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Model-year record

2023 Honda Pilot
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2023 Honda Pilot

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

118

Reports to NHTSA, 2023

Safety recalls

5

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

21

EPA estimate

Known issues

Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (19% of 118 reports), followed by seat belts (17%).

Electrical System19% · 22 reports
Seat Belts17% · 20 reports
Steering14% · 16 reports
Unknown Or Other9% · 11 reports
Power Train7% · 8 reports
Forward Collision Avoidance5% · 6 reports
Visibility5% · 6 reports
Engine4% · 5 reports

+ 9 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 118 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11672012, ODI 11751137, ODI 11750710, ODI 11730810, ODI 11694899.

Individual complaint reports(118)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Power TrainJul 2026 · ODI 11751450Details +

I had two time between the week of June 30 th to July 4 thank July 13 to July 16 th on the excessive heat days my car was making a lot of sound from driving side as well full vibrations on steering and floor I went to page Honda dealer ship they said short block problem and they they are raising request to Honda my mileage is 58800 2023 Honda pilot bought in May 2023 which is under power train warranty but did not receive any email or any paperwork from Honda dealer ship.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751450 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2026 · ODI 11751137Details +

Unintended acceleration / accelerator pedal stuck. Vehicle accelerated uncontrollably (>75 mph) on two-lane road despite heavy braking. Could not regain control for over 1 minute. This is the second incident (first in Nov 2025, reported to Serra Honda Sylacauga with no issues found per service department). Video evidence available.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751137 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2026 · ODI 11750710Details +

The rear passenger-side (second-row, right-side outboard) seatbelt warning system is defective, repeatedly triggering false "unbuckled" alarms even when a passenger is securely buckled in. This is a known manufacturing defect involving the occupant detection sensor inside the seat cushion frame, which sends intermittent, incorrect signals to the vehicle's computer. The defect presents a severe safety hazard. The continuous, loud chiming distracts the driver and causes immediate "alarm fatigue." This forces the driver to ignore seatbelt warnings, creating a dangerous situation where a rear passenger (including a child) could actually become unbuckled without the driver realizing it, significantly increasing the risk of injury or death in a crash. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership for inspection, but technicians reported they could not replicate the intermittent failure at that specific moment. However, the system immediately failed again the very first time a passenger sat in that seat after leaving the dealership. The defective seat cushion frame and its internal components remain in the vehicle and are fully available for inspection. The failure began intermittently and has now become a persistent issue. There are no prior warning lights; rather, the seatbelt warning chime and dashboard graphics activate and continuously flash/alarm while driving, falsely indicating the occupant is unbuckled when they are actually safely secured. This issue matches the parameters of Honda Service Bulletin 23-018 and the active NHTSA safety investigation into this model.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11750710 at NHTSA →
WheelsJul 2026 · ODI 11749722Details +

Summary of Safety Issue:A franchise dealership delivered an unroadworthy vehicle with a falsified safety inspection checklist, missing critical structural hardware on all four wheels.Description of Incident:On XXX I took delivery of a Certified Pre-Owned 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport from Scott Clark Honda. I drove the vehicle two hours away on the highway to my residence in [XXX]. Upon a detailed inspection at home, I discovered that the vehicle was missing four (4) lug nuts—specifically, one critical lug nut was completely missing from every single wheel hub assembly.A subsequent audit of my high-resolution delivery photos confirms the hardware was already missing while the vehicle sat in the dealership's delivery bay. The franchise service department falsified the mandatory Honda CPO safety checklist, which legally requires verifying that all wheel hardware is torque-tested and structurally present. Driving a heavy family utility vehicle on public highways with un-torqued and missing lug nuts created a life-threatening wheel-separation hazard. The dealership has since failed to execute an immediate or emergency resolution to render the chassis safe. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749722 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsJul 2026 · ODI 11749444Details +

My vehicle, 2023 Honda Pilot Elite, is experiencing intermittent, inaccurate seat belt engagement readings for the second-row seating middle and right position captain chair while driving. The system frequently sends incorrect status information to the driver's dashboard display, presenting two specific safety hazards. A false negative alert, The dashboard display indicates that the second-row middle and right captains chair positions are unbuckled when in fact the passengers are completely buckled. This prevents the driver from knowing if rear occupants—specifically children—have unfastened their seat belts while vehicle is in motion , creating a severe safety risk. This also triggers persistent, distracting warning chimes and dashboard alerts while driving. This is very concerning not knowing if the safety restraint system in place is correctly working due to the indicators on the dash intermittently showing false information while my children are buckled.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749444 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2026 · ODI 11747894Details +

The contact owns a 2023 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the engine was making a loud ticking sound. The dealer was contacted about the knocking sound and informed the contact that the sound was normal. The vehicle was taken for an inspection, and the contact was informed that the sound was not normal. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and it was diagnosed with catastrophic engine failure. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Feb 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11747894 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsJun 2026 · ODI 11746529Details +

Right passenger seat in second row alarms that seatbelt is not buckled when it is buckled with a passenger.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11746529 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJun 2026 · ODI 11743473Details +

Brake system error displayed on dash. Hill decent system error. Dealership was unable to diagnose and had to replace 2 major wiring harnesses under the dash to clear light.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743473 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsJun 2026 · ODI 11743365Details +

Seat belt on rear passenger side seems like it is clipped in but car dings with red warning sign that seat belt is not fastened. I am worried that the seat belt is not working properly.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743365 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsJun 2026 · ODI 11742871Details +

The middle right side passenger seat belt alarm is going off and indicating it is not clicked when it is. I have had my [XXX] son and [XXX] daughter (different weights) sit there and the alarm will go off constantly indicating their seat belt is not fastened. I have also had adults who were heavier sit there as well and its doing it constantly. The alarm will not shut off and flashes on the dashboard that it isn't fastened. Is there an issue with others? I have used canned air to blow out the seatbelt thinking there may be something inside the latch. When this first started beeping it would only beep a few times and indicate it wasn't fastened. Now the alarm keeps beeping and you can't even sit in the seat due to the alarm constantly going off and indicates not buckled on the dash board. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11742871 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2026 · ODI 11741172Details +

Loose weatherstripping two yrs and a half into ownership. Risk of water damage that can rust and damage electrical. Many complaints online about the roof rails needing to be replaced. Honda hasn’t issue a recall even though is a well known faulty design.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11741172 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsMay 2026 · ODI 11739800Details +

The seat belt sensors are going off even when the rider is properly buckled in. Happening in the second row seats, primarily on the right passenger side of the second row.There may be an issue with the sensor.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739800 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsMay 2026 · ODI 11738690Details +

Rear passenger seatbelt warning beeps continuously when seat is occupied and belt is latched.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11738690 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsMay 2026 · ODI 11738887Details +

This is the second time experiencing a complete failure of the rear seat belt warning architecture on my 2023 Honda Pilot. In 2025, I formally reported that the warning sensors for both the 2nd-row middle seat and the 3rd-row seats were malfunctioning—triggering persistent unbuckled alarms even when passengers were properly seated and securely fastened. The issue has now returned and is actively failing on the 2nd-row seats. Despite passengers being buckled in safely, the vehicle's dashboard alerts and audible chimes sound continuously, causing severe driver distraction and making it impossible to accurately determine if my rear passengers are actually protected. I am providing a diagnosis of the seat belt warning issue in 2025, I am having the same issue now in 2026.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11738887 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsMay 2026 · ODI 11738898Details +

The rear passenger seat belt warning system in the 2023 Honda Pilot suffers from a critical malfunction. Specifically, the right rear passenger seat belt sensor triggers false, persistent, and loud "unbuckled" audio alarms and visual dashboard alerts while an occupant is sitting in that position with the seat belt securely and properly fastened. According to an official Honda Service Bulletin addressing this precise symptom, the root cause is a manufacturing defect involving a damaged or broken wire inside the seat belt buckle assembly, which causes the vehicle to misread the occupant's buckled status. Safety Hazards & Risks: Severe Driver Distraction: The loud, continuous auditory chime and flashing dashboard alerts create an extreme, immediate distraction for the driver while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of a crash. Warning Fatigue & False Assurance: Because the system consistently misreports the true status of the passenger, it forces the driver to consciously dismiss or ignore safety alerts. In a real-world family scenario, this false information can lead a driver to believe a rear occupant (particularly a child in the 2nd or 3rd row) is securely buckled when they are actually unbuckled, or vice versa, defeating the entire purpose of the vehicle’s safety warning system.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11738898 at NHTSA →
Forward Collision AvoidanceMay 2026 · ODI 11737129Details +

