2003 Honda Pilot Honda Pilot 2003

We are 103,000+ car owners sharing real-world car information.

Join Us

2003 Honda Pilot repairs by problem area

Engine (25%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (12%)

Brakes and Traction Control (5%)

Suspension and Steering (21%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (26%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (6%)

Other (4%)

Chart based on 326 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2003 Honda Pilot.

2003 Honda Pilot repair cost distribution

$2500+ (3%)

$1000 - $2499 (8%)

$500 - $999 (19%)

$100 - $499 (40%)

< $100 (30%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 273 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2003 Honda Pilot

Engine not specified

Honda Pilot in North Carolina, United States
Aug 2009 - Dec 2012
Sep 2009

121000 mi

US $320
3th 4th clutch pressure switch on transmission was failing. 
Nov 2012

228600 mi

US $2800
Transmission was rebuilt. the water pump and a radiator oooling fan was replaced 
Honda in Virginia, United States
Mar 2007 - Mar 2010
Apr 2007

66000 mi

US $700
SRS light 
Honda Pilot in California, United States
Mar 2016 - May 2016
May 2016

145000 mi
Engine light on, gas cap code. Replaced a couple of gas caps and shop replaced a sensor and the gas fill tube where the gas goes in, nothing fixed it - ignored the las 6 months 
Honda in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2011
Feb 2010

71000 mi
surging idle from 0 to 3000 rpms continually. Mechanic banged on top of housing and sprayed carb cleaner into the inside and it hasn't happened since 

Return to top

2003 Honda Pilot 4dr SUV

240-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed automatic AWD

Honda Pilot in South Carolina, United States
Apr 2012 - Jun 2015
Sep 2013

187000 mi

US $150
Ignition brake interlock switch failed which kept you from getting out of park 
Apr 2015

215800 mi

US $1400
Air bag recall and srs light on due to seatbelt sensor. Also got timing belt done. 
Honda Pilot in California, United States
Sep 2012 - Jun 2014
Oct 2012

115000 mi
SRS light came on. Had to spend alot of time time on the phone with dealer and finalkly called Honda USA and they agreed to have it fixed. 
Jan 2014

117300 mi

US $3500
2nd time we have repaired/replaced transmission. first time was about 83,000 miles. 
Honda Pilot in Wisconsin, United States
Jun 2011 - Apr 2015
Jun 2012

165000 mi

US $550
Noise from engine are. Dealer determined bearings of alternator are making noise. Alternator replaced with a rebuild Honda alternator. Compressor belt replaced when rebuilt alternator installed 
Feb 2013

181000 mi

US $409
Took car in for 180,000 maintenance service and for unusual tapping noise in engine until engine reaches normal operating temperature. Schedule includes valve adjustment. Not performed because I thought this was included. Instead another $400. 
Honda Pilot in Texas, United States
Apr 2013 - Sep 2014
Dec 2013

144000 mi

US $160
Park interlock sensor connected to foot brake failed 
Jan 2014

144700 mi

US $860
Replace front struts and rear shocks 
May 2014

148000 mi

US $484
Ignition key very difficult to insert, then difficult to turn. Required cylinder disassembly/reassembly and new transponder key. 
Honda Pilot in Illinois, United States
Jun 2013 - Dec 2015
Jul 2013

125800 mi

US $1000
Engine mount replacement 
Nov 2015

160300 mi

US $1800
Replaced parts 
Honda Pilot in New Jersey, United States
Dec 2013 - Apr 2014
Apr 2014

95000 mi
exhaust rusted out 
Honda Pilot in Alaska, United States
Sep 2013 - Jan 2022
Jun 2014

47000 mi

US $290
Replaced rear door lock actuator 
Jan 2017

56000 mi
Rear door lock failed again (also failed in 2014). 
Honda Pilot in New York, United States
Aug 2013 - Oct 2015
Jan 2014

155800 mi

US $250
Frozen caliper 
Jul 2014

166800 mi

US $550
Broken sway bar 
Oct 2015

180000 mi
Died, no longer drivable 
Honda Pilot in Hawaii, United States
Jun 2012 - Sep 2015
Sep 2012

