Top 5 Problems Honda Pilot SUV 2nd Generation 2009-15

[@1AAuto]

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[@Salehcr-hf5mx]

1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics Know . No problem

[@Salehcr-hf5mx]

1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics Know. You guys have amazing stock

[@reggaemattik5446]

Have problem with map light not turning on at times when i press the switch. Have to tap on the lens a few times before the light comes on. 2014 pilot lx. Anyone else have that same issue.

[@ElGallegoT]

I have a question I have a pilot 04 I tried to open the the with the fod key and wont open. There is a light in the panel door dont see the light neither. What can a do?

[@carlmartin559]

​ñnbb😊m l bm.🙀 0:10 bb

[@pastortodd9853]

For Problem #1 "VCM Issues" you need VCM Tuner or similar product. This disables your VCM so your engine runs on all 6 cylinders all the time. No more oil consumption. No more fouled plugs. No more engine vibrations. No more misfires. After I installed it on my 2010 Honda Pilot (at 167,559 miles) it was like I had a new engine. It was amazing! Go for the VCM Tuner II.

[@1AAuto]

+Pastor Todd Thanks for the feedback!

[@slaynpray]

Can they add at the dealership?

[@Lunitarium]

Did that make any major difference in your fuel economy?

[@TheKiddOnDrums]

How bad did it effect mpg??

[@Mshi-]

@@TheKiddOnDrums no much

[@ashleypinto6070]

Original 2010 owner here. My issue was the AC stopped working a few years ago. My local shop could not diagnose the issue and the Dealer said that the whole assembly had to be replaced at $2000. The Summer was just over so I decided to put it off. Checked only for similar issues and found out that it could be a blown fuse. Ordered the fuse and replaced it. Voila! it has worked since. Apparently, the fuse box is too close to the engine and this fuse gets overheated.

[@Lugnut64052]

My 2009 fouled out the #1 spark plug every 10,000 miles. Installed the VCMuzzler. Problem permanently solved.

[@billvasileff3897]

2012 Honda Pilot purchased in 2013 with 9k miles. Great reliable vehicle now has $207k (Aug 2021). Performed all fluid changes regularly myself. I’ve had to do the following: -alternator -oil rocket arm assembly switch All other maintenance routine: -timing belt -brakes rotors - low and high beam headlights -rear brake bulb -spark plugs -fluids, oil, transmission, rear differential. -interior map bulb Like I said great vehicle

[@MW-fr7bx]

I just had to replace the alternator at 100k on my 2011. Was also told that there’s a very small leak in the front spool valve that’ll need to be fixed at some point. Other than that and the cheap “leather” on the center console and door arm rest it’s been perfect

[@secretsanta9046]

Is your 2wd or AWD?

[@robbrown3941]

How’s it do for towing? I’m looking to tow vending machines.

[@furiahispanica3823]

3rd Generation Honda Pilot is a beast. Bought our 2012 Honda Pilot EX-L with 155,000 miles, we traded our pristine 2012 Toyota Camry for it and even though both Catalytic Converters are gone it's been on multiple road trips, now have 205,000 miles on it and working on preserving it even more now that used vehicles are 40% pricier. Well worth it.

[@gilbertoherrera3901]

Well, you are absolutely right to start with the VCM issue, but anyone else who’s owning any 3.5, 6 cylinders beauty, (I have a 2011-Pilot) don’t just take this so lightly because the truth is that the VCM is a system designed to comply with emissions regs which in turn will eventually destroy your engine, yes oil consumption high, sudden cylinder misfire DTC’s (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) specifics or random, engine vibrations, engine performance low, finally thousands spent in repairs, engine mounts, piston rings, heads, jacketing cylinders, oil pump, transmission, well I had all that. Finally with my Pilot back on the road just purchased a VCMTUNER just 80$ to disable the VCM, yes never again that ECO mode, (well haven’t received yet) every time that ECO light turns on I know I’m destroying my engine, I would pour one extra gallon of gas around the gas station floor every time I fill in, even thought you are saving a lot unless you let that evil VCM system destroy your engine, really bad desicion by Honda on their pure interest!

[@colterino]

Great presentation. In other words, this car is perfect. Ha. I agree. I have a 2014 and it’s the best car I’ve ever owned. Get the VTM disabler. No more clunk. Only lost 1 mpg. Car will Go through anything. Including blizzards. You can do the fluids and breaks yourself. Do your major service at 100,000 miles. And regular oil changes etc, No major issues, ever. Thanks

[@coreyang08]

Like ForunateDaD said... the fix for problem number 1 (VCM) is installing a VCMtuner to prevent some of the cylinders from shutting down. Takes less than 10 minutes to install and works like a charm. No more ECO lights displayed, which means it's doing its job. Best thing to ever come along to counter the issues of motor mounts going bad, oil consumption, fouled plugs and a lack of power. When I buy a V6 motor vehicle I expect all 6 cylinders to be running fulltime, not half of it!

