2022 Honda Pilot Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
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What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2022 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
- Driver assistance5530.4%
- Electrical3217.7%
- Engine2413.3%
- Brakes2011.0%
- Powertrain (other)147.7%
- Fuel system95.0%
- Body & structure73.9%
- Suspension63.3%
- Steering52.8%
- Visibility31.7%
- Tires & wheels31.7%
- Airbags21.1%
- Other / unspecified10.6%
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
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
all my lights came on for all of these and break Adaptive Cruise Control Automatic Emergency Braking Blind Spot Warning Forward Collision Warning Lane Departure Warning Lane Keeping Assistance Parking Collision Warning Rear Cross Traffic Warning
My 2022 Honda Pilot Black Edition (VIN [XXX], 62,900 miles) has multiple intermittent safety‑critical failures involving the transmission, acceleration, adaptive cruise control, and HVAC blower. These issues occur without warning and without diagnostic trouble codes. Transmission/Acceleration Failure: Most recent incident was XXX on Highway 71 during heavy traffic. The vehicle twice experienced rapid deceleration with no ability to reach a safety stop. RPM dropped below 1000, then spiked to 6,000–8,000 while the vehicle continued to lose speed. Acceleration returned only after several seconds. This also occurs during highway merging and uphill acceleration. Additionally, when disengaging cruise control and immediately pressing the accelerator, the vehicle loses speed, RPM drops abnormally low, then spikes before power returns. Adaptive Cruise Control/Honda Sensing Failure: On XXX the vehicle rapidly decelerated when a semi‑truck was beside me, despite no vehicle ahead. The week prior, while driving several states away, setting cruise at 70 mph caused sudden deceleration and cruise resetting itself to ~54 mph. These events resemble phantom braking and radar mis‑targeting. HVAC Blower Failure: During a long multi‑state trip the week prior, the AC blower (speed 3–4) intermittently stopped blowing for several seconds, then resumed at the same speed with no change to the display. These failures affect powertrain, forward collision avoidance, vehicle speed control, electrical systems, and cabin equipment. The dealership (Roush Honda, Westerville OH) cannot replicate the issues and reports no stored codes. These defects pose significant safety risks. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
I came to a complete stop at a red light. The car went into neutral and shut off completely. In order to restart the car, I had to put it in park to completely restart it in traffic. This same thing has now happened multiple times and each time it does, it comes shortly before the battery fails and will not start the car at all. I have been through 3 AGM Platinum batteries in the past year. Something is draining the battery. The starter, alternator and auxiliary battery have each been tested in the course of taking the vehicle to 3 different auto mechanics before going to the Honda dealership. All of them said these components tested fine (and they were tested under load). Honda acted like they didn't know about this being a common problem and suggested we replace the starter as an experimental remedy. We asked the Honda dealership for the software update fix and were told we already had the 23-008 update. However, after more research realize that it also needs a 23-009 and 23-010 update as well which was not offered. Honda's failure to take responsibility on this known chronic problem is disappointing at best and likely negligent/reckless.
The auto idle engine system was on. I came to complete stop at a stoplight, the engine turned off. Then when I released my foot off the break, the car shut down and flashed a bunch of lights. The engine then shifts itself to neutral and then park. I have to press the start button several times to get the engine to turn on again. This has happened numerous times to myself and family members driving the car. The car just stops and shuts off. Very dangerous when other cars are behind you.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
I came to a complete stop at a red light. The car went into neutral and shut off completely. In order to restart the car, I had to put it in park to completely restart it in traffic. This same thing has now happened multiple times and each time it does, it comes shortly before the battery fails and will not start the car at all. I have been through 3 AGM Platinum batteries in the past year. Something is draining the battery. The starter, alternator and auxiliary battery have each been tested in the course of taking the vehicle to 3 different auto mechanics before going to the Honda dealership. All of them said these components tested fine (and they were tested under load). Honda acted like they didn't know about this being a common problem and suggested we replace the starter as an experimental remedy. We asked the Honda dealership for the software update fix and were told we already had the 23-008 update. However, after more research realize that it also needs a 23-009 and 23-010 update as well which was not offered. Honda's failure to take responsibility on this known chronic problem is disappointing at best and likely negligent/reckless.
The auto idle engine system was on. I came to complete stop at a stoplight, the engine turned off. Then when I released my foot off the break, the car shut down and flashed a bunch of lights. The engine then shifts itself to neutral and then park. I have to press the start button several times to get the engine to turn on again. This has happened numerous times to myself and family members driving the car. The car just stops and shuts off. Very dangerous when other cars are behind you.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owned a 2022 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in a parking spot with the brake pedal depressed, the engine revved unexpectedly and independently accelerated and crash into a Ford Bronco, a Jeep Cherokee, another vehicle, and two parking signs. There were no warning lights illuminated during the failure. The contact had made three other stops prior to the crash. There was no injury sustained. The air bags deployed as needed. A Police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The local dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the failure was possibly caused by a stuck floor mat. The dealer declined to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The insurance company was contacted and deemed the vehicle a total loss. The owner had not yet released the vehicle to the insurance company. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.
Brake light wont cut off and drains battery. Car wouldn't start and once battery was charged all steering, cruise control, hill assist, lane assist and other lighs came on. 7 total alerts came on and car struggled to go up hills and speed up after braking at lights. Brake light stayed on entire drive and didnt go off even when the car was off.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
My 2022 Honda Pilot Black Edition (VIN [XXX], 62,900 miles) has multiple intermittent safety‑critical failures involving the transmission, acceleration, adaptive cruise control, and HVAC blower. These issues occur without warning and without diagnostic trouble codes. Transmission/Acceleration Failure: Most recent incident was XXX on Highway 71 during heavy traffic. The vehicle twice experienced rapid deceleration with no ability to reach a safety stop. RPM dropped below 1000, then spiked to 6,000–8,000 while the vehicle continued to lose speed. Acceleration returned only after several seconds. This also occurs during highway merging and uphill acceleration. Additionally, when disengaging cruise control and immediately pressing the accelerator, the vehicle loses speed, RPM drops abnormally low, then spikes before power returns. Adaptive Cruise Control/Honda Sensing Failure: On XXX the vehicle rapidly decelerated when a semi‑truck was beside me, despite no vehicle ahead. The week prior, while driving several states away, setting cruise at 70 mph caused sudden deceleration and cruise resetting itself to ~54 mph. These events resemble phantom braking and radar mis‑targeting. HVAC Blower Failure: During a long multi‑state trip the week prior, the AC blower (speed 3–4) intermittently stopped blowing for several seconds, then resumed at the same speed with no change to the display. These failures affect powertrain, forward collision avoidance, vehicle speed control, electrical systems, and cabin equipment. The dealership (Roush Honda, Westerville OH) cannot replicate the issues and reports no stored codes. These defects pose significant safety risks. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
A safety concern with some Honda Pilot models involves a potential transmission defect that can cause the vehicle to hesitate or fail to accelerate when the driver presses the accelerator. This unexpected loss of power can create hazardous situations, particularly when merging into traffic, crossing intersections, or attempting to avoid obstacles. Drivers have reported delayed engagement and inconsistent acceleration, raising concerns about the reliability and safety of the vehicle's transmission system.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was driving home at 4am on I-95 with my children in the car. My car has had a history of "juttering" and making a vibrational noise, but on the way home there was an issue with acceleration when using the gas pedal, and slow to gain speed. There were times when the gas pedal didn't respond to my foot depression at all, and did not accelerate. When I was almost home, many lights came on my dash including: Blind Spot warning, emissions systems problem, transmission problem apply parking brake when parked, stop driving when safe transmission problem see manual. The car is not driveable at this time and sitting in my driveway. I have no idea where to tow it to or what to do or how much it will cost
Upon accelerating from a stop, or at various speeds, the vehicle experiences a significant loss of motive power(pulling backwards) followed by an abrupt lunge forward. This hesitation occurs unpredictably and makes entering traffic or intersections extremely hazardous. This feels like a fuel delivery or transmission engagement failure. The last incident occurred on or around the afternoon of March 23. My vehicle has been examined at the dealership on multiple occasions for this same issue and each time I have been told that they are unable to replicate the issue and can not help me further unless they are able to replicate the issue.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
Sunroof exploded while driving at a normal rate of speed with no cars surrounding us. Upon inspection, there was no debris within the roof hold that would denote a rock or something causing incident. We jumped a lane but no cars were around. All occupants were safe.
Vehicle hatch door window seal and door seal allowed water to collect inside the door. When the door was later opened, the water that collected in the door rushed inside the vehicle and began leaking heavily from behind the interior trim panels at the rear of the vehicle near the hatch door opening.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
Under Honda recall 26V-365 our 2022 Honda Pilot has a rear subframe that was not properly manufactured with the proper paint and corrosion protection. Honda has admitted this. Therefore, Honda is saying the subframe may rust at the mounting points. They are putting braces at these points in case they rust. We do not want Honda simply drilling and riveting brackets onto our rear subframe. This is unacceptable when it comes to our families' safety. We do not want to be driving a vehicle where eventually only brackets are holding our suspension together. What about the rest of the subframe?? This will eventually rust out and become unsafe. Honda admitted they manufactured our subframe with improper paint and corrosion protection. They changed their manufacturing process in August, 2022 (improved pre-paint treatment process) and January, 2023 (coating thickness) was increased. This happened AFTER our car was manufactured. The only responsible remedy for our car is to install a new rear subframe that was manufactured under the new process. Why would you allow Honda to do this to so many families?? People's safety should come before Honda's costs being kept low and allowing them to repair this admitted manufacturing error. We want a new rear subframe installed into the car we paid over $40,000 dollars for as we retired and expected to last a long time. DEMAND Honda replace the rear subframe and not just install a bracket. Look out for the people not the corporations. Help us!!
Case 11655023 Hello, I need your help. I spoke with Honda and was told they would buy back my truck and someone would contact me. Mrs. Briana called and said I had to keep taking the truck to the mechanic as many times as needed. I explained I had already taken it 8–9 times, but she said it didn’t matter and that I should take it to another dealer. I had already gone to the Mission Valley dealership, showed the mechanic photos and videos, and he agreed something was wrong. I left the truck for 3–4 days, but they only changed the start button. I asked about the brakes, which were making noise, and was told it was “normal.” I insisted on getting them fixed, but they said if parts weren’t broken, Honda wouldn’t replace them. I spoke to the manager, who drove the truck with me and said they would adjust the brakes and fix the faulty fuel sensor. I brought it back on Wednesday, received a service receipt, but when I tried to leave, the truck wouldn’t start. I showed the manager a video of the issue, and he said they would fix it. I returned on Wednesday, left the truck again, and on Thursday a worker called saying the truck had no issues. I reminded them the manager had promised repairs, and they said he would call me. On Friday, I was told the truck had “bad luck,” nothing was wrong, and I should pick it up — or go to another Honda if I wasn’t satisfied.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
Bought brand new, I am at almost 68,000 miles. I have had vibration, rattling, etc near the front left of the car. After inspections and diagnostics. They said I need a new steering rack. It seems pre-mature to need a steering rack. No damage or high impact things have happened. Please investigate this issue to see if it could be manufacturing issue. Thank you! I am having it repaired by next week, if you need a receipt please email me at [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2022 Honda Pilot - steering wheel / front of car started to make a clanking noise when driving over speed bumps / noise started around 35k miles on odometer. Two different service appointments with Honda pointed to shocks and sway bar links; 3rd non honda service appointment found the issue to be a failing rack and pinion. 3rd service appointment replaced the rack and pinion / sound is gone and vehicle steers tight once again. mileage was 44k when replaced.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
Every since I purchased my 2022 Honda Pilot, I have had soo many issues with the windshield chipping. I bought the car brand new. Within the first 6 months, I had a chip at the top right corner (passenger side) the ended up cracking all the way to the edge. I had to replace the windshield. Fast forward to within a year of the new windshield being in place, and I know have FOUR chips. All on the passenger side. Two near the bottom and two near the top right. I have asked Honda several times if there are issues with the windshields, and they claim there is not. I have asked about having my frame checked to make sure it wasn't a manufacturing issue, but have not, since they need the windshield off to look. I have been driving for over 20 years. I have NEVER had a chip in my windshield. I even had a 2018 Pilot - 0 issues.
Vehicle moonroof exploded while driving.
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.
From owner reports, verbatim
245 /50 R20 : size My dealership told me I needed to change all my tires and provided pics showing pieces of my tires (3 tires) missing. This was present in all 3 of the original tires- same dot and sizes. The 4th tire has already been replaced. My Honda pilot mileage is 29000 miles, purchased new in November 2021. My pilot is garage parked and is not often exposed to the elements for long periods of time.
Cross Contact LX Sport 245/50r20 102H m+s There is chucking in my tires. My car was bought new. It has 17k miles on it.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
The airbag warning light came on the 2022 Pilot Special Edition. The vehicle just hit 50,000 miles and has never been in an accident. The Honda dealership stated the SRS Control Unit had failed and needed to be replaced. I was told it was not safe to drive as the airbags may not deploy in an accident. The vehicle stayed at the dealership until the repair was done. Vehicle taken in on December 26, 2024.
Airbag Problem (SRS) light came on while driving. I had driven approximately 40 miles before light came on. Took it to dealership, who confirmed SRS control unit must be replaced. Vehicle has never been in an accident and no body work done to vehicle. Just outside of the 36 month/ 36,000 mile warranty.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
My vehicle started making unusual noise when moving, noise appears like something is wrong with the tires, it sounds like there is a bubble in tire but there is none and this noise is audible inside while driving. We first noticed it when we took a trip to Kansas city few weeks ago and at that time my vehicle odometer was about 31600 miles only, Also to add to that when brakes are applied vehicle is not slowing down consistently, it will be like breaks are applied and release and applied and released. We believe that there is manufacturing defects with the parts as we have not abused our vehicle in any way and if we are right similar issues should surface with others vehicles as well.
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
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .