2021 Honda Passport Owner Complaints

The vehicle experienced a sudden internal mechanical failure while driving, resulting in loss of propulsion and complete engine failure. The vehicle was towed to an authorized franchised dealership service center (Gardena Honda) for inspection. No check engine lights, warning lights or any pile pressure warning! Oil change was 2,500 miles until next service. Upon complete teardown and diagnostic inspection, factory-certified technicians confirmed internal engine damage, specifically connecting rod bearing failure leading to a seized engine requiring a complete engine replacement ($9,375.00 total repair cost). This internal failure presents a severe safety hazard: an unexpected engine stall or lockup at highway speeds risks loss of power steering, loss of power brakes, and an immediate crash. Symptoms align directly with NHTSA Recall 23V-751 and ongoing federal investigations regarding Honda 3.5L V6 engine connecting rod bearing failures, where out-of-spec manufacturing leads to premature bearing wear and sudden engine seizure. The vehicle is maintained according to manufacturer specifications and has 55,649 miles. The failed components remain preserved at the dealership service department for federal or manufacturer inspection upon request.

NHTSA ID

11765235

Incident

Aug 18, 2026

Failed engine rod bearing, And a full engine replacement is needed. As I was driving it completely lost acceleration power and became difficult to manage. The dealer verified the issue. All the warning lights including engine flashed on and off as the vehicle lost acceleration power.

NHTSA ID

11763205

Incident

Sep 8, 2026

This is related to service bulletin, 23–010 Honda will not fix my vehicle under the extended warranty unless the problem is replicated while they are doing a performance test

NHTSA ID

11761384

Incident

Sep 1, 2026

This has happened several times but today it was dangerous. I was doing around 40mph and there were some changes in the concrete color and my car slammed on the breaks (again) for no reason. I was almost hit. This keeps happening in my vehicle and I am terrified to drive it. Please help get this recalled. I have a child with cancer and I bought this safer vehicle to transport her to the hospital.

NHTSA ID

11760788

Incident

Aug 30, 2026

There is a known issue with auto idle feature. If you do not manually turn off every time it stays on and occasionally will cause car issue when stopping. I have had it happen in vehicle about a dozen times. When you fully depress brake engine is suppose to i gel to save gas however on occasion the vehicle will completely stall out. I have had this issue happen when approaching stop signs or in traffic situations. The biggest problem is trying to reengage car. Sometimes you can feel it starting to do this and if you quickly apply gas you can avoid it however sometimes the car will lock up with display lights and you have to keep pushing the Engine stop button to turn off the vehicle and turn vehicle back on. It is sometimes difficult to even turn off engine vehicle when this happens but seems to be only way to get vehicle to respond. I have had vehicles behind me almost hit me while I try to get vehicle out of this mode. I know it’s an issue as it’s all over the forums when you search for fix.

NHTSA ID

11758706

Incident

Aug 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Honda Passport. The contact stated that while driving 45 MPH, the Forward Collision Avoidance activated, and the vehicle stopped. The contact stated that the braking was aggressive. The contact stated that the failure was persistent. The contact stated that the vehicle was the only form of transportation. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to use while transporting minor children. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact stated that an unknown recall repair was performed previously; however, the failure occurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,000.

NHTSA ID

11757422

Incident

Sep 18, 2024

Mileage

32,000 mi

Shortly after purchasing my 2021 Honda Passport Elite, I experienced issues with the Auto Start/Stop feature. Once engaged, my vehicle was very sluggish when restarting after a complete stop. Had the issue checked every time I went in for service at my dealership with no problems detected. I have had a new battery installed within the last year. In the last week, I have had 2 separate incidents where my vehicle completely shut down when I stopped at stop signs. The dash went black and steering wheel was extremely stiff. Other vehicles had to wait behind me for a couple of minutes until I was able to restart my vehicle. I had my battery, alternator and starter checked with all of them passing. Now when I drive, I turn off the Auto start/stop so I don't cut off in traffic. This is a problem.

NHTSA ID

11757066

Incident

Aug 12, 2026

U3000-49, front facing camera issue, obviously a known flaw, message boards flooded with complaints and ridiculous costs to repair, us included to the tune of $2400. Class action suit filed June 2028: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11756927

Incident

Aug 1, 2026

The power door-lock system on my 2021 Honda Passport malfunctions while the vehicle is moving. When I make a right turn, the doors unexpectedly unlock, the interior dome light comes on, and I hear the door-unlocking sound. The doors do not physically open, but I must manually lock them again while driving. The problem occurs repeatedly during right turns. This malfunction creates a safety risk because the vehicle’s doors unlock unexpectedly while it is in motion, including when young children are passengers. The vehicle is available for inspection. I reported the issue to a Honda dealer, but the dealer requested a $199 diagnostic fee and has not yet diagnosed or repaired the problem. No crash or injury has occurred.

NHTSA ID

11756143

Incident

Jul 1, 2026

The engine experienced a catastrophic lower-end bearing failure at approximately 63,000 miles. The vehicle had been maintained according to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule at the dealership service department. There were no missed oil changes. The failure occurred without any prior indication that a major internal engine problem was developing. The vehicle was taken to a Honda dealership, where the engine was disassembled. The dealer confirmed a lower-end bearing failure and reported significant metal debris inside the engine. The engine was determined to require complete replacement. A sudden internal engine failure creates the risk of an unexpected loss of power while driving, which can increase the risk of a crash, especially in traffic or at highway speeds. The failed engine is available for inspection through the servicing dealership if requested. The failure has been confirmed by the Honda dealership. No warning lamps or messages provided sufficient advance notice to prevent the failure beyond symptoms associated with the engine failure itself. I am submitting this report because I believe this may represent a manufacturing or design defect rather than normal wear and tear. I request that NHTSA investigate whether similar connecting rod bearing failures are occurring in other Honda Passport vehicles with this engine.

NHTSA ID

11755201

Incident

Jul 25, 2026

The vehicle experienced a catastrophic internal engine failure caused by connecting rod bearing failure. Prior to the failure, the engine developed abnormal internal knocking/noise, indicating bearing deterioration. The engine is currently available for inspection. While traveling approximately 55 mph on [XXX], the check engine warning light illuminated. Within about one mile, the engine rapidly lost power and developed a severe knocking noise. The sudden loss of power at highway speed created a serious safety hazard by reducing my ability to maintain traffic speed and safely maneuver the vehicle. I had my child in the vehicle, and both we and surrounding motorists were placed at risk of a collision while I attempted to move to exit traffic. The failure has been confirmed by an independent repair facility, Absolute Automotive LLC in Parker, Colorado. Their inspection determined the engine suffered internal damage due to connecting rod bearing failure. I have the engine replacement invoice, technician's diagnostic notes, and photographs documenting the engine damage. The vehicle has not been inspected by Honda. I contacted Honda to report the failure and request assistance, but I was informed there was no recall for the 2021 Honda Passport equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine and that Honda would not provide assistance unless a recall existed. Before the engine failed completely, the engine developed abnormal internal knocking/noise. While driving on [XXX], the check engine warning light illuminated, and within approximately one mile the engine lost power and produced a heavy knocking noise, rendering the vehicle unsafe to operate. I am submitting this complaint because a sudden internal engine failure resulting in loss of power at highway speeds presents a significant safety hazard and should be investigated. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11753735

Incident

Apr 11, 2026

Honda has a recall on certain vin numbers for the starter. My starter i was told to replace at a $2500 fee from reggie jackson honda in raleigh nc. I had to visit the dealership 3 times, they said its the battery, replaced the battery at my cost, now they said its the starter. They said there is a recall but my vin number was not included in the recall. The starter is worn out from the auto start and stop feature at stop lights. My issue is it will stop at a stop light and it wont start again then a warning comes on the screen about collision detection issue, then the warning goes away quickly and eventually i will get it to start but it is a safety issue that honda is aware of. I am asking honda to do partial credit on repair costs, but i dont understand why my vin number was excluded. The managers name was ruben lopez who informed me that the starter is causing issues, and sometimes its the battery, but that my vin wasnt covered. I just want my vehicle to not get stuck at after stopping in traffic when honda knows of the issue it should be covered for a lifetime warranty or recall. The stopping issue where it wont start again happens approximately 1 time per month, and seems to be in warmer weather but i cannot confirm this nor do i keep an exact log of when it happens. Thank you.