[@chasethedreamsam3398]

Does it help on gas mileage and how do you take out the p4300 code?

[@coreyang08]

@@chasethedreamsam3398 You might lose 1 extra mile to the gallon, but gain many beneficial things in return. VCM is the absolute worse feature Honda ever came out with. You mean P3400?

[@nyruswolf2870]

2011 pilot owner here, haven’t had any major issues so far and it’s been a great vehicle. Only thing that does bother me a bit is the tire pressure. The rims are not the best and they cause the air in the tires to slowly leak out and the tire pressure to drop quicker than most other vehicles. It’s not a huge issue and I’ve had it looked at before, but I’m not about to replace the rims on it and it’s not a safety issue, just a bit annoying.

[@1AAuto]

+Nyrus Wolf Thanks for the feedback!

[@1saawce567]

Try having a tire shop re seal the rims that worked for me. Also check for minor cracks in the rims. Took me 3 tires shops later to find a hairline crack that needed welding that wasn’t showing up under water

[@mjt4651]

Love my 2015 Pilot, one of the best cars we ever bought…roomy and no problems so far…did change the timing belt at 70k, just because of age, not mileage….have not notice VCM problems, will change plugs at 90 k

[@MindfulMusic]

Never had had any of these problems. A Top 5 would be the rear shocks that go out often and make the ride very bouncy. Replaced two times and only at 100K miles on a 2011.

[@chriscanfield3664]

Truth.

[@homerdadon6363]

I think that's why my TL feels bouncy

[@WPI94]

Yeah, I had one go out. Fully dead. Replaced both. Super easy at home. $85 each.

[@1saawce567]

Sway bar links must be number two then

[@justinbieber3957]

Very true

[@CARICO628]

Also another issue than I've experienced is if the dipstick is not seated correctly (2 O rings) Oil can leak out on to the alternator. This can lead to oil saturation which would need to be resolved by replacing/rebuilding the Alternator. It's recommended to check your dipstick after every oil change to prevent this from happening.

[@SyrRduDtw]

For the VCM, if vehicle is out of warranty, install a shunt. Cheap and simple to install. Plenty of options on the web. Turns off the VCM and this stops the piston sucking oil into the cylinder. Fuel mileage does not change. My 2011 Pilot has a cyl 3 fouled plug at 136k mi. Changed plugs and put in a shunt.

[@Legomyeggo7]

2012 Honda pilot owner here and I just experienced the low beams going out, found out it was just the bulbs that went out and not a whole wiring issue (after checking every single fuse in both wiring box’s) this video would have been so much help about 2 hours ago lol (still helped for future reference tho).

[@fernandojalon6339]

The paint issue is part of a recall. Honda will pay for it,we just had ours done last week. Some dealers will tell you they don't know about it and if they do. Call Honda and will help you with that and make sure the dealer takes your truck and send it out for repair. Pilot 2015 Touring.

[@adamsgarage5119]

I bought mine with 185,000 miles on it. Its now at 190,000 miles and haven’t had any issues so far. When I hit 200,000 Im going to have the transmission serviced and timing belt / water pump replaced for the 2nd time in its life. Im not sure if someone previously disabled the vcm on mine because when the “ECO” light comes on the engine feedback doesn’t change at. But anyway its still going strong!

[@eaglesforlife9334]

Good points... you did forget the front lower control arm bushings and the fact that the oil consumption problem called for the engine to be disassembled Pistons 1 2 3 and 4 cleaned with new rings and put back together with the new ECU update and plugs.

[@abrakadabra2016]

What about the lower control arm bushings? I feel a little clunk/click in the steering wheel while turning low speeds or stopped. Might be them?

[@gogojo70]

Try this. With car parked. Unrelease steering wheel lever under steering wheel, move steering wheel in and out, up and down. Then relock the steering wheel. Should eliminate the noise in the steering column

[@rfunk727]

I had both a 2004 and 2011 Honda Pilot EX-L and the one common problem with both was the air mixture motor gear going bad in the center console. The other cosmetic problem was with the 2011 Pilot where the fake leather on both armrests would bubble up. I put 160K on the 2004 and 195K miles on the 2011 and overall, they were great SUV's and because of that, I bought a 2020 Honda Passport Elite AWD. Never had the other problem that this video mentioned though.

