10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
4 / 5
Injuries / Deaths:
1 / 0
Average Mileage:
18,419 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

The NHTSA is the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints can be spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem. See the Back button — blue bar at the very top of the page — to explore more.

Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2016 Honda Pilot:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

problem #645

Mar 032024

Pilot

  • miles
Our 2016 Pilot errored while driving on the highway at 75mph and went to half power. This happened multiple times; resulting in a dangerous situation. After getting it towed to a Honda dealer, it was discovered that there was a defect of the engine crankshaft. This part needed to be replaced at our cost.

- Fenton, MO, USA

problem #644

Dec 112023

Pilot

  • miles
Broken connecting rod leading to total engine failure on a beltway single lane overpass during rush hour on December 11, 2023. I paid to replace the engine (and matching transmission) with recovered (junk yard) parts from a 2017 (as advertised). The failed engine has been retained in storage since the event and is available for inspection. The vehicle was towed to the dealership for diagnosis where the findings of failed connecting rod. Dealer indicated that the failure was NOT part of the November 2023 recall. Shortly before the catastrophic engine failure the vehicle went into limp mode. The dealer advised attempting to get it to the dealership which was only a few miles further. The vehicle did not make it. The failure occurred on a very dangerous fly-over single lane overpass ramp on I-95 to I-695 WB in Baltimore, Maryland. When the vehicle was purchased, a (7) year / 150,000 mile extended, bumper to bumper warranty was also acquired. This warranty expired (19) days prior to the failure. My concern is that my only option, at the time, was to replace the failed engine with an available 2017 engine from the same vehicle model and trim level. This engine may very well have the same potential issue.

- Glen Arm, MD, USA

problem #643

Oct 112025

Pilot

  • 90,983 miles
Hi, I have a Hoda Piot 2016 EX AWD V6, with odometer around 90000 miles. Last weekend my son who's 17 with his friends tok the car to go camping on the coast. The car has no problem at all, and I have folllowed the all Honda recommended maintenance. In fact it just have the break job and inspection done by the dealer a month ago. Well, my son parked the car in Fred Meyer and couldn't start the car. I took it to the dealer and notice that there's a recall 23V-751 and the dealer said that my car is not part of the recall based on the vin number. The dealer quote me to replace the engine with a used engine for $11,000 plus, they do not know what caused the engine to seize, and they can tear apart into the engine to know exacty what caused the issue for $616. How can I check if this is related to the recall without paying $616 just to tear aprt the seized engine, and I also complain because I thought the car is the safest car my son can drive to his first camping trip.

- Beaverton, OR, USA

problem #642

Aug 312025

Pilot

  • miles
Heard a knocking sound, had it towed, diagnosed by local mechanic ans then diagnosed by Honda mechanic as engine rod bearing failures. Consistent with recall. However Honda says this vehicle VIN is not scoped within the recall, and therefor requires an engine replacement. Both mechanics, and Honda Sales Mgr, service Mgr, and sales rep, along with other mechanical knowledgeable persons, all were shocked by the issue, and suggested the vehicle should go for 100,000 more l without this type of problem. Furthermore, all were shocked that the recall / Honda would not cover it, due to it being the same issue listed on the recall. Additionally, the dealership claimed the "lifetime powertrain warranty " was void and this would not be covered there either.

- Granby, CT, USA

problem #641

Oct 032025

Pilot

  • miles
Our vehicle started making a knocking noise when being driven. We took it to the dealer for routine maintenance as well as to assess the noise. The dealership diagnosis is that the piston rods are knocking against the cylinder wall, causing a lot of metal shavings/glitter to be found in the oil. The service rep referred us to a recall for other vehicles of the same make and model for connecting rod bearings that can lead to the same mechanical failure. The issue can lead to an engine failure which can increase the risk of a crash, fire, or injury. The vehicle is currently available for inspection. The diagnosis from the dealership was based on the metal shavings in the oil, the noise that the engine made, and the recall of other similar vehicles. The engine has not yet been taken apart to confirm the damage. We are waiting on Honda corporate to give the go ahead for that. No warning lights or other dashboard messages have appeared.

- Evergreen, CO, USA

problem #640

Sep 172025

Pilot

  • miles
The engine seized as I was driving. This posed a safety risk because it was in the middle of traffic. After having the vehicle towed to a service shop it was confirmed that the engine had seized. The check engine light had appeared 2 days prior but then went off and reappeared right before the engine shut off.

- Fayetteville, NC, USA

problem #639

Sep 062025

Pilot

  • miles
Recall ID: 23V-751 (2023) Recall Query RQ24013 On [XXX] my 2016 Honda Pilot (VIN: [XXX] ) experienced sudden engine failure while driving. Prior to this, the vehicle had been maintained regularly and showed no signs of major engine issues. The failure occurred without warning, following intermittent misfire symptoms that quickly escalated to the engine shutting down and becoming inoperable. After towing the vehicle to a repair facility, I was informed that the engine suffered internal damage requiring complete replacement. The shop indicated that the failure was related to internal engine components, consistent with known issues involving crankshaft machining and connecting rod bearing wear. I am aware of NHTSA Recall 23V-751, which addresses improper crankshaft machining leading to connecting rod bearing failure and engine seizure in 2016 Honda Pilots and related models. Additionally, I am aware of NHTSA Recall Query RQ24-013, which was opened in 2024 to investigate whether the scope of 23V-751 should be expanded to include additional VINs due to similar failures. My VIN is currently outside the official recall range, but the symptoms and required repair align with the defect described in the recall and investigation. Given the similarity of my engine failure to the defect under federal investigation, I am requesting reimbursement for the cost of the engine replacement by adding my VIN to the recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

- Howell, NJ, USA

problem #638

Oct 302020

Pilot

  • 79,093 miles
While driving down the road the Engine started making a bearing noise and then started making a metallic rattling noise and then stopped. The car was towed to a Don Wessel Honda dealership in Springfield, MO, where they determined that parts in the engine just came apart. There were multiple holes in the Engine Block. I was told that this was not common and at 79093 miles it was no longer under Warranty. They replaced the engine with a used Engine from 2017. The total cost was $7483.90. I later learned that this was an issue that was recalled on this year and Model of car, but my VIN was not included. I believe my vehicle should have been included in the recall.

- Bonne Terre, MO, USA

problem #637

Aug 012025

Pilot

  • miles
Engine rod bearing

- Greenfield , OH, USA

problem #636

Aug 042025

Pilot

  • miles
Complete engine failure on highway

- Newark, DE, USA

problem #635

Aug 132025

Pilot

  • miles
In Mid-August (8/13/25), at 61,355 miles, my 2016 Honda Pilot experienced sudden engine failure due to what my dealer diagnosed as a connecting rod bearing/crankshaft failure. Prior to the failure, we had no issues with the car. The engine ultimately seized while the vehicle was in motion, creating a serious safety risk. My vehicle has been regularly maintained, most specifically timely oil changes (the most recent in December (12/11/24), less than 4000 miles prior to failure, yet the engine still failed. I am aware that Honda has issued recalls and is under NHTSA investigation for engine failures caused by defective rod bearings in 2016-?"2020 Honda Pilots and related models. However, my VIN is not currently included in the recall despite experiencing the same failure described in the recall notices and owner complaints. This is a serious safety issue. An engine seizure or stall at highway speeds could easily result in loss of control or a crash. I request that NHTSA expand its investigation and hold Honda accountable for covering all affected vehicles, including mine.

- Williamstown, MA, USA

problem #634

Sep 212025

Pilot

  • miles
I own a 2016 Honda Pilot AWD with approximately 160,000 miles. Within a week of purchase, the engine suffered a crankshaft/rod bearing failure. While driving, the engine suddenly began knocking, lost power, and stalled in traffic. I had to quickly turn onto a side street to get out of traffic, and smoke started coming from the engine bay. The vehicle is now not driveable. I already went to a Honda dealer, and when they checked my VIN, their system only showed warranty extensions for the fuel injectors and the start/stop switch. No recall or campaign appeared for the known rod bearing defect. However, my vehicle experienced the exact failure described in recall 23V-751 and the current NHTSA investigation into Honda V6 engines. I also contacted Honda corporate recall center directly, and they opened a case under my VIN. I have the case number available if needed This poses a serious safety risk since the engine can stall without warning while driving. I request that NHTSA investigate and expand the recall to cover additional vehicles including mine, that have experienced this same dangerous defect.

- Uniondale , NY, USA

problem #633

Sep 042025

Pilot

  • 93,000 miles
The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was parked at the place of employment for several hours. After parking the vehicle at the workplace for several hours, the contact resumed driving at an undisclosed speed, and the abnormal knocking sounds from the engine compartment returned before the vehicle stalled at an intersection. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed, and determined that connecting rod bearing failure caused engine failure and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 93,000.

- Severna Park, MD, USA

problem #632

Sep 012025

Pilot

  • miles
While driving my 2016 Honda Pilot Touring (approx. 110,000 miles) with my wife and two children [XXX], the vehicle suddenly malfunctioned without warning. As I was coming to a stop, the dashboard lit up with multiple warning lights and the engine appeared to stumble/stall. Once I regained focus, I could hear a loud ticking/knocking from the engine. This sudden failure put my family-??s safety at risk while the vehicle was in motion. I brought the vehicle to the dealership where all maintenance has been performed since purchase. A diagnostic scan revealed code P0302 (misfire cylinder 2). Upon inspection, the mechanic found metal shavings in the oil filter and determined that cylinder #2 suffered a spun rod bearing, resulting in connecting rod and crankshaft damage. The engine was deemed non-repairable and requires full replacement. The Pilot has been properly maintained, with the most recent oil change performed on 5/13/2025 and no issues noted. I am the original owner, and the in-service date was late 2015 (among the first redesigned Pilots). This appears to be a critical engine defect that occurs without warning, resulting in catastrophic engine failure and creating a serious safety hazard for drivers and passengers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

- Fairport, NY, USA

problem #631

Sep 062025

Pilot

  • miles
My Pilot is experiencing a loud knocking noise from the engine, a symptom directly related to NHTSA Recall 23V-751 (Honda's engine connecting rod bearing failure). On 9/8, I took my vehicle to BP Service in Kirkwood, Missouri, for a diagnosis. The technician confirmed that the knocking noise was consistent with an internal engine issue, likely involving the crankshaft and connecting rods. This diagnosis prompted me to investigate the recall. On 9/10, I contacted the Honda dealership in Frontenac, Missouri, specifically mentioning the symptoms and the recall. The dealership service department checked my vehicle's VIN and informed me that it was not included in the official recall list for 23V-751. Despite my VIN not being on the list, the symptoms of my vehicle match the described defect in the recall. The engine knocking and potential for engine failure pose a serious safety risk. I am concerned that the recall population may be too narrow and that my vehicle's VIN should be included. I have attached a receipt from BP Service regarding their diagnosis and I can have them provide a more detailed report if needed.

- Kirkwood, MO, USA

problem #630

Sep 062025

Pilot

  • miles
My vehicle is experiencing a loud knocking noise from the engine, a symptom directly related to NHTSA Recall 23V-751 (Honda's engine connecting rod bearing failure). On 9/8, I took my vehicle to BP Service in Kirkwood, Missouri, for a diagnosis. The technician confirmed that the knocking noise was consistent with an internal engine issue, likely involving the crankshaft and connecting rods. This diagnosis prompted me to investigate the recall. On 9/10, I contacted the Honda dealership in Frontenac, Missouri, specifically mentioning the symptoms and the recall. The dealership service department checked my vehicle's VIN and informed me that it was not included in the official recall list for 23V-751. Despite my VIN not being on the list, the symptoms of my vehicle match the described defect in the recall. The engine knocking and potential for engine failure pose a serious safety risk. I am concerned that the recall population may be too narrow and that my vehicle's VIN should be included. I've attached a receipt from BP Service regarding their diagnosis if more detail is needed, I can have them write a full report.

- Kirkwood, MO, USA

problem #629

Oct 102022

Pilot

  • miles
I was driving my 2016 honda pilot home. Started from a red light, heard some grinding and then a loud bang and had no power to move. I coasted to the side of the road and had it towed as I restarted it to hear a loud grinding. Local mechanic said to take to the dealership because I threw a rod and the cylinder seized up. Honda confirmed this and then replaced my engine with a used one. 2 years later I discovered other pilots had this happen after mine did and recalls were put out but my VIN isn't on the list and honda refused to reimburse me for the engine. Im out 8 grand for a problem that they know about with my same year and model vehicle but because I'm not on the list, im out of luck.

- Odenton, MD, USA

problem #628

Sep 012025

Pilot

  • miles
While driving, the engine suddenly seized without warning. The vehicle lost power and could not be restarted, creating a hazardous situation. There were no warning lamps or messages before the failure. The issue has been confirmed by the dealership service center, which diagnosed a seized engine. They indicated that the next step would be a complete engine teardown to determine the cause, at significant cost. The component (engine) is available for inspection. To my knowledge, this problem has not been previously addressed or repaired, and it appears consistent with rod bearing failures currently under NHTSA investigation for this engine family.

- West Chester, PA, USA

problem #627

Jan 152025

Pilot

  • miles
motor grinding

- Gilbert, PA, USA

problem #626

Jan 162025

Pilot

  • miles
Transmission slipping and motor making a grind sound since like 120k and dash problems and paint chips every were paint is coming off on its own. I did not about that i can do a complete here.

- Gilbert, PA, USA

Read the next 20 complaints »