-L V6)

    "During a very heavy rain the ac stopped working, the turn signals dash lights were lighting erratically & the start/stop button turned flashing red & wouldn't turn off the engine with just a push. You had to push & hold the button to kill the engine. The issues resolved themselves, except I had to reset the walk away lock settings. I've only had the issue once since we bought the vehicle in February of 2025."

    Anonymous, MD (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)
    Other electrical system problem

    "During a very heavy rain the ac stopped working, the turn signals dash lights were lighting erratically & the start/stop button turned flashing red & wouldn't turn off the engine with just a push. You had to push & hold the button to kill the engine. The issues resolved themselves, except I had to reset the walk away lock settings. I've only had the issue once since we bought the vehicle in February of 2025."

    Anonymous, MD (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    "Full explanation prev."

    Anonymous, WI (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)

    "The garage door opener broke in 2 years. Then the second butting broke. Junk"

    Anonymous, MN (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    "A few weeks ago the passenger side front window will no longer open. This is the case when I try to open it from the passenger side controls or the controls on the drivers side."

    Anonymous A., NH (2018 Honda Pilot LX 3.5-L V6)
    Remote engine starter

    "Sometimes the remote start will not activate until several attempts and sometimes not at all."

    Anonymous A., (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    What Owners Say

    Emission control devices (includes EGR)

    ""Get warning, has been a recall but Honda keeps telling me they dont have the part to fix it""

    Anonymous, IL (2018 Honda Pilot LX 3.5-L V6)
    Fuel injection system

    "Engine needed to be flushed. Debris in the fuel lines."

    Anonymous, LA (2018 Honda Pilot Unsure 3.5-L V6)
    Fuel pump

    "Safety recall to replace fuel pump."

    Anonymous, SK (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    "Recall"

    Anonymous, OH (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)
    Other emissions/fuel system problem

    ""The throttle sensitivity is very heavy. It is not smooth. Its either a huge delay, or a jarring, aggressive acceleration.""

    Anonymous A., OH (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)

    "Not sure when it started. Car was performing properly about 2 years ago. We got a recall notice about 1 year ago, but had to wait about 6 months for the fix due to parts shortage."

    Anonymous, (2018 Honda Pilot EX 3.5-L V6)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Apple CarPlay

    "Wireless Connectivity is sometimes a problem. Even plugging in to the usb has connectivity problems infrequently."

    Anonymous A., OH (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)
    Backup or other camera/sensors

    ""The dash infotainment screen is 50% intermittent from start of engine. This screen is the backup camera monitor, right turn camera monitor, navigation screen, as well as other infotainment options. Seems important enough for a recall/replacement. But dealer estimates a $2,000 - $3,000 for replacement. And, replacement requires excessive breakdown of dash to changeout of this 5 cable device attachment and mounting excessively difficult? My laptop uses one lightning connector? Also contacted the NATL. Traffic Safety about issue.""

    Anonymous, OH (2018 Honda Pilot LX 3.5-L V6)
    Display screen freezes up

    "Center console display screen freezes up when using plug in music."

    Anonymous, AK (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)
    Display screen goes blank

    ""Display screen goes blank 50% of time from engine start and stays blank; this issue eliminates view of backup camera, radio, navigation maps, etc. Dealer estimates replacement between $2,000 - $3,000!""

    Anonymous, OH (2018 Honda Pilot LX 3.5-L V6)

    "Intermittently the screen display will be blank, often when the car 1st starts.Often the only way to fix it is turn off the car."

    Anonymous, (2018 Honda Pilot EX 3.5-L V6)
    Heads-up display

    ""All warning lights cycle, then no display at all for speed. Known issue and warranty extended by Honda for this issue. To be fixed under that recall program""

    Anonymous, AK (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Catalytic converter

    "Alart light started being on a few months before the actual repair. It took for white figuring out the cause but the dealership mechanic found it. Since my Pilot had a 10yr or 100,000miles warranty paid for, it was repaired by no out of pocket."

    Anonymous, (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)
    Other/unsure

    ""starter won't work, start/stop wont start car, properly and 3 times dealer refused to fix it as part of recall. Car once stopped on freeway, electrical system rebooted, wont start backup. Then on 4th attempt they replaced all components as part of recall that fixed all issues""

    Anonymous, NJ (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)

    "Weird issue with the sunroof where it wouldnt close. Repaired at the dealership. Also the rear hydraulic tailgate lift started squealing but that would cost $1600 to replace so we have not done so yet. Cannot easily swap out in our own"

    Anonymous A., VA (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    "Trouble keeping mirrors in the preset positions"

    Anonymous, LA (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Torque converter

    "Had a warning message regarding the transmission. I really didn't notice anything wrong. Torgue converter was replaced under the dealers free unlimited drivetrain warranty"

    Anonymous A., MN (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    "I didnt experience a problem. The dashboard displayed a problem code. Two days later I took it to a dealer and they diagnosed the problem."

    Anonymous, NV (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    "Safety recall to check if torque converter piston is seizing. piston seizing intermittently."

    Anonymous, SK (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)
    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    ""transmission had torque coverter diagnostic codes. honda replaced under honda care at 70k miles. to their credit,they covered post warranty.""

    Anonymous, PA (2018 Honda Pilot EX 3.5-L V6)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose exterior trim or moldings

    "rubber trim on roof joints dried out cracked and split after 2 years. Cost several hundred dollars to replace. Ended up cutting the rubber off and leaving the exposed rail underneath"

    Anonymous, AZ (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    "Trim around the edge of front driver & passenger doors has loosened over time and has had to be fastened back on several times."

    Anonymous, MD (2018 Honda Pilot Elite 3.5-L V6)
    Other paint & trim problem

    "All of the exterior rubber and plastic surfaces faded from black to gray in less than 2 years"

    Anonymous, AZ (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    CV joint

    "Ball joints should last longer"

    Anonymous, AR (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)
    Driveshaft or axle

    "Never had a car/suv with cracked axle beforemy 2007 Honda Pilot still driven by niece and hasnt had any major issues. My previous 2004AcuraRL never had major issues before I sold it after owning it 14 years. This Pilot has had more small and major issues than my previous Pilot and RL combined. I plan to trade in next few years for a Toyota likely a highlander possibly a Hybrid."

    Anonymous, SC (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other minor transmission & clutch problem

    ""The transmission would start surging RPM would vary, sometimes accelerating hesitated. Had transmission fluid changed and an anti surge additive used""

    Anonymous, NY (2018 Honda Pilot EX 3.5-L V6)
    Slipping transmission

    "Needed fluid change."

    Anonymous, FL (2018 Honda Pilot Touring 3.5-L V6)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    What Owners Say

    Seat controls - power

    "Needed new motor"

    Anonymous A., CT (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    What Owners Say

    Auto stop/start malfunction

    ""Auto off engaged, car shut off, released brake, no restart, display instructed to put vehicle into park and restart, all while exiting a freeway""

    Anonymous A., AZ (2018 Honda Pilot Touring 3.5-L V6)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other minor engine problem

    "same - auto off restart"

    Anonymous A., AZ (2018 Honda Pilot Touring 3.5-L V6)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Bushings

    "Bushings cracked and broken"

    Anonymous, AR (2018 Honda Pilot EX-L 3.5-L V6)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    2018 SUVs Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Honda vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
    Engine Minor
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
    Dec 18, 2023
    Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V858000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 2490460
    ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
    Nov 13, 2023
    A damaged engine may run improperly or stall while driving, increasing the risk of a fire, crash, or injury.
    Summary:
    Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Acura TLX, 2016-2020 Acura MDX, 2016 and 2018-2019 Pilot, 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Odyssey vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the connecting rod bearing in the engine may wear and seize, damaging the engine.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will inspect and repair, or replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 28, 2024. 2016-2017 Acura MDX owner letters were mailed November 1, 2024. 2016-2020 Acura MDX owner letters are expected to be mailed in mid-December 2024. Honda began mailing owner notification letters as of March 18, 2024. 2015-2016 Acura owner letters are expected to be mailed mid-December 2024, 2018 Acura TLX owner letters are expected to be mailed the end of March/early April 2024, 2019 Acura TLX owner letters are expected to be mailed mid-May 2024, 2020 Acura TLX owner letters are expected to be mailed mid-June 2024, and 2016-2020 Acura MDX owner letters are expected to be mailed January 27, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XG1 and GG0.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V751000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 248999
    LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES, STRUCTURE
    Nov 29, 2021
    A hood that opens while driving can obstruct the driver's view and increase the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2019 Passport, 2016-2019 Pilot, and 2017-2020 Ridgeline vehicles. The hood latch striker may become damaged and separate from the hood, which can result in the hood opening while driving.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will either repair the hood latch striker, or replace the hood if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 18, 2022. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is PBV.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 21V932000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 724826
    ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
    Apr 12, 2019
    Teeth separation from the timing belt may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of crash.
    Summary:
    Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Acura MDX and Honda Pilot vehicles and 2019 Acura RLX, RLX Sport Hybrid, TLX and Honda Odyssey and Ridgeline vehicles. The timing belt teeth may separate from the belt.
    What should you do:
    Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle and replace any affected timing belt free of charge. Vehicles receiving a replacement timing belt will also have the engine inspected and any damaged components will be replaced for free. The recall began June 7, 2019. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is L4M. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is Z4L.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V298000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 93946
    SEATS
    Apr 05, 2018
    In the event of a crash, if the seat does not remain secured to the floor, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
    Summary:
    Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018 Honda Pilot and Ridgeline vehicles and 2018 Acura MDX vehicles. The front driver and passenger powered seats in the Honda vehicles and the driver powered seats in the Acura vehicles may have been assembled with improperly manufactured rivets. In the event of a crash, the rivets can break causing the seats not to be secured to the floor. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems," and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
    What should you do:
    Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver seat frame assembly in Acura MDX vehicles, and replace the driver and front passenger seat slide rail frames in Honda Pilot and Ridgeline vehicles, free of charge. The recall began May 30, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall is D0S, and T0T.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 18V221000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 5810
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