123821 mi

US $275
Warning light for thermostat malfunction. Felt to be an error and thermostat believed to be functioning normally. Thermostat replaced. Stuck open. Replaced thermostat. Thermostat was stuck open. 
Mar 2015

172000 mi

US $200
Fuel line leak. First replaced fuel cap. No change. Second appointment-work not completed due to failure of shop test equipment. I have decided to ignore the check engine light for at least six months.  
Sep 2015

173000 mi
Fuel leak from filler tube. 
Honda Pilot in Tennessee, United States
Jun 2014 - Jun 2015
May 2015

110600 mi
Ignition switch replaced - second time had problems. First time switch was repaired. 
Honda Pilot in Ohio, United States
Dec 2011 - Dec 2015
Apr 2013

107500 mi

US $1160
Timing belt, water pump, spark plugs, loose tie rod and front rotors resurfaced, alignment & oil change. 
Honda Pilot in Oklahoma, United States
Dec 2011 - Apr 2013
Mar 2012

123000 mi

US $300
Rear Shocks Replaced 
Oct 2012

145000 mi

US $750
All motor mounts replaced 
Honda Pilot in Missouri, United States
Aug 2011 - Oct 2014
Sep 2011

211000 mi
tail lights, marker lights and dash lights went out. fuses are good. cause as yet undetermined 
Honda Pilot in Illinois, United States
Feb 2012 - Dec 2012
Jan 2012

89000 mi

US $1500
Replaced starter 
May 2012

92700 mi

US $800
starter froze 
Honda Pilot in Kansas, United States
Mar 2006 - Apr 2012
Jun 2006

70000 mi

US $2500
Power steering rack failure, dealer wanted over $2500 to replace, told them no thanks. 
Apr 2012

137000 mi

US $5200
Total Transmission failure, 3 and 4th gears bad. honda recommends total replacement 
Honda Pilot in Arizona, United States
Mar 2013 - Dec 2015
Dec 2015

184000 mi

US $150
Check engine light came on. 1st trip to dealer light had suddenly turned off, no fault discovered. Light came on again a week later, returned to dealer. They suspect the IAC valve or the PCM. Waiting to do that repair until next week. 
Honda Pilot in Wisconsin, United States
Aug 2011 - Dec 2014
May 2012

108000 mi
Transmission Service 
Honda Pilot in New York, United States
Apr 2012 - Jun 2013
Aug 2012

179600 mi

US $950
Struts and complete brake job 
Honda Pilot in Nova Scotia, Canada
Dec 2010 - Feb 2017
Jan 2011

124620 mi

C $100
All wheel drive system - awaiting final determination 
Apr 2011

128340 mi

C $500
All wheel drive system - replaced linkage I think Rear windshield wiper motor 
Jun 2011

129580 mi

C $450
Continued problem with all wheel drive system. $200. Front wheel bearing - but still getting an odd noise from the left side. $250. Rear wiper motor replaced again.  
Nov 2011

135780 mi

C $200
Ignition key failure - re-keyed ignition Transmission not shifting properly. Codes suggested needed new transmission - but after resetting system by disconnecting battery for 24hrs the problem has disappeared 
Dec 2011

137020 mi

C $300
Replaced EGR valve - may be source of recent transmission issues 
Mar 2012

140740 mi

C $200
Vehicle was not shifting properly. Replaced faulty oxygen sensor - that problem has resolved. 
Aug 2012

145740 mi

C $400
Alternator failure 
Sep 2012

146940 mi

C $350
Prior problem with all wheel drive system - repaired by fixing electrical faults Failed bearing Replacement alternator failed, replaced again. 
Nov 2012

149700 mi

C $332
Failed fuel pump Alternator bracket broke - had to replace belt and weld bracket back together 
Jan 2013

153140 mi

C $600
Replaced hub on right front wheel 
May 2013

155620 mi

C $160
Rear left sway bar link broke loose 
Jun 2013

156860 mi

C $400
Sway bar and tie rod end rear wheel 
Jul 2013

159340 mi

C $234
Power steering hose failed 
Sep 2013

161200 mi

C $300
Both tie rod ends replaced 
May 2014

171120 mi

C $650
Replaced one tie rod and both front struts and strut mounts 
Jun 2014

172360 mi
Front suspension - loose/worn mounts 
Aug 2014

175460 mi

C $150
Exhaust Flex hose cracked - repaired 
Dec 2014

182280 mi

C $800
Caliper and discs Rear shocks 
Mar 2015

184140 mi

C $150
minor oil leak 
May 2015

186620 mi

C $200
Replaced parts 
Jun 2015

187860 mi

C $400
Wheel bearing right rear Belt replacement - but compressor is gradually failing -- not willing to pay for replacement. Belt replaced which reduced noise 
Sep 2015

190340 mi

C $100
Shield rubbing 
Apr 2016

199200 mi
AC compressor squealing 
Jul 2016

202000 mi

C $300
Rusted through exhaust pipe - replaced pipe 
Aug 2016

203360 mi

C $900
Rear drive system 
Dec 2016

210180 mi

C $250
Noise from worn bearing 
Feb 2017

212040 mi
Not shifting gears properly 
Honda Pilot in Alberta, Canada
Aug 2014 - Jul 2022
Mar 2015

104160 mi

C $220
Replaced front sway-bar bushings - worn out 
Jul 2015

108900 mi

C $140
Replaced battery 
Apr 2018

137640 mi

C $220
Replace broken sway links 
Honda Pilot in California, United States
Oct 2009 - Mar 2010
Nov 2009

99800 mi

US $125
Rear AC/vent failed. 
Honda Pilot in North Carolina, United States
- May 2009
Mar 2003

5000 mi
Dealer oil change stripped the oil drain plug. Constant oil drip from plug. I was told it was normal. 
Jun 2003

6000 mi
Major warranty work. Malfunction light led to complete replacement of fuel system since there was a bad evaporator cannister. Entire rear end had to be dropped and tank removed to replace the canister. Car out of service for 4 days. Loaner was a compact. 
Jul 2003

6500 mi
Continuing to present day: constant leak into both front seat carpets. Rain, in a certain direction, comes in from fire wall/fender weld. Dealer will not fix since cannot duplicate with hose. Known problem. TSB fix published. Totally dissatisfied. 
Jan 2006

35500 mi
After continued complaints about oil leak from oil drain plug, dealer said only repair was to replace oil pan. Major repair; must drop front suspension first. Despite leak history since day one, they said it was due to me. Had to threaten them legally. 
Feb 2006

37500 mi
Driver window regulator makes harsh grinding sound. Dealer stated no warranty repair since the window still goes up and down. The noise has continued to get worse. 
Apr 2009

104000 mi

US $250
Leaking water passage gasket. Had to spend 4 hours removing thermostat/water passage to replace $35 gasket. Coolant was leaking onto transmission from engine block. Dealer said his cost would be $250 for this. 
May 2009

106000 mi

US $900
Oil leak from rear main oil seal. 1 quart per 1,000 miles. Told this is when it usually occurs. Had to drop front suspension and remove transmission to replace the $20.00 seal. 
Honda Pilot in North Carolina, United States
Oct 2004 - Mar 2010
Oct 2004

30000 mi
Rear hatch trim piece on top of door broke but was replaced under warranty. 
Honda Pilot in Texas, United States
May 2016 - Aug 2016
May 2016

162000 mi

US $700
Replaced control arms, shocks, struts, tie rods, and stabilizer bar links. 
Honda Pilot in Virginia, United States
Sep 2014 - Sep 2014
Apr 2014

147000 mi

US $2150
Entire Transmission was replaced with a rebuilt unit 
Honda Pilot in British Columbia, Canada
Feb 2014 - Jun 2018
Sep 2017

182280 mi

C $550
Makes clunking noise from front when going over bumps. Steering/handling not affected. Sway bar rubber mounts and stabilizer bar replaced 
Honda Pilot in California, United States
Jun 2021 - Jun 2022
Jun 2022

208178 mi

US $221
Alignment needed (after all these years) ...as well as Lube, and Oil change, with filter changed, as well. 
Honda Pilot in Illinois, United States
Jun 2016 - Jul 2018
Jul 2018

150000 mi

US $600
pads and rotors (front & rear) 
Honda Pilot in North Carolina, United States
Nov 2012 - Jun 2022
Oct 2017

66000 mi

US $600
Replace 0-2 sensor that caused check engine light Replace front and rear brakes and resurface front rotors 
May 2022

116000 mi

US $150
Battery cable replaced due to defective battery causing corrosion deep into cable. 
Honda Pilot in Connecticut, United States
Sep 2015 - Mar 2018
Oct 2015

124200 mi
Controller for rear A/C Spark plug oil seals 
Jan 2018

146500 mi

US $200
Clogged catalytic converter replaced with cheap ebay unit 
Honda Pilot in Colorado, United States
Dec 2015 - Dec 2016
Dec 2015

217000 mi

US $3700
Shocks/struts all around New power steering pump needed 
Honda Pilot in South Dakota, United States
Jan 2015 - Jul 2015
May 2015

186000 mi

US $412
New front passenger lower control arm. Bushings were shot on the old one causing some clunking 
Jul 2015

187000 mi
Started making a terrible grinding noise and would stall and jump when put into gear. 
Honda Pilot in Manitoba, Canada
Jan 2015 - Oct 2015
Jul 2015

158300 mi

C $1300
Fuel canister system. Almost everything was replaced. 
Honda Pilot in Arizona, United States
Sep 2010 - Jun 2018
Nov 2010

36000 mi

US $2000
Front struts and rear shock absorbers were leaking oil and were replaced. Two engine mounts were bad, front was leaking oil. They were replaced. 
Nov 2011

47000 mi

US $250
Right Rear window mechanism broke, window fell into door. 
Feb 2014

58000 mi

US $250
A/C hose was leaking. Hose was replaced and system recharged. 
Honda Pilot in Illinois, United States
Jan 2015 - Dec 2016
Mar 2015

135000 mi

US $800
Steering wheel toggled. 
Mar 2016

150000 mi

US $1300
Exhaust issue. Loud noise coming from under the hood from bad exhaust line. 
Oct 2016

165500 mi

US $600
replaced alternator 
Honda Pilot in Nevada, United States
Jan 2015 - Feb 2015
Feb 2015

180000 mi
Airbag recalls and ignition switch replacement. 
Honda Pilot in Colorado, United States
Aug 2015 - Dec 2016
Sep 2015

180000 mi

US $2500
Shift solenoid was replaced but the Pilot is still revving a bit when trying to shift into 2nd gear. 
Honda Pilot in Louisiana, United States
May 2015 - Jul 2015
May 2015

95000 mi

US $440
Rattling and inactive charging system noticed while driving. Loose alternator bearing determined to be source of problem. Alternator replaced and 2 hours labor charged. 
Honda Pilot in Tennessee, United States
Apr 2015 - Jul 2022
Oct 2015

102200 mi

US $45
Evap system leak loose hose tightened 
Feb 2016

105300 mi

US $800
Replaced all Engine Seals and oil pan seals, sue to leakage, and due to maintenance work already in the same area. 
Nov 2016

117900 mi

US $281
SRS Light replaced control reel assembly 
Honda Pilot in New York, United States
Jun 2014 - Jan 2015
Aug 2014

141700 mi

US $600
drive D light was blinking. 4th gear pressure switch was replaced.abs, vtm, brake lights were always on.  humming noise from drive train above 20 miles an hour. Some gears needed lubricating 
Honda Pilot in Georgia, United States
Jul 2010 - Jun 2022
May 2011

123900 mi
Makes noise when braking but only when A/C is on. 
Aug 2011

128600 mi

US $155
A/C not working. Replaced Blower Motor Resistor 
May 2012

138000 mi

US $2600
Driver noticed transmission was slipping significantly while driving...drove straight to our regular repair shop. Replaced transmission. Replaced transmission 
Sep 2012

146000 mi
Intermittent squeal not id'd for 1 yr. This time found clogged drain opening in back seat AC unit (a leaf?). Pressure of collected water moving forward caused squeal. Blew air into opening to unclog. No charge. 
Aug 2013

159000 mi

US $500
Replaced alternator 
Jan 2014

152800 mi

US $457
2nd row left bucket seat would not fold down. R&R Latch Assembly replaced ($226 incl. labor) Repair shop noticed that rear axles was worn and needed to be replaced. ($231 incl. labor) 
Feb 2015

180300 mi

US $150
Driver's door lock stopped working with key fob; replaced switch. 
Apr 2015

182700 mi

US $450
Replaced solenoid on previously installed rebuilt transmission. 
Jul 2017

217000 mi

US $186
Front rotors replaced. No charge by shop due to known issues with quality of Honda rotors. R+R front & side engine mounts, induction cleaning, swa arm links, AIC valve Known problem with this vehicle that A/C high pressure metal hose that connects to a rubber hose tends to break. Replaced and repaired A/C high pressure line. Evac and recharged A/C system. 
Jul 2019

245000 mi

US $1469
R+R front and side engine mounts, sway arm links, AIC valve 
Jul 2020

254000 mi

US $874
R+R AC Compressor, O ring, refrigerant, evac recharge AC system w/stradder valves 
May 2022

296000 mi

US $1061
R+R Condensor Fan Motor, Radiator Fan Motor,  AC Compressor (incl. O ring, refrigerant) 
Honda Pilot in Massachusetts, United States
Dec 2007 - Jun 2018
Sep 2012

184000 mi

US $800
NO AC, AC compressor neeeded to be replaced. 
Feb 2013

186000 mi

US $180
Odd vibration in the transmission traced to the Torque Converter. The cost to repair this was between $3k and $3500. I decided to not get this replaced at this time. 
Sep 2013

187000 mi
SRS light on, drivers seat belt fastener replaced under warranty. Windshield wipers not working properly. 
Jan 2014

185500 mi

US $240
Ignition key stuck in the ignition. Recall. 
Apr 2015

189000 mi
Check engine light, cylinder 6 misfire. This issue is still being diagnosed. 
Honda Pilot in Alberta, Canada
Sep 2007 - Sep 2011
Sep 2008

92380 mi

C $200
Rattle in front end, replaced inner tie rods. 
Honda Pilot in Maryland, United States
Dec 2012 - Dec 2013
Nov 2013

149900 mi
Change transmission 
Honda Pilot in Saskatchewan, Canada
Jan 2008 - Mar 2009
Feb 2008

76880 mi

C $400
Original factory shocks and front struts were worn out and had to be replaced. 
Feb 2009

89900 mi

C $900
Replaced seat heater elements in both front seats. 
Honda Pilot in Texas, United States
Mar 2008 - Jun 2012
Mar 2009

107000 mi

US $400
Had Timing Belt and Water Pump replaced per scheduled maintenance. Shop broke motor mount which also had to be replaced. 
Jul 2009

114000 mi

US $100
EVG Replacement 
Sep 2010

132000 mi

US $750
Timing Belt and Oxygen sensors replaced. 
Honda Pilot in Illinois, United States
Oct 2008 - Mar 2010
May 2009

65000 mi

US $500
All 4 shocks replaced. 
Honda Pilot in Pennsylvania, United States
Aug 2008 - Sep 2010
Sep 2008

109000 mi

US $10
Seat recline lever. I repaired the broken plastic rather than paying $150+ for a whole new mechanism (can't just buy the handle). Minor rust remediation. 
Apr 2010

138300 mi

US $358
new rear rotors and pads - bracket failed 
Jul 2010

145000 mi

US $350
Front wheel bearing. 
Sep 2010

145000 mi
Needed new transmission when sold. Needed new front struts when sold. 
Honda Pilot in New Hampshire, United States
Jun 2008 - Dec 2011
Jan 2009

104000 mi

US $1000
Replaced front struts & stabilizer bar. 
Jan 2010

147000 mi

US $700
struts and sway bar bushings 
Mar 2011

153000 mi

US $35
replaced driver side sun visor. 
Sep 2011

165000 mi

US $1250
AC compressor was replaced. 
Honda Pilot in Michigan, United States
Sep 2007 - Mar 2010
Jul 2008

88000 mi

US $186
Part that controls the rear airconditioner did not work. Was diagnosed and replaced. 
Jun 2009

101000 