Its best to avoid this vehicle and go for another vehicle with similar characteristics. The Pilot is still selling strong and is one of the most popular crossover SUVs on the market. This fluid is extremely durable and can withstand a lot of stress. External Factors (high heat/humidity, extreme uphill grades, stop-and-go traffic, etc.) It can cause your engine to smoke because it's burning off that fluid from the engine. I have one on a 2017 pilot and it drives smooth. If the solenoid is faulty, the transmission may also hesitate while accelerating. If your Honda Pilot has difficulty shifting from first gear, it can be due to impurities in the transmission fluid. You should also not rule out the fluid lines themselves. 2021 is no exception. Given that the average 2003 Honda Pilot is worth roughly $2,500 to $3,000, trying to fix a major transmission problem could be a huge waste of cash. Take the car for a spin and make sure that it shifts well. If youre driving a Honda Pilot, this is a good habit to get intoyoull save yourself from having to replace or repair your transmission later!if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'wvdot_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_19',856,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-wvdot_com-narrow-sky-1-0'); A professional mechanic must check your transmission at least once a year. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'wvdot_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_10',825,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-wvdot_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');When it comes to the fluid, a low level means that there is increased friction between the gears. I have a 2017 EX AWD with Sensing, up here in Canada eh! Specifically, their plant in Lincoln, Alabama. I believe the design flaw rest between the operation of the VCM and transmission. Extreme heat can test your Pilots cooling system. Owners of the accord vehicles will start receiving letters on June 28, 2004, and on June 29, 2004, for owners of the tl and cl vehicles. Although Honda has a long history of making reliable cars, the Honda Pilots in the 2003, 2005, 2009, 2011 and 2013 model years have all had . Another thing to look out for is broken or worn-out transmission bands. Still, I wouldnt recommend getting one of these if you want to have a smooth driving experience. Because even if the transmission cooling was improved, it will not guarantee that the transmission is going to hold. Another common issue is a design flaw in which water leaks into the floorboard and gets trapped there when driving through deep puddles. From 2004 to 2008, the problems with the automatic transmission of the Honda Pilot were patched up, and the transmission performance improved. There were complaints about the transmission cooler connection failing and the sluggish acceleration. Is there any way of telling if this Pilot has the new transmission. You need to closely inspect and make your move, and we are going to help you with that. The best thing to do is to avoid getting yourself with one of these cars. The torque converter is designed to transfer power from the engine to the transmission. By 2021 Honda has learned their mistakes with its transmissions and decided to replace the 6-speed with a 9-speed ZF automatic transmission. Consequently, the Pilot is Hondas largest vehicle by size. I love getting my hands dirty and repairing a car myself for a tenth of the price where possible. It caused jerking issues and the driving experience was not that good. Audi A1 Vs. Mini Cooper: Which Car Is Better? In 2004, there were 1.1 million Honda Pilots recalled because of problems with this transmission. With prices starting at $32,445 and topping at $49,015, Honda wants to keep the momentum going with its light trucks. It can be resolved by a vehicle software update which prevents transmission fluid from overheating and prevents the judder. The primary role of the serpentine belt is to use the engines power to drive accessories. But nothing major was found like with the previous generation when it was first released. And with the fully equipped new TrailSport, Honda SUVs have never been more capable. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'wvdot_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_8',823,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-wvdot_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');The fluid acts as lubricant and coolant, so if you dont have enough or dont change it often enough, the transmission may begin to overheat. Honda made it more streamlined and overall, better looking. These include the water pump, AC compressor, power steering pump, and alternator, among others. A defective solenoid can cause the transmission to run hot. If you dont notice this and you purchase the vehicle, you are going to end up with a money pit. Low transmission fluid is the number one cause of an overheating transmission. The second generation also had a 5-speed automatic transmission. 2004 Pilots suffer from slipping gears and shuddering, while the transmission oil and coolant mix in the 2005 Pilot, and 2016-2020 Pilots equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions, are plagued by jerking and Reply, Ah, we mustve missed that one, thanks for that!On 25/10/2022 at 3:41 pm Go figure. In fact, even if your serpentine belt has snapped, the gearbox/transmission should be working just fine. Its important to note that this issue is again caused by a low fluid level or changing it too infrequently. May 11, 2009. The transmission fluid is overheating. EXPLORE ALL-TERRAIN. They looked at the service records to see when the last time the transmission had been serviced and it hadnt so I had them change the fluid. Here are the most common symptoms of an overheating transmission: Slipping is a condition that occurs when your Pilots engine revs higher than intended as the transmissions internal components fail to transfer the energy to the driveshaft(s). Thus, changing the gears manually. But the transmission problems have always plagued the Honda Pilot and the Honda Pilot transmission problems gave this model a bad name. (Page 1 of 2) In these vehicles, the transmission and engine coolant may leak. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'wvdot_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_11',827,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-wvdot_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');If your Honda Pilot lurches forward when youre parking, it can be an issue with the Transmission Control Module. Your transmission is simply being over worked. "@type": "FAQPage", Common symptoms of overheating include smoke coming from under the hood, a pegged temperature gauge, and a blown head gasket. If you have come across a 2016 model and you are looking to purchase it, be wary. The fluid that is left must workmuch harder. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. We have a focus on strong photography, and engaging articles about performance, luxury and interesting cars. The cooling hose was replaced. So they drained the transmission fluid & put new fluid. Owners should contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009 or Acura at 1-800-382-2238. There was also a report of the transmission producing a whining noise. If it breaks, the gears cannot be in sync. There are very bad vibration issue going on between the engine and transmission during VCM operation. According to the CarComplaints.com website: "Although the 2014 Acura MDX has the most overall complaints, we rate the 2003 model year as worse because of other possible factors such as higher repair cost or more problems at lower mileage. It allows you to park safely and securely, but it also puts a lot of stress on your transmission if used incorrectly.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'wvdot_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_18',894,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-wvdot_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0'); If you use it too much or too often, you could cause damage to the transmission that may simply be irreparable.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'wvdot_com-leader-4','ezslot_16',832,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-wvdot_com-leader-4-0'); If youre having trouble with your Honda Pilots transmission, the problem is likely simple. The 2019 Honda Pilot continues the long line of this model as a family favorite vehicle. Specifically, Hondas plant in Alliston, Ontario. Make sure to keep an eye on the fluid and get a cooler if needed. Today the dealer admitted that there is a known issue with the 9 speed transmission. If youre still curious to learn more about the Honda Pilot transmission problems, our FAQs here might help. The Honda Pilot to avoid is the 2004 and 2005. No, I havent found a solution but so far, it hasnt come back on in I dont know how long. This section will look at those problems and get into the details of why they happen. Flywheel Car: Functions, Types, And All You Should Know, I am thinking of buying a 2016 Honda Pilot and the owner does not know which transmission it has. The price varies from model to model, but it should lie within this price point. Many Honda Pilot owners have reported problems with the transmission, and these reports were for a transmission failure. (15) The Honda Pilot transmission problems were once again one of the main topics of discussion when someone decided to get a Honda Pilot from the third generation. This will prevent further damage to your engine and help keep your fluid at an ideal level for longer periods. Moreover, the reliability of the Honda Pilot seemed to go up and down, depending on the model year. "acceptedAnswer": { This can cause a loud squeal. This post contains affiliate links. Complete transmission failure was reported with the oldest model of the SUV. If there is one thing this article has made clear about the Honda Pilot transmission problems, there can be many. "acceptedAnswer": { This is even though there werent too many serious problems with it. The transmission would shift roughly and sometimes erratically too. Over the years, there's been an ongoing battle on which is the best - the Toyota Camry or the Honda Accord. However, Honda then moved the production of the Pilot in 2007 to the United States. If your 2003 Pilot has more than 15,000 miles on it, a service technician will inspect and revise the oil cooler return line to prevent heat buildup. They may harden and crack over time, which may very well lead to the transmission fluid leaking. Thats why you should avoid it. Low Fluid/Bad Fluid Low transmission fluid is the most common reason that your Honda Odyssey's transmission will overheat under normal operation. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'wvdot_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_20',834,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-wvdot_com-narrow-sky-2-0');The 2006 model had transmission issues, but they were not too major. In its earlier years, there were quite a few issues, which were gradually solved. Check the transmission fluid and see if the fluid is clean and doesnt have debris. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. But what is uncanny about this transmission is that it brought again some of the old memories and problems that the old first-generation Honda Pilot had. AUTOMATIC. ), Radiator Fan, Thermostat, or something else. The first generation was introduced, as we said, in 2003 and was produced until 2008. The third generation of the Honda Pilot came out in 2015 and brought a new and futuristic design that changed the overall look of the vehicle. The transmission fluid could also be lowif the level dips low enough, it can cause the gears to not sync. It implemented a lot of new features and modern technology. They are going to cost a lot of money to repair. I am Tahir Azam, and this is my blog. Transmission System Problem warning. Until now, I have discussed the many symptoms and issues that can arise with the transmission of the Honda Pilot. Looking a the color and sticking with Hondas transmission maintenance schedule is critical to long transmission life. Honda has learned its lesson and tried to deliver a good and reliable vehicle. However, when you overfill the transmission, there is going to be some leakage from the buildup. If the problem was not addressed on time, the transmission would have been permanently damaged. Low fluid is a transmission killer. This makes the Honda Pilot a fairly reliable vehicle, but also a fuel-efficient vehicle as well. If your Honda Pilot has difficulty shifting from first gear, it can be due to impurities in the transmission fluid. If the car doesnt shift well and has troubles on the test drive, then you know that you have some problems with your future car. Rebuilding a Honda Accord transmission costs around $480-$699 for labor, and $1647-$2448 in total. Squealing Belt. Curious what kind of ambient Temps you drive in. Returned to dealer and transmission replaced. And this issue may very well result in the transmission slipping.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'wvdot_com-leader-2','ezslot_12',854,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-wvdot_com-leader-2-0'); A grinding sound when you shift gears may result from a damaged torque converter or low transmission fluid level. Transmission fluid changes are always pretty important, but it seems even more crucially so for the Pilot. Checking the transmission fluid level on your Honda Pilot is not that difficult. A transmission warning light appears in the vehicle when the issue. }. The dealer said they've seen at least 30 Odyssey's with the same issue. I would try and pull over and shit the car off. Given that most Americans drive their cars about 15,000 miles per year, this equates to a lifespan for the Honda Pilot as long as 13 to 20 years. Reply, I would say it depends on the problem. . The Transmission is overheating. "@type": "Question", However, this won't cause your . Many Honda Pilot owners have reported problems with the transmission, and these reports were for a transmission failure. In this case, you are going to pay $3,000 in order to get it replaced. Speed limited to 30 mph. Although, these problems were eventually fixed. Pilot sales have increased over 38 percent through July of this year, and. If your automatic transmission has been overheating, take a look at the front of the radiator and make sure that it is clean and free of large debris (think plastic grocery bag). Honda Pilot Transmission Problems. It converts the rotational energy into torque and makes driving the vehicle possible. I plan to keep driving it with/without the light coming up. It has been designed to make the indicator needle align with the gear you want to be in. The problem was caused because of an overheating issue that affected some of the gears. }] This transmission lockup had the potential of leading the vehicle into a big crash. Moreover, the reliability of the Honda Pilot seemed to go up and down, depending on the model year. Also, the second generation of the Honda Pilot proved to be reliable and no major issues were reported. Any chance the external transmission cooler is NOT keeping the transmission fluid temps at normal operating temp levels? Ask me anything! Be cautious of Honda Pilot models from 2010-2012 and 2016, which have many NHTSA complaints about faulty electrical systems and malfunctioning airbags. I am also an avid car driver. And we are going to elaborate on it for you to have a better perspective on which Honda Pilot to buy and which to avoid. Its production run has lasted for more than 18 years. Heat seems to cause a real challenge for the 6 speed in the Pilot. In fact, even if your serpentine belt has snapped, the gearbox/transmission should be working just fine. They told me the transmission needs to be replaced at a cost of $4500.00. I took my RTL T up a basic off road trail to do some dirt bike riding with my son over the weekend. If youre experiencing these symptoms in your Pilot, dont worrythere are ways to troubleshoot the problem and get your SUV back in usable condition. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. To this day, this singular factory makes the Honda Odyssey, Passport, Pilot, as well as Ridgeline all of Hondas more US-focused models. Overheating can drastically shorten your transmissions life. Although, some owners have even gotten their Honda Pilots beyond 400,000 miles, and theyre still running strong shows how loving care and TLC go the distance. This is because a serpentine belt isnt directly connected or has to work with the transmission. This may result in the gears bending or chipping, resulting in a grinding sound. Transmission slipping is another hint that the fluid is low and old. Specifically, their plant in Lincoln, Alabama. If youre noticing that the gears in your Honda Pilot are slipping, its not a cause for concern. RECALLS! This components goal is to transfer the energy from the engine to the wheels. It is somewhat common knowledge among Honda transmission experts that the most common failure point on these units is the 3rd and 4th gear pressure switches. The garage will be able to tell if there are any problems with your transmission system by listening to how it sounds when its running. The contact owns a 2003 Honda Pilot. A number of different things could be causing your transmission to overheat: Your Driving Habits (accelerating too fast, carrying too heavy of a load, etc.) Check engine light always on. This is common in older models of the Pilot or any other vehicle. This model had many complaints that the transmission jerked. Piloteers.org forum community offers tech info, troubleshooting, modification DIYs and discussion for the Honda Pilot SUV. If youre a Honda Pilot owner, you probably know that the transmission is one of the most important parts of your SUV. If its low or empty, fill it up! On top of that, there were problems with strange sounds that happened at low speeds. It is natural to know the costs of different transmissions when you want to replace your transmission. 5-speed BVGA automatic: $2,295.00 (MidWestTrans) 5-speed PN3A automatic: 940.76 (eBay) 6-speed Honda H6 automatic. There may be a firmware update you need to do, there's a TSB bulletin on something called "juddering" with the 6-speeds of our third gens. According to this serious recall, a failure in the gear mechanism and gear shifting selection could cause a transmission lockup. Step 2: Warm up the engine to its normal running temperature, then switch it off. Hot transmissions give off an odor.