Honda Pilot Transmission Problems

in Problems
Black Honda Pilot

Honda Pilot by Alexander Migl - CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Honda Pilot has been on the market for two decades, offering a midsize family vehicle for groups everywhere. If you’re interested in this vehicle, it’s critical to consider the ins and outs of every car before investing. You might wonder - what does the transmission look like in the Pilot? Are there any serious issues with it?

If you’re interested in learning more about Honda Pilot transmission problems, you’ve come to the right place. It’s always a good idea to have a complete picture of a vehicle before buying it, especially with potential repairs. Read on to learn more about the worst years for the transmission, the least reliable models, and other valuable information. 

Quick Answer: Avoid 2003, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2019 Honda Pilots

The biggest Honda Pilot transmission problems appeared in the 2003, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2019 versions of the Honda Pilot. The rest of the models provide much better in this category.

If you’re still determined to purchase one of these years, thanks to the affordability or amount available on the market, use the Copilot app to assist with shopping. It will help determine when prices change and when you might be able to get a better price out of your dealership. 


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Which Years of Honda Pilots Have the Most Transmission Problems?

The 2003, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2019 years all have the most reported issues from those behind the wheel. They are shaky and jerky, providing an unreliable driving experience for individuals at best and a dangerous and expensive one at worst. The transmission is a critical component and should be considered carefully before investing.

There were only a few scattered years that performed well for the Honda Pilot’s transmission. It wasn’t until 2020 that the models started getting much better in their design of the transmission, much to the benefit of those who prefer newer versions of the Honda Pilot for their investment selections in life.

Honda Pilot Year Models With the Least Reliable Transmissions

Although all these years have had issues in their transmission, the 2003 version stands out as the least reliable among the bunch. According to mycarvoice.com, this year had issues such as gears slipping, jerking, and even early failure in some cases, requiring expensive repairs and replacements. 

If you have a choice when investing in the Honda Pilot, keep away from all years listed with reported transmission troubles. However, take special care to keep away from the 2003 version. It’s by far the car with the most issues and one of the most expensive selections for potential future transmission repairs.

Do Honda Pilots Have More Transmission Problems Than Similar Models?

Although the Honda Pilot’s transmission problems are limited to several scattered incidents and mostly fall under the 2003 version, they still tend to have more transmission troubles than other similar models. Every car has its issues, and unfortunately, the Honda Pilot seems to have repeated instances of faults with the transmission system.

Luckily, transmission troubles are not very common as long as you avoid the worst years with extensive transmission failure. As long as you stick to the better years for the family car, you will have an optimal ownership experience with your Pilot. The better you care for the car; the fewer issues will come to life. It’s the same for any car model.


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What Is The Average Cost to Repair the Most Common Honda Pilot Transmission Problems?

There is a variety in cost to repair the Honda Pilot depending on the severity of the break. Depending on the car, it could cost thousands of dollars to deal with the issues or only a few if it’s more of a minor tweak.

According to kbb.com, a Honda Pilot transmission on the lower end of the scale will cost around $5,000. On the more expensive side, it will cost closer to $7,000. It is no cheap endeavor to provide a complete replacement for your Honda Pilot transmission. 

No matter what vehicle you own, it’s critical to save money. You never know when unexpected breaks could occur in the system, and you don’t want to be taken by surprise. 

Signs Your Honda Pilot Has Transmission Problems

If you have a Honda Pilot, it’s critical to know what to look for to determine if your Honda Pilot has transmission troubles. The sooner you notice these errors, the sooner you will be able to take your Pilot to the repair shop to address the transmission before it gets worse.

According to lemonlawhelp.com, signs of transmission troubles include the following:

  • Shaking
  • Shuddering
  • Jerking

These all indicate a serious flaw in the Pilot’s transmission.

If you notice any of these, bring your car to a professional as soon as possible. They will diagnose the flaw and get you fixed up as soon as possible.


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How To Avoid Purchasing a Honda Pilot With Transmission Problems

If you’re considering a Honda Pilot, you don’t want to buy one with transmission troubles already rooted in the system. The best way to avoid making this mistake is to test-drive your Honda Pilot before putting down any cash. 

If you notice any faults with the shifting gears, shaking, jerking, or anything else of concern, have them take a look before you decide on a vehicle. Don’t set yourself up for expensive repairs right from the start.

Final Thoughts

Several Honda Pilot transmission problems have appeared in multiple years. Specifically, we noticed the worst transmission errors in the 2003, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2019 versions of the Honda Pilot. Watch for these flaws if you own any of these years.

We hope this information was helpful! No matter what car you’re purchasing, it’s always a good idea to consider the flaws in components like the transmission. The more you know, the further in advance you can set aside money to handle these faults if they happen to appear during your time as an owner.



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