2016 Honda Pilot Electrical Problems

Vehicle flashing warning signs for multiple system functions including battery and mechanical, forcing driver to pull over, unable to put vehicle in neutral to tow. Took vehicle to Honda dealership in Phoenix, AZ dealership unable to recreate issue. Stated it was cleared as a certified used Honda. Continued to have reoccurring issues, less than 2 months later vehicle engine completely seized. Honda refused to take responsibility for engine failure despite documented recurring issues with this make and model.

NHTSA ID

11749902

Incident

Jun 25, 2026

The contact purchased a 2016 Honda Pilot. The vehicle was a dealer sale on July 7, 2026. At the time of the sale, the odometer reading was 89,991. The contact later purchased an Auto Track and Carfax report, which indicated that in April 2026, the odometer reading was 198,387.

NHTSA ID

11749622

Incident

Jul 7, 2026

Mileage

198,387 mi

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the battery became drained. No warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was contacted, and the vehicle was taken to be diagnosed. The dealer determined that the spool valve was leaking on the alternator, and damaged the alternator and the spool valve. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 121,891.

NHTSA ID

11747476

Incident

Jun 17, 2026

Mileage

121,891 mi

Car has shut off while driving. Check engine light, traction control light, hill assist light, power steering light, and vehicle stability light have all come on causing me to have to pull over on the side of the road.

NHTSA ID

11734399

Incident

Apr 28, 2026

The component that failed in both incidents was the vehicle’s wiring system, specifically wiring insulation that appears to be vulnerable to rodent damage. In the first incident, squirrels chewed through wiring connected to the fuel injector system, which triggered a check engine light and was repaired. In the second incident, squirrels again accessed the engine compartment and chewed through wiring affecting the braking system. This resulted in a sudden and unexpected loss of braking function. Yes, the damaged components should be available for inspection through the repair shop or service records, although I would need to confirm the exact location of the retained parts. Safety was significantly put at risk. During the second incident, the vehicle was occupied by multiple passengers, including minors. While approaching a red light, the driver attempted to brake and found that the brakes were not functioning properly. The driver had to shift the vehicle into park and use the emergency brake to stop, narrowly avoiding a serious collision. This created a high-risk, potentially life-threatening situation. The first incident was addressed by a mechanic after the check engine light appeared, confirming damage to the fuel injector-related wiring. The second incident was formally confirmed by a mechanic that the brake line was leaking from damage from, what they highly suspected and have seen in the past, a rodent . In the first incident, a check engine light appeared, prompting immediate attention. In the second incident, there were no warning lights, messages, or prior symptoms before the brake failure occurred.

NHTSA ID

11731338

Incident

May 11, 2025

Car fails to start and warning flashes, keyless start system problem.

NHTSA ID

11728021

Incident

Mar 30, 2026

Vehicle caught fire and completely burned up. It had no problems, had been serviced and recently inspected for emissions and safety in Virginia.

NHTSA ID

11727284

Incident

Mar 14, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that the rear-view camera displayed a blank or blue image while in reverse(R). In addition, there was an abnormal scrambling sound coming from the radio before the radio failed to operate as needed. The contact stated that other electrical features failed to operate as needed. Additionally, the contact stated that an abnormal, burning odor was coming from the vehicle with the check engine warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was initially taken to a dealer, where the contact was informed that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who replaced the catalytic converter; however, the check engine warning light remained on the instrument panel. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

NHTSA ID

11721381

Incident

Nov 1, 2024

Mileage

130,000 mi

To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting this complaint to report ongoing engine and emissions system problems with my 2016 Honda Pilot that raise serious safety concerns and may be related to a broader defect currently under investigation. I purchased this vehicle from a dealership in April of 2024 and the issues began shortly afterward at approximately 67,000 miles. The vehicle currently has approximately 74,600 miles and has received regular oil changes and routine maintenance. The vehicle has repeatedly displayed emissions system warning messages and engine fault codes. It has experienced persistent engine misfiring even after a mechanic performed repairs on cylinder 1. In addition, the vehicle exhibits rough engine shaking during driving and idling, engine stalling, and rough or delayed gear changes continuously since 2024. Despite attempted repairs, the problems continue to occur to present. The stalling, misfiring, and unstable engine operation create a potential safety risk, particularly while driving at speed or in traffic. The rough shifting and loss of smooth power delivery further impact safe vehicle operation. Given the relatively low mileage, proper maintenance, and the recurrence of these symptoms, this does not appear to be normal wear and tear. I am aware that similar engine-related complaints have been reported by other owners of 2016 Honda Pilot vehicles and that this model year is included in an ongoing federal investigation into potential engine defects. I am requesting that this complaint be reviewed as part of that investigation and considered for further action, including possible recall or service remedy, to address the safety risks posed by these engine and emissions system failures. Vehicle Information: Make/Model: 2016 Honda Pilot Mileage: Approximately 74,600 miles VIN: [XXX] Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11716412

