Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Honda Pilot - part 2

I came to a stop at a red light on a busy street. Vehicle turned off due to autorignite feature. When light turned green it no longer would turn the engine on in order to go. All my lights turned on, I couldn't put the car in drive. I couldn't put in neutral, reverse or any feature. It wouldn't allow me to do anything but put the hazards on. It had happened to me 3 times since the same exact way. Only way to get it to go in drive is by turning the vehicle off completely, if it let's you. Then once it is off, starting it and going about your day. Codes do not register as I have taken to dealership before and they say it would note it but it doesn't and have refused to repair under the warranty. It also has an acceleration and deceleration issue that has been documented on my visits that has yet to be fixed as well and is a known problem but because it is is not the correct year and model it won't get fixed. I have had someone take video since then to show what happens on the other occasions as my proof since Honda corporation themselves wouldn't doing anything either.

See all problems of the 2018 Honda Pilot 🔎.

My vehicle is experiencing a loud knocking noise from the engine, a symptom directly related to NHTSA recall 23v-751 (Honda's engine connecting rod bearing failure). On 9/8, I took my vehicle to bp service in kirkwood, missouri, for a diagnosis. The technician confirmed that the knocking noise was consistent with an internal engine issue, likely involving the crankshaft and connecting rods. This diagnosis prompted me to investigate the recall. On 9/10, I contacted the Honda dealership in frontenac, missouri, specifically mentioning the symptoms and the recall. The dealership service department checked my vehicle's VIN and informed me that it was not included in the official recall list for 23v-751. Despite my VIN not being on the list, the symptoms of my vehicle match the described defect in the recall. The engine knocking and potential for engine failure pose a serious safety risk. I am concerned that the recall population may be too narrow and that my vehicle's VIN should be included. I've attached a receipt from bp service regarding their diagnosis if more detail is needed, I can have them write a full report.

See all problems of the 2016 Honda Pilot 🔎.

My Pilot is experiencing a loud knocking noise from the engine, a symptom directly related to NHTSA recall 23v-751 (Honda's engine connecting rod bearing failure). On 9/8, I took my vehicle to bp service in kirkwood, missouri, for a diagnosis. The technician confirmed that the knocking noise was consistent with an internal engine issue, likely involving the crankshaft and connecting rods. This diagnosis prompted me to investigate the recall. On 9/10, I contacted the Honda dealership in frontenac, missouri, specifically mentioning the symptoms and the recall. The dealership service department checked my vehicle's VIN and informed me that it was not included in the official recall list for 23v-751. Despite my VIN not being on the list, the symptoms of my vehicle match the described defect in the recall. The engine knocking and potential for engine failure pose a serious safety risk. I am concerned that the recall population may be too narrow and that my vehicle's VIN should be included. I have attached a receipt from bp service regarding their diagnosis and I can have them provide a more detailed report if needed.

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 mph, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was parked at the place of employment for several hours. After parking the vehicle at the workplace for several hours, the contact resumed driving at an undisclosed speed, and the abnormal knocking sounds from the engine compartment returned before the vehicle stalled at an intersection. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed, and determined that connecting rod bearing failure caused engine failure and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 93,000.

While stopped at red light the auto off feature engaged and the car stalled out when restarting. This has happened multiple times since buying the vehicle.

See all problems of the 2020 Honda Pilot 🔎.

As the vehicle is stopped in traffic and is about the proceed, the vehicle automatically shifts into park and the emission warning light comes on. The vehicle is unable to be put back into drive unless the vehicle is turned off and then restarted creating a dangerous condition while you are stuck in middle of the roadway.

See all problems of the 2019 Honda Pilot 🔎.

The catalytic converter system on my vehicle is failing prematurely due to the vehicle’s built-in fuel management and energy-saving computer settings. These settings cause excess fuel to be burned and pushed into the catalytic converter, damaging the unit. In addition, this flaw is causing oil to be pushed out of the car, creating both a mechanical hazard and an environmental concern. This is not the result of poor maintenance or misuse — it is a hazard caused by a design flaw in the system itself.

See all problems of the 2015 Honda Pilot 🔎.

While driving my 2016 Honda Pilot touring (approx. 110,000 miles) with my wife and two children [xxx] , the vehicle suddenly malfunctioned without warning. As I was coming to a stop, the dashboard lit up with multiple warning lights and the engine appeared to stumble/stall. Once I regained focus, I could hear a loud ticking/knocking from the engine. This sudden failure put my family’s safety at risk while the vehicle was in motion. I brought the vehicle to the dealership where all maintenance has been performed since purchase. A diagnostic scan revealed code p0302 (misfire cylinder 2). Upon inspection, the mechanic found metal shavings in the oil filter and determined that cylinder #2 suffered a spun rod bearing, resulting in connecting rod and crankshaft damage. The engine was deemed non-repairable and requires full replacement. The Pilot has been properly maintained, with the most recent oil change performed on 5/13/2025 and no issues noted. I am the original owner, and the in-service date was late 2015 (among the first redesigned Pilots). This appears to be a critical engine defect that occurs without warning, resulting in catastrophic engine failure and creating a serious safety hazard for drivers and passengers. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

While driving, the engine suddenly seized without warning. The vehicle lost power and could not be restarted, creating a hazardous situation. There were no warning lamps or messages before the failure. The issue has been confirmed by the dealership service center, which diagnosed a seized engine. They indicated that the next step would be a complete engine teardown to determine the cause, at significant cost. The component (engine) is available for inspection. To my knowledge, this problem has not been previously addressed or repaired, and it appears consistent with rod bearing failures currently under NHTSA investigation for this engine family.

Heard a knocking sound, had it towed, diagnosed by local mechanic ans then diagnosed by Honda mechanic as engine rod bearing failures. Consistent with recall. However Honda says this vehicle VIN is not scoped within the recall, and therefor requires an engine replacement. Both mechanics, and Honda sales mgr, service mgr, and sales rep, along with other mechanical knowledgeable persons, all were shocked by the issue, and suggested the vehicle should go for 100,000 more l without this type of problem. Furthermore, all were shocked that the recall / Honda would not cover it, due to it being the same issue listed on the recall. Additionally, the dealership claimed the "lifetime powertrain warranty " was void and this would not be covered there either.

My vehicle has run 79k miles. The Honda Pilot started giving knocking noise from the engine on 30-Aug-2025. I somehow brought the vehicle back to my home. Today I took it to a service center which is next to my home. They looked at the vehicle noise and mentioned that the rod bearing for the Honda is damaged and the engine needs to be replaced. When I looked online, there was a safety recall for rod bearing for 2016 Honda Pilot. But when I called Honda corporate, they mentioned that my VIN number is not eligible for recall and I need to replace the rod bearing myself. I will end up spending $10000 for replacing the rod bearing. This seems to be a common issue with 2016 Honda Pilot and Honda is refusing to acknowledge that this is an issue with their manufacturing. This is a very big safety issue as the vehicle can stall when going on the high way causing accidents.

We have owned our 2016 Pilot since 2023. We have never had a problem with it and have had the recommended maintenance performed on schedule. The incident of our engine failing, out of the blue, occurred when my husband drove from mn to indiana and then he made it back to mn and the engine died literally at the exit to our hometown. Our Honda Pilot ran perfect when my husband drove from mn to in with no problems at all. He made it all the way back to mn and when he took the exit to our town, a bunch of lights went off on the dashboard. There were several lights and I don't know exactly which ones unfortunately. He was able to get it into our driveway and it was unable to be started once he turned it off. We had to get it towed to the dealer (tom kadlec) . After diagnostic testing, wewere told we needed a new engine. I realize our vehicle has higher mileage, but this is so unlike a Honda vehicle to just quit and then to have such a drastic repair of a new engine. Of course, completely unexpected and disappointing,out of the blue, just am shocked and would like to know if it had something to do with the recall. I appreciate your assistance. Thank you very much. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Stopped at an intersection at approximately 2:40pm on August 28, 2025. The auto -stop/start stopped the engine and it would not restart.

This vehicle shut down while driving. Initially it would not restart. When it did restart all the indicator lights were on in the dash. I got to a safe location and I shut it off. I opened and closed the driver's door. When I turned it back on it was back to normal. I had it towed to the dealer because I was concerned about driving it. They found nothing wrong. I am concerned about driving this vehicle anywhere. I feel it will happen again. It's just a matter of time.

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving and coming to a complete stop at a stop light, the vehicle inadvertently stalled but was able to restart. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 23v751000 (engine and engine cooling), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 133,000.

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?.

The engine shuts off while driving and the car shifts the transmission to park or neutral.

The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle failed to shift into gear properly, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 148,118.

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While driving approximately 65 mph on the [xxx], near terre haute, indiana, the engine very suddenly started making a very loud noise without any warning and immediately thereafter every system failed. The check engine light and several other warning lights appeared on the dashboard; the car steering became very stiff, making it very difficult (and dangerous) to control the car and get it safely to the shoulder; and the engine noise became louder (like spoons in a blender). The car unexpectedly lost forward motion causing cars and semi-trucks around us to take evasive action to avoid hitting us. All of this happened without warning and in a matter of a few seconds and we were very lucky to avoid a very severe accident. We had the car towed by hawks towing (in glenview, IL) to loyola service (our preferred, trusted automotive service provider). The technicians at loyola service diagnosed the car with a complete engine failure and in need of a complete engine replacement. The estimated cost of the repairs is $21,254. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

120k j35y6 engine with good oil service and no major issues before. I heard a tapping/ticking noise emanating from the engine. So I brought the car to the local Honda service center for a diagnosis. Without opening the engine (I. E. Purely based off sound) they claimed that the sound was "rod knock" caused by the crankshaft pin and the connecting rod bearing, and that the engine was effectively totaled. Upon doing some research I learned that that exact issue is the subject of an ongoing investigation so I decided to submit this report. My receipt and outline of that engine diagnosis is attached.

See all problems of the 2017 Honda Pilot 🔎.

The engine seized while driving on the highway bringing the vehicle to a complete stop. There is currently a recall on 2016 Honda Pilot engines involving premature connecting rod bearing wear. The mechanic that has been servicing this vehicle for the last 9 years stated this is exactly what happened to my vehicle and should be covered under the recall. Honda stated that my VIN number was not included in the recall and repairs are my responsibility. The issue here is the engine seizing for a known issue while driving on the highway could have been disastrous. Luckily no accident occurred as a result but Honda should be liable for this.

I have a 2020 Honda Pilot (VIN [xxx] ) and have experienced rpm fluctuations when trying to maintain speed. I'm concerned these issues may be related to odi investigation pe25008 and further use of my vehicle without having it inspected may result in a crash, fire and/or complete engine failure. The engine has not operated smoothly for months, and my mechanic has not been able to figure out why. It feels like the engine is struggling to maintain a steady rpm, leading to bouncing or surging in power. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The fuel pump was issued a recall that I had replaced, but due to it not operating properly it caused my high pressure fuel pump in the engine to malfunction as well. This has been conveniently left out of the recall for fuel pump and the dealership wouldn't agree to look into it further.

When stopped at a stop light the auto idle stop turned the car off. When we tried to go at the green light the car wouldn't move. The transmission shifted to neutral and was stuck. We couldn't put the car in park, we couldn't turn the car off, we couldn't put it in gear. We considered calling the police for help since we were stuck in an intersection. The car eventually turned off and we tried pushing all the buttons to do something it finally allowed us to turn the car 100% off and restart it. Then we could go.

See all problems of the 2021 Honda Pilot 🔎.

Auto start/stop issue. I finally experienced what some other members of my family have experienced with this car. My Honda Pilot stalled at a stop light in heavy traffic after the engine was turned off when I stopped at the light using the auto start/stop function. After I released the brake when the light turned green, the car did not start.

In 2022, in traffic on i35 in temple, TX, I was in "drive" and my car went automatically to neutral and I could not get it out of neutral or turn my car on and off. My two children were in the car and had cars moved, I would have been clobbered. I finally got my car to turn off after several tries, but it would not turn on. I waited a a minute and tried to turn it on again and after several attempts, it turned back on and traffic began to move so I did not have to stop and brake again. This same issue happened at a stop light a month ago and I could not move my car. I did not hit anything in my car, I did not shift it to neutral, it automatically did this on it's own. I finally turned the car off and after many attempts was able to get it back on, put it in drive, and move the car out of the intersection. The automatic engine shut off also comes on and off in my car without me touching anything. It works sometimes and it doesn't. This issue is a total safety concern and should it happen again, I may not be so lucky with other vehicles. Please help with this recall on my VIN.

Camshaft sensor failed. Car is not even 7 years old. I was told this issue is known in the Honda ridgelines. They say the camshaft has to much movement and damaging the sensor. Code p0369.

Engine auto off at an intersection. Would not restart. Burned up starter. Towed to Honda dealership. Rod bearing spun causing catastrophic damage to engine. Honda care extended warranty is covering at least part of the cost to replace either the shortblock, or possibly replace entire engine. No decision on which just yet.

At a stop light and the car shifted to neutral and lost power, had to restart car. This happened twice, once on a busy road and we were almost rear-ended. Took the car to dealership they said the only thing they could find was that it needed a new battery. Changed battery and has not happened since. They said that likely the battery did not have enough power to power the auto stop/start feature so when I stopped the car lost power. I had no indication that the battery was low and never had a car with a low battery lose power in the middle of traffic. I feel like this is bad design and a potential safety hazard.

See all problems of the 2022 Honda Pilot 🔎.

Car staring jerking and engine seized up while I was driving.

Symptom: knocking noise coming from engine. Diagnosis: Honda dealer removed oil pan and found connecting rod bearing material. Removed all connecting rod bearings and found cylinder 1 bearing had excessive wear and found bearing was bent. Engine replacement recommended as bearing material may have went through the entire engine and could cause engine failure.

In mid-August (8/13/25), at 61,355 miles, my 2016 Honda Pilot experienced sudden engine failure due to what my dealer diagnosed as a connecting rod bearing/crankshaft failure. Prior to the failure, we had no issues with the car. The engine ultimately seized while the vehicle was in motion, creating a serious safety risk. My vehicle has been regularly maintained, most specifically timely oil changes (the most recent in December (12/11/24), less than 4000 miles prior to failure, yet the engine still failed. I am aware that Honda has issued recalls and is under NHTSA investigation for engine failures caused by defective rod bearings in 2016–2020 Honda Pilots and related models. However, my VIN is not currently included in the recall despite experiencing the same failure described in the recall notices and owner complaints. This is a serious safety issue. An engine seizure or stall at highway speeds could easily result in loss of control or a crash. I request that NHTSA expand its investigation and hold Honda accountable for covering all affected vehicles, including mine.

The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for an oil change. The contact stated that after leaving the dealer, the vehicle started making an abnormal knocking sound. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that there was a failure in cylinder #1, and the lower engine block needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted for assistance with the cost of the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.

Although I had the Honda taken in for the prior auto stop/start engine recall. The software fix has not solved the issue. While in traffic, even with the auto stop/start feature off, the engine will randomly turn off and it becomes a safety hazard as I’m blocking traffic scrambling to turn my engine back on, sometimes it is challenging to get the engine back on, and in the meantime cars are driving all around trying to get around me. This is ridiculous that Honda is doing the bare minimum to address what is clearly a huge liability for me as a driver and others in traffic.

The contact owns a 2016 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the engine made knocking sounds. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle was shaking while idling. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who discovered metal shavings in the engine oil and that the connecting rods had failed. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA action number: pe25008 (engine). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.