Honda Pilot · 2012–2025
Honda Pilot Common Problems and Years to Avoid
The specification is not the same across every year we cover, the table below shows exactly where it changes.
Last verified
Has the Honda Pilot problems and recalls specification changed by year?
Each row links to the full specification for that generation, including trim-by-trim breakdowns and the part numbers. Where engines within a generation differ, that page separates them.
Full specifications by generation
The problems and recalls on a Honda Pilot is set by its generation, not its model year, so each generation has one page carrying the complete figures, part numbers and fitment notes for every year it covers.
2023–2025 Honda Pilot
4th generation (YG1/YG2) · 3-row mid-size SUV (FWD or i-VTM4 AWD; shares platform with Passport) · Problems & reliability
2016–2022 Honda Pilot
3rd generation (YF5/YF6) · 3-row mid-size SUV (FWD or i-VTM4 AWD) · Problems & reliability
2012–2015 Honda Pilot
2nd generation (YF3/YF4) · 3-row mid-size SUV (FWD or VTM-4 4WD) · Problems & reliability
Honda Pilot problems and recalls: common questions
What are the most common problems with the Honda Pilot?
- The recurring ones are: brake pedal pivot pin defect, recall; infotainment freezes, black screens, and slow/laggy touchscreen response; a/c blowing warm, condenser and refrigerant leak complaints. Each is detailed above with symptoms, affected years, and typical cost.
Which Honda Pilot years should you avoid?
- The years to be most careful with are those affected by brake pedal pivot pin defect, recall (2023–2024 (some sources also list 2025)). A documented problem is not automatically a reason to walk away. Service records showing the repair was done change the picture entirely.
Are there recalls on the Honda Pilot?
- 1 of the issues listed carry a recall or technical service bulletin: NHTSA 25V-391 (brake pedal pivot pin defect, recall). Recall work is free at a franchised dealer regardless of age or mileage. Check your VIN on the NHTSA site to see what is outstanding.
How much do Honda Pilot repairs typically cost?
- Typical figures for the issues above: brake pedal pivot pin defect, recall, Free under recall; infotainment freezes, black screens, and slow/laggy touchscreen response, Free (software update); diagnostic/labor charges if a head unit replacement is needed out of warranty; a/c blowing warm, condenser and refrigerant leak complaints, $400–$900 for a condenser replacement and recharge.
Sources
- AMSOIL lookup, 2024/2025 Pilot 3.5L J35Y8 oil capacity 5.5 qt (w/o filter) / 5.8 qt (with filter)
- Honda Techinfo, 2025 Pilot Specifications (5.8 US qt engine oil)
- Wikipedia, Honda Pilot 4th generation (J35Y8, 285 hp, DOHC non-VTEC)
- College Hills Honda, 2023–2027 Pilot maintenance parts (17220-61A-A00 air filter, 80291/80292-TYA cabin filter)
- Honda Parts Connection, 12290-6FB-A01 spark plug, 2023–2025 Pilot
- AutoZone, 2023/2024 Honda Pilot Group 48/H6 AGM battery
- T&T Honda, 2025 Honda Pilot tire size guide (TrailSport 265/60R18 all-terrain)
- Car and Driver, 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport specs (13.8-in front / 13.0-in rear rotors, curb weight, MPG)
- Honda News, 2023 Pilot Specifications & Features (18.5-gal fuel tank, curb weight)
- Transmission Digest, servicing the Honda 10-speed transmission (ATF Type 2.0, ~9.0 qt total)
- WardsAuto, Honda recalls 259K vehicles for brake pedal pivot pin defect
- recalledbrands.com, NHTSA 25V-391000, 2023 Honda Pilot brake pedal pivot pin
- Go-Parts, 2023–2025 Honda Pilot infotainment black-screen troubleshooting
- WiperBladesUSA, 2025 Honda Pilot wiper size chart (26/22/14 in)
- Sierra Honda of Monrovia, 2025 Pilot trim levels (TrailSport ground clearance, towing)
Find your exact Pilot
Jump to a model year for the engines it offered, what changed, and the problems documented against it:
