By recall severity, the Pilot years to check hardest are 2003–2008, which have Takata air bag inflators; Honda told 2003 owners with unrepaired inflators to stop driving. The 2016–2022 Pilot has the most campaigns, including hood latch 21V932, V6 bearing recall 23V751 and salt-state subframe corrosion 26V365. Recall 25V031 covers 2023–2025 engine software.
CarWhere lists 23 documented Pilot issues, including 21 NHTSA safety recalls, each with affected years, powertrains, symptoms, pre-purchase checks and a source. Recall entries come from NHTSA's recall dataset on the DOT open-data portal, which may not list every campaign, so run the specific VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup.
4th gen Pilot problems (2023–present)
Engine control software can cause a stall (recall 25V031) (2023–2025)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 4th gen (2023–present)
- Years:
- 2023–2025
- Powertrain:
- V6
A software error in the fuel injection control unit of 2023–2025 Pilots (and Acura MDX Type S and TLX Type S) can cause an engine stall or loss of power. Dealers reprogram the software for free; letters were mailed March 17, 2025. The 294,612 count covers all three models.
Symptoms
- Sudden loss of power
- Engine stall
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 25V031 (2025-01) · 294,612 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [30]
Fuel filler neck can separate and leak (recall 24V900) (2023–2025)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 4th gen (2023–present)
- Years:
- 2023–2025
- Powertrain:
- V6
On 2023–2025 Pilots and 2023–2024 Passports, the fuel filler neck tube and filler pipe can separate and leak fuel, a fire risk near an ignition source. Dealers inspect and repair them; letters were mailed January 7, 2025. The campaign covers 205,760 vehicles.
Symptoms
- Fuel smell after filling up
- Fuel drips near the rear wheel
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 24V900 (2024-11) · 205,760 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [31]
Brake pedal pivot pin may not be secured (recall 25V391) (2023–2025)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 4th gen (2023–present)
- Years:
- 2023–2025
- Powertrain:
- V6
The brake pedal pivot pin on certain 2023–2025 Pilots (and Acura TLX and MDX) may not be secured, letting the pedal shift out of position so braking does not work as intended. Dealers inspect and replace the pedal assembly; letters were mailed July 29, 2025. The 259,033 count covers all three models.
Symptoms
- Brake pedal feels off-center or loose
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 25V391 (2025-06) · 259,033 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [32]
Loose bearing in steering gearbox can lock steering (recall 23V735) (2023–2024)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 4th gen (2023–present)
- Years:
- 2023–2024
- Powertrain:
- V6
A manufacturing error could leave a loose ball bearing in the steering gearbox of 519 2023–2024 Pilots, which can cause a loss of steering control or steering lock-up. Dealers replace the electric power steering rack; letters were mailed December 18, 2023. A separate 2025 recall, 25V056, fixes third-row seat belt routing on 1,494 2025 Pilots.
Symptoms
- Steering binds or locks
- Clicking from the steering
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 23V735 (2023-11) · 519 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [33][34]
2026 Pilot rear subframe bolts may be loose (recall 26V424) (2026)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 4th gen (2023–present)
- Years:
- 2026
- Powertrain:
- V6
The rear subframe bolts on certain 2026 Pilots and Passports may not have been tightened properly, which can cause a loss of stability or subframe detachment. Dealers inspect and replace the bolts; letters were mailed August 24, 2026. The campaign covers 3,933 vehicles.
Symptoms
- Clunk from the rear over bumps
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 26V424 (2026-07) · 3,933 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [35]
3rd gen Pilot problems (2016–2022)
Hood latch striker can separate and the hood can open (recall 21V932) (2016–2019)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 3rd gen (2016–2022)
- Years:
- 2016–2019
- Powertrain:
- V6
The hood latch striker on 2016–2019 Pilots (plus 2019 Passport and 2017–2020 Ridgeline) can be damaged and separate from the hood, letting it fly open while driving. Dealers repair the striker or replace the hood; letters were mailed January 18, 2022. The 724,826 count covers all three models.
Symptoms
- Hood does not latch firmly
- Hood flutters at speed
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Open and close the hood and pull up to confirm it is firmly latched
NHTSA recall: 21V932 (2021-11) · 724,826 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [17]
Connecting rod bearings can wear and seize (recall 23V751) (2016, 2018–2019)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 3rd gen (2016–2022)
- Years:
- 2016, 2018–2019
- Powertrain:
- V6
A manufacturing error can make connecting rod bearings wear and seize in certain 2016 and 2018–2019 Pilots (plus Ridgeline, Odyssey and Acura models), damaging the engine so it runs poorly or stalls, with a risk of fire. Dealers inspect and repair or replace the engine for free; Honda letters were mailed March 28, 2024. The 248,999 count covers all models.
Symptoms
- Knocking from the engine
- Rough running or stall
- Check-engine light
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Ask whether the dealer inspection was done and whether the engine was replaced
NHTSA recall: 23V751 (2023-11) · 248,999 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [18]
Timing belt teeth can separate (recall 19V298) (2018–2019)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 3rd gen (2016–2022)
- Years:
- 2018–2019
- Powertrain:
- V6
On certain 2018–2019 Pilots (and Acura MDX, 2019 Odyssey, Ridgeline and others), timing belt teeth can separate from the belt, which can stall the engine. Dealers inspect and replace affected belts and fix any resulting engine damage for free; the recall began June 7, 2019. The 93,946 count covers all models.
Symptoms
- Engine stall
- Unusual noise from the timing belt area
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Ask for records showing the timing belt inspection
NHTSA recall: 19V298 (2019-04) · 93,946 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [19]
Rearview camera and instrument display faults (20V439, 20V440, 23V431) (2019–2022)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 3rd gen (2016–2022)
- Years:
- 2019–2022
- Powertrain:
- V6
Three recalls target display problems on later 3rd-gen Pilots. 20V439 reprograms instrument panel software on 2019–2021 Pilots that could blank oil pressure, speed and gear readouts. 20V440 updates network software that could delay the rearview camera. 23V431 (1,209,673 vehicles across Pilot, Passport and Odyssey) replaces a faulty MOST cable connector on 2019–2022 Pilots; letters were mailed July 24, 2023. All are free.
Symptoms
- Blank or frozen instrument panel
- Back-up camera image delayed or missing
- Audio popping or network-loss messages
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Test the camera several times and watch the gauges at start-up
NHTSA recall: 23V431 (2023-06) · 1,209,673 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [20][21][22]
MOST bus connector warranty extension (Service Bulletin 21-012) (2019–2020)
Minor- Generation:
- 3rd gen (2016–2022)
- Years:
- 2019–2020
- Powertrain:
- V6
Honda Service Bulletin 21-012 (February 18, 2021) says a loose connection in the MOST bus network on 2019–2020 Pilots (all trims except LX) can cause popping or crackling from the speakers, no sound, “Network Loss” messages or display issues. American Honda extended the warranty on those connectors to 5 years or 60,000 miles from the original purchase date. Dealers install a FAKRA connector set and service cords.
Symptoms
- Speaker popping or crackling
- No audio
- Network Loss message
Check before buying
- Ask a Honda dealer to check the VIN for bulletin 21-012 eligibility and completion
- Listen for audio dropouts on the test drive
Sources: [23]
Low-pressure fuel pump can fail (recalls 21V215, 23V858) (2015–2020)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 2nd / 3rd gen
- Years:
- 2015–2020
- Powertrain:
- V6
The in-tank fuel pump can fail and stall the engine. Recall 21V215 covered 2019–2020 Pilots; expansion 23V858 lists 2015–2020 Pilots among many Honda and Acura models, with letters mailed September 6, 2024. Dealers replace the pump module for free.
Symptoms
- Hesitation
- No-start
- Stall while driving
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 23V858 (2023-12) · 2,490,460 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [24][25]
Passenger seat weight sensor can crack (recalls 24V064, 26V332) (2017–2022)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 3rd gen (2016–2022)
- Years:
- 2017–2022
- Powertrain:
- V6
The front passenger seat weight sensor can crack and short-circuit, so the air bags may deploy when they should not. 24V064 covered 2020–2022 Pilots; 26V332 expanded coverage to 2017–2022 Pilots, with letters mailed July 7, 2026. Dealers replace the sensor for free.
Symptoms
- SRS warning light
- Passenger air bag indicator acting oddly
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Check both 24V064 and 26V332
NHTSA recall: 26V332 (2026-05) · 98,892 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [26][27]
Rear subframe can corrode at suspension mounts (recall 26V365) (2016–2022)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 3rd gen (2016–2022)
- Years:
- 2016–2022
- Powertrain:
- V6
Recall 26V365 (June 2026) covers 2016–2022 Pilots, 2019–2023 Passports, 2017–2023 Ridgelines and 2014–2020 Acura MDX sold in 22 salt-belt states and D.C. The rear subframe can corrode where the suspension mounts, and components such as the rear control arm can fail. Interim letters were mailed July 27, 2026; the final remedy, a subframe reinforcement kit plus repairs as needed, was expected in fall 2026. The 965,561 count covers every model.
Symptoms
- Clunks or knocking from the rear suspension
- Vague handling at the rear
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- On a salt-state vehicle, inspect the rear subframe for heavy rust or flaking
- Ask whether the reinforcement kit has been installed or is still pending
NHTSA recall: 26V365 (2026-06) · 965,561 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [28]
Brake booster fastener may separate from master cylinder (recall 23V458) (2021–2022)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 3rd gen (2016–2022)
- Years:
- 2021–2022
- Powertrain:
- V6
The tie-rod fastener between the brake booster and master cylinder on certain 2021–2022 Pilots may have been assembled improperly, so the master cylinder can separate and braking can be lost. Dealers inspect and repair the assembly; letters were mailed August 7, 2023. The 124,077 count includes Civic, Ridgeline, Passport and Acura MDX.
Symptoms
- Soft or sinking brake pedal
- Brake warning light
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 23V458 (2023-06) · 124,077 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [29]
2nd gen Pilot problems (2009–2015)
Front lap belt stitching may be incomplete (recall 11V468) (2009–2011)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 2nd gen (2009–2015)
- Years:
- 2009–2011
- Powertrain:
- V6
On 310,773 2009–2011 Pilots built March 13, 2008 to August 30, 2011, the stitching securing the end of the driver and front passenger lap belt may be incomplete or missing, so the belt could detach in a crash. Dealers inspect and replace the belts as needed; the recall began October 5, 2011.
Symptoms
- Frayed or loose stitching at the lap belt anchor
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Inspect the lap belt end stitching on both front seats
NHTSA recall: 11V468 (2011-09) · 310,773 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [10]
Driver air bag module may be missing rivets (recall 13V016) (2009–2013)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 2nd gen (2009–2015)
- Years:
- 2009–2013
- Powertrain:
- V6
One or more rivets attaching the driver air bag module to its cover may be missing on 2009–2013 Pilots and 2011–2013 Odysseys built March 13, 2008 to December 21, 2012, which could change how the bag deploys. Dealers inspect and replace the module as needed; the recall began March 14, 2013. The 748,481 count covers both models.
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 13V016 (2013-01) · 748,481 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [11]
Takata passenger inflator recalls (16V346, 17V030, 18V042, 18V661) (2009–2015)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 2nd gen (2009–2015)
- Years:
- 2009–2015
- Powertrain:
- V6
The 2nd-generation Pilot is in four phased passenger-inflator recalls. 16V346 covers 2009–2011 Pilots in Zone A states, 17V030 covers 2009–2012, 18V042 covers 2010–2013, and 18V661 covers 2014–2015 Pilots nationwide plus 2011–2013 in additional states. Dealers replace the passenger inflator for free. Recalls 17V545, 18V268 and 19V378 recheck replacements that may have been installed incorrectly.
