2021 Honda Pilot
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2021 Honda Pilot. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
10 recalls name the 2021 Honda Pilot. Newest first.
American Honda Motor Company (Honda) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Honda Pilot, 2017-2023 Ridgeline, 2019-2023 Passport, and 2014-2020 Acura MDX vehicles that were sold in Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Failure of rear suspension components, such as the rear control arm, can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the rear subframe and install a rear subframe reinforcement kit and, as necessary, repair or replace the rear subframe components, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 27, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in the fall of 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are AOU and AOT. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning June 10, 2026.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Air bags that deploy unintentionally during a crash increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 7, 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are BOL, WO9, OOA, WOM, XOH, NOC, POD, BOE, UOF, POB, EOG, AOI, QO8, TOJ, DO7, and SOK. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 24V064. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 29, 2026.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Civic, 2020-2023 Ridgeline, 2021-2023 Passport, 2021-2022 Pilot, and 2020 Acura MDX vehicles. The tie rod fastener that connects the brake booster and the brake master cylinder may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing, which can cause the brake master cylinder to separate from…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Brake master cylinder separation can cause a loss of brake function and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and repair the brake booster assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are VEU, AEV, and ZET.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Pilot, and 2019-2023 Passport vehicles. Due to a faulty Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) communication coaxial cable connector, the rearview camera image may not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the MOST cable harness and install a straightening cover over the vehicle cable connector, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 24, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are EEL, ZEM, and SFC.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2020-2022 Passport and Odyssey vehicles. The heating pads behind both side-view mirrors may not be bonded properly, allowing the mirror glass to detach. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Detached mirror glass can reduce driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace both left and right side-view mirrors, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 17, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is FE5.
American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain 2021 Pilot vehicles equipped with Continental CrossContact LX Sport 245/50R20 102 H tires with DOT serial number A376 D3K9 2920 and mold numbers S-421920 and S-421921. The tires may have been cured for a time beyond the specification limits.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Over-cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four tires and replace the tires that have the affected DOT serial number and mold number, free of charge. The recall began January 11, 2021. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is U8Y.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Odyssey, 2019-2020 Passport, and 2019-2021 Pilot vehicles. Incorrect instrument panel control module software can cause the instrument panel to not display critical information, such as engine oil pressure, speedometer, and gear selector position until the next ignition cycle. Additionally…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Operating a vehicle without a functioning instrument panel or rearview camera display increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the instrument panel control module software, free of charge. The recall began September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is T89.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Pilot, 2019-2020 Odyssey and 2019-2020 Passport vehicles. Incorrect central network software programming may cause several errors to occur that can delay or prevent the rearview camera image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A delayed or inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Honda will notify owners that updated software is available. Owners have the option to either follow the mailed instructions to download and update the software for free, or visit a dealer to have the software update performed, free of charge. The recall began September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is Y7Y.
Owner complaints
452 complaints14 involved a crash2 involved a fire10 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Unknown or other
My wife operates a 2020 Honda Pilot Touring, purchased new and currently with approximately 60,000 miles. The vehicle's automatic idle stop/start system intermittently shuts the engine off while stopped in traffic but fails to restart when the driver releases the brake and attempts to proceed.…
My wife operates a 2020 Honda Pilot Touring, purchased new and currently with approximately 60,000 miles. The vehicle's automatic idle stop/start system intermittently shuts the engine off while stopped in traffic but fails to restart when the driver releases the brake and attempts to proceed. The driver must shift the vehicle into Park and manually restart the engine, leaving the vehicle unexpectedly immobilized in active traffic. The vehicle was previously brought to Atamian Honda in [XXX], in spring 2026 for this same defect. Honda performed a corrective repair, but the identical failure has returned approximately six months later. The driver now feels compelled to manually disable the automatic idle stop feature every time she starts the vehicle to avoid another failure. We believe this represents a serious, unresolved safety defect and are particularly concerned that the condition has recurred after a previous manufacturer-directed repair. We request that NHTSA document this repeated post-repair failure and consider it in its ongoing evaluation of Honda idle-stop restart safety issues. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Electrical system
The car alarm goes off on its own,and the dashboard lights flash even when the car is turned off ,this continues until the battery dies and the car won’t start. I’ve taken it to the mechanic several times and no codes come up; I’ve replaced the battery with a new one twice.
- Engine
On four occasions, my 2021 Honda Pilot SE AWD (VIN [XXX]) has shut off at a stop under the Auto Idle Stop system and then failed to restart, leaving the driver stranded. The incidents happened on XXX, XXX, XXX, and XXX in and around [XXX]. Component: The starter system and the Auto Idle Stop…
On four occasions, my 2021 Honda Pilot SE AWD (VIN [XXX]) has shut off at a stop under the Auto Idle Stop system and then failed to restart, leaving the driver stranded. The incidents happened on XXX, XXX, XXX, and XXX in and around [XXX]. Component: The starter system and the Auto Idle Stop engine restart function. Honda has acknowledged this exact condition in Service Bulletin 23-009 and Warranty Extension 23-009/23-010 (“Engine Does Not Auto Restart After Entering Auto Idle Stop”). The listed remedy is a software update, a valve adjustment, and replacement of the starter assembly and starter relays. The vehicle and the original starter are available for inspection on request. Safety risk: The engine shuts off at stops as designed, then will not restart. The vehicle is left disabled at intersections and in traffic with no warning, which puts the driver and passengers at risk of being rear-ended and stranded. My wife has been stranded four times. Idle Stop turns itself back on every time the car is started, so the driver’s only protection is remembering to switch it off manually on every trip. The fourth failure happened when she forgot. Dealer confirmation: The Honda dealer in [XXX] has performed Product Update 23-008, the PGM-FI Idle Stop software update XXX, and a valve adjustment XXX. The failure has continued after both repairs. The dealer has not replaced the starter assembly and relays, which is the remaining step of Honda’s published remedy. Manufacturer involvement: American Honda Customer Relations has opened Case #XXX and is “reviewing” my request. Honda has not inspected the vehicle directly. No police or insurance inspection has taken place. Warning signs: The failure to start is random when auto start is not disabled, and motor is hot. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Engine
The auto idle stop feature will turn my engine off like it's supposed to, but then my engine dies when I try to accelerate again. This is happening more and more. I would allow my car to be inspected. My car tried to roll backward into the car behind me today, and I have held up traffic each…
The auto idle stop feature will turn my engine off like it's supposed to, but then my engine dies when I try to accelerate again. This is happening more and more. I would allow my car to be inspected. My car tried to roll backward into the car behind me today, and I have held up traffic each time this has happened. I have seen on chatrooms that other honda pilots have this problem. No one has inspected my vehicle. This time my car went into neutral and flashed an alert that my car was now in neutral.
- Engine
While stopped at red light or stop sign the car goes into engine auto off mode when the brake is pressed. When then trying to go, the car is turning off or going to neutral. This causes vehicles behind me to stop suddenly and can cause an accident. The only way to then go is to turn the vehicle off, and restart, then put back in drive. This is happening very frequently and again is a safety hazard for me and others.
- Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
To Whom It May Concern: I am requesting immediate escalation of a serious safety concern involving my 2021 Honda Pilot Touring, which I purchased as a Honda Certified Pre-Owned vehicle directly from Tempe Honda. I also purchased additional warranty coverage at the time of sale. I have owned this…
To Whom It May Concern: I am requesting immediate escalation of a serious safety concern involving my 2021 Honda Pilot Touring, which I purchased as a Honda Certified Pre-Owned vehicle directly from Tempe Honda. I also purchased additional warranty coverage at the time of sale. I have owned this vehicle for less than two years, and it has already required service for an issue involving the automatic idle-stop system. That issue remains unresolved. More recently, the vehicle has begun unexpectedly shifting into neutral without any action on my part. This has occurred on multiple occasions, including when transitioning from reverse into drive and, most alarmingly, while attempting to accelerate from a complete stop at a traffic light. During these incidents, the neutral indicator actually illuminates on the dashboard. This is not simply an inconvenience or a minor performance concern. It is a potentially dangerous malfunction that places me, my passengers, and other motorists at risk. I am particularly concerned because I am a single mother who relies on this vehicle for daily transportation, including transporting my child.
- Electrical system · Visibility/wiper
The Information screen goes blank. Then at that point the backup camera will not show on screen when backing up. Creating a blind spot and hazard
- Electrical system
Refer to [XXX]. My honda pilot started having electrical issues where the car alarm would go off randomly, radio would play at volumes randomly, dashboard lights would flicker on and off, interior lights would turn on, headlights would turn on. This resulted in multiple drained batteries and left…
Refer to [XXX]. My honda pilot started having electrical issues where the car alarm would go off randomly, radio would play at volumes randomly, dashboard lights would flicker on and off, interior lights would turn on, headlights would turn on. This resulted in multiple drained batteries and left the car inoperable until it could be jump started. This is a safety issue because if we drove somewhere without cell reception, could be stranded with a dead battery. Not to mention, it disturbed our neighbors when this occurred in the middle of the night. This is a known issue with various Honda vehicles from this timeframe. It is know as a problem with the "Remote Access Control Module," aka the "Keyless Access Control Unit," located behind the glovebox. Even though it is a known issue, Honda was unwilling to repair it at their own cost. We paid $903.22 to get it fixed. References: [XXX], [XXX], [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Electrical system
This complaint is being filed regarding a FAILED REMEDY for NHTSA Safety Recall 23V-431 (Honda Campaign ZEM) on my 2021 Honda Pilot Touring. Although the vehicle history shows that the recall repair for the MOST fiber-optic wire harness was previously performed, the authorized remedy has completely…
This complaint is being filed regarding a FAILED REMEDY for NHTSA Safety Recall 23V-431 (Honda Campaign ZEM) on my 2021 Honda Pilot Touring. Although the vehicle history shows that the recall repair for the MOST fiber-optic wire harness was previously performed, the authorized remedy has completely failed to fix the safety defect. The central infotainment dashboard screen regularly displays a "Network Connection Lost" error message before freezing or shutting down entirely. This failure causes an immediate, total, and unpredictable loss of the backup camera display while the vehicle is in operation. Because the backup camera is a federally mandated safety feature, its random failure creates an active safety risk for myself, my passengers, and pedestrians during reversing maneuvers. Honda customer service has refused to provide further diagnostic or repair assistance because the recall is already marked as "completed" in their database. However, the safety hazard remains active and unresolved. I request that the NHTSA investigate this failed remedy and compel Honda to provide an effective, lasting repair for this defective system.
- Engine · Unknown or other
My vehicle's auto idle engine stops when brake is engaged, goes into neutral when released instead of restarting causing me to have to turn on the flashers, shift into park, turn off the ignition then restart. I was almost rear ended at an intersection & held up traffic during another occurrence…
My vehicle's auto idle engine stops when brake is engaged, goes into neutral when released instead of restarting causing me to have to turn on the flashers, shift into park, turn off the ignition then restart. I was almost rear ended at an intersection & held up traffic during another occurrence, causing impatience behind me. I then found numerous complaints on the same by Honda owners & extended 10-year warranty via service bulletins 23-008 & 23-009. I brought my vehicle into the dealership to be diagnosed on 9/29/26, & they said it needed the referenced valve adjustment & performed it. A few days later, on 10/4/26, it happened again in a grocery store parking lot as I stopped for a vehicle pulling out of space. I called the next morning & made the appt to have the starter diagnosed later in the week. Later that day, it happened again at a red light. I brought it back to the dealership on 10/9/26 & advisor called a few hours later to say said the starter was pulling too much power & causing the problem & needed replacement, but did not have it in stock, with no expected date, but would contact me as soon as they received it. About an hour later, he called back & said he was sorry to inform me that the starter was NOT covered under the 10-year ext. warranty for my VIN, just the valve adjustment (which did not resolve the issue) even though the tech said the starter pulling too much power was causing the problem. I was then provided a $1200 estimate- for a malfunction that is a widespread defect! As I questioned this, I was given the toll-free number to American Honda for an explanation. I spoke to them on 10/12/26 to question why the determination was made to exclude my vehicle’s VIN from the starter replacement. The representative confirmed that the starter & assembly were not covered for my VIN & stated he did not know how or why Honda arrived at that determination. I thought I was making a wise decision purchasing a Honda. Any advice as to how to proceed?
- Air bags
Airbag Failure Report – 2021 Honda Pilot (Incident Date: April 10, 2026) I am reporting a critical failure of the supplemental restraint system (SRS) in my 2021 Honda Pilot. On April 10, 2026, while traveling at approximately 40–45 mph, our vehicle was struck on the driver’s side by a white…
Airbag Failure Report – 2021 Honda Pilot (Incident Date: April 10, 2026) I am reporting a critical failure of the supplemental restraint system (SRS) in my 2021 Honda Pilot. On April 10, 2026, while traveling at approximately 40–45 mph, our vehicle was struck on the driver’s side by a white commercial van. The severe impact caused over $9,000 in structural damage—including the driver-side door, fender, wheel, mirror, and radiator support brackets—yet the side/curtain airbags failed to deploy. As a result of this failure to protect occupants during a significant collision, the driver sustained permanent, non-repairable neck trauma (aggravating a prior surgical site), and the passenger sustained newly diagnosed bulging cervical discs. I request that this failure be documented and investigated as a potential safety defect.
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system
The electrical for the infotainment system cuts out and the rear camera is no longer on the screen, it will cause loud popping while driving as the MOST Net system is failing. There is also poor gas mileage and reads the gas tank contents incorrectly while displaying incorrect MPG typical with the…
The electrical for the infotainment system cuts out and the rear camera is no longer on the screen, it will cause loud popping while driving as the MOST Net system is failing. There is also poor gas mileage and reads the gas tank contents incorrectly while displaying incorrect MPG typical with the fuel pump recall for this generation of Honda Pilot, but both of these recalls removed my specific year shortly after they were announced.
- Electrical system
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced several electrical failures and the alarm activated unexpectedly, and the radio and instrument panel turned on unintendedly. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer…
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced several electrical failures and the alarm activated unexpectedly, and the radio and instrument panel turned on unintendedly. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the keyless asset control module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was scheduled for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 798.
- Electrical system
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the vehicle had caught on fire while parked in the driveway. The vehicle was last driven at 12:51 PM in the day; however, at approximately 9:00 PM, after the vehicle had sat for over eight hours, the vehicle suddenly caught on fire. The…
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the vehicle had caught on fire while parked in the driveway. The vehicle was last driven at 12:51 PM in the day; however, at approximately 9:00 PM, after the vehicle had sat for over eight hours, the vehicle suddenly caught on fire. The local fire department responded to the scene and extinguish the fire. The vehicle was inspected and stated that the fire had originated from the battery or an electrical part inside the engine compartment. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 180,000.
- Electrical system · Engine
Idle auto stop / start - this has repeatedly failed at traffic lights. Vehicle stops dead and will not restart. Taken to 3 dealers over the course of 18 months and finally the 3rd Honda dealership acknowledged this. The problem has been identified and repeated by dealership mechanics. No warning lights at all.
- Service brakes · Suspension
Vehicle: 2021 Honda Pilot NHTSA Recall: 26V-365 Honda Recall: AOU Recall Status: Incomplete/Unrepaire I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious motor vehicle accident involving my 2021 Honda Pilot. At the time of the accident, my vehicle had an open and unrepaired safety recall, NHTSA…
Vehicle: 2021 Honda Pilot NHTSA Recall: 26V-365 Honda Recall: AOU Recall Status: Incomplete/Unrepaire I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious motor vehicle accident involving my 2021 Honda Pilot. At the time of the accident, my vehicle had an open and unrepaired safety recall, NHTSA Recall 26V-365, Honda Recall AOU. I was driving my Honda Pilot downhill when the vehicle began gaining speed in a manner that felt abnormal and uncontrollable. I attempted to slow and stop the vehicle by applying the brakes, but I was unable to stop the vehicle. Despite my efforts to brake, the vehicle continued moving forward and I ultimately collided with another vehicle, resulting in a multi-vehicle accident involving approximately three to four vehicles. The collision was severe. The front of my Honda Pilot sustained extensive damage and the airbags deployed. The vehicle has not been repaired since the accident and remains in its post-collision condition. After the accident, I checked my VIN through the NHTSA recall system and discovered that my vehicle has an incomplete safety recall, NHTSA Recall 26V-365. The recall concerns corrosion at the rear subframe suspension mounting points, which may result in failure of rear suspension components and adversely affect vehicle handling and control. I am concerned that a mechanical or vehicle safety defect may have contributed to my inability to slow or stop the vehicle. I am not stating that the recall definitively caused the accident because the vehicle has not yet undergone an appropriate mechanical or engineering inspection. However, because my specific VIN has this unrepaired recall and I experienced an apparent loss of braking/control immediately before a serious multi-vehicle collision, I am requesting that NHTSA review this incident as a potential vehicle safety defect. I have photographs documenting the extensive p
- Electrical system › Starter assembly · Engine and engine cooling
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under Technical Service Bulletin: 23-008 (Product Update: PGM-FI Idle Stop Software Update); however, the failure occurred after the product update. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated to…
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under Technical Service Bulletin: 23-008 (Product Update: PGM-FI Idle Stop Software Update); however, the failure occurred after the product update. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated to start after pressing the Engine Start button. The engine failed restart after coming to a complete stop and releasing the brake pedal and the Auto Idle Stop feature engaged. The battery warning light was illuminated, and the messages "Battery Failure" and "Press Brakes - Put the Car in Park and Restart" were displayed. The contact deactivated the Auto Idle Stop feature. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the starter needed to be replaced. The failure mileage was 122,993.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
While driving with my family in my 2021 Pilot on the interstate at 75mph, I felt a shudder while in traffic. Fortunately, I signaled to get over and cars around me responded, because the check engine light flashed on and off and the car shut off. We had enough time to roll to the side of the…
While driving with my family in my 2021 Pilot on the interstate at 75mph, I felt a shudder while in traffic. Fortunately, I signaled to get over and cars around me responded, because the check engine light flashed on and off and the car shut off. We had enough time to roll to the side of the interstate safely because drivers around me were aware and considerate. The car would not restart so we had to tow it. The Pilot has been evaluated by an independent mechanic who says that a failure in the high pressure fuel pump caused oil to dilute gasoline. A full engine replacement is required. There was no prior warning of this issue. American Honda has been contacted for potential support. Early stage of that, but dealing with them has, so far, been great.
- Electrical system · Engine
Multiple times, when stopped (i.e., red light) and auto-idle engaged, the car has not come out of auto engine stop, but instead has shifted into neutral upon releasing the brake pedal. Furthermore, the car cannot be put into drive from that state, but instead must be fully turned off, and then…
Multiple times, when stopped (i.e., red light) and auto-idle engaged, the car has not come out of auto engine stop, but instead has shifted into neutral upon releasing the brake pedal. Furthermore, the car cannot be put into drive from that state, but instead must be fully turned off, and then restarted, often after a pause, and a cranking challenge. Car has a new battery (8 months old) and weather is mild/warm. This problem is unpredictable, and has happened in busy traffic situations, resulting in both a personal and physical safety issue.
- Power train · Service brakes
When the brake is pressed at a light or when idling, the gear shifts automatically to neutral and will not drive. I have to press and hold the power button to restart the car. It is happening more frequently. I have taken it to the dealership several times and they have not been able to replicate…
When the brake is pressed at a light or when idling, the gear shifts automatically to neutral and will not drive. I have to press and hold the power button to restart the car. It is happening more frequently. I have taken it to the dealership several times and they have not been able to replicate it. It also doesn’t give any codes. This is a true safety concern because I have impeded traffic multiple times when it occurs. I tried to add pictures of the invoices that I received from the dealership but was unsuccessful.
- Forward collision avoidance › Automatic emergency braking · Forward collision avoidance › Warnings · Lane departure › Assist
The entire ADAS suddenly failed. the vehicle started cycling through all warning indicators (adaptive cruise control problem, abs problem, lane keep assist problem, brake mitigation system problem etc) brought it to Honda today and they confirmed that the "multi purpose camera/millimeter wave radar unit with aiming" had failed and needed to be replaced. Honda charged $1764.14 for all work to fix this on 9/15/2026
- Back over prevention
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under an unknown recall; however, the recall repair failed to prevent the failure. The contact stated that while shifting in reverse(R), the rear-view camera failed to display a clear image. The local dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
- Engine
Our pilot is experiencing similar issues found online with catastrophic engine failure due to a misfire caused by a knocking rod. Honda so far has not responded to our claim despite it being a known issue around the same time ours was manufactured.
- Electrical system · Unknown or other
I am filing this complaint regarding a recurring “Network Communication Lost” issue with my Honda Pilot. I am aware that Honda has issued a recall related to network communication issues; however, when I checked my vehicle’s VIN, it is not included in the recall. My vehicle is experiencing the…
I am filing this complaint regarding a recurring “Network Communication Lost” issue with my Honda Pilot. I am aware that Honda has issued a recall related to network communication issues; however, when I checked my vehicle’s VIN, it is not included in the recall. My vehicle is experiencing the same network communication problem described in the recall. I am concerned that my vehicle may have the same underlying defect but is not currently covered by the recall. I believe this issue should be investigated because a loss of communication between vehicle systems can potentially affect the operation, reliability, and safety of the vehicle. I should not have to wait until my vehicle experiences a more serious failure before this issue is addressed. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether the recall should be expanded to include additional Honda Pilot vehicles, including vehicles with VINs that are currently excluded but are experiencing the same defect. I would also like this complaint documented as part of any investigation into Honda’s network communication system issue and any related safety defects.
- Forward collision avoidance › Warnings · Lane departure › Assist · Lane departure › Warning
Vehicle has multiple safety system failures. After extensive online research and multiple diagnostics, repair technicians indicating safety camera failure due to heat. Technician indicating significant increase specific to this vehicle of late. Excessive environmental temperature “frying” ADAS…
Vehicle has multiple safety system failures. After extensive online research and multiple diagnostics, repair technicians indicating safety camera failure due to heat. Technician indicating significant increase specific to this vehicle of late. Excessive environmental temperature “frying” ADAS camera. This causes failure to HondaSense safety features such as collision mitigation, lane keeping, and road departure mitigation - features touted as industry leading by Honda. Matter has been diagnosed and duplicated by service technicians. Extensive online research indicates potential widespread issue that requires highly expensive replacement/repair and calibration.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- No Restart After Auto Start/Stop Engages
On June 3, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE22005 after the agency received VOQs and several field reports concerning the Auto Idle Stop (AIS) feature on 2016-2019MY Honda Pilot vehicles. The complaints allege that the engine fails to restart on its own from a complete stop…
On June 3, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE22005 after the agency received VOQs and several field reports concerning the Auto Idle Stop (AIS) feature on 2016-2019MY Honda Pilot vehicles. The complaints allege that the engine fails to restart on its own from a complete stop at a traffic light or road intersection with the AIS function engaged. The subject vehicles are equipped with a 3.5L engine with a 9-speed automatic transmission. On January 6, 2023, Honda released service bulletins 23-008 and 23-009. These service bulletins address the failure to restart issue in the 2016-2019MY Honda Pilot vehicles, as well as the 2015-2020 Acura TLX, 2016-2020 Acura MDX, 2019-2022 Honda Passport, and 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. The repair outlined in the service bulletins is a two-stage countermeasure to remedy the issue. The first stage is a Programmed Fuel Injection (“PGM-FI”) software update. The second stage is only deployed if the software update fails to remedy the issue. The second stage, depending on the model and model year, consists of replacement of the starter assembly, starter relays, and a valve adjustment. Additionally, Honda extended the warranty coverage to 10 years with unlimited mileage for vehicles requiring the second stage component replacement. ODI continues to receive complaints of the AIS failure to restart, with many complainants alleging the campaign countermeasures had been completed.NHTSA has reviewed Honda's Information Request Letter responses involving warranty claims, lawsuits, and consumer complaints in addition to ODI's own data. This Engineering Analysis is being opened to further consider the potential safety defect, including gathering additional data regarding Honda’s service campaign efficacy. ODI is additionally expanding the scope to encompass all vehicles addressed in Honda’s service bulletins 23-008 and 23-009 as well as newer model year vehicles, which are substantially similar to the vehicles covered by the service campaign. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11011045Service Bulletin - The AWD warning light is on potentially due to water intrusion into the rear differential pump motor connector area that corrodes the terminals.
- 11009193Service Bulletin - The wireless charger starts charging the phone and then stops charging, even when the phone remains in the correct position on the charger.
- 11008043Service Bulletin - The wireless charger starts charging the phone and then stops charging, even when the phone remains in the correct position on the charger.
- 11006251Service Bulletin - Customer complaint of the A/C not blowing cold air due to Oil/Refrigerant leak from the A/C compressor shaft seal.
- 11005272Service Bulletin - MIL flashes and vehicle will not accelerate, low power. After cycling the ignition, the symptom does not return with no stored DTCs. This issue is more common in regions with cold weather (specifically near or below freezing temperatures). Usually after a long drive (around 2 hours) and accelerating while cornering.
- 11002716Service Bulletin - The MIL flashes and vehicle will not accelerate, low power. After cycling the ignition, the symptom does not return with no stored DTCs. This issue is more common in regions with cold weather (specifically near or below freezing temperatures). Usually after a long drive (around 2 hours) and accelerating while cornering. Moisture accumulation in the intake manifold during long drives gets drawn into the combustion chamber while cornering, causing misfires.
- 11002714Service Bulletin - Customer complaint received regarding the A/C not blowing cold air due to an oil/refrigerant leak from the A/C compressor shaft seal.
- 11000142Service NewsDue to On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) regulation change starting with 2019 vehicles, American Hondas Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) On-Board Diagnostic monitors are now included in the EGR/VVT OBD Monitor Readiness status group. Due to some customers driving patterns, they may not drive in the fashion needed to operate the VTEC (EGR/VVT) that only operates above 5,350 rpm to run the OBD monitoring. Therefore, the EGR/VVT OBD monitor group readiness status is not set to Complete when the customer presents their vehicle to a Smog Check station for inspection.
- 10253299Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2019-2023 Passports, 2016-2022 Pilots, & 2017-2023 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the front passengers power window inop from either the drivers window switch, front passenger's window switch, or both. Customer may also report that the other window switches are still operable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10252076Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2019-2023 Passports, 2016-2022 Pilots, & 2017-2023 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the front passengers power window inop from either the drivers window switch, front passenger's window switch, or both. Customer may also report that the other window switches are still operable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10251156Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2019-2023 Passports, 2016-2022 Pilots, & 2017-2023 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the front passengers power window inop from either the drivers window switch, front passenger's window switch, or both. Customer may also report that the other window switches are still operable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10251149Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2019-2023 Passports, 2016-2022 Pilots, & 2017-2023 Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the passengers power window inop from drivers master window switch. Customer may also report that the other window switches are still operable. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10249630Service Bulletin - Customers have complained that the air conditioning system is not blowing cold air due to Oil/Refrigerant leaking from the A/C compressor shaft seal.
- 10247623Service Bulletin - Due to variations in the purge control solenoid valve spring, the valve wears unevenly and intermittently sticks. This may result in setting DTC P0441 (Evaporative Emission (EVAP) System Purge Flow Malfunction).
- 10245550Service Bulletin - Under certain circumstances, after coming to a stop and the idle stop feature engages, the vehicle may not automatically restart. Typically, the customer can immediately restart the vehicle by selecting Park and pushing the ENGINE START/STOP button.
- 10244187Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10242863Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10242210Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10241167Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10240732Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10239701Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10238823Service Bulletin - Honda has received customer complaints of the air conditioning system not blowing cold air due to an Oil/Refrigerant leak from the A/C compressor shaft seal.
- 10238821Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10237946Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10237184Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10237034Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2023 Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, & Ridgelines with a customer complaint of the door handle not operating from the inner door handle or not being able to lock the vehicle using the inner handle button. Customer may also complain of the child lock remaining locked/enabled while in unlock setting. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10234629Service Bulletin - The engine will not crank on initial startup after precipitation and sub-freezing temperatures. Water can enter the starter motor, and when temperatures drop below freezing, the water will freeze inside the starter motor. This will prevent the starter from cranking the engine.
- 10234579Service Bulletin - There is a loud buzzing or whining when adjusting the drivers or front passengers seat forward and backward. This is due to the issue that the flex cable in the seat adjustment mechanism is not correctly lubricated.
- 10233667Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is investigating certain 2020-2022 Accords, CR-Vs, Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, Ridgelines, 2020 Fits, 2020-2021 Civic Hatchbacks, 2020-2023 Civic Sedans/Coups with a customer complaint of the Check Engine Light (CEL) on & the DTC P0087 (Fuel Rail Pressure Too Low [Loss of Fuel Pressure]) stored. In some cases, the customer may also experience such conditions as engine hard to start, no start or start & stumble in conjunction with CEL. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10233206Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is investigating certain 2020-2022 Accords, CR-Vs, Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, Ridgelines, 2020 Fits, 2020-2021 Civic Hatchbacks, 2020-2023 Civic Sedans/Coups with a customer complaint of the Check Engine Light (CEL) on & the DTC P0087 (Fuel Rail Pressure Too Low [Loss of Fuel Pressure]) stored. In some cases, the customer may also experience such conditions as engine hard to start, no start or start & stumble in conjunction with CEL. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10232977Product Update - Honda is conducting a product update to your 2019-22 Passport, 2016-22 Pilot, and 2020-23 Ridgeline. Under certain circumstances, after coming to a stop and the idle stop feature engages, the vehicle may not automatically restart.
- 10232975Warranty Extension - Under certain circumstances, after coming to a stop and the idle stop feature engages, the vehicle may not automatically restart.
- 10232973Warranty Extension - Warranty Extension reimbursement form for engine idle stop repairs made before the warranty extension notice date.
- 10232960Service Bulletin - The engine will not crank on initial startup after precipitation and sub-freezing temperatures. Water can enter the starter motor, and when temperatures drop below freezing, the water will freeze inside the starter motor. This will prevent the starter from cranking the engine.
- 10232959Service Bulletin - The headlight seal may become damaged from a misadjusted hood. Damage to the headlight seal may lead to moisture condensation building up in the headlight.
- 10231048Service Bulletin - Under certain circumstances, after coming to a stop and the idle stop feature engages, the vehicle may not automatically restart. Typically, the customer can immediately restart the vehicle by selecting Park and pushing the ENGINE START/STOP button.
- 10230590Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2022 Pilots with a customer complaint of the drivers side 3rd row headrest not staying upright. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to collect specific parts from the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10229686Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is investigating certain 2020-2022 Accords, CR-Vs, Odysseys, Passports, Pilots, Ridgelines, 2020 Fits, 2020-2021 Civic Hatchbacks, 2020-2023 Civic Sedans/Coups with a customer complaint of the Check Engine Light (CEL) on & the DTC P0087 (Fuel Rail Pressure Too Low [Loss of Fuel Pressure]) stored. In some cases, the customer may also experience such conditions as engine hard to start, no start or start & stumble in conjunction with CEL. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10229681Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is searching for certain 2020-2022 Pilots with a customer complaint of the drivers side 3rd row headrest not staying upright. To better understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to collect specific parts from the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.
- 10229678Dealer Message - During development, the idle stop enable criteria was mis-set allowing idle stop to improperly engage while battery health is low. Under certain circumstances, after coming to a stop and engaging idle stop, the vehicle may not automatically restart. In most cases, the client can immediately restart the vehicle by selecting Park and pushing the Start button.
Every Honda Pilot model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.