2013 Honda Pilot

Above average

Owners filed 272 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 6 times.

Not among the Honda Pilot years to avoid. Which Honda Pilot years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
28,000 milesMedian miles at failure

201 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2013 Honda Pilot problems

69 of the 272 complaints (25%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine65
120
Structure › Body · body and frame40
000
Service Brakes · brakes39
302
Power Train · transmission31
206
Unknown or Other22
010
Air Bags · airbags18
402
Suspension9
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration6
000
Steering5
000
Seats5
000

6 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module19V502000
Filed Jun 27, 20199,555 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2011-2014 TSX Sport Wagon, 2010-2013 ZDX, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic and Civic Hybrid, 2008-2010 Civic GX NGV, 2012-2015 Crosstour, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2013 Fit, 2014 Fit EV, 2010-2014 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are F5F and Q5E.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module19V378000
Filed May 16, 201919,138 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2011-2013 TSX Sport Wagon, and 2010-2012 ZDX and 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic NGV, 2012-2014 Crosstour, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2013 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot vehicles. The front passenger air bag inflator may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.

Risk. An incorrectly installed air bag inflator may not properly deploy the passenger frontal air bag in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the inflator installation and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began July 5, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are M4O, P4R, T4Q, and W4P.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V661000
Filed Sep 27, 20181,355,406 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014 Honda Insight and Acura TSX and TSX Wagon, 2014-2015 Honda Crosstour and Pilot vehicles nationwide, as well as certain 2014 Honda FCX Clarity and Fit EV vehicles in Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Texas, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan) and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Honda is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Acura TSX, TSX Wagon and ZDX, Honda Crosstour, Insight, Fit and Pilot vehicles, 2011-2012 Honda Accord and 2011 Honda Civic NGV, Civic, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Lastly, Honda is recalling certain 2010-2013 Acura TSX and ZDX, Honda Crosstour, Fit, Insight and Pilot, 2011-2013 TSX Wagon, 2010-2012 Honda Accord and 2010-2011 Honda Civic NGV, Civic, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag air bag inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are M2J and S2K.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V042000
Filed Jan 9, 2018691,726 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Acura TSX, ZDX, Honda Accord Crosstour, Fit, Insight and Pilot vehicles, 2011-13 Acura TSX Sportswagon, 2010-2012 Honda Accord,, 2010-2011 Honda Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles and 2013 Honda FCX Clarity and Fit EV vehicles ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Honda is recalling certain 2010-2012 Acura TSX, Honda Accord, Accord Crosstour, Fit and Pilot, 2010-2011 Honda Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid and CR-V, and 2010 Acura ZDX and Honda Insight vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Unless included in Zones A or B above, Honda is recalling certain 2009 Acura TSX, Honda Accord, Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid, CR-V, Fit, and Pilot vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 16, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are B0K and L0J.

Engine13V382000
Filed Aug 27, 2013270 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda is recalling certain model year 2013 Pilot 2WD and 4WD vehicles and certain model year 2013 Odyssey vehicles. During manufacturing of the engine piston, it is possible that the heat treatment process was not properly applied, resulting in the piston having an insufficient hardness level, making it more susceptible to premature wear.

Risk. A worn piston may suddenly fail, causing the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine short block free of charge. The recall began on September 16, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009. Honda's recall numbers are JB4 (Honda Odyssey) and JB5 (Honda Pilot).

Air Bags13V016000
Filed Jan 18, 2013748,481 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Pilot and 2011-2013 Odyssey passenger vehicles manufactured from March 13, 2008, through December 21, 2012. One or more rivets that attach the airbag module to the airbag cover may be missing.