[@shellyherrera1584]

Hi, I have a 2011 Pilot Touring. I believe the air mixture motor or air relay is bad. There is a continuous ticking noise under the center console for about 30 seconds when first turning over the ignition. Does this sound familiar to your experience?

[@vinnyp2490]

Have a 2012 pilot, changed timeline belt at 100K, alternator went at 150K, had a transmission shifting issue at 140K - had my fluid flushed with 12 quarts changed - now perfect and finally am going to look into changing my spark plus (but have no issue). Every time I do brakes I change the rotors. Also still haven’t touched shocks or struts. Think its also time to change all the radiator hoses.

[@timothyneal6587]

The paint peeling problem between the windshield and moonroof is a recall issue. Had that issue on my Pearl White 2014 Pilot. It was fixed by the dealer at their cost. They repainted the entire top panel.

[@1AAuto]

+Timothy Neal Thanks for the feedback!

[@DianaLopez-oh7qj]

I have the same issue , do I just go to the dealer?

[@a.r.5736]

Our dealership told us that it was our problem. Even had exterior warranty. 2015 white pilot.

[@Lethal.G37]

@@a.r.5736 put your vin on a vin checker online to see if your car has any recalls

[@stephaniecottrell9603]

I need to follow up on this for sure. My 2011 Pilot Touring is doing this on the hood and the roof - mine is navy blue looks terrible and just really started this past 1.5 yr. my Pilot only has 67K miles

[@bravoswede]

Number one thing to do on any V6 Honda - if it has VCM - you want to disable it. Doesn't matter if your car worked for years or you just bought one. A couple of options with the most advanced being VCM-TUNER 2, then S-VCM (VCM muzzler functions but is more outdated design). Buy one of these and install it. The sooner the better. Your engine will thank you and it will run longer and smoother than ever. $130 that likely will save you an engine replacement. Prevents all the issues he describes in point #1. Note: even if you don't have the engine shudder or noticeable oil loss, disabling VCM will prevent it from happening eventually. If your vehicle.already have the issues they will go away often immediately after install. Amazing restoration to normal operation!

[@WPI94]

Tks for the note! I evidently need this. I'm burning oil like crazy, but no leaks/smoke. 09 Pilot 150K miles.

[@Lethal.G37]

@@WPI94 get it done before all that oil burning clogs your catalytic converters

[@gregorymcdaniel2249]

Just traded an 09 Pilot losing oil like crazy, dealer wanted $5200.00 to replace piston rings, I traded for a 2013 Pilot touring

[@chadnordhoff9591]

If the VCM bothers you just turn it off. Theres a few places that sell a resistor you can put in the engine temp sensor that fools the computer into thinking its not up to full temperature and the VCM only comes on at full operating temp. I did it.. takes 2 minutes and no more VCM

[@brianfogg7532]

I've got a 2005 Pilot (gen 1) with 172,000 well maintained miles. Biggest issues have been BAD clear coat peeling off and poor corrosion resistance in the rear wheel wells. Mechanically the car has been excellent.

[@schooper.]

I’ve owned 3 Honda’s, 2 accords (03,06) and a pilot (‘12), all have the wheel well corrosion. Luckily my pilots isn’t bad so I’m gonna get it fixed sooner or later but both the accords being older had it pretty bad. Honda does a piss poor job of protecting the metal lip from getting the paint chipped off.

[@ppumpkin3282]

@@schooper. I have the same thing on my 2012 honda pilot, but it's only on the passenger side rear wheel well.

[@ryanshannon6963]

I really don't get why it's such a continual problem with Honda and that wheel well corrosion. I owned a 1995 Acura Legend (which I loved) and that had rear wheel well corrosion as well. Kinda figured they'd have that resolved since 1995, but I guess not.

[@jlopez0710]

Our 2009 Honda Pilot is the best vehicle we’ve owned. Honda knew what the people wanted!

[@swheeler6848]

Installed VCM Tuner which keeps all 6 cyl active all time. Oil burn and trans shudder stopped. Lost maybe 1 mile per gal.

[@kenlgraham]

Timing belt replacement recommended at 100000 kilometers or 60000 miles. Ours had the tensioner start to fail causing a startup noise that would go away after a minute or 2, at about 95000 kilometer. As an interference engine I opted to have the dealer replace belt and tensioner, the waterpump, the external accessories belt and sparkplugs and Antifreeze at same time. What I objected to was the initial calculation of labour as if each was being done separately. As in you have the accessories belt off to do the internal timing belt so don't tack on an extra hour for that. Cut back on waterpump time you are not doing all the other removals twice. I did not think to question if spark plugs are normally removed to ease work on the belt, if so may have been penalized there. At any rate the labour cost was reduced but only with me pointing to the issue otherwise would have paid 3 times labour. The use of a belt instead of a chain is maybe a 2 or 3000 dollar extra expense over life of car.