The contact owns a 2023 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was unexpectedly engaged causing the vehicle to abruptly stop in ongoing traffic with no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the front brake sensors had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred on multiple occasions. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer. The vehicle not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and multiple cases were opened. The contact expressed concern that the vehicle was hazardous to operate and that the failure could lead to a catastrophic crash. The contact also stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive with the contact and the contact’s child inside. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737129 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsMay 2026 · ODI 11737146Details +

The car is giving false alerts warning that a buckled seat is unbuckled in the second row seat behind the front passenger seat. It started the week of April 19, 2026 and it is happening more frequently now. It is very annoying and it is concerning that it might have an impact on the airbags. I haven’t contacted the dealership yet or made an appointment to have it looked at, but it can be available for inspection. It seems like this is a common issue with 2023 Pilots.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737146 at NHTSA →
SteeringMay 2026 · ODI 11735303Details +

At about 9700 miles I noticed a popping noise in the steering wheel when it was turned left or right after driving for a few miles and it could be felt in the steering wheel. The popping sound got worse and on July 7, 2025 I took the car to the Honda dealership I bought it from at 11, 900 miles and the master mechanic confirmed the sound and stated the steering rack needed to be replaced. That was done over 4 days but several months later the popping sound that could again be felt in the steering wheel returned. I contacted the Georgia Attorney General Lemon Law division and was advised that because it was a safety defect I should give Honda a Final Repair Opportunity Notice under the GA Lemon Law which I did on Oct 24, 2025. Honda ignored the Notice and the Attorney General Accepted the case for Arbitration which is set for May 29, 2026. In preparation for arbitration, I discovered that at least 3 other complaints have been filed with the NHTSA about the exact same safety issue I have experienced. I do not know how these complaints were resolved but concerning one of them, the steering rack was replaced like mine and the popping sound from the steering returned. Honda therefore knows of this safety defect but has continued to ignore my Lemon Law Complaint and request for discovery of internal Honda information concerning this defect. I have severely limited driving of this vehicle to short trips at slow speeds to my law firm and cannot drive it at highway speeds for fear of steering failure.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735303 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2026 · ODI 11735320Details +

I have a 2023 Honda Pilot AWD Elite with approximately 46,000 miles. It has an engine idol feature that's suppose to restart the engine after idoling. I was in a parking lot waiting to enter into traffic when the engine completey shut down. I was able to restart the engine at the time. Again the same day I was at a stop light, the car was idoling and when the light turned green, I took my foot off the brake and proceeded to press the gas pedal, the car shut down completely and I had to restart the vehicle. I made an appointment to take my car to the dealership the next morning. On Friday May 1st, 2026. I brought the vehicle to the dealership but they told me they won't be able to see it until Monday. Saturday, I took my child to his soccer match and again, at the stop light before getting onto the freeway, the vehicle shut down after Idoling. The feature Auto idol/restart is automatically on when you start the vehicle. It will drive fine if you remember to turn the function off. Honda has no official recall on this. There was a similar software issue recall in 2025 but the dealership told me that campaign was closed.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735320 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2026 · ODI 11730810Details +

I was stopped at a stop light on a very busy road. The vehicle went into Auto Idle shut down. When the light turned green, I attempted to press the gas but the engine was completely stalled and would not restart. I had to put the vehicle in park, turn off the vehicle, and completely restart it for the vehicle to be able to successfully clear the busy intersection. After this incident, the vehicle would inconsistently give me the Auto Idle System Problem warning when first started. I chose to disengage the Auto Idle system until I was able to take it to the dealer. They claim it is the electrical charging wire which is an 8,000 dollar repair for a 3 year old vehicle. We are currently awaiting the inspection from our extended warranty.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11730810 at NHTSA →
Forward Collision AvoidanceApr 2026 · ODI 11729387 · crashDetails +