Risk. The absence of more than one rivet could alter the performance of the driver's airbag during deployment. This could potentially increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners and instruct them to take their vehicle to a Honda dealer. The dealer will inspect the driver's airbag module and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 14, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Oct 28, 2026VA

I am submitting this formal written complaint concerning Honda's refusal to reimburse me for a piston-ring-related engine failure in my 2013 Honda Pilot. I purchased the vehicle used from a Honda dealership in August 2016. In August 2026, at approximately 155,000 miles, the original engine failed. The authorized Honda dealership confirmed that the failure was related to the piston-ring problem. I contacted Honda corporate and was denied coverage because the warranty had expired. As a result, I paid approximately $3,500 for a used replacement engine and installation ($1000 for engine and $2500 labor – 25 hours @ $100/per hour). I requested a written explanation of Honda's decision. The representative refused to provide a letter or email, stating that I could call and reference my case number instead. I am requesting that Honda reconsider its decision and provide a substantive written response addressing the diagnosis, the applicable service bulletins and warranty extensions, and the reason reimbursement was denied. Technical Service Bulletin 13-082 issued in 2012 and newer TSB 25-060 issued 06/17/2025 extending warranty to 1/31/2026 due to this issue. This was not long enough for the customer’s affected after this date, so I am asking for reconsideration from Honda. The original extended warranty due to the TSB was up to 150,000 miles and 10 years from date of purchase. My issue began exactly 10 years after my date of purchase and at 155,000 miles, just outside of the extended

Engine
Filed Aug 25, 2026VA

Diagnosed by CMA Honda dealership - need piston ring replacement due to the ongoing issue and Service Bulletin SB-10099310-9340. This was under 8 year warranty from date of purchase, but this just started happening at 155k miles and in 2026. I purchased this in 2016. Although it is out of the extended warranty timeframe, it is still an ongoing issue with these models and should be covered. Cost estimated for repair is $5700 and a new engine isn't an option since they all of the same issues.

Engine
Filed Jun 29, 2026MD

Recalls without notification; 1) Engine- recurring problem piston seal leak - continual replacement of coils & spark plugs. Engine light on VTM-4, traction bar symbol on, engine missing. [XXX] 2025: [XXX] ][XXX] Oil change 7 days later wrench & engine light gone [XXX] * 2 days later it came on again. I let it sit for a 1½ days, and the sway light went off. 5-29-25. Glendale Service Center Chase checked - engine light on Misfire of #2 cylinder again. [XXX]. HONDA DEALER Brown Stafford Honda Body Shop Mike Gerdes. 410-553-8661 712 Crain Hwy N Glen Burnie, MD 21061 Diagnostic fee. $185 ..Total $220.33 Diagnosis: One day repair Piston rings $6987.70 tax & shop fee $51. 51 Sway bar. $ 418.58 Power steering 1511.37 Flush. $178.29 Estimate Total = $9147.45 (not done) 3-11-25. Glendale Service Center Chase checked - engine light on Misfire of #2 cylinder again. *Glendale Service David/ Chase Replacing all 6 plugs and 1 coil Plugs $25 each = $125 10-2-24 Honda - trying to cut off Engine light on, VTM, Swerve lines Dash panel by music dim Once trouble starting Cell phone charger - losing charge on phone while charging Engine - slow, missing, Noise, smell, dash radio light dimmed, phone charger weak, Radio needs code often, switches from cell phone Blue tooth to radio, sway bar noise. 4-23-24 Safford Brown Honda dealer Glen Burnie. Md. Mike Gerdes. 8:30 DONE open at 7:30. $185 diagnostic Service fee $51.51? Replaced O² sensor and spark plug #2 410-553-8661 Total paid $753.95 😡 not repla

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 21, 2026VA

The factory clear coat and paint on the roof of this 2013 Honda Pilot are delaminating and peeling away from the metal. The failure began about 1.5 years ago and continues to spread; in places it has now progressed through the paint to bare metal that is corroding and rusting. The vertical body panels remain glossy and intact while the entire horizontal roof has failed - a top-down failure pattern consistent with a defective factory finish rather than wear or environmental exposure. This matches a well-documented paint-adhesion defect in Honda vehicles of this generation: Honda issued warranty-extension service bulletin 19-057 for 2013-16 Pilots in White Diamond Pearl after identical roof peeling, a companion bulletin covers other white finishes, and an active class-action lawsuit alleges the same peeling and delaminating paint defect across 2013-and-later Honda and Acura vehicles. As the paint separates, detached clear-coat material can lift off the moving vehicle, and the exposed roof metal is now corroding. The affected roof/body panel is available for inspection upon request. No warning lamps applied; the defect is visible. The vehicle was not in a crash, and there was no fire and no injury. I am reporting this so it is documented as a manufacturing defect affecting colors beyond those the manufacturer has chosen to cover.

Air BagsCrash
Filed May 26, 2026OK

Had a car accident and hit a sand barrel at about 40 miles an hour without the airbags didn’t deploy. The grill and bumper were damaged with impact.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 17, 2026FL

Multiple mechanics have told me it’s spark plugs and piston ring and issues. I constantly get my oils changed when I’m at 10% and never let it run out of gas. Constantly babied this thing. It only has 145k miles on it. Had 111k when I bought it in 2022! I barely put miles on this and the fuel consumption and engine are now causing issues. Even been told possible catalytic converter issues. Multiple Honda has told me different things. This is so frustrating because the allowed some vin specific models with my year. But not mine?! Helllllllp

Exterior Lighting
Filed May 2, 2026TX

Brake lights did not appear to be working while car suddenly slowed.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 26, 2026IL

The car was inspected by the authorized dealer, but it is still on the list.

Engine
Filed Jan 10, 2026OH

Repeatedly there has been a cylinder 1 misfire causing the check engine light to activate. The vehicle starts to shake and idling is rough. It has happened repeatedly over the past 3-4 years. In 2025 it happened in August, October and December despite repeated maintenance. Error codes that have popped up due to the issue primarily include cylinder 1 misfires a known and documented issue related to the faulty VCM system. The problem has repeatedly been identified by multiple mechanics. I use my vehicle primarily to transport my children to and from school. We have all been in the car during these misfires endangering their safety. At many of the times when the misfires have happened my children have been in the car and any engine failure while operating the vehicle puts them in danger. My children are ADHD/autistic and during the times the vehicle has broken down while driving it has caused them extreme distress. The vehicle is available for inspection at any time. I have reached out to Honda repeatedly to have the issue resolved however despite repeated promises the vehicle would be fixed due to recalls and extended warranties Honda officials have repeatedly made erroneous claims and insist my vehicle's vin needs to be approved for any repairs. This is a well documented known issue for this make and model due to the faulty VCM system causing oil to get into the cylinders leading to the misfires and piston ring wear and corroded spark plugs. All I am requesting is for Honda to

Air Bags
Filed Aug 23, 2025MN

• The side airbags on the passenger side, extending from the front passenger seat to the back, deployed without cause. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. • The airbags deployed while driving, forcing us to pull over immediately in an unsafe location on a very busy road with two young kids. My son was sitting on tue passenger side in the middle section near the window and was at risk of being severely injured by the airbag deployment. All passengers were put at risk due to the airbags and because stopping on a busy road created an additional safety hazard. • No, the problem hasn’t been reproduced or confirmed yet. • Yes, two police officers and a tow truck operator inspected the vehicle at the scene. Both confirmed that there was no crash, collision, and no visible damage to the car, and were unsure why the airbags deployed. They said it was “really weird” and unexplained. • No, there were no warning lights, error messages, or other symptoms before the airbag deployment.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 11, 2025NY

Vcm2 light appearing causing bank 2 to stop working, vibration and rpm not being able to go above 3000 or 5000

