What is the Best Honda Pilot Year?
Get your hands on the best Honda Pilot year—and avoid the worst at all costs.
Written by Alexandra Maloney
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
The Honda Pilot is a mid-sized, crossover SUV that hit the roads in 2002. Since
Honda
introduced the vehicle, the Pilot has gained a reputation as a reliable and durable SUV with a reasonable price tag, through all its changes and models. But like any car, there are some model years of the Honda Pilot that are better than others. Here, we’re going over the best Honda Pilot Year—and the worst—plus some tips and tricks for
buying used
, so you’re ready for anything when you purchase your next car. What is the best Honda Pilot year?
The best Honda Pilot year is 2014, followed closely by the 2008 Honda Pilot. Although these are both definitely older models, they should still be driving well today and buying one will give you your money’s worth.
The 2014 Honda Pilot earned a 5 out of 5 from
Consumer Reports
in reliability, and a 3 out of 5 in owner satisfaction.That reliability rating is key when buying a used car, because it’s a good indicator the vehicle will stand the test of time. Plus, it has an overall fuel economy rating of 19 mpg, which is only about three miles below the fuel economy ratings of the newest Honda Pilots. The interior is roomy and with a 2014 model, you can expect to see most of the updated safety and technology features we see today.
Another great, but older, option is the 2008 Honda Pilot.
WVDOT
rates this as the best Honda Pilot year for its durability, stating the car should last at least 150,000 miles. Plus, it has great safety ratings, and Consumer Reports gave it a 4 out of 5 in both reliability and owner satisfaction. If you’re looking for a newer Honda Pilot model, 2018 and 2019 are both solid years.
What is the worst Honda Pilot year?
It’s important to know the best model years of a car you’re buying, but it’s equally important to know which model years to avoid. The worst Honda Pilot year of all time is the 2003 Honda Pilot, due to the variety of problems drivers have faced.
MotorBiscuit
states that drivers have reported problems with the engine, transmission, electrical, drivetrain, and airbag in the 2003 Honda Pilot. Needless to say, these issues are monumental and costly. If these were issues when the car debuted over 15 years ago, they’ve likely only exasperated since. Avoid buying a 2003 Honda Pilot at all costs.
What to know about buying a used Honda Pilot
Unless you’re buying a 2022 model, any Honda Pilot you buy will be used to some degree. When buying a used car, there are certain tips and tricks to learn to make sure you’re getting the best possible car for the best possible price.
Autotrader
suggests that when buying a first or second generation Honda Pilot, you should have a mechanic familiar with Honda go over the car with a fine-tooth comb before you put your money down, with special attention paid to the engine and transmission. For any used car, it’s also important you do a visual inspection and note any mishaps on the vehicle, plus be conscious of how many miles are already on the car. Beyond that, test drive and don’t be afraid to negotiate a price you feel is fair—most sellers don’t want you to walk away!
4.7