Incident

Apr 15, 2024

We started having problems with the catalytic converter clogging so we put Heat in it and then only used 100%gas. Then we went to my daughter’s house and when we went to leave the car wouldn’t start. We could smell burning. We had it towed to our mechanic and he replaced the starter but he had a hard time getting it off because it was almost fused because of the heat. Then 3-4 days later all the check engine lights came on. We had it checked out by Christian Brothers and he had to replace all of the fuel injectors. He also had to replace the ERG valve. It all I feel was caused by the fuel injectors and was causing problems in the engine and causing the burning smell. I have read that this has been a problem on the vehicles and wanted to report it for a Recall. We love the vehicle but with the mileage only being at 143,400.

NHTSA ID

11712179

Incident

Sep 11, 2025

warning engine light came on. Emission control system light came on too. Honda Pilot 2016 Milage 70,662. Vehicle operating normally. Had car parts store use OBD electronic scanner and it revealed a code P0328: "Knock Sensor voltage High". Code was deleted after scan. I was told by tech at car parts store that the sensor was detecting odd electronic signals and sent info to the cars computer, which intern made the computer to display the warning lights on the dash panel. Warning lights were then off, and then a day later, the engine warning lights came on again. There are no physical or audible signs that any mechanical errors are happening, The car/engine is operating as normal. next day; made appt with Honda dealership to check system with their equipment and the warning lights did not come on , prior to the trip to the dealership. Dealership scan (Dec 23, 2025) confirms a faulty Knock Sensor w/code P0328. My internet search of this code reading, reveals possible engine damage, improper fuel distribution and possible engine failure when driving. This issue has been reported before, many times, per my internet search...why no recall? Dealership wants $1,234 to replace Knock sensor bank 1& 2. My original request to the dealership was to check my vehicle to see if it had any performance problems as noted in Honda Service Bulletin 20-100 Nov 24, 2020 problems, but their search revealed the P0328 code . I was charged $100 just for this diagnostic system search.

NHTSA ID

11706838

Incident

Dec 16, 2025

My keyless start system is going off and on and this is supposedly a well known problem with this year and model and the start stop buttoning going off and car stalling etc. it says to report to you all online.

NHTSA ID

11706299

Incident

Nov 17, 2025

Following all repair/recall/warranty work recommended by Honda, the Auto Stop/Start feature is again failing. This results in the vehicle not restarting after the auto idle engine stop is engaged while in traffic, stop lights, stop signs etc. This is a random occurrence, but results in a significant safety hazard as a stopped vehicle in a lane of travel. This is a recurring issue, no specific date of incident.

NHTSA ID

11701114

Incident

Nov 22, 2025

When the vehicle idle is on and I break at a red light or stop sign it has NOT started back up. This has happened a few times. Today at a red light it cut it did it and I needed a jump start to get it back working.

NHTSA ID

11699498

Incident

Nov 14, 2025

Honda issued Service Bulletin 20-117 regarding a Warranty Extension for the 2016–2017 Pilot and 2017 Ridgeline addressing a Keyless Start System Error with DTC B12C5. Following an NHTSA investigation, Honda extended warranty coverage to 9 years or 125,000 miles under this bulletin. My 2016 Honda Pilot currently has 107,000 miles and is only six months past the nine-year time limit. Earlier this year, the Keyless Start System warning indicator began appearing intermittently—illuminating for a few seconds before disappearing for days or weeks. Recently, the warning began to stay on continuously. Per Honda’s initial guidance, I replaced the key fob battery and even swapped fobs with my wife, but the issue persisted. On October 16th, I brought the vehicle to Honda of Chantilly, where technicians diagnosed a faulty start/stop button requiring replacement. I then opened case #15920037 with Honda, but they declined to cover or reimburse the repair, despite it being a known defect covered under the extended warranty for others. I respectfully request that the NHTSA assist in having Honda honor the warranty extension for this documented issue, given the close proximity to the coverage limit and the long-standing nature of the defect.

NHTSA ID

11694600

Incident

Oct 16, 2025

instrument panel

NHTSA ID

11686609

Incident

Aug 14, 2024

Engine developed noises while driving and seized up. Prior to engine seizure, auto start/stop was having issues where it would not restart after stopping at a light or stop sign. Rear unibody rusting really badly due to cheap quality metal?

NHTSA ID

11684134

Incident

Aug 27, 2025

My 2016 Honda pilot has continued to have engine restart issues with the automatic engine stop feature after taking it in for the initial recall. Upon telling this to the dealer, they said the recall work was already done and won’t address it further. They only did the software upgrade and did not tell me about the 2nd stage of repairs available. The issue is random but happens commonly, and seems to be worse on hot days. It also can sometimes struggle to restart after putting it in park after the auto restart fails.

NHTSA ID

11683459

Incident

Aug 22, 2025

The engine shuts off while driving and the car shifts the transmission to Park or Neutral.

NHTSA ID

11683328

Incident

Aug 26, 2025

The fuel injection system routinely fails or misfires. Not only does this cause an issue with said system but it also triggers a host of other dashboard alerts. The alerts display all wheel drive problem, emission system problem, power steering problem, hill start problem, vehicle stability assist problem. This is a safety issue because the amount of alerts especially unrelated alerts is obfuscating any actual problems and making it difficult to diagnose the real issue. Investigation shows many other drivers having the same issues with this model only going away when the fuel injection system is replaced. It's also safety issue because if the fuel injection is failing then the car may shut off at a danger to the driver and the public. Given that it is known and chronic it should be a recall

NHTSA ID

11676883

Incident

Jul 29, 2025

In my 2016 Honda pilot a lot of buttons are popping up on the screen with no information about how to fix it. My car is having trouble accelerating and is hesitating when needing to accelerate. I was unable to speed up while driving to get to 45 mph Because it would not speed up. All the buttons that are coming up on my car or not correct it’s showing trailer issues and I’ve never once trailed anything with my car. It seems like it’s having extra trouble when the air condition is on as well. I’m unable to figure out what is wrong with my car because all the buttons are not coming up correct when they plug it in for a diagnostic. I have had the alternator replaced and that did not change anything.

NHTSA ID

11674291

Incident

Jun 18, 2025

My battery was being drained until dead by a faulty keyless control module. I paid to have the battery replaced after my son and I got stranded 1.5 hours from home. All the lights on the dash went off and nearly every error code displayed as well. Currently at Honda dealership getting the module replaced at a mere $840 after I paid $370 for battery installation when my car "broke down". Now to see I am not the only Honda customer with this issue in this model of vehicle. The car started displaying all the error codes about a week before it began just completely draining the battery that was on 6/23. Battery replaced that day and by Saturday 6/28 was unable to start my car due to battery being completely dead. Had to jump my car and take to dealership on sunday 6/29. So was late to work and have been without my vehicle for over a week while they were trouble shooting the issue.

NHTSA ID

11671922

Incident

Jun 28, 2025

Check engine light on emissions system problem and transmission system problem, there is loss power of engine light, after 2 gear transmission feel like it jerks I don't have save to drive my car, i would like to request a recall to be inspected and repair by warranty of Honda because my car is defective by manufacturer Code are: P0420 (rear bank catalyst system efficiency below threshold [bank 1]) P0430 (front bank catalyst system efficiency below threshold [bank 2]) P0300-P0306 (misfire) P219A (air-fuel ratio variation of cylinder [bank 1, rear bank]) P219B (air-fuel ratio variation of cylinder [bank 2, front bank])

NHTSA ID

11663783

Incident

May 26, 2025

Car sound system distort and no sound after 10 minutes of driving. No bluetooth audio, radio, music working. Changing volume, sound setting, factory reset the info system but the problem still exist. Increase the A/C fan speed and driving through pumps seems make the problem start earlier. Sometimes, turn off the car and restart the car after 30 minutes, the sound system is back on, but after the 10-15 minutes the sound went off again. This problem could cause safety issue as I relied on navigation sound while driving. There seems to be the same problem that being recalled in newer model.

NHTSA ID

11663149

Incident

May 27, 2025

The alarm continuously goes off unprompted while the car is off. The dashboard lights will flash as if the car is attempting to start without any input from the driver. Clicking can be heard from the dashboard during this time. The battery is drained from this continuous issue. Other systems then seem to be impacted. The car has begun lurching out struggling to shift gears. In the last 3 years, all fluid systems have been flushed, battery replaced, oil gauge replaced, and keyless remote entry module replaced. The issue persists. All recalls have been completed as well. When the car is in ACC mode, the battery indicator is on and the flashing of the dashboard indicators still happens (as when the car is off right leading up to the alarm being tripped). Once the car is started , the indicator goes away. There is no apparent clicking or changes in the dashboard when the car is on and actively drawing from the battery.

NHTSA ID

11662008

Incident

Nov 15, 2023