Symptoms
- No warning sign before a crash
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- If the passenger air bag was replaced before, confirm the follow-up recalls are closed
NHTSA recall: 18V661 (2018-09) · 1,355,406 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [12][13][14][15]
2013 Pilot pistons may wear prematurely (recall 13V382) (2013)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 2nd gen (2009–2015)
- Years:
- 2013
- Powertrain:
- V6
On 270 2013 Pilot and Odyssey vehicles, the piston heat treatment may not have been applied properly, leaving pistons too soft and prone to early wear and sudden failure. Dealers replace the engine short block free of charge; the recall began September 16, 2013.
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 13V382 (2013-08) · 270 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [16]
1st gen Pilot problems (2003–2008)
Takata “Alpha” air bag inflator: stop driving until fixed (2003) (2003)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 1st gen (2003–2008)
- Years:
- 2003
- Powertrain:
- V6
Honda’s February 2023 release named the 2003 Pilot among the 2001–2003 Honda and Acura models whose unrepaired Takata “Alpha” inflators carry the highest rupture risk. Honda asked owners to stop driving until the free repair is done and offers free towing and a loaner if needed. It said about 8,200 of these inflators remained in Honda and Acura vehicles on U.S. roads.
Symptoms
- No warning sign before a crash
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Check recalls.honda.com
- Tow, do not drive, a Pilot with an open air bag recall
Sources: [1]
Takata driver and passenger inflators can rupture (15V320, 15V370, 16V344) (2003–2008)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 1st gen (2003–2008)
- Years:
- 2003–2008
- Powertrain:
- V6
Recall 15V320 replaces the driver inflator on 2003–2008 Pilots. Passenger inflators are covered by 15V370 (2003 Pilots built November 26, 2001 to August 21, 2003) and by phased regional recalls 16V344 and 17V029 (2003–2008 and 2005–2008). Moisture can make the inflators rupture and throw metal fragments. Follow-up recalls 19V182 and 19V501 replace inflators that had been installed as remedy or service parts. All repairs are free.
Symptoms
- No warning sign before a crash
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Confirm each air bag recall shows complete
NHTSA recall: 15V320 (2015-05) · 6,281,043 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [2][3][4][5][6]
Ignition interlock can deform and allow rollaway (recall 12V573) (2003–2004)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 1st gen (2003–2008)
- Years:
- 2003–2004
- Powertrain:
- Automatic
The ignition switch interlock lever on 2003–2004 Pilots (and Odyssey and Acura MDX) built November 26, 2001 to August 30, 2006 can deform, so the key comes out with the shifter not in Park and the vehicle can roll. Dealers install an updated interlock lever and repair the switch if needed; the recall began February 22, 2013. The 807,161 count covers all three models.
Symptoms
- Key comes out with the shifter not in Park
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
- Confirm the key will only come out in Park
NHTSA recall: 12V573 (2012-12) · 807,161 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [7]
Low-beam headlight connector can melt (recall 12V136) (2003–2005)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 1st gen (2003–2008)
- Years:
- 2003–2005
- Powertrain:
- V6
Wiring harness tension can wear the low-beam terminals until they melt inside the connector, leaving the Pilot without low beams. The recall began with 2003 Pilots and was expanded in August 2012 to 2004–2005 models. Dealers repair the harness or replace the switch. The 1,375,217 total includes CR-V and Civic.
Symptoms
- Low beams flicker or go out
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 12V136 (2012-03) · 1,375,217 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [8]
2005 Pilot stability control can apply the brakes unexpectedly (recall 13V092) (2005)
Safety recall- Generation:
- 1st gen (2003–2008)
- Years:
- 2005
- Powertrain:
- V6
A capacitor in the Vehicle Stability Assist module of 2005 Pilots built July 29, 2004 to August 29, 2005 may have been damaged in manufacturing, causing small unintended brake applications or an abrupt stop when the driver brakes. A loose ground could also apply partial braking without lighting the brake lights. Dealers fit a harness with a new capacitor and tighten the ground. The 183,576 count includes Acura MDX and RL.
Symptoms
- Vehicle drags or brakes on its own
- VSA warning light
Check before buying
- Run the 17-digit VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm the remedy shows as complete
NHTSA recall: 13V092 (2013-03) · 183,576 vehicles in the campaign
Sources: [9]