RoadVitals

2016 Honda Pilot Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
1,730
Latest Nov 6, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
16
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
33

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2016 Honda Pilot, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

828
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My 2016 Honda Pilot has suffered catastrophic engine failure due to an apparent connecting rod bearing failure, identical to the defect described in NHTSA Recall 23V-751. During driving on the interstate the engine began knocking, made a loud banging sound, abruptly seized while driving which caused a sudden loss of motive power on the roadway, which created an immediate traffic hazard and safety risk. My VIN was checked and is currently excluded from the existing recall when checking through Honda. I am filing a complaint to urge investigation to expand the scope of the recall to cover my vehicle since it seems to exhibit the exact same rod defect currently under this federal investigation.

NHTSA ID 11776311 · filed Nov 6, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH, an abnormal knocking sound emanated from the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where diagnostic testing determined that the connecting rod bearings failed. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by telephone. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

NHTSA ID 11776169 · filed Nov 6, 2026
All 828 reports naming engine →

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

585
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The auto idle malfunctioned; the vehicle did not restart when the break was released and/or moving steering wheel. It was in the middle of a busy intersection so that is definitely putting my safety as well as my daughter's and others safety at risk. It took at least a minute to restart the vehicle, by putting the gear in park and restarting the vehicle (which took several attempts). Those steps were produced on the dashboard when it didn't restart after being idle. It has happened several times over the last four months. I've taken it to my local car shop, but they are not able to find anything wrong; however, the manager of the car shop did experience the malfunction when driving on 10/10/2026. It was suggested to report the malfunction as an incident.

NHTSA ID 11774936 · filed Nov 1, 2026

I have been having issues with my 2016 Honda Pilot and I looked on Experian and it stated that there is a recall. There are two different recalls, the first one says Fuel Injector/W Software Update the date is 11/24/2020 and recall # W8V. Also recall for Start/Stop Switch that the recall date was 12/9/2020 and recall # Y93. I bought my car in 2024 but I did not get an extended warranty. The car is having same symptoms for the past 2 years, my husband tries to fix what he can. Even though it is not under warranty they never fixed these issues before selling my car. It started acting up after 3 months of having it. So I am thinking they just took of the system problem and tweaked it so the car would be sold.

NHTSA ID 11774204 · filed Oct 28, 2026
All 585 reports naming electrical →

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

202
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The manufacturer’s defective fuel delivery system (faulty fuel injectors covered under Honda TSB #19-056) causes severe engine cylinder misfires, dropping the vehicle into an immediate, unpredictable, and sluggish 'limp mode' while driving at highway speeds. This sudden loss of power and acceleration creates a severe traffic hazard, preventing the vehicle from keeping pace with traffic or safely merging. The primary fueling malfunction has also led to cascading damage, sequentially melting and destroying both catalytic converters and prematurely destroying brand-new spark plugs in under 5,300 miles due to raw fuel dumping into the exhaust stream.

NHTSA ID 11775893 · filed Nov 5, 2026

My 2016 honda pilot has 97,500 miles. The engine stop working and I have it replaced a used 3.5 engine. The transmission has transmission overheating problem and I took a picture on the dash board. I show it to the service advisor and they won't acknowledge about the overheating problem. Honda care customer service won't do anything regarding the engine and transmission problem.

NHTSA ID 11768126 · filed Sep 30, 2026
All 202 reports naming powertrain (other) →

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

195
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The manufacturer’s defective fuel delivery system (faulty fuel injectors covered under Honda TSB #19-056) causes severe engine cylinder misfires, dropping the vehicle into an immediate, unpredictable, and sluggish 'limp mode' while driving at highway speeds. This sudden loss of power and acceleration creates a severe traffic hazard, preventing the vehicle from keeping pace with traffic or safely merging. The primary fueling malfunction has also led to cascading damage, sequentially melting and destroying both catalytic converters and prematurely destroying brand-new spark plugs in under 5,300 miles due to raw fuel dumping into the exhaust stream.

NHTSA ID 11775893 · filed Nov 5, 2026

Vehicle experiences a severe 3-to-4 second extended engine crank before starting due to fuel pressure loss. Priming the low-pressure fuel pump manually bypasses the issue, indicating a check-valve bleed-down failure. It is continuously worsening over time. This is identical to the failure mode of the active low-pressure fuel pump safety recalls affecting 2017-2020 Honda models, but my 2016 model is currently excluded.

NHTSA ID 11775538 · filed Nov 3, 2026
All 195 reports naming fuel system →

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

106
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I have a series of dashboard warning lights that have went off due to failure of this camera-based (LKAS) unit. They are labeled as: 1) Lane Keeping Assist Problem 2) Auto Matic Cruise Control Problem 3) Traction Control Problem 4) ABS - braking system failure. These issues, IMO, are enough to suggest a recall is warranted. Please advice. I can provide photos of these warnings if necessary. Thanks [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11774395 · filed Oct 29, 2026

My 2016 Honda Pilot had a U3000-49- Integrated Driver Assist System code. Multipurpose Camera Unit Internal Electronic Failure. It has been happening intermittently for the past 2 weeks. No lane assist. No safety features.