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 27, 2025VA

The VSA/ABS lights came on and I took it to the repair shop. The mechanic told me that the VSA/ABS module is bad and needs to be replaced. He said this is a very common problem in my vehicle type. He said the anti-lock brakes won't work which can be dangerous. He said the parts are always backordered and can take months to come in and they are extremely expensive. They range from $1200-$2400 for the part only. I researched the problem online and it seems to be a common problem across many Honda models and years. Many people have taken apart the modules themselves and have repaired them. They mention that the connective wires on the modules are extremely thin and not recommended for circuit boards. The thinness of the connective wires causes the failure.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 25, 2025NY

Significant paint chipping

Structure › Body
Filed Feb 16, 2025NY

Paint has peeled completely off of areas of the body--including the roof above the windshield and others. This peeling has occurred without any physical damage to the body itself

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 21, 2024IL

I purchased the vehicle and in May 2023 I noticed a small bubble on the paint on the roof of the car near the windshield on the left, above the driver's side. I went to the closest Honda Dealer and the gentleman at the shop dismissed me saying the car's warranty was expired. A few months later, the bubble popped and a part of the paint peeled off. I called the dealer Arlington Honda and was told by a manager Jeremy Hardman to take my car to one of 2 Autobody shops he provided me with for inspection. I went to Schaumburg Autobody who inspected the vehicle and found more affected areas behind the sunroof. They determined it to be defective sealer that is not adhearing to the metal. I sent an email to Jeremy Hardman and called that Honda dealer I was told Jeremy no longer works at that dealer and transferred me elsewhere. I was told to contact Honda Corporate. Meanwhile, the paint has now peeled further, the metal is now completely exposed which will lead to rust formation causing further damage. Also making my car look old and poorly maintained. Since its near the windshield, moisture from snow, rain etc will cause damage where water will start to make its way into the vehicle causing further damage there as well. I have attached pictures to show the metal exposure from the peeling and pictures where you can see the sealant coming off. I would like instructions on how to proceed from here to initiate a recall asap due to poor paint/sealer quality and/or improper application. In

Power Train
Filed Nov 15, 2024FL

The lights(traction control light, check engine,) in the dash come on and go off intermittently and vehicle display reads check emissions system and check VSA (vehicle stability assist) I got the vehicle scanned for the codes it throws and the print out was for the power train control module the piston rings all of them failed emission test! The dash lights come on for two to three weeks at a time and than just go off while the lights are illuminated I have no traction control no eco mode and the car doesn’t get the correct power while accelerating speed sometimes it gets too much power and accelerates too high causing the vehicle to take off and without any kind of traction

Engine
Filed Nov 15, 2024150,000 milesTX

The contact owned a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at 45- 50 MPH, the engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Action Number: RQ24013 (Engine). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that rod bearings and piston ring replacements were needed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who opened a case and assisted with the repair fees. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 30, 2024MN

Paint peeling above windshield

Air Bags
Filed Jun 19, 2024TX

I made an 8:40 am appointment to fix the 2018 airbag recall (18V-042) and after arriving at the service center was told it would take two days to fix because they were unexpectedly busy, and, they would be unable to give me a loaner vehicle or facilitate it's dropoff when complete. This does not work for us and leaves us exposed to unacceptable safety risk.

Engine
Filed May 2, 202486,680 milesKS

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the check engine warning light, the traction control warning light, and an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that oil was seeping through the piston rings and was leaking onto the spark plugs. Additionally, the dealer diagnosed that cylinder #1 was misfiring. The dealer determined that the piston rings needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V382000 (Engine) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 86,680.

Engine
Filed Apr 13, 2024IL

I recently purchased 2013 Honda Pilot (89,000 miles) and can hear a distinct intermittent hum only when the vehicle is traveling between 45 and 50 mph. I have taken it to the dealer to repair it twice, but they have not found a problem. Ball bearings are fine, transmission fluid was changed, but hum is still there. This model is known to have transmission problems, and I don’t want issues down the road.

Engine
Filed Dec 29, 2023FL

Burn oil more then usual smokes when accelerating hard . premature spark plug failure, cylinder 1, 2 , 3 have alot of oil build on them causing failure.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Nov 7, 2023OH

Wires burnt to headlights as a result of overheating wires; resulted in both low beam headlights going out while driving. It seems like Honda has had this problem previously in older Pilot models. Unsure of why they are making newer vehicles with the same issues.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip › Abs Warning Light
Filed Aug 28, 202374,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the ABS warning light, the brake warning light, and the traction control warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed and the contact was informed that the pressure sensor had malfunctioned and the VSA module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted and stated that the parts was unavailable. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the part unavailable and did not provide any assistance. The failure mileage was 74,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 2, 2023NJ

Paint on roof of my 2013 Honda Pilot. First bubbled up the white paint - now 2 large areas the size of basketballs just above the front window. The paint has chipped off and the metal shows underneath. Have an appt to bring to dealer to inspect. Heard its common on 2013-14 Honda's in white. This brings down the value! My vehicle only has 100k.

Engine
Filed Aug 1, 2023MN

Having a VCM system problem on vehicle, tighten gas cap, check engine light, vtm-4 light, misfire in 3. Took to Buerkle Buick after reading about class action lawsuit. They were absolutely no help. Said without a code could not help. Bought new gas cap and replaced purge valve, changed oil. Good for a bit then car went into limp mode. Took to a local mechanic, he adjusted valves, ran great but would not come out of limp mode. Replaced VCM Solenoid, still in limp mode. It is sad that this is a known problem but because they settled they don't have to recall these vehicle in the mean time we all get screwed.

Engine
Filed Jul 24, 202397,000 milesOR

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving 20 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle experienced rough idling. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that there was no recall associated with the VIN and the warranty had expired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V382000 (Engine) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 19, 2023NH

While on the highway with our family of 5 all the check engine light, VCM-4 along with traction control light came on. The car began to slow down and would not accelerate when the gas pedal was pushed. The Vehicle has been towed to Honda who apparently knew that this happens in this year, make and model vehicle because they had offered an extended warranty coverage on this issue which has since expired and no longer covered for us. Why wasn't this a recall? This is a major engine issue that costs thousands of dollars to fix.

Engine
Filed Jun 16, 2023GA

I am writing this complaint since Honda has so many issues with their vehicles and it has boiled down to my 2013 Honda Pilot which has an engine check light issue related to P0301 – Bank 1 Piston Ring Issue. There was a class action suit on the same and noted in their Service Bulletin 13-082. However, the attorneys of both parties Honda and the plaintiffs reached some kind of deal even with the National highway safety board (Federal Agency) and many vehicles of 2013 were left out of the extension of warranty or repair of this issue, even though a Certified Dealer of Honda checked my 2013 Honda and confirmed it was the same issue. The deal done by these parties have not reached many owners of Honda Pilots for this issue. This is a disgrace to Honda and would encourage all car owner’s past, present and future to buy other cars other than those made by Honda. They have not yet resolved my issue even after all these months of trying. Even lawyers involved these in past cases have refused to help or talk on the matter. What are they hiding or what deals made w Honda, plaintiff, and the Highway Safety Board? I am an original believer of buying Toyotas, however I got a recommendation from family members and friends to get the Honda pilot who have similar vehicles of both Hondas and Toyotas, even though I was very reluctant to buy a Honda due to the horrific stories I have heard about Honda vehicles and experience w Honda personnel. So, I got a Honda pilot 2013 and my terrible recent

Structure › Body
Filed May 17, 2023FL

Paint bubbling up all over vehicle.Roof,hood,rear tail gate,doors and paint peeling off. Had same problem between windshield and roof and American Honda repaired it.Now entire car is bubbling and paint peeling off.

Power Train
Filed Mar 12, 2023MA

Excessive vibration, speeds above 50mph vibrates the entire vehicle.

Steering
Filed Jan 24, 2023177,000 milesSC

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the fog lights and exterior lights became inoperable. The contact noticed there was rust underneath the hood. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact also needed to add additional power steering fluid three times per week. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the power steering gear box, power steering lines, water lines and hoses needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the power steering reservoir, power steering cooling lines, power steering line rem pump, and power steering pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 177,000.

Engine
Filed Dec 28, 2022124,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle started to stall with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact coasted the vehicle off the highway and the vehicle was towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle with a premature engine piston wear which was linked to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V382000 (Engine) however, the vehicle was not included in the recall. The contact was given an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000.

Air BagsCrash
Filed Nov 15, 202298,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while her husband was driving 40-50 MPH, there was an accident ahead where a trailer crashed into a deer causing the deer to impact the front driver's side of the vehicle. The front passenger-side air bag was the only air bag that was deployed. The front driver-side air bag failed to deploy. After the front passenger air bag deployed the vehicle heated up rapidly and failed to shut off. There were two children seated in the rear of the vehicle. A police report was filed. There were no injuries sustained. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 98,000.

Engine
Filed Nov 4, 202281,250 milesMD

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while driving at 65 MPH, the check engine warning light, the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) warning light, and the traction control warning light illuminated. The message "Emission Check" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred while driving. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the cylinder #1 was misfiring due to oil leaking onto the spark plugs. The dealer diagnosed that the piston rings were beginning to fail; however, the spark plugs were replaced as a temporary repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V382000 (Engine) as the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 81,250.

Engine
Filed Oct 14, 2022WA

During my commute home from work my vehicle began shaking as if it was going to stall. The orange check engine light began to flash. I used my scanner and it read the code P0303. I took it to a mechanic the following day and they stated the engine is burning excessive oil and misfiring due to Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management system. The oil is soaking the rear three spark plugs from continuously turning on/off while driving causing the engine cylinders to misfire. They stated it is not safe to drive due to possible shut off, power loss, acceleration loss, and damage to the other car systems. I have regular maintenance done to the vehicle but due to the VCM system it will continue to have the same issues. I paid a lot of money for a “reliable” car but the mechanic is saying I need a new motor.

Seats
Filed Sep 13, 2022UT

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that when he exited the vehicle, he heard a cracking sound coming from underneath the driver’s seat. The contact stated he looked around the driver’s seat and noticed that the bottom of the driver’s seat frame was fractured in three locations. The contact inspected the frame of the front passenger’s seat and noticed one crack. The contact stated he called the local dealer and they informed him that there was no recall associated with the VIN and suggested he contact the manufacturer for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall for the failure. The manufacturer informed the contact that the seat repair would be at his own cost. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Air Bags
Filed Jul 28, 2022LA

Passenger Airbag fails to turn itself off when under 15 LBS is positioned on the seat.

Engine
Filed Jul 19, 2022OH

The car stalled on highway while I was driving it . The check engine light went on randomly and it just stopped . Had it towed to our local gas / service station and they replaced #2 cylinder spark plug . They told us it should be seen by a mechanic bc they thought engine was bad. We took it to mechanic , ( took over 10 days to get it in ) and they said the #2 spark plug that had just been replaced was saturated in oil bc the oil was getting past piston rings . This car has only 86k miles on it .

Service BrakesCrash1 injured
Filed Jul 12, 2022IL

Brake failure at stop sign. Driver crashed into a pole, suffered severe injuries including bleeding in the brain and broken ribs.

Engine
Filed Feb 26, 2022NY

The engine rod failed and blew apart. Car is still running but could just stop at anytime and caused an accident.

Engine
Filed Nov 7, 2021IA

Since purchasing new in 2013, experienced ongoing issues with VCM. Noticable vibration/shudder at all speeds except during heavy acceleration. Taken to dealer mant times. They are able to reproduce but state no fix available. It's how the car was made. In addition to vibration, engine makes a chirping noise when accelerating through vibration. I believe they are related although neither have been able to be fixed. No warning lights illuminate. I purchased this car for the 4wd as I live in snow/ice climate. However, excessive vibration/shudder makes driving in these conditions (any conditions) unsafe due to constant need to fluctuate acceleration/ deceleration to help minimize vibration/shudder to regain sense of control. If you maintain speed while vibrating on snow/ice you feel like you are losing control. This vibration HAS to have a long-term effect on engine/car integrity. It's strong enough that some day I imagine I'll come to a stop and at that very moment, every screw will have come loose/undone from years of vibrating and I'll be left sitting in the seat holding just the steering wheel with the car in parts all around me.

Engine
Filed Sep 3, 2021GA

The car is from 2013 doesn’t have a lot miles and the transmission already starting present rallying noises when backing up. I did take to a mechanic and stated that have residue but they not sure if is that or something else..

Engine
Filed Jun 20, 2021MD

June 20, 2021 This is my third Honda Pilot. I owned a 2004, 2008 and now a 2013 Honda Pilot since September 23, 2019. And YES, both 2004 and 2008 vehicles had recalls, transmission and engine problems. Fast forward to today, my Pilot wasn't being driven on a daily basis due to COVID-19 Pandemic from March 23, 2020 to present (Teleworking from home). However, while driving my vehicle heading home on June 11, 2021, the VSA Indicator, Malfunction Indicator Lamp and the VTM-4 System Indicator lights lit up on the instruction panel. I took my vehicle to Pohanka Honda in Capitol Heights, Maryland on Saturday, June 12, 2021 but they told me that it would cost approximately $160.00 to run Diagnostic test for the lights and that they were booked for the day and to come back on Monday morning, June 14, 2021. Instead, on Monday afternoon, I took my vehicle to an independent mechanic who informed me that the oil is burning and spilling onto the engine and the engine light came on while they were test driving the car. The independent mechanic recommends that the engine and all six spark plugs be replaced. The independent mechanic also told me to researched the issues. And upon further investigation on the NHTSA website, I found that the issues are linked to the NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V382000 (ENGINE). However, my VIN number is not under Recall. Even though there are approximately 258 total complaints for the 2013 Honda Pilots and of those, 59 were engine complaints, I am shocked that Ho

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 15, 2021GA

Paint peeling on my 2013 Honda Pilot - passenger side roof between moon roof and front windshield. Paint color is the white pearl. Seeing many reports of paint issues with this type of vehicle and paint color.

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 2, 2021155,000 milesOR

VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND WE WERE LOADING AN ITEM ON ROOF RACK. THE ITEM LIGHTLY TAPPED THE GLASS SUNROOF AND IT SPIDER CRACKED ALL THROUGHOUT. ON THE WAY HOME, THROUGH NORMAL CITY STREETS, AT SUB-HIGHWAY SPEED, GLASS STARTED RAINING DOWN ON THE FRONT TWO SEATS. THIS GLASS IS NOT TYPICAL WINDSHIELD SAFETY GLASS. SHARDS ARE SMALL AND SHARP AND WENT EVERYWHERE.

Engine
Filed Feb 1, 202180,000 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HONDA PILOT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON START OF HER VEHICLE, THE EMISSION, CHECK ENGINE AND VEHICLE STABILITY WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO INFORMED HER THAT OIL HAD SPILLED ALL OVER THE ENGINE AND THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT THEN TOWED THE VEHICLE TO GARY YEOMANS HONDA (752 N TOMOKA FARMS RD, DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32124) WHERE THEY CONFIRMED THAT THE PISTON RINGS HAD FAILED LEADING TO THE OIL LEAK. THE MECHANIC ALSO INFORMED HER THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT LINKED THE FAILURE TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V382000 (ENGINE) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT UNDER RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER HAD YET TO BE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 80,000.

Engine
Filed Jan 21, 2021155,000 milesAZ

WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE OBD SHOWS CODE P0304. VEHICLE HAD POOR ACCELERATION WHILE MISFIRING. TOOK VEHICLE INTO HONDA DEALERSHIP AND THEY STATE A RE-RING OF FOUR CYLINDERS NEEDED. THIS IS CONSISTENT WITH THE "SOTO CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT" IN THE "HONDA MISFIRE CASE" THAT RESULTED IN A SERVICE BULLETIN AND EXTENSION TO THE WARRANTY. DEALERSHIP STATES ALTHOUGH THIS VEHICLE MEETS THE MODEL AND YEAR CRITERIA FOR THIS PROBLEM, THE VIN SHOWS IT WAS BUILT IN A FACTORY THAT DOES NOT QUALIFY FOR THE REMEDY TO BE PAID FOR BY HONDA. DEALERSHIP AGREES IT IS THE SAME PROBLEM AND SAME MAINTENANCE ACTION REQUIRED AS THE OTHER VEHICLES THAT ARE COVERED BY THE CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT. HONDA AMERICA REFUSES TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT HONDA REFUSES TO TAKE CARE OF EVEN THOUGH IT IS WELL KNOWN FROM OTHER SAME MODEL/YEAR VEHICLES. PLEASE HELP!

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 23, 202053,000 milesFL

I PURCHASED MY THIRD HONDA, A 2013 HONDA PILOT IN 2017 FROM MY LOCAL HONDA DEALERSHIP. IN 2019, I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FROM AMERICAN HONDA STATING THAT WE COULD HAVE THE COST OF REPAINTING OUR RECALLED VEHICLES COVERED IF WE HAD DAMAGE. AT THAT TIME, I DID NOT HAVE ANY ISSUES WITH THE PAINT ON MY PILOT. WELL, A COUPLE WEEKS AGO, A HUGE AMOUNT OF PAINT ON MY ROOF WAS MISSING ALL OF A SUDDEN. I CONTACTED AMERICAN HONDA AS IT STATED ON THE RECALL NOTICE AND WAS TOLD THE RECALL PERIOD AND MY WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED. NEVERTHELESS, I WAS TOLD A CLAIM WAS OPENED ON MY BEHALF AND THAT I NEEDED TO TAKE THE CAR TO MY LOCAL HONDA DEALERSHIP FOR A DIAGNOSIS. I WAS THEN SENT TO AN AUTHORIZED BODY SHOP FOR AN ESTIMATE. AFTER HAVING TO CONTACT AMERICAN HONDA AND THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP MULTIPLE TIMES, I WAS TOLD BY THE BODY SHOP THAT HONDA WOULD ONLY COVER 60% OF THE $1700 COST (WHICH WAS ONLY FOR THE ROOF TO BE REPAINTED) AND THAT EVENTUALLY THE REST OF THE VEHICLE WILL ALSO START TO PEEL. I FEEL CHEATED AND THIS IS TRULY A LACK OF CUSTOMER SERVICE ON THE PART OF AMERICAN HONDA AND PROCTOR HONDA. HOW DO YOU SELL VEHICLES KNOWING THAT THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH THE PAINT COMING OFF AND THEN NOT BE WILLING TO FIX THE ISSUE??

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 23, 202060,000 milesCA

PAINT TURNED DULL AND CHALKY AFTER LESS THAN 5 YEARS AND NOW BEGINNING TO PEEL AT 7 YEARS

Complaints 1-50 of 272, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2016
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202627100Routine
2025216400Above average
2024117610Routine
2023148510Routine
2022172500Routine
20214521020Above average
20204931150Above average
20199271360Above average
2018442720Above average
2017938450Above average
20161,7248100Above average
2015109410Routine
2014116300Routine
2013 — this page272640Above average
2012172930Routine
20112931150Above average
20101111010Routine
2009134940Routine
2008133931Fatalities reported
2007211951Fatalities reported
20062681070Above average
20056791582Fatalities reported
200454413140Above average
200372014111Fatalities reported

Compare every Pilot year →

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jun 27, 2019. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.