[@LBILUCYFAN]

Interesting! I have a 2013 with 77,000 miles, second owner. Timing belt has not been changed, but all the research I have done indicates it should be done at 1000,000 miles.

[@LBILUCYFAN]

Timing belt at 100,000 miles my research shows ?

[@LBILUCYFAN]

Oh, and I never ever go to the dealer for any work except recall. I had the paint come off just as he said in the vid....that I took to local dealer. It was a Honda problem, they fixed it no charge. I have a perfectly reasonable and smart mechanic!

[@emsg2009]

2015 here, been super daily driver

[@Redhood813]

#1 VCM issues #2 engine sounds #3 power sun roof #4 leather/ vinyl interior #5 running boards #6 low beams wiring issues #7 paint pealing between top of windshield and sunroof

[@alexgdaq8146]

Look up on KZbin Gene kim Robert breaker Chuck Missler

[@davidcantor293]

So nothing major.. good to know!

[@iandalewadasen2386]

never had one of those, i have 8 years old honda pilot...the one only thing i fix before is the spool valve leaking

[@sonsofliberty9170]

Thank you so much for your faithfulness in teaching us fellow Americans that we can do it! 💯💯💯 as a owner I do like the overall model of this Honda 😎

[@andrewhyte2989]

i got a 2013 exl its a great reliable i check my oil every week cause i drive to work plus i use mobil 1 full sythethic oil 0 -20w plus i put 93 premium its a great car

[@courtneyzwick4636]

I love my Honda Pilot but the flaky paint problem you were talking about is actually happening on my tailgate :( no body shop wants to guarantee their paint job (I got several paint jobs quotes this week). I recently had to invest some money in a few replacement parts and I’m really happy I did! (New Rims, headlights -HUGE difference, and rear window shade clips)

[@monaerenee2268]

There’s a factory recall on the paint take it to your local dealership and get it done for free.

[@monaerenee2268]

I took my 2013 and it looks like new!

[@RichardMozuch-tf8ce]

I have a 2009 pilot with 180 thousand miles on it, no oil consumption, no problems.great car.I change the oil every 5 thousand ,

[@loualexander3408]

I just bought a used 2008 Honda Pilot 4WD with 230k miles on it. It has no signs of oil burning on the inside of the exhaust pipe and the compression on all 6 cylinders is (both dry and wet) are good. I was trying to stay away from VCM Honda PIlots (2006-2008 2WD and 2009- all models) since I had no way of knowing if the previous owners had deactivated the VCM and if so when. I did not want to spend too much for a very low mileage vehicle either. It shifts fine and it has no towing hitch so I guess the transmission would be OK for a while at least.

[@bikerbud3903]

When you do these type of videos on any car, it would be helpful to mention an approximate mileage these issues occur.

[@gafakyusef6201]

Great suggestion!

[@sonsofliberty9170]

You nailed it bud 💪

[@mariaomar7024]

My Honda Pilot 2009 started having issues on it’s 10th year , at 180,000 kms

[@JP-vy1im]

2013 Pilot purchased in 2021 96k miles. Check engine light has come on 4 times and battery light once Transmission pressure switch Misfire on cylinder 3 (replace coil pack for that cylinder) Piston ring replacement Spool valve and alternator replacement Oil pressure switch/sensor After all those I did more research and bought the part to disable ECO mode and no issues since.

[@MrROBIN182008]

This car is a beast I have a 2009 exl with a 140,000 no issues whatsoever plus is great on snow

[@daultonirete9262]

It is a beast mine just reached 130k.

[@GTeton73]

'09 EX-L 205,850

[@TheCommonSenseProfessor]

Love my 2013 Pilot. It’s a great vehercle

[@DeAnthonyW]

😂

[@johnwiechel]

Hahah

[@heatherbrenner8275]

I love mine too. It's ran all over Michigan summer and winter. I've never gotten stuck and I haven't had any of the problems this guy talks about. It's not perfect but for the balance of what I paid and how good my experience has been I have no problem saying I love my pilot.

[@BA-wd1oo]

Nice. I thought I was just hearing things.... I also love my 2011 Honda Pilot. Solid verichle. But really- this guy helped out on issue #1- excessive oil burning. No visible oil anywhere, but it's frequently low. I hate the ECO mode!!

[@jeffrock6574]

Lmao !! Vericle

[@thetexican8374]

Guess I’m lucky. I have a 2011 and haven’t had a single issue with her, but I also take good care of her. Thank you for this informational video.

[@LBILUCYFAN]

Have you changed the timing belt? Everything I have read says do it by 100,000 miles!

[@mitchgrossman7447]

Glad to hear! I take care of my wife's 2011 Pilot religiously (oil changes every 5K) and she had the VCM issue at about 110K miles. Check engine light came on and car would go into limp mode. Had to have it towed. Dealership replaced rear valve and oil pressure sensors and the Honda Technical Service Bulletin for this issue calls for 0W-20 instead of 5W-20 oil. Otherwise the car has been fantastic and we love it. Hope yours continues to run great!

[@unknowmysteries5925]

@@LBILUCYFAN my 2014 says 60k replace timing. Hit that done took few hours. Other wise normal wear and tear on my pilot. Zero issues. Knock on wood! Good luck!

[@ahotdj07]

Also for the oil consumption, you might want to check the PCV valve.

[@vincentlizzio]

Love our 2015 Pilot. Excellent vehicle

[@fortunatedad7695]

A fix for the VCM is installing a VCM muzzler. I did for my 2012 Honda Odyssey and now I get full 6 cylinder power all the time. Gas mileage difference with out VCM isnt noticeable.

[@midwestfarm757]

Did it to my 14 Odyssey. Much better vehicle with the muzzle.

[@TheJlizvic]

Best thing to do, I installed one on my 2012 Pilot , as soon as I bought it back in 2017

[@gilbertoherrera3901]

Yup, that’s what I’m talking about pal 👍

[@terrancecollins2696]

Besides the VCM this car is basically rock solid

[@KrisS8528]

I have a ‘13 EX with 170k and only the poor paint job problem has surfaced in my vehicle so far. It is disappointing because otherwise it’s a great SUV.

[@DrJohnJunghans]

That is amazing, it is spot on evaluation based on my experience with 2015 pilot. Good job

[@jasonmarkwell8593]

WHILE I've only owned an 07 and 08 pilot. It issue was alternator fried out due to severely frayed ground wire, still drove fine besides needing to charge up battery before driving. Other was starter went, but luckily died in driveway so again CONVIENT. 2012 mdx owned with similar engine was great with only issue being water leak by passenger corner of windshield.

[@skip101p]

I had 4 of the problems you discussed on my Gen 2 Pilot before it was traded for a Gen-3 . Paint, interior, light,and valve clicking. One thing you did not mention was water pump leaking for the windsheild washer. I understand that Honda has had problem with that and the dealer charged 400.00 to replaced the washer as well as the tank due to the labor .

[@LongBoi33]

If the dealership charged you $400, you probably would have paid $100 at any other mechanic. Just a tip for future reference, dealers always always always overcharge on maintenance

[@herssonmartin3675]

I just recently bought a used 2012 Honda pilot with 120,000 miles original. I don’t have any of these issues. My main issue is I am getting 9.5 miles per gallon.

[@caseygray6028]

With that said, like I said, essentially, 👏

[@peoplefocused1453]

Exactly... quite distracting

[@Backyardigans1975]

Very Nice explanation, 1 and 2 are common issue & serious problem if you don’t give any attention to it...

[@1AAuto]

+Uniqua Backyardigans Thanks for the feedback!

[@solesoundz]

Just finished fixing the vcm issue, cost me 100 bucks for everything.

[@Eli-nt7dt]

2012 pilot 246k miles running steong no issues😊

[@SuperJK-Man]

I have a 2010 Pilot Touring. The VCM issue caused a piston ring to become damaged. The mechanic said the 3 cylinders that shuts off created build up. At 70K miles , I was told spark plug number three failed. By 90K, same issue on the OBD reader, but the mechanic did some test that revealed a more serious issue, the engine piston ring was damaged, so an engine rebuilt was required. At 45K miles, passenger wheel baring failed At 70K miles, left rear shock. At 118K miles, struts failed. Leather armrest starting wearing by 25K miles. Over all, the engine rebuild was the costly issue.

[@benjaminwilliams3568]

I like these guys vids. To the point on multiple mechanical and electrical issues. Great job everyone at 1A.

[@1AAuto]

+Benjamin Williams Thanks for the feedback!

[@robertblandino5904]

My 2013 Honda Pilot and my 2006 Ridgeline. When first start makes a tapping engine noise as soon as it warms up it goes away and runs normal. Is this the same probiem that you had with what you said that when it warms up it taps?