NHTSA ID 11767756 · filed Sep 29, 2026
All 106 reports naming driver assistance →

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

54
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V365000 (Structure, Suspension); however, the front subframe had a hole caused by corrosion. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5-10 MPH, the front end of the vehicle made clunking sounds. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for suspension wear and tear repair, and it was determined that there was a hole in the front suspension. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and stated that the recall repair was only for the rear subframe. The failure mileage was approximately 101,600.

NHTSA ID 11770056 · filed Oct 9, 2026

Taligate is rusting through near the handle as well as around the right taillight. Another recall for this exact issue is in place for the same year/make/model, yet my vehicle is not included in the recall. Faulty seals allow water to get into the tailgate and rust from the inside-out. Honda has told me they won't help even though it is a known issue (recall).

NHTSA ID 11741661 · filed Jun 2, 2026
All 54 reports naming body & structure →

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

31
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while accelerating from a stop, the vehicle lost automotive power, and the battery, oil, and information warning lights remained illuminated. Several minutes later, the vehicle was restarted, and the contact continued driving. Another failure occurred while attempting to accelerate from a stop, and the transmission shifted into neutral, the brake pedal became stiff, and the contact was forced to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The failure mileage was 98,512.

NHTSA ID 11762859 · filed Sep 8, 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 · filed Apr 15, 2026
All 31 reports naming brakes →

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

18
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

A critical failure in the direct fuel injection system caused severe engine misfiring, sudden loss of drive power, and a cascade failure that disabled safety systems during vehicle operation. Diagnostic scan confirmed DTCs P0172 (fuel system rich) and P0301 (cylinder 1 misfire). In response to the misfire, the vehicle's computer automatically disabled the Electronic Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and SH-AWD systems (diagnostic codes U0401-68, U0416-68). This is a known manufacturing defect involving internal injector wear and high-pressure fuel pump debris (detailed in Honda TSB 20-100). The sudden loss of engine responsiveness paired with the simultaneous disengagement of traction and steering assists while driving creates an immediate crash hazard. Because Honda currently limits this repair to a 10-year warranty extension rather than a mandatory safety recall, vehicles with low mileage are experiencing sudden safety-assist shutdowns on the road without manufacturer remedy.

NHTSA ID 11761766 · filed Sep 2, 2026

The 3.5L V6 engine in this vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic internal mechanical failure due to premature connecting rod bearing wear. The engine stalling occurred abruptly while actively driving, which created an immediate safety risk as the vehicle lost propulsion, power steering assistance, and power braking assistance. This forced a dangerous emergency maneuver to navigate through moving traffic to get to the side of the road. Prior to the engine failure, there were no persistent dashboard warning lights or clear messages indicating an imminent mechanical failure. The first distinct symptom was a brief, sudden metallic knocking sound from the engine bay immediately before the vehicle lost all power and stalled. An authorized dealership has since inspected the vehicle and dropped the oil pan, physically confirming a massive accumulation of metal shavings and bearing debris inside the block. The dealership verified that the complete destruction of the engine block is identical in nature, symptom, and cause to the manufacturing defects described in NHTSA Recall Campaign 23V-751. However, this vehicle's specific VIN was excluded from that original recall parameter. This catastrophic failure directly corresponds to the ongoing Office of Defects Investigation Probe PE25008 regarding extensive V6 engine rod bearing failures. The failed engine block remains fully intact at the service center and is available for regulatory inspection upon request.

NHTSA ID 11747229 · filed Jun 29, 2026
All 18 reports naming steering →

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

15
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

An airbag warning light recently appeared in our 2016 Honda Pilot. Believing it might be a faulty sensor, we scheduled a service appointment with our local Honda dealership. During the inspection, we were advised that the airbag was not properly seated and requires replacement. This vehicle has not been involved in any recent accident or other event that would explain why the airbag became dislodged. I am very concerned that a critical safety component such as an airbag could become improperly positioned without any apparent cause. Given Honda's history with airbag-related issues, I believe this matter warrants further investigation. The fact that an airbag can become unsecured without any known impact raises significant safety concerns, not only for my vehicle but potentially for other owners as well. I respectfully request that this issue be reviewed and addressed to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.

