1,315 of the
13,073 complaints filed about the Honda Pilot
are about the transmission —
10% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2003.
1,315
Complaints
10%
Share of all complaints
33
Crashes
7
Fires
Transmission & Drivetrain complaints by model year
The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the engine light was illuminated. The transmission emission message was displayed. The contact stated that the failure was associated with DTC: P0777. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who recommended a transmission flush. After the transmission flush the vehicle failed to shift from second to third gear. The vehicle was taken to the dealer a second time and another transmission flush was recommended and the dealer eventually determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000.
NHTSA complaint #11758192 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The steering wheel became extremely difficult for my husband to turn. Power steering went out on my 2025 Honda Pilot Trailsport. Numerous warnings were then displayed on the vehicle's dashboard screen, it was impossible to drive, and caused us to have to get towed. We had it towed to a Honda dealer for repair, where it was discovered that the steering wheel had more turns in one direction than the other, the shaft boot was misplaced, non-factory pins on the steering rack were noted, and the clock spring was stuck reading 508 degrees. Furthermore, the steering wheel rack gearbox had to be replaced following a steering angle sensor failure in my 2025 Honda Pilot Trailsport. This is a serious safety issue and should have never have happened in such a new vehicle. This incident not only put my family's lives at risk, but also everyone else on the roadway. Why did my vehicle that I bought brand new and have only serviced at Honda have non-factory parts?
NHTSA complaint #11756592 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware that the transmission was slipping. The contact stated that the failure had occurred after the vehicle had been driven for two to three hours. In addition, the contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera screen flashed on and off. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The transmission fluids were flushed. The contact stated that the transmission fluids had been flushed and refilled four times within the year. The contact referenced an unknown recall repair for the rear-view camera; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 60,000.
NHTSA complaint #11755322 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle since purchase has a delay of a few seconds after hitting the gas pedal to move forward. Once the vehicle does decide to move, it surges to a high rpm before switching to second gear moving forward rather aggressively. This causes the vehicle to be unpredictable and unsafe when making decisions in navigating traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11754575 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am reporting a severe safety defect regarding the automatic transmission on my 2020 Honda Pilot AWD (VIN: [XXX]). The vehicle experiences a violent and constant transmission vibration/judder under light throttle acceleration. On XXX, at 127,073 miles, an authorized Honda dealership officially diagnosed the vehicle under Repair Order # XXX, confirming the presence of "shudder at light throttle". Despite changing the transmission fluid as required by maintenance schedules, the issue persists. This failure causes unexpected vehicle hesitation and jerky shifts while driving at highway speeds, creating a high risk of rear-end collisions and posing an immediate safety hazard to my family and other drivers on the road. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11754200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2022 Honda Pilot Black Edition (VIN [XXX], 62,900 miles) has multiple intermittent safety‑critical failures involving the transmission, acceleration, adaptive cruise control, and HVAC blower. These issues occur without warning and without diagnostic trouble codes. Transmission/Acceleration Failure: Most recent incident was XXX on Highway 71 during heavy traffic. The vehicle twice experienced rapid deceleration with no ability to reach a safety stop. RPM dropped below 1000, then spiked to 6,000–8,000 while the vehicle continued to lose speed. Acceleration returned only after several seconds. This also occurs during highway merging and uphill acceleration. Additionally, when disengaging cruise control and immediately pressing the accelerator, the vehicle loses speed, RPM drops abnormally low, then spikes before power returns. Adaptive Cruise Control/Honda Sensing Failure: On XXX the vehicle rapidly decelerated when a semi‑truck was beside me, despite no vehicle ahead. The week prior, while driving several states away, setting cruise at 70 mph caused sudden deceleration and cruise resetting itself to ~54 mph. These events resemble phantom braking and radar mis‑targeting. HVAC Blower Failure: During a long multi‑state trip the week prior, the AC blower (speed 3–4) intermittently stopped blowing for several seconds, then resumed at the same speed with no change to the display. These failures affect powertrain, forward collision avoidance, vehicle speed control, electrical systems, and cabin equipment. The dealership (Roush Honda, Westerville OH) cannot replicate the issues and reports no stored codes. These defects pose significant safety risks. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11754084 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On June 25, 2026 my 2025 Honda Pilot Elite (47,503 miles) upon ignition had every warning light in the system illuminate sequentially without any prior incident. I had never experienced any indication of malfunction, including warning lights or messages. The Emissions System Problem light remained illuminated on the dashboard and, after review of the Owner's Manual instructions to avoid heavy acceleration and high speed, I had the vehicle towed by AAA on a flatbed truck 75 miles to my home. The incident occurred during the evening and the next morning I drove the vehicle to Herb Chambers Honda of Seekonk, the dealer who has performed every service on the vehicle, including recalls. Of note is that the service team at the Honda dealer, specifically Malainne Costa, has been exceptional in addressing this issue. American Honda was consulted to determine the best plan for resolution. I understand that American Honda is trying to work through necessary adjustments with the new 2025 model year. One month after the incident, my vehicle remains at the dealer. I learned that the two cylinder heads in the engine block on my vehicle need to be replaced and those parts are still on backorder. Another engine component system may require replacement due to calcium buildup on the intake valves. I was assured that my driving habits were not a factor in this incident. My concern is that this incident occurred at a time when I was in a safe location and was able to await the arrival of AAA without worry about my personal safety. I bought the brand new vehicle in November, 2024 and it is obvious that I drive a significant amount of miles per year. I worry about the safety risk of other drivers having a similar experience in a less than optimal location especially since there was no indication of a problem prior to this critical incident. I share this incident in the spirit of exploring whether this is a systemwide problem that may result in a safety recall by Honda.
NHTSA complaint #11753320 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
2018 Honda Pilot Transmission Failed at Only 34,726 Miles I want to share my experience so other Honda owners are aware of a very premature transmission failure. I am the original owner of a 2018 Honda Pilot with only 34,726 miles. My family has trusted Honda for many years, and my wife also drives a Honda HR-V. We believed Honda vehicles were reliable. While driving, my Pilot suddenly showed a “Transmission System Problem” warning. The vehicle became very slow and later was unable to engage into gear. I had to tow it to Capital Honda in San Jose. Capital Honda diagnosed a complete transmission failure requiring a full replacement. The repair cost was about $11,800. I appreciate that American Honda provided goodwill assistance and covered a large portion of the repair. With that assistance, my out-of-pocket cost was reduced to $3,500. However, I am frustrated and disappointed that a Honda transmission could fail completely at only 34,726 miles. This is unacceptable for such a low-mileage vehicle, especially from a company known for engineering quality and reliability. All maintenance was completed on time at Honda dealerships. About six months before the failure, the transmission fluid service was also performed at a Honda dealer. I did not neglect this vehicle. Because of the low mileage, I asked American Honda to review my case for additional goodwill assistance. Unfortunately, that request was declined. Again, I appreciate the assistance already provided, but as a loyal Honda customer, I am deeply disappointed that I still have to pay $3,500 for a major transmission failure that happened far too early. I am sharing this so other Honda Pilot owners can watch for warning signs such as warning messages, delayed engagement, slipping, jerking, or abnormal shifting. Please keep your service records and report serious issues if they occur. Honda built its reputation on reliability, but this experience has made me question that reputation.
NHTSA complaint #11753017 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
* Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) – Southeastern Honda: Shortly after purchase, the CMBS repeatedly slammed on emergency brakes without cause, incorrectly flagging adjacent or oncoming vehicles as collision threats. I presented video and photo evidence to Southeastern Honda. The Service Manager dismissed the hazard, telling me I "just have to learn how to drive the car with these driver assist features." Fearing an accident, I was forced to permanently disable the system. * Starter Failure / Battery Issues – Space Coast Honda: The vehicle went through four batteries and repeatedly failed to restart when Auto Idle Stop engaged, stranding my wife and children in parking lots and active traffic. I brought the car in multiple times insisting the starter was the issue, but Space Coast Honda refused to replace it because no codes were present and my VIN wasn't attached to a recall. Once out of warranty, I replaced the starter out-of-pocket, which permanently resolved the issue. Teardown of the original starter revealed extensive heat damage, burned insulation, and charred components. * Current Engine Concern – Space Coast Honda: The engine now exhibits rod bearing failure symptoms aligned with Recall 23V-751, including knocking and metallic debris in the oil and filter. I brought the vehicle and photo evidence to Space Coast Honda. One staff member claimed metal in the oil was "normal," while another disagreed. I left the car for evaluation, but two days later learned no inspection was done; they claimed Honda would deny it based on VIN exclusion and quoted $13,500 for a used engine. When I insisted they present my case to Honda anyway, they abruptly raised the inspection fee to $800—despite having completed zero diagnostics over two days.
NHTSA complaint #11752115 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I had two time between the week of June 30 th to July 4 thank July 13 to July 16 th on the excessive heat days my car was making a lot of sound from driving side as well full vibrations on steering and floor I went to page Honda dealer ship they said short block problem and they they are raising request to Honda my mileage is 58800 2023 Honda pilot bought in May 2023 which is under power train warranty but did not receive any email or any paperwork from Honda dealer ship.
NHTSA complaint #11751450 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
A safety concern with some Honda Pilot models involves a potential transmission defect that can cause the vehicle to hesitate or fail to accelerate when the driver presses the accelerator. This unexpected loss of power can create hazardous situations, particularly when merging into traffic, crossing intersections, or attempting to avoid obstacles. Drivers have reported delayed engagement and inconsistent acceleration, raising concerns about the reliability and safety of the vehicle's transmission system.
NHTSA complaint #11748602 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
my connecting rod bearing wore are ruined my engine. this is addressed in 23v-751 for 2016, 2018, and 2019 Honda Pilots, but not 2017 for some reason. could you please see why this year is not included on the recall.
NHTSA complaint #11747629 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2025 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while reversing, the automatic emergency brake unexpectedly engaged. The check engine, ABS, and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The transmission failed to shift into the intended gear. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle and was able to shift into the intended gear. Additionally, the transmission jerked while accelerating, the RPM failed to increase while accelerating. The contact stated that the doors failed to open immediately after pressing the fob key, and the infotainment screen was flashing. The contact stated that the failures were intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
NHTSA complaint #11747345 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the vehicle was abnormally jolting and sputtering. The contact stated that the engine warning light was activating and deactivating. The contact stated that failure was a recurring failure. The dealer was contacted, and a transmission flush was performed; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
NHTSA complaint #11745912 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Driving to work and, all of a sudden, the dashboard lights flicker and the car says the transmission has issues. The car advises us to pull over out of the highway. This was driving to work. The car completely stops working. The dealer says the transmission is dead. this is a car that is a 2019 Honda Pilot. 7 years old. It was bought through Honda and serviced at Honda. The Transmission should not go out this early. We also purchased a 2019 Honda Odyssey in May 2023. In December 2023, the tranmission and to be replaced. I've owned 6 Hondas in twenty years and the only ones that are problems are the 2019 version.
NHTSA complaint #11744829 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am filing a safety complaint regarding a 2024 Honda Pilot Touring with approximately 46,000 miles. The exact component or system that failed is currently UNKNOWN. My best assessment is that this may involve the electrical system, powertrain, engine control/software system, charging system, Auto Idle Stop system, or another related vehicle control system. The vehicle is currently available for inspection upon request. The vehicle has had intermittent multiple warning lights appear on the dashboard. On June 7, 2026 around 9:00pm, while the vehicle was in Drive, the vehicle shut off/lost power. This created a serious safety risk because the vehicle was being operated when the shutdown/loss-of-power event occurred. I am concerned this could happen again while driving, including at freeway speeds or while transporting a child. The problem has not yet been reproduced or confirmed by the dealer. The vehicle was taken to a Honda authorized dealership for inspection. The dealership advised that the battery tested fine and that no diagnostic trouble codes were found so far. Diagnostics are still pending, and as of this complaint, no confirmed cause, diagnosis, or repair has been provided. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives. American Honda Motor Co. has been contacted, and a case has been opened regarding this concern. Warning lamps/symptoms did occur before the shutdown/loss-of-power event. The vehicle had intermittent multiple warning lights on the dashboard before/around the time of the incident. The warning lights first appeared on or around June 3, 2026. The shutdown/loss-of-power event occurred on or around June 7, 2026. I am requesting that NHTSA document this safety issue involving a 2024 Honda Pilot Touring shutting off/loss of power while in Drive with no confirmed diagnosis or repair at this time.
NHTSA complaint #11743002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.