Description: While using cruise control at highway speed and winter weather conditions, the cruise control system suddenly and unexpectedly disengaged without adequate warning. The vehicle experienced rapid deceleration and I lost control, resulting in multiple spins, a near collision with a truck, and impact with a curb before coming to stop. The vehicle sustained damage. Fortunately no one was not severely injured. History and safety concern This is not an isolated event. I have experienced similar, unexpected cruise control disengagements multiple times over the past year while driving under varied conditions. Each event has created a significant safety risk. The sudden, uncommanded disengagement at highway speed caused abrupt deceleration and loss of control, which presents a severe hazard to vehicle occupants and other road users. I have reported the issue to the manufacturer and requested a full diagnostic investigation, system data logs, root‑cause determination, and remediation (I am requesting replacement or buyback if a defect is confirmed). I have asked the manufacturer to escalate to a senior case manager/remediation team and to preserve all relevant data and parts. Requested NHTSA actions Open an ODI safety defect investigation into this vehicle model/series and the cruise control/ADAS/cruise‑control module behavior. Request preservation and production of all relevant manufacturer data, including ECU/ADAS event data recorder logs, telematics, software versions, diagnostic records, and any field complaints or warranty claims related to cruise control disengagements. Evaluate whether this is a systemic safety defect requiring recall, remedy, or other actions, and consider requiring manufacturer owner notification and appropriate remedies (repair, replacement, buyback) if a defect is confirmed. Provide guidance on any additional evidence or steps I should take to support the investigation.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11729387 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsApr 2026 · ODI 11729178Details +

Seatbelt sensory goes off in the middle row right passenger staying seatbelt not connected. Seatbelt is connected and the alert will not cut off.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11729178 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsApr 2026 · ODI 11728575Details +

The third row seat belt buckles on driver side and passenger side have been replaced due to failing to register when a child is seated and buckled in that row causing the vehicle alarm to go off notifying me that the child is unbuckled when they are not. I have been to the dealer 5 times going on 6 for this same issue. Have had a total of 3 buckles fail, one of them had failed twice now. 2 of them have been repaired and the vehicle is scheduled to go back to the dealership April 3rd to fix the two new buckles that have failed.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11728575 at NHTSA →
VisibilityMar 2026 · ODI 11721531Details +

The contact owns a 2023 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the rearview mirror console located near the front windshield became inoperable. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that upon inspecting the area, the rearview mirror console was extremely hot to the touch. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 74,071.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11721531 at NHTSA →
SeatsFeb 2026 · ODI 11720573Details +

The driver seat has come unsecured from the vehicle and has been loose and rocky like a rocking chair . Was at the dealer twice for repair

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11720573 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsFeb 2026 · ODI 11716600Details +

Seatbelt sensors for the passenger second row dinging off and on when seatbelt is buckled. Also the light coming on that says emergency brake unavailable.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11716600 at NHTSA →
SeatsJan 2026 · ODI 11713811Details +

3rd row seat headrest stays folded and won’t lock into place.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11713811 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2026 · ODI 11713169Details +

Car has been serviced at same dealership I purchased from. All service up to date, Gas type shell gas brand used 95% of the time. (Noticed November 2025)issue a month after recommended transmission flush and an engine oil change. Rough idling (especially when temp below 60⁰) and almost like a miss fire when driving. No check engine light, and dealership had vehicle for two days but claimed unable to replicate issue suggested these engines are prone to carbon buildup. But recommended I switch to premium gas. SUV drives rough and then randomly reverts to normal smooth driving, also seems to struggle when switching gears, spoke to other owners of same type and a pattern of previous years owners mentioned potential issue with VCM. Major issue: Rattling during start up and driving ( sometimes goes away randomly) Car struggles with gear switching. Engine/transmission hesitation.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11713169 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsJan 2026 · ODI 11712946Details +

The seat belt alarm keeps going off as if the seat belt is not buckled even though it is buckled. The first issue was when I had the car less than a yr. The middle row right side had this problem and the dealer replaced the seatbelt. Now at 38k miles, the middle row middle seat started to have the same issue. Also, the middle row on the right side would occasionally alarm as well but not as constant (this was the same seatbelt that was replaced initially).

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11712946 at NHTSA →
StructureJan 2026 · ODI 11712295Details +

The driver seatbelt was soaking wet after a rainstorm. The vehicle does not have a sunroof. Upon further inspection the airbag and its electronics were also soaked in water. It has never been in an accident or had any work done to it. There is a factory installed roof rack(Sport model). I am concerned for the safety in the function of the airbag and seatbelt tensioner in the event of an accident after being soaked in water an unknown amount of times. Secondary, possibly related issue. The rear drivers side door will randomly not unlock/open from the exterior(have to reach through and use the interior handle). Posing a safety issue in the event of child removal in an emergency.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11712295 at NHTSA →
SteeringJan 2026 · ODI 11708497Details +

The car is making a knocking sound while driving at low speeds (ex. Pulling into the garage, reversing into a parking spot) while turning the wheel. The 2023 Pilot is currently at the dealership being inspected. I have come across many other posts, with video, confirming this exact sound with the same assessment - all pointing to the steering rack (although some fixes only being temporary so the part itself might be defective). This is a newer lease and I am not convinced it is safe to drive in with this issue.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11708497 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsJan 2026 · ODI 11708203Details +

Rear seat belt indicator and alarm go off continuously when the seat is occupied and when the passenger is buckled by the seat belt. While the passenger is buckled, anytime they shift it causes the indicator light to come on and the alarm to sound. This defeats the purpose of having the indicator.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11708203 at NHTSA →
TetherDec 2025 · ODI 11707009Details +

The car seat snug lock feature in the forward facing position does NOT create a snug fit and becomes loose over time. BOTH of my turn2me seats do this. Purchased on the same day. We recently forward faced my daughter due to maxing out the rear facing limits. We have installed with the seat belt due to being over the limit for the latch. With the seat belt, when installed per the manual, it comes loose almost immediately after install. I noticed the seat starts to wiggle within a couple days and being over the “one inch rule”. I will submit videos of me installing per manual and how it comes undone with the slightest pull on the belt. This is what happens after a couple days of use. I’m a cpst and have discussed with numerous cpst about this seat. This is a “known issue” and nothing we have tried will keep it secure. Extremely unsafe to be using this seat and it needs to be recalled due to this not being the first complaint. I have also made a report with graco with no response yet. It will not let me upload videos to the report but if someone reaches out, I can email them in.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11707009 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsDec 2025 · ODI 11706982Details +

Rear/third-row seatbelt warning activates repeatedly even when passenger is properly buckled. Issue has been present shortly after vehicle purchase. Dealer refuses inspection without charging diagnostic fee. Safety system is unreliable and distracting while driving.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706982 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsDec 2025 · ODI 11706091Details +

Multiple false "unbuckled seatbelt warning" regarding the rear seat belt being unbuckled when it was not. Alarm sounds and lights up warning on drivers display board. This alarmed the driver during movement on multiple occasions, causing unnecessary distraction. Driver sometimes ignores the signal because of the frequency of the false alarm and missed an actual moment where teenager was unbuckled. This is very dangerous. Please look into this please.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706091 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperDec 2025 · ODI 11702505Details +

A few moments after I purchased my 2023 Honda Pilot I noticed that I began getting car sick while driving. I purchased the car at night and it was a long drive home, so I figured it was due to dehydration or something else. During the day however, I noticed it again. Upon careful inspection I noticed the entire windshield had a distortion, it appeared as if one was looking through a pair of eyeglasses that had a very strong prescription. I am in the process of creating an incident with Honda and have already contacted my local dealership, who was not very helpful in this matter. I am still driving this vehicle as well as my wife because we have no other choice but I do feel that this situation poses a safety hazard for us and our family, as the windshield is a distraction and can cause the driver to lose focus on objects while driving.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11702505 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2025 · ODI 11694899Details +

El carro tiene fallas con el sistema eléctrico de frenos y no arranca.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11694899 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesSep 2025 · ODI 11689161Details +

While driving on U.S Highway 521 in South Carolina, the vehicle experienced SUDDEN, UNEXPECTED BRAKING AND VIOLENT SHAKING even though there were no cars or obstacles directly in front of me. The sensation was so strong it felt as if the car had been rear-ended, but there was no impact. The issue has happened MULTIPLE TIMES since I purchased the vehicle new in 2023. Each time, traffic was flowing normally, and no immediate hazard was present. The closest car in front of me was several car lenghts away, yet the PILOT suddenly braked on its own. The problem appears to be linked to the COLLISION MITIGATION BRAKING SYSTEM or related driver-assist sensors, which seem to be misreading conditions and triggering false emergency braking. This defect creates a serious SAFETY HAZARD. The abrupt, forceful braking puts me and my family at risk of being rear-ended by following vehicles. It has also caused panic and near-miss incidents in traffic. I am filling this complaint to ensure it is formally documented and investigated as SAFETY DEFECT. This is a serious risk to DRIVER AND PASSENGERS and could lead to accidents. I am requesting NHTSA to investigate whether this defect affects other HONDA PILOT vehicles.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11689161 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2025 · ODI 11687958Details +

My 2023 Honda Pilot has had persistent issues with the steering system since it was purchased new. The problems manifest as knocking noises in the steering column, although no warning lights appear. The Honda dealer has replaced the steering rack three times. A rattling noise is now occurring in the steering column, and the dealer is advising replacement of the steering column. The dealer was in contact with Honda engineering each time to solicit advice and obtain approval for the repairs. The replaced parts are not available for inspection, and only the Honda dealer has inspected the vehicle. I am concerned for my safety. I am afraid that the steering will fail while I am driving at highway speeds and cause an accident. I contacted Honda corporate, and they essentially told me there is nothing they can do because the vehicle is considered “fixed” after each repair.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Apr 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11687958 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2025 · ODI 11686248Details +

When trying to drive my vehicle i noticed the steering wheel became hard to turn. I was able to get a tow truck to drop my vehicle off at the dealership to get it looked at. The dealership is telling me that it is due to a steering problem needing a rack and pinion part. This vehicle is a 2023 Honda Pilot which was just purchased by me in April. There hasnt been any issue until now.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11686248 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperAug 2025 · ODI 11681875Details +

While parked, I heard a pop. Later on there was a crack in the windshield around the camera. Nothing impacted the windshield this looks definitely like a stress fracture but the dealership was not helpful.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11681875 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2025 · ODI 11679990Details +

The back glass suddenly shattered. No cause was discovered. It was not vandalism. There was no prior damage to the back glass. We were seated in the front seats. Normally, we would have had our grandchildren in the back seats closest to the glass. I looked it up on the Internet and found out that this occurrence is fairly common among Honda makes. I took pictures of the damage and filed a claim with my insurance company. No warning occurred before the glass shattered.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11679990 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsAug 2025 · ODI 11679396Details +

For the middle row, right passenger seat, the seat belt alert (visual and audio alert) goes off even when the passenger is properly buckled in. It is intermittent. This is a safety issue as the alert keeps beeping throughout the journey. The beeping can be very distracting when driving due to the noise, and also as it raises concern of safety. My workaround is not to use that seat (an inconvenience), or use the seat without a seatbelt buckled in (safety). Dealership dismissed it as a non-issue as they could not replicate it because the issue is intermittent. The vehicle is out of the bumper-to-bumper warranty thus discovery and fixing the issue (if there is any) will be out of my pocket. I have seen others mention this issue so it is not isolated to my car but rather to this model and year.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11679396 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11677820 · 1 injuriesDetails +

Dear [NHTSA or Honda Customer Service], I am submitting this complaint to raise a serious safety concern regarding the automatic engine shutoff feature in my 2023 Honda Pilot EX-L. While parked and talking to the dealer, I left my vehicle running with the air conditioning on and my older children in the back seat. Despite the key being inside the car and the engine running, the vehicle shut off automatically after approximately 30 minutes, disabling the air conditioning without any clear warning. This happened in the desert heat, creating an extremely dangerous situation for my children, who were sitting in a vehicle that quickly began to overheat. At no point were we warned by the dealer, the vehicle itself, or any documentation that this idle shutoff would activate even when occupants are inside the car. This is an unacceptable and unsafe default behavior. While I understand the intention behind the feature may be related to fuel or emissions concerns, it should never override the need for cabin cooling when passengers—especially children—are present. This feature should: •Include more prominent audible and visual warnings •Be easily disabled or extended by the driver •Be reconsidered entirely when rear seat occupancy is detected I urge the NHTSA and/or Honda to take this issue seriously and issue a recall, software update, or safety bulletin to allow owners to override or disable this idle shutoff function under safe, supervised circumstances. This is a family vehicle, and no feature should put occupants at risk of heat-related injury. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
1 injuries
Open ODI 11677820 at NHTSA →
Forward Collision AvoidanceAug 2025 · ODI 11677888Details +

Twice in the past week the collision mitigation braking system engaged without reason and the vehicle suddenly braked while I was driving

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11677888 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2025 · ODI 11677041Details +

7/25/2025 i was driving my wife’s pilot between 55 and 60 mph when the vehicle alerted me to several warnings and the braking system stuck at the top of the pedal not allowing the vehicle to slow in a construction zone. I was able to limp the vehicle home but the vehicle was extremely difficult to slow at red lights. The vehicle was towed from residence after sitting and the tow truck driver said the vehicle was not showing any warning signs. The dealership in paducah test drove the vehicle and did not see anything wrong with it. They subsequently checked and there was a diagnostic for brake booster failure. The vehicle has 41,000 miles on it. In addition it went to the dealership at 9,981 miles for electronic parking brake sticking and the ike dealership said there was nothing wrong. There are other reports of woners on youtube who have had this failure or similar with one member having to ditch the vehicle. I almost wrecked and hit a vehicle that slowed in front of me. The system thew error codes to include failure in electronic steering, transmission, hill descent, electronic braking, and others. I recorded the errors on the dash. This vehicle has also thrown airbag error with only a few thousand miles. The vehicle has side panels that have fallen off and and seals on the panoramic sunroof that have failed.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11677041 at NHTSA →
StructureJul 2025 · ODI 11676179Details +

The contact owns a 2023 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while shifted into reverse, there was an abnormal popping and cracking sound coming from the driver’s side roof. The failure became worse over time. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the struts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that there were improper welds underneath the third-row seats on the cross member, and that the cross member needed to be properly welded. The vehicle was taken to a body shop and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 18,000.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11676179 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2025 · ODI 11675835Details +

Vehicle when entering traffic hesitates for 2 to 3 seconds and then surges forward real fast. No warning lights or or messages. Very scary and dangerous . feels like you do not have control of vehicle....This has happened only twice since I have owned the vehicle. I purchased the vehicle new from a dealer...

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11675835 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJul 2025 · ODI 11675194Details +

Vision is severely impaired by optical distortion in the windshield, directly in the driver's field of vision. It is also noticeable from anywhere inside or outside of the vehicle. Some areas magnify the view so it looks as though the road is coming up towards the driver. Other areas warp the view horizontally or vertically. It is unsafe because it changes the way the road and other vehicles appear to the driver. The driver feels as though they are wearing strong prescription glasses. Causes dizziness and disorientation to the driver. Visible rippling/warping of the glass of the windshield. One photo is attached showing warped letters through the windshield. (Video is easier to see the other types of warping from inside the vehicle.)

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11675194 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2025 · ODI 11672012 · crashDetails +

I wanted to share a very scary incident that occurred while I was slowly creeping into a parking space in a parking garage. With my foot over the brake, as there were children in the area from a car that had parked to the right of mine, my car suddenly surged forward at a high rate of speed. It ultimately crashed into the 3-foot safety wall with tension wires of the parking garage. Clearly there is an issue with the propulsion system that accelerated my car forward. It's unknown to me if there was also an electrical issue involved in this propulsion failure. The car is available for inspection. The Honda dealer examined the vehicle but was unable to reproduce the issue, indicating that there was nothing wrong with the car, no codes stored of any relation to this incident, and that it was safe to drive. Additionally, I would like to mention that there was no warning lamps lit up on my dashboard before the incident and none appeared after the crash. My insurance was notified, and they deemed the car undrivable. The insurance representative is scheduled to inspect the car tomorrow. This is the first time my car accelerated on its own at a high rate of speed.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11672012 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(5)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Service BrakesDec 2025 · 25V391000Details +

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Acura TLX, 2023-2025 Acura MDX, and 2023-2025 Honda Pilot vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin was not secured properly, which can cause the pedal to shift out of position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Risk: A brake pedal that shifts out of position can prevent the driver from applying the brakes as intended, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the brake pedal assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 29, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are FLX and XLY.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
SteeringFeb 2023 · 23V735000Details +

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Pilot vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the gear box assembly may contain a loose ball bearing, which can result in a loss of steering control or steering lock-up.

Risk: A loss of steering control or steering lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the electric power steering rack, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 18, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is FFX.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Seats · 24V859000Details +

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Honda Accord, Accord Hybrid, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Pilot, and 2024 HR-V, Acura Integra and Acura Integra Type S vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may not have been tightened properly, which can result in an unsecured seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 207, "Seating Systems."

Risk: An unsecured driver's seat may not adequately restrain the driver during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's seat cushion frame, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 6, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Fuel System · 24V900000Details +

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Passport and 2023-2025 Pilot vehicles. The fuel filler neck tube and fuel filler pipe may separate, allowing fuel to leak.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the fuel filler neck tube and pipe as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is OKM.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Fuel System · 25V031000Details +

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Acura MDX Type-S, 2023-2025 Honda Pilot, and 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type-S vehicles. A software error in the fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU) may cause an engine stall or a loss of power.

Risk: An engine stall or loss of power can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are EL1 and AL0.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

2 NHTSA investigations on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Inaccurate Rear Passenger Seat Belt Warning Status

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 6 complaints, and multiple Early Warning Reporting (EWR) field reports alleging inaccurate rear seat belt warning status. These allegations concern both false positive and false negative statuses in model year (MY) 2023-2024 Honda Pilot vehicles manufactured by American Honda Motor Co. (Honda). The complaints state that the rear passenger seat belt warning system is displaying inaccurate information to the driver for both second and third row seating positions. This can lead to the driver dismissing warnings regarding rear seat belt status. The inaccurate information can also cause the driver to believe rear occupants are buckled when they are not. This reliance on false information presents concerns for the safety of children and child seats located in the rear rows, especially in the third row where the buckled status is more difficult for the driver to visually confirm. ODI is opening this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to determine the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

No Restart After Auto Start/Stop Engages

On June 3, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE22005 after the agency received VOQs and several field reports concerning the Auto Idle Stop (AIS) feature on 2016-2019MY Honda Pilot vehicles. The complaints allege that the engine fails to restart on its own from a complete stop at a traffic light or road intersection with the AIS function engaged. The subject vehicles are equipped with a 3.5L engine with a 9-speed automatic transmission. On January 6, 2023, Honda released service bulletins 23-008 and 23-009. These service bulletins address the failure to restart issue in the 2016-2019MY Honda Pilot vehicles, as well as the 2015-2020 Acura TLX, 2016-2020 Acura MDX, 2019-2022 Honda Passport, and 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. The repair outlined in the service bulletins is a two-stage countermeasure to remedy the issue. The first stage is a Programmed Fuel Injection (“PGM-FI”) software update. The second stage is only deployed if the software update fails to remedy the issue. The second stage, depending on the model and model year, consists of replacement of the starter assembly, starter relays, and a valve adjustment. Additionally, Honda extended the warranty coverage to 10 years with unlimited mileage for vehicles requiring the second stage component replacement. ODI continues to receive complaints of the AIS failure to restart, with many complainants alleging the campaign countermeasures had been completed.NHTSA has reviewed Honda's Information Request Letter responses involving warranty claims, lawsuits, and consumer complaints in addition to ODI's own data. This Engineering Analysis is being opened to further consider the potential safety defect, including gathering additional data regarding Honda’s service campaign efficacy. ODI is additionally expanding the scope to encompass all vehicles addressed in Honda’s service bulletins 23-008 and 23-009 as well as newer model year vehicles, which are substantially similar to the vehicles covered by the service campaign. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Crash-test ratings

2023 Honda PILOT SUV FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2023 Honda PILOT SUV AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Pilot FWD3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive192722
Pilot AWD Touring/Elite/Black3.5L 6-cylAll-Wheel Drive192521
Pilot AWD3.5L 6-cylAll-Wheel Drive192521
Pilot AWD TrailSport3.5L 6-cylAll-Wheel Drive182320

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2023 Honda Pilot: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2023 Honda Pilot?

Owners filed 118 NHTSA complaints about the 2023 Honda Pilot. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2023 Honda Pilot?

The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (19% of complaints) and seat belts (17%).

How many recalls does the 2023 Honda Pilot have?

5 recalls have been issued that affect the 2023 Honda Pilot, covering components such as service brakes. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2023 Honda Pilot get?

The EPA rates the 2023 Honda Pilot between 20 and 22 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.