NHTSA ID 11772132 · filed Oct 19, 2026

Car hit pole head on, airbags did not deploy. Dash indicated SRS airbag failure

NHTSA ID 11661135 · filed May 15, 2025
All 15 reports naming airbags →

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

14
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Defective Keyless Access Unit Car will completely lose power Honda dealer confirmed defective keyless access unit Various problems experienced : a) Car is completely disabled b) Main Battery drained c) Flashing External Lights d) Flashing Dashboard cluster lights and indicators e) Anti Theft security Alarm Horn will sound f) Defective Hood Latch g) Windshield Wipers operational compromised

NHTSA ID 11589452 · filed May 18, 2024

My 2016 Honda Pilot was recently repaired as the Cam-Shaft had move within the care engine. My car has 109,000 miles on the vehicle, and should not have this issue given the cars age and the way that the car is driven. I am a suburban mom, who drives the car to work and with both of my children within my car. This put my entire family as risk driving within the care and could have hurt other drivers if the malfunction happened in the middle of the free-way or otherwise. The vehicle was inspected by the Honda Dealership for the issue. The vehicle has all of the dash lights flashing and the car was driving erratically, so much so that mid driving the car, it we were in a near miss accident due to the mechanical malfunction. The 2nd issue that has presented itself, it the start and stop button within the vehicle. It is a known defect to the vehicle.

NHTSA ID 11541354 · filed Aug 29, 2023
All 14 reports naming exterior lighting →

Suspension

Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.

14
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V365000 (Structure, Suspension); however, the front subframe had a hole caused by corrosion. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5-10 MPH, the front end of the vehicle made clunking sounds. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for suspension wear and tear repair, and it was determined that there was a hole in the front suspension. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and stated that the recall repair was only for the rear subframe. The failure mileage was approximately 101,600.

NHTSA ID 11770056 · filed Oct 9, 2026

The car has spent its entire life in southern Arizona; no road salt and minimal moisture. Both front struts were required to be replaced - the front right strut had rusted and broken from its mount and the the front left strut was rusted in place.

NHTSA ID 11767159 · filed Sep 26, 2026
All 14 reports naming suspension →

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

13
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Defective Keyless Access Unit Car will completely lose power Honda dealer confirmed defective keyless access unit Various problems experienced : a) Car is completely disabled b) Main Battery drained c) Flashing External Lights d) Flashing Dashboard cluster lights and indicators e) Anti Theft security Alarm Horn will sound f) Defective Hood Latch g) Windshield Wipers operational compromised

NHTSA ID 11589452 · filed May 18, 2024

Rear glass window exploded outward. It was parked in the parking lot and was not forcefully shut or anything. Luckily, I was not driving when this happened and no one was hurt but it was very odd. No extreme temperatures. No extreme pressure from inside the vehicle. It is very unusual what happened.

NHTSA ID 11522523 · filed May 17, 2023
All 13 reports naming visibility →

Interior & seats

Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.

12
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at slow and moderate speeds, the transmission was slipping, and the vehicle lurched and jerked. The failure was more evident while driving uphill. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the torque converter had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving and exceeding 40 MPH, the hood was flapping. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V932000 (Structure, Latches/Locks/Linkages); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

NHTSA ID 11715620 · filed Feb 4, 2026

The contact’s daughter owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the hood was vibrating excessively. Upon inspection, the contact became aware that the hood latch was inoperable and failed to properly secure the hood. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 158,819.

NHTSA ID 11683466 · filed Aug 27, 2025
All 12 reports naming interior & seats →

Other / unspecified

Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.

12
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Lug studs keep breaking i have had honda and other dealers change the studs over 8 times new studs new lugs and 60-90 days one-two are broken again

NHTSA ID 11720080 · filed Feb 24, 2026

The audio system in my car blares When car is cold and after 5 minutes it turned off, and once it turned off a loud static noise that makes my vehicle unsafe to drive. The only way to get the noise to turn off is to pull over and completely turn off the car, and sometimes that does not even work. This is a driving hazard and could also be damaging long-term to my hearing. I have contacted Honda who says they have no recalls associated with this issue, but there are NUMEROUS complaints from customers online.

NHTSA ID 11691173 · filed Oct 3, 2025
All 12 reports naming other / unspecified →

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The seat belt on the driver's side is too short. I can barely get it to fasten and when I do I have no ability to move. I can't lean forward to look for traffic, light changes, etc. This seems to be a problem as I went on a Honda forum and others experience the same issue.

NHTSA ID 11605897 · filed Aug 1, 2024

Hood - flutters and wobbles significantly at highway speeds. Per recall check, this vehicle is not included. Seat belt - more of a personal thing, but the driver's seat belt cuts into the driver's neck, even when high of shoulder strap is adjusted. When using a device to help control where the shoulder strap lays, it was found that the driver's seat belt is MUCH shorter than all other in the vehicle. Therefore not allowing the driver to use something to adjust the shoulder portion and still safely check blind spots.

NHTSA ID 11484175 · filed Sep 13, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Pirelli scorpion verde plus 2 honda pilot 2016 awd while driving at safety speed about 40mph the rear tire suddenly explode right on the sidewall,no report or inspection by the store or any other. No damage to the vehicle,nobody injured.,weather temp at that time 67 F.

NHTSA ID 11500727 · filed Jan 8, 2023

ALL TIRES ARE NOT SAFE. TREAD IS CHIPPING AWAY. FIRST NOTICED AT 24000 MILES.

NHTSA ID 11012722 · filed Aug 3, 2017

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .