2019 Honda Pilot Engine Problems

I was with my mother in law coming home from shopping. Car jerked and went into limp mode. We pulled over and restart the car and we were still in limp mode. We could past 2k RPM. We pulled in to the autozone that was near by, had them check the code and we have p0369 which indicates a camshaft sensor. I notified the deal where I always get my service done and they couldn’t take in the Pilot. I called multiple places but lead time was fair. I took it to a master mechanic and he states that he had ran into multiple problems about the camshaft has a play and hit the sensor. Sure enough he was right! Older vehicle has a recall on this. I called Honda customer service about the problem I have and they don’t a recall for this year make and model. They couldn’t help nor steer in the right direction. So we are now out of pocket for the issue that is known.

NHTSA ID

11753582

Incident

Jul 27, 2026

* Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) – Southeastern Honda: Shortly after purchase, the CMBS repeatedly slammed on emergency brakes without cause, incorrectly flagging adjacent or oncoming vehicles as collision threats. I presented video and photo evidence to Southeastern Honda. The Service Manager dismissed the hazard, telling me I "just have to learn how to drive the car with these driver assist features." Fearing an accident, I was forced to permanently disable the system. * Starter Failure / Battery Issues – Space Coast Honda: The vehicle went through four batteries and repeatedly failed to restart when Auto Idle Stop engaged, stranding my wife and children in parking lots and active traffic. I brought the car in multiple times insisting the starter was the issue, but Space Coast Honda refused to replace it because no codes were present and my VIN wasn't attached to a recall. Once out of warranty, I replaced the starter out-of-pocket, which permanently resolved the issue. Teardown of the original starter revealed extensive heat damage, burned insulation, and charred components. * Current Engine Concern – Space Coast Honda: The engine now exhibits rod bearing failure symptoms aligned with Recall 23V-751, including knocking and metallic debris in the oil and filter. I brought the vehicle and photo evidence to Space Coast Honda. One staff member claimed metal in the oil was "normal," while another disagreed. I left the car for evaluation, but two days later learned no inspection was done; they claimed Honda would deny it based on VIN exclusion and quoted $13,500 for a used engine. When I insisted they present my case to Honda anyway, they abruptly raised the inspection fee to $800—despite having completed zero diagnostics over two days.

NHTSA ID

11752115

Incident

Jul 9, 2026

In the past month 4 times I had a Software, Module malfunction. All lights in in the dash are on like a Christmas Tree. Believe is related to the PGM. When to the Honda dealer in Winter Haven explained what happened and show a short video and they said that because my Vin [XXX] have no recall I have to pay $89.99 for an inspection and other charges to fix the problem. I told the service department that my battery & alternator were Ok that many Honda vehicles had the same problems and that I believe is the PGM. When this happens I can’t turn the Suv off, the brakes started acting weird, can’t open the rear door and the engine accelerates. If this is not a safety hazard I don’t know what it is. I have an appointment tomorrow with the dealer but I think that pay for a manufacturer malfunction is no way of doing business INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11751932

Incident

Jul 17, 2026

Connecting rod bearing noise in engine Engine has been serviced regularly Afraid engine will lock up while driving

NHTSA ID

11750941

Incident

Jun 15, 2026

I am submitting this complaint regarding my 2019 Honda Pilot after experiencing a failure of the fuel rail assembly that resulted in the check engine light illuminating and required repair at my own expense. My vehicle exhibited the same symptoms and was diagnosed with the same fuel rail issue that is described in Honda’s existing recall for certain 2019 Honda Pilot vehicles. However, when I contacted Honda, I was informed that my VIN was not included within the recall population, despite my vehicle experiencing the identical failure. The fuel rail failure caused the check engine light to illuminate and required replacement of the defective fuel rail. Because my vehicle was excluded from the recall, Honda declined to cover the repair, and I was forced to pay the full cost out of pocket. I believe this demonstrates that the defect is not limited to the VIN range identified in the recall. My vehicle experienced the exact condition addressed by Honda’s recall, yet I received no assistance solely because my VIN was not included. Owners of vehicles with the same defect should not be responsible for repair costs simply because their vehicle falls outside the current recall range. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether the recall population should be expanded to include additional 2019 Honda Pilot vehicles affected by this same fuel rail defect and that Honda reimburse owners who have paid for repairs related to this safety issue.

NHTSA ID

11749801

Incident

Mar 2, 2026

Crankshaft problem. Loud metallic knocking in engine.

NHTSA ID

11747272

Incident

Jun 12, 2026

While driving, there was a loud noise came from the engine. I immediately pulled over onto the shoulder as I was unable to continue driving. Every time I accelerated, the car with jerk forward and posed an extreme danger for both the the passengers and others on the road. There were numerous error messages appearing on my dashboard, and the loud noise persisted. The local dealer found that there was an issue with the engine and needs engine replacement. I contacted manufacturer HONDA and they not willing to help me as my 6.3 year vehicle is out of 5 year warranty.

NHTSA ID

11747062

Incident

Jun 13, 2026

I took my car in for an oil change into the dealership on 5/22. I was told that the timing belt would need to be replaced once I hit 100K miles. Two weeks later, I noticed my car rattling, I scheduled an appointment for Monday (the earliest I could get it into the dealer), on Saturday, the car wouldn't accelerate past 64mph, as I was getting on the highway, I pressed the gas and got it to 70mph. The engine light kicked on and the car started talking to me that the car was overheating and that I needed to pull over for 10-15 minutes. I did so and when I tried to start it, nothing happened. I then jumped it, got it started and it wouldn't accelerate past 12mph. I turned it off and had it towed to Honda. There, the mechanic told me that the rod had broken in the engine. I asked if it was the timing belt and he said "No, unfortunately, there is nothing you could've done to prevent this". To answer your questions: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?- The engine How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?- Yes, I was on the HWY with kids Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center?- Dealer Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others?- I reached out to the manufacturer and was told they're not mechanics. It was towed to the Honda Dealership where I bought it. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?- No. I noticed the rattling, scheduled and appointment and two days later the engine light came on as I previously stated.

NHTSA ID

11746402

Incident

Jun 1, 2026

I am submitting this complaint regarding a fuel injector failure and emissions system malfunction in my 2019 Honda Pilot. At the time of the failure, the vehicle had approximately 94,693 miles and had been routinely maintained. On [XXX], while traveling from Ohio to Pennsylvania with my family, the vehicle displayed an "Emission System Problem" warning and illuminated the check engine light. The vehicle was diagnosed by Faulkner Honda in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The dealership found DTC P0430 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold) and performed an air/fuel ratio test. According to the dealership, four of the six cylinders were running rich due to excessive fuel delivery. The dealership recommended replacement of the fuel injectors, and all six fuel injectors were replaced. The injector repair cost approximately $1,100. The dealership advised that possible causes included internal fuel injector failure or carbon buildup but could not provide a definitive explanation for the failure. Neither the dealership nor Honda could explain why my vehicle was excluded from Honda's fuel injector warranty extension despite exhibiting the same symptoms and requiring the same repair associated with that program. I was advised that the warranty extension applies only to certain VINs produced during specific manufacturing periods and facilities. However, my vehicle experienced the same failure pattern, including a rich-running condition, emissions-system warning, catalyst-efficiency diagnostic code, and replacement of the fuel injectors. While researching the issue, I reviewed NHTSA complaints involving 2019 Honda Pilot vehicles. Numerous complaints describe similar fuel injector failures, emissions-system warnings, catalyst-efficiency codes, and injector replacements. Based on the number of similar complaints, the affected vehicle population may extend beyond the VIN range currently covered by Honda's warranty extension. I request that NHTSA review whether additi INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFOR

NHTSA ID

11745157

Incident

Jun 10, 2026

Vehicle: 2019 Honda Pilot VIN: [XXX] My 2019 Honda Pilot is experiencing an "Emissions System Problem" accompanied by Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P219A (Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance). This defect causes engine hesitation, rough idling, and a severe risk of sudden loss of motive power or engine stalling while driving at highway speeds, presenting a significant safety hazard to myself and other motorists. American Honda is fully aware of this manufacturing defect. They issued Service Bulletins 20-100 and 21-010 extending the warranty to 10 years/150,000 miles for this exact code and symptom on 2017–2019 Honda Pilots due to defective fuel injectors and faulty PCM software. However, Honda has arbitrarily excluded my specific VIN from this extension (case number Case # XXX). Honda Corporate has officially denied assistance, forcing me to drive a vehicle with a known fuel system defect that threatens sudden vehicle failure in traffic. I request that the NHTSA investigate Honda’s arbitrary exclusion of affected VINs for this acknowledged safety defect. Thank you INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11743809

Incident

May 14, 2026

Please find the details regarding the sudden, dangerous failure of my vehicle below. The itemized findings are pulled directly from the dealership’s multi-point inspection and diagnostic report. When was the first time (approximate date) you noticed the issue? The issue culminated in an immediate, hazardous crisis on XXX when the vehicle completely shut down while in operation and refused to restart. How often does the issue happen within a time frame (e.g., once a month)? This is a permanent, catastrophic mechanical failure. The engine is completely inoperable and the vehicle is entirely undriveable. What is the name & title of the person(s) assisting you at the dealer? I am being assisted by Victoria Dalessandro at Honda City Long Island in [XXX]. What is the reason/explanation provided by the dealer, as to what caused this issue? Following a formal engine teardown, the dealership confirmed a severe internal failure: a lower engine knock originating from the front connecting rod bearing. This internal component defect completely seized the powertrain, causing the vehicle to shut down and rendering the engine unrepairable. What repairs/services have been completed (if any)? Only the initial teardown and diagnostic inspection have been completed. No repairs will be authorized until American Honda Motor Company, Inc. assumes corporate financial responsibility for this premature powertrain failure. What repairs/services have been suggested? The dealership has stated that a complete engine replacement is required, suggesting a used engine swap ($7,609.92). In conjunction with this catastrophic failure, they have itemized necessary peripheral parts and critical safety wear, including new spark plugs, a replacement drive belt, failed lower control arms ($1,704.28), leaking front struts, degraded stabilizer links, and fluid exchanges. costs estimated for the repair (if any?) The exact total remaining unapproved in the dealership-$10K INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C

NHTSA ID

11743029

Incident

May 10, 2026

Vehicles auto stop/start turned the engine off while at a stop light. When I accelerated on the gas my car would not go. It said to take it was in neutral so it went into neutral on its own. The entire car appeared to have turned all the way off at this point and I was able to restart and drive.

NHTSA ID

11741154

Incident

May 27, 2026

When at a complete stop, engine will stop running but AC and radio stay on (sometimes radio dies). I have to toggle between park or drive or neutral to get car to even power completely off, open door to kill electronics, and restart. This has happened in stop and go traffic and at stop lights. This week my car shifted into neutral while stopped at a light and I had to figure out how to power car off and restart, no idea what the magic combo ended up to be as I had a line of cars behind me trying to just get my car to go again.

NHTSA ID

11741086

Incident

May 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The contact stated while the contact's father was driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's father noticed an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with failed rod bearings and a failed engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

NHTSA ID

11740623

Incident

May 7, 2026

Mileage

70,000 mi

My engine has been diagnosed as having connecting rod bearing knock, which is indicative of failing connecting rod bearings. Two independent mechanics have told me I need a new engine. I'm submitting this complaint as further evidence for the NHTSA investigation that Honda's Honda Pilot Connecting Rod Bearing Safety Recall had an insufficient of covered vehicles. At the time of purchase and as of today, my VIN is not part of Honda's recall, yet I have experienced connecting rod bearing failure, as have many others. There are several warning Lights including but not limited to ABS, lane assist, trailer assist. So far, my safety is not at risk, but I have a 2 year old grandchild that I drive around multiple times a week. I can’t afford this repair and feel as though I cannot drive this vehicle so I only drive it when absolutely necessary. The vehicle has 82,000 miles on it. Should the engine fail, it's likely that would cause an accident and injury or death. I originally had the vehicle diagnosed because I could hear the noise myself and it was not a normal noise.

NHTSA ID

11740413

Incident

Mar 7, 2026

My engine lights turned on Friday, April 24th and I brought in my vehicle to a local dealership on Monday, April 27th. I was informed it was due to a faulty catalytic converter and it was replaced under warranty. The services was completed on Tuesday, April 29th and took my vehicle home. On May 7th, I turn on my engine and all the engine check lights came on. My car was jerky. I was scheduled to bring in my vehicle on May 12th to a local dealership. On May 13th, I received update that my engine had oil leakage and required a new engine. I believe that my 2019 Honda Pilot is among the thousands of Honda Pilot within the make year that are experiencing engine failure. I need support to replace my engine as I should not be responsible as I continue to maintain maintenance on my vehicle and to experience this engine failure issue.

NHTSA ID

11737868

Incident

May 7, 2026

While driving on the highway, the vehicle experienced sudden engine failure at highway speeds, putting the safety of our son and others drivers at risk. The engine completely lost power. The diagnosing dealership confirmed failure of a connecting rod and bearings and internal engine damage with metal present throughout the engine, requiring full engine replacement at an estimated cost of over $17,000. The car is still at the South Pointe Honda dealership in Tulsa, OK. The diagnostic was also confirmed by a Honda certified mechanic at another independent shop. No others have inspected the vehicle. This appears consistent with reported issues involving connecting rod bearing failures in Honda V6 engines of similar model years. The failure occurred prematurely and without warning, raising concerns about reliability and potential safety risks if loss of power occurs during operation. There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of a problem prior to failure. The vehicle has been properly maintained and was not subject to abnormal use. I am submitting this complaint due to the severity of the failure, the high repair cost, and concern that similar failures may pose a safety risk to other drivers.

NHTSA ID

11733896

Incident

Mar 18, 2026

Car was being drive on the Indiana road and rolled Down window and smelled something burning. Then all of a sudden the transmission fail light came on and the car started to power down and we pulled over. The engine was on fire.

NHTSA ID

11731260

Incident

Apr 10, 2026

I am submitting this complaint to report a catastrophic engine failure in my 2019 Honda Pilot Elite that is consistent with the defect described in NHTSA Safety Recall 23V-751, and to request that my vehicle be included in the recall or that the scope of the recall be expanded. My vehicle, manufactured in July 2018, experienced a sudden onset of engine knocking accompanied by a flashing check engine light and a P0301 (cylinder 1 misfire) diagnostic code while driving at highway speeds. After safely returning home and attempting reasonable repairs, I brought the vehicle to a Honda dealership for inspection. The technician determined that: •The cylinder #1 connecting rod bearing had spun •There was extensive internal engine damage •Metal shavings were present in the oil pan •The engine required replacement of the short block assembly The total cost of repair was $9,784.94. This failure mode is identical to the defect described in Recall 23V-751, which attributes rod bearing failure to manufacturing issues with the crankshaft. Despite this, my VIN is not currently included in the recall. Key concerns: •My vehicle falls within the same production timeframe as affected vehicles •The failure mode is identical to the recalled defect •The failure occurred under normal driving conditions •The vehicle was properly maintained and not abused This raises serious concerns that the defect extends beyond the currently defined recall population.I respectfully request that NHTSA: 1.Investigate this incident as part of the ongoing review of Honda 3.5L V6 engine failures 2.Determine whether Recall 23V-751 should be expanded to include additional vehicles 3.Consider my vehicle for inclusion in the recall due to identical failure characteristics This issue represents a significant safety concern, as sudden engine failure at highway speeds could lead to loss of control or increased risk of collision. Supporting documentation is attached.

NHTSA ID

11729513

Incident

Mar 4, 2026

We were driving from the [XXX] Area to [XXX] in June 2024. We noticed a "Transmission Too Hot" indicator on our dash while we were driving on [XXX] in [XXX] . It was not a hot day. We pulled over because we did not want to damage our car. We were towed to Ciocca Honda in [XXX] . They ran diagnostics and determined the problem was a known issue "A23-073" and our car needed a software update. The did a fine job and got us back on the road. My concern is that this was a known problem which could still be affective other motorists. Please evaluate whether a recall is needed for the fix done to our car and the software update. Thank you! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11725772

Incident

Jun 13, 2025

When my Pilot is stopped and the engine idles off, you should be able to take your foot off the brake and it start back up. My engine continuously shuts down completely when I take my foot off of the gas and multiple alert lights on the dash come on. About 70% of the time, I can shut the car off completely, breathe a second and then press the ignition button and the car will restart. Now, increasingly it stalls completely and will not crank for several minutes. I have had this happen more than once at busy intersections and once while stopped in traffic on an interstate. I had to put my hazard lights on so cars would go around me. I have taken it to the Honda dealer a couple of times just for this and they say there is nothing showing to be fixed and there is nothing they can do to fix it. They only told me to remember to press the button to turn the feature off. Yes, I know that’s possible but I’m a busy mom and I often forget. What is the point of having the feature if it continuously stalls out? I have searched this problem on the internet and I’ve seen other Pilot owners have had the same problem. Any help you can offer would be appreciated.

NHTSA ID

11724399

Incident

Mar 13, 2026

While traveling at highway speeds, we experienced a check engine lights with loss of power. After carefully pulling off of the highway, we stopped at a gas station where the engine ultimately stalled. Upon attempting restart, the engine cranked twice and then stopped. Trying to start the engine again. All we heard was a click this time around and the engine is now fully seized. Thank goodness we were able to pull off the highway and the issue happened in a way that my family and I were safe.

NHTSA ID

11722827

Incident

Mar 7, 2026

The vehicle was had a lower engine knock. When I took the vehicle in I was informed that there is an open recall for Honda Pilots for engine knocking and failure but my vin number was not included. Because of the knocking I was informed that I needed to replace the engine. The vehicle is approximately 2400 miles over the 100k power train warranty. The engine has been serviced regularly and has had all PM completed. The vehicle is currently in the repair shop waiting for a replacement engine to come in. Since Honda doesn't have rebuilt engines the shop is waiting on a used engine to arrive that has approximately 77k miles on it. Because the engine is still waiting to be replaced I do not have a repair bill yet.

NHTSA ID

11721048

Incident

Feb 26, 2026

At 144,500 miles, the connecting rod broke and destroyed the engine. The connecting rod broke while driving on the highway at highway speeds. Honda has confirmed the connecting rod was the cause and will need a new engine to get the vehicle working again. I was having intermittent check engine lights and Honda could not find anything wrong with the vehicle prior to the failure. There are currently recalls on 2019 Honda Pilots for this issue, but does not cover my specific vehicle. This is a known issue in Honda Pilots

NHTSA ID

11715799

Incident

Feb 4, 2026

My engine has been diagnosed as having connecting rod bearing knock, which is indicative of failing connecting rod bearings. I'm submitting this complaint as further evidence for the NHTSA investigation that Honda's Honda Pilot Connecting Rod Bearing Safety Recall had an insufficient of covered vehicles. My vehicle has a fully complete oil change history documented by its CarFax report when I purchased it and I have the receipts for the subsequent required oil changes under my ownership. At the time of purchase and as of today, my VIN is not part of Honda's recall, yet I have experienced connecting rod bearing failure, as have many others. I am now faced with paying $1000 in diagnostic fees to a dealership to just to see whether Honda will offer any help or not, and, if not, pay them another $1000 to reassemble my engine. Instead, I will be having my trusted Honda mechanic either replace the bearings or the short block of my engine at my own expense. My vehicle was diagnosed by a Honda/Acura-only repair shop. When I have the work done, I'm happy to request to keep the original bearings so they can be examined should that be necessary. The vehicle has only been inspected by my repair shop. I haven't involved insurance. There are no warning lights on. So far, my safety is not at risk, but I have two children, and this is our family vehicle. Should the engine fail, it's likely that wold cause an accident and injury or death. I originally had the vehicle diagnosed because I could hear the noise myself and it was not a normal noise. I will have an estimate for repair available in the next few days.

NHTSA ID

11714936

Incident

Jan 28, 2026