NHTSA ID

11751380

Incident

Feb 2, 2026

The multipurpose front camera on my 2021 Honda Passport failed without warning, causing mutliple Honda sensing safety systems to become inoperative. Warning messages appeared indicating failures of the collision mitigation braking system, adaptaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist system, road departure mitigation system, and other driver assistance features. The vehicle has not been involved in a front end collision and the camera failure was diagnosed by a Honda dealership as requiring replacement of the multipurpose camera assembly. This is a significant safety concern because the failure of a single component disables numerous advanced driver assistance systems that are designed to help prevent crashes. I have learned that similar front camera failures have been reported by owners of other Honda models using comparable Honda sensing technology. Because this failure affects critical safety systems and appears to be more than an isolated incident, I am submitting this complaint so it can be documented and investigated.

NHTSA ID

11751267

Incident

Jun 23, 2026

4th occurrence. Car fails to start. The instrument display reads: AUTO ENGINE IDLE STOP SYSTEM PROBLEM. Electrical system including radio, A/C etc were working. (Including the car alarm which begins honking the horn as soon as I open the door) Repeated attempts to start the car failed to do anything except to annoy anyone within earshot as the horn kept honking! Roadside assistance was not able to get the car started either so it was towed to the dealer. I've had the car into the Honda dealer for recalls but this problem has not been solved.

NHTSA ID

11749959

Incident

Jul 11, 2026

My 2021 Honda Passport Elite suffered cataphoric engine failure at 90,000 miles. The 6th cylinder bearing was missing when my vehicle was towed into Honda for diagnosis after my engine shut off while I was traveling 55 mph. I had no warnings for this failure including no engine noises and no check engine lights. I had to have a new engine put in my vehicle and Honda refused to cover the cost at 100% because they stated there were no open recalls at this time. I feel this is a manufacturer engine defect that is the same as the open recall defect Honda has on the 2017, 2018, and 2019 Pilots with the same 3.5-liter V6. The engine failure descriptions are exactly the same.

NHTSA ID

11735989

Incident

Apr 1, 2026

Mileage

90,212 mi

Fuel Injectors/ Misfires

NHTSA ID

11735360

Incident

May 1, 2026

The CMBS malfunction lights come on every time I start my car. The only time it went off was when I drove straight for about 15 minutes without stopping at a light It started a few months ago out of nowhere. I thought it was my camera, I took it to a Honda dealer and they said I needed to buy another camera for 2500 dollars. I don't have 2500 dollars they told me I could drive it but I won't have that safety feature. I only had this car 6 months and already the camera is acting up. Another dealer said it could be the battery. I really don't know why at this point that everyone is having these issues with the Honda sensing camera. I think it is a safety issue because it should be working at all times

NHTSA ID

11734873

Incident

Feb 1, 2026

Driving to work in normal speeds and conditions. The emergency braking enabled and slammed on the brakes to my car - despite there being no threat or need. The brake was with such force that I jerked forward. This is the third time this has happened with this car in the past week. Car is available for inspection if needed. The car has not yet been inspected by Honda for this situation.

NHTSA ID

11732628

Incident

Apr 21, 2026

I bought my car in 2021. Two weeks ago 4-5 dashboard signs came up on my screen. I contacted local dealer and they said they need nearly $3000 to fix it. I told them it’s a safety issue and they refused to budge. I complained to Honda through X and they refused to help me. They are not taking it seriously

NHTSA ID

11728301

Incident

Mar 6, 2026

I purchased a used 2021 Passport the end of May 2025. While driving, the 'collision mitigation braking system' or CMBS would activate the braking system and would intermittently just brake, causing panic for not only myself, but I'm sure drivers behind me for suddenly braking with no imminent threat in from of me. This happened multiple times without receiving any warning or notifications, just suddenly. It would happen without warning, or sometimes nearing a bridge or a cover plate on the road, which almost caused accidents multiple times to get rear ended. I have driven for decades and never felt anxiety until I drove this vehicle for a few months. I felt scared driving this vehicle, feeling uncertain when it would suddenly just brake. Eventually after a few months of driving, I got a reading that said CMBS problem on the screen. I scheduled an appointment with the dealer. The dealer suggested a near $3000 replacement for a camera (on a 2021 vehicle). At the appointment, I ultimately returned this vehicle to the dealer where I bought it and unfortunately lost out on thousands of dollars after having the vehicle about 6 months. I have always liked Honda, and have had 2 prior Hondas, but with this vehicle purchase, I felt the most unsafe I have ever felt in a vehicle, and moving forward will not feel comfortable purchasing Honda.

NHTSA ID

11725679

Incident

Aug 1, 2025

After having constant issues with the idle stop and the car alarm going off in the middle of the night and day for no apparent reason I took it to the dealer to get it fixed. After supposedly fixing the idle stop, about two weeks later I was going up a ramp during a heavy traffic hour and the car completely shot down. It took me a few minutes to get it back on. I’ve had issues with this car from day one (brand new). I’m currently trying to get another car.

NHTSA ID

11719998

Incident

Feb 19, 2026

During an oil change my magnetic drain plug was caked with magnetic gray material with specks of silver flake in it. This oil change has 6142 miles on it. I am concerned because my passport was built in Sept of 2020 right at the transition of the previously recalled j35 motors were produced. Car has been serviced at the Honda dealer since new except last 2 oil changes which were performed by me.

NHTSA ID

11719633

Incident

Jan 31, 2026

Auto idle malfunctioned. At a stop light the engine turned off and it took 5 minutes to restart the engine. No warning lights or messages appeared before it happened. Had the PGM-Fl Idle stop software update done 9/16/23 at 17,582 miles. Took to dealer they could not re create , the car has 46,359 miles now. This is 2nd vehicle this has happened to me , other vehicle same exact auto idle problem started at 60,000 and I drove it for 13,000 miles experiencing stalling out at lights and in stop and go traffic for over a year ( very dangerous and scary experience ) I took it to 2 different Honda dealers numerous times before they finally replaced starter assembly , starter relays and adjusted the valves per the March 2023 warranty extension notice .

NHTSA ID

11716504

Incident

Jan 30, 2026

One day the lights just started flashing. Took to dealer and was told that someone must have backed into me and would be about $2500 to replace the camera (which is behind the windshield). Occasionally it will function but clearly seems to be a malfunction. In research online there appear to be many others that have experienced the same issue - can’t just be a coincidence. Shouldn’t happen on a reliable four/five year old car

NHTSA ID

11715469

Incident

Sep 1, 2025

WHEN ATTEMPTING TO MERGE ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD AFTER EXITING THE INTERSTATE ENGINE POWER WASNT THERE AND THE CAR FELT AS IT WAS GOING TO EVENTUALLY JUST DIE. THIS HAPPENED WHEN THE CAR HAD BEEN DRIVEN OVER 50 MILES, SO IT WAS AT OPERATING TEMP.. REMOVING FOOT OFF THE THROTTLE AND REALPPLYING SEVERAL TIMES HAD THE CAR RETURN TO FULL POWER. LUCKILY, FOR THIS INCIDENT, TRAFFIC WAS LIGHT AND THE MERGE LANE WAS LONG. SO FAR THIS HAS OCCURED TWICE IN THE MONTYH OF JANUARY 2026.

NHTSA ID

11714354

Incident

Jan 29, 2026