[@pt2729]

I think half his list are common among most car makes as they age...but I’d like to add the following to his list of common problems with this generation of Pilot: (1) strange1 second sound upon sub freezing cold start up, sounds like a cross between a fart and a Canadian goose honk; (2) self dimming rearview mirror inner coating fails, rendering the mirror unusable; (3) poor design of taillights where they need to be removed to change a bulb and it’s nearly impossible to remove them without scratching the housing or your paint, and the same goes for headlight bulbs. However, I do quite like my 2011 Pilot EX-L awd I bought in late 2019 with only 68k miles for about $14k, overall it’s a really great car for the money, rides and handles really well, it’s very roomy, and feels solid as a tank. I picked this over a 2010 Toyota 4Runner with 100k miles because it rides and drives much nicer, has more room and spacious feel, and was $6k cheaper.

[@lynphilion1501]

I am looking into the 2014 pilot 4wd touring. as I want the extras it has. But I have found a few EX-L with the extras I want. Making sure the timing belt and scheduled maintenance has been done too. Doing as much research as I can. My other choice was a 4Runner too. Seems you get more bang for your buck with the pilot considering it will run as long as a 4 runner. Although this video has made me a little scared to get one. I have a Kia Sportage right now that I plan to keep that has been great despite the recalls Kia has had on it. I hope I will get lucky with the Pilot too.

[@pt2729]

@@lynphilion1501 good luck with your search. The items this guy is citing aren’t as common as he’s making it sound. Btw a coworker of mine has a 2014 ex-l she bought new and now has over 150k miles on it. It’s been virtually trouble free. I am due for the timing belt replacement on mine this year, and I’ve already priced it at just under $1,100 at me local Honda dealer, and that includes changing the water pump. I don’t think that’s a bad price and I’d rather have Honda trained techs do it using genuine Honda parts. I’m still quite happy with my Pilot.

[@JustaShrimp372]

@@pt2729for number 1, that is caused by the starter. Change it out and it will go away.

[@MrGunner67]

I know it doesn't fall in the years category, but I had a 2008 honda pilot and kept having to replace the electric window motors. I know I replaced at least 3 of them, they would stop working and made a ratcheting sound when trying to put the window up again. The window would stay down and we had to take it to the dealer in a hurry. Damage would be over $300 every time. Another one would be to hear an electrical buzz every so often while driving, inside the cabin on the passenger side. With the years the car just became an issue because there were many days when my wife would go to start the car and the battery was dead, even after we recharged the battery and even put new ones in. We got rid of it with less than 60,000 miles last year. We bought a 2021 pilot touring because we love the car. Hope this time we won't have to deal with all that stuff. Any comments on the 2021 pilot touring?

[@1AAuto]

+Juan Nunez Thanks for watching! The jury is still out for any 2021 models. Since they are brand new any common issues have not presented themselves yet.

[@Dennster2005]

Good video! I'm looking at a 2009 Pilot later today so this is SUPER helpful. Though I am amused that the running board issue made the top 5 and the wiring issue on the steering column did not, LOL!

[@1AAuto]

+Dennster2005 Thank you! We love empowering our customers and showing how to perform DIY auto repairs with our high-quality auto parts. 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@Dennster2005]

Ended up with a different Pilot, a 2010, and love it. Still say this video was very helpful!

[@gssmith1986]

I have a 2013...front brake disks warped at 30k miles. Rear shocks out at 60k. Bolt fell out of rear calipers about 70k. and I've had continuing problems with the electrical battery connection rusting, rotting out, etc. Otherwise no problems. I pulled the fuse for the moon roof the day I picked it up before giving my wife the keys. So don't know if it works or not.

[@prudentiaski]

why did you pull the fuse for the moon roof?

[@LVang152]

I deal why VCM issue and got it fix. But that VCM issue cause damage to my engine. The oil and gasoline start to mix. Now, my transmission begins to go out after 180k miles.

[@enriquejackson2843]

I got a 2006 Pilot 161 Thousand Miles all it ever needs is routine maintenance.

[@markdietz2777]

Had a 2006 pilot ex brakes and tires normal maintenance and water pump and timing belt at 90k.... subframe rotted and traded it in for a 2018 pilot ex luxury

[@hondatrix]

So actually no serious problems...

[@promptertext3755]

Exactly. Good, solid vehicle.

[@Methnerjacob]

Nah VCM can cause oil fouling spark plugs. Pretty serious issue. People disable the VCM.

[@jimbark4642]

Vcm is very serious. Mine has that problem.

[@midwestfarm757]

@@jimbark4642 I shut mine off for $125 on my Odyssey. 100x better vehicle now.

[@HiFilover168]

@@midwestfarm757 May I ask how do you shut it down ? Can I do it myself ? thanks

[@ahotdj07]

@3:18 - also you might want to adjust your valves. Honda are notorious for needing their valves adjusted.

[@jaeb.2842]

Love this channel! Watch this channel everyday!

[@pacearrow4620]

BUY the S-VCM or the muzzler 2 and turn off the VCM system. The VCM wears your engine and transmission prematurely and doesn't save that much gas.

[@TC-cd5sm]

This is a must

[@patriot9832]

How do you turn off the vcm?

[@DonavanCMcCoy]

The paint issue is covered by Honda. They increased the warranty which will expire in 3 years from now.

[@EL_Múcaro_787]

I have a 2012, you forgot to mention the ABS module, engine mounts, water leaks from the roof, cabin top lights issues, water inside the stop lights, and a couple more lol

[@gilbertogranados6367]

do you recommend getting a VCM controller bypass (the popular ones that come with a resistor) on a 2012 Honda Pilot?

[@johnluce3750]

2013 I have bad motor mounts. The dealers kept saying it was suspension parts. After replacing control arm and compliance bushings, tie rod ends it was still shacking like a 50 Plymouth

[@twinturborotary_diecast]

Had my transmission mount changed and my honda does not vibrate in gear anymore.

[@eugenekoenig8036]

I bypassed my VCM - VCM are notorious for uneven engine wear and premature failure. Only compromise was a 1 mpg fuel loss.

[@johncordoue7829]

Just replaced low beams, also interior wear, yup. I only got stuck once, that was when alternator went out. That was bad since it took out the battery and had to get towed to the shop.

[@troyyie5619]

I’ve previously owned this for over five years and never has been any issue with any one of things escalated here. Definitely not common issues either at least during my over five years ownership.

[@MouseyBusiness]

Cool. What year did you own?

[@iandalewadasen2386]

same with me i have 8 years old honda pilot but still running good

[@VaibavM]

My dad is selling his 2015 Pilot Touring after 6 and a half years and 160,000KM and we didn't have any of the issues you said.

[@chickrenfrew3061]

Have the paint problem and the piston rings where the VCM lets oil into cylinders on 2013 white Pilot. Honda fixed the paint issue on the side door because of class action suit but then when roof did the same thing they would not cover because they said the extended warranty from the class action had run out.Now the piston ring issue have to fight to get some help with the $4000 repair. I bought a Honda thinking that I would drive it for at least 250,000 miles and all this happens at 140,000. I will never buy a Honda again after buying this lemon. $40,000 vehicle and you are treated like it is a Chevy Vega. Everyone with these problems should continue to let people know. I was never notified of these class action suits and if I was I would have traded it in as soon as possible to avoid the situation I am now in. Honda has really dropped their standards. Hello Toyota.

[@michaelstrich5253]

Our bushings were replaced twice on our 2011 Pilot as well as the rear spool assembly

[@BrianChristopherFranco]

I freakin love Len! I look forward to seeing a Top 5 Problems for 2008 Honda Ridgeline (Gen 1) and the 2007 Ford F150 5.4L (11th Gen) Happy Holidays Len and the rest of the team at 1A Auto! ♥ 🎄

[@1AAuto]

+Brian-Christopher Franco Thanks for checking us out and happy holidays! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@Triplesevn33]

Have owned 3 Pilots now. 2 different Gens. Both my 2003 and my 2012 have had the headlight issues. Effects both high and low beams. One goes out after 5 months. I get it replaced and then there goes out. Rinse and repeat for all of them. It's been years and still happens! Replaced fuses, etc; But first I'm hearing it's in the stearing column but never smelled burning before. The other issue I always get is the VTM-4 light. It's become an issue as of late. And then the triple exahuse catalytic converters really suck to replace cause they are ridiculously expensive. Now I have a power steering leak and I can't seem to find and an oil leak that cant tell if it's from the engine block or a strange rivet., Love my Pilots but when they begin to break, THEY BREAK HARD!

[@xeavor9177]

Also for some reason the glove compartment breaks and leading it to not open over time

[@mikeschmidt4800]

Check engine light means you have a problem that you need to get checked out. Unless it is an 00-06 Gm vehicle with the 5.3 vortex engine. In that case it is an O2 sensor and the truck will run fine for another 300k miles. It just means you've broken it in.

[@BA-gn3qb]

If it's a Renault Nissan, Fiat Chrysler Jeep or Cadillac Northstar, then that's a CHANGE Engine light.

[@bracsyller8901]

Yep, or the injectors may be a little dirty. Some "Lucas Oil" Tune Up In A Bottle does wonders, sometimes the Service Engine Soon Light goes off too. This was the case on my Tahoe. Sold it last week w/213k on it for a '13 Pilot. Love both vehicles. Thanks for the video.

[@ppumpkin3282]

On my 2012 Pilot I've had these problems (now has 160k miles): A/C not working. I haven't diagnosed the problem yet. Transmission fluid temperature sensor switch went. Replaced the starter. ABS module not working. Haven't replaced it. Tire Pressure Sensor Monitor not working. Haven't fixed it. Replaced several exhaust pipes.

[@thihawyin1539]

My 03 pilot had transmission. Engine was strong and smooth.

[@1AAuto]

+Thiha Wyin Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@kenlgraham]

As 2nd owner I did not receive the notice of exploding air bags that kill one with shrapnel. Ours needed the passsenger air bag replaced. There is no charge for this, just check your VIN number against Honda wesite. Incidentally the supplier to Honda also supplies everyone else so

[@outlaw_jay914]

I have an 09 and the VCM is the main thing I hate 😒 I like all 6 cylinders at all time so I installed the vcm muzzler but at certain Temps the vcm kicks on

[@pacearrow4620]

BUY THE S-VCM or the muzzler 2 version they use a chip not a resistor. They are safer as they will give the ecm the real temp and warn you of an overheat situation

[@Kane6676]

I have an 09 and have dealt with that oil crap since it hit 100k miles

[@hectorxie6400]

Wow!!! This Honda Pilot is so clean.

[@Godspeed7955]

I have a 2001 Honda Civic with 244k miles on it. The only problem I have had with it is the check engine light has been on for the last 60k miles lol

[@BA-gn3qb]

Running Board fix - Remove the rubber and have Line X sprayed on. And Honda has always had paint issues. Wish they'd solve that themselves.

[@iandalewadasen2386]

i have 2013 honda pilot 175000km but i never had a problem one of those that have been discuss

[@jdconnors6810]

I'm about 99.9% sure I'm buying my wife a super clean and very well maintained 2012 Pilot with 180k miles on it. The current owners just had the timing belt replaced and whatever may go along with that taken care of. For those of you that own Pilots, what's your opinion on buy one with higher mileage? Like I said it's been very well maintained.

[@levimagnusson5880]

I don’t have a pilot but an odyssey. It’s the same exact motor. It’s an excellent motor. Just take care of it (oil change, valve lifter adjustments etc) and it should last a long time problem free.

[@anonymoususer1824]

I have an 06 with 192k and runs very well. I would get one if I was you.

[@bracsyller8901]

Just bought a '13 Pilot EX-L last week w/116k on it, love it. This site has helped a ton... www.piloteers.org/ I'm not even a "car guy" and I love it, really starting to warm up to the DIY maintenance side. If the one you are shopping for your wide is well cared for she will have a great vehicle for many years.

[@mrgarcia3279]

I have a honda pilot 2014 and keep having to replace my brake rotors or get them resurfaced around every 3 months ..i start noticing the problem when my steering wheel starts shaking/vibrating when I brake. Every shop I've taken it to say they don't see a problem but it keeps happening. Any thoughts or suggestions??

[@danpmatz]

Can you get the fuel management system programmed out that seems to be a common problem in a lot of vehicles

[@geebeeinga]

Install a VCM2 Muzzler and it’ll take care of any shudder and oil burning issues. You may lose a few miles per gallon but its worth it.

[@brianwilliams4082]

My 2011 pilot runs great at 117k.The one thing that’s irritating is when started on cold days 32 degrees it makes a grinding noise and never on summer days.I have a new battery to.I researched and think it’s a wire or something on the starter or stator?

[@MajorLo-ep7us]

Hi my honda pilot front driver side has a squeaky niose when going over bumps I don't know what it is but when I get out of the car and just rock it I can hear it.

[@patpowles3358]

My Pilot 2009 the front end had to be rebuilt one at a time of course . . . . . All the bushing failed up and lower . . . . . the first one was under a recall . . . . the fluid filled the lower arms that attached to the frame rails . . . .But it just kept happening one bushing after another throughout the front-end assembly.

[@hix9306]

I’m looking for one of these 2nd gen . Under 100k miles are they still worth it ?

[@scottschuett7765]

Best vehicle I have ever owned in the last 45 years

[@RStarLeeKong]

I was looking for a use Pilot 2011 to 2015, but GOOD GOD! Honda reliability went right out the door. Maybe have to look at something else.

[@espiworkshop4366]

Good video, but man a prestigious like 1A Auto and no one thought it was a good idea to clean the Engine bay blow.

[@alcolavista-22]

My 2011 as of today..timing belt/ starter/ rear shocks/ nav cd /rotors/ pads/ battery/ tires/ no issues with vcm @ 240k🦾

[@rashidtemuri3419]

Just bought me a 2011 Pilot with 113K miles. This is my second Pilot. I’m not sure of previous owner changed trans oil and I’m feeling trans hit little harder on a the cold first time in the day when I put in drive. I wonder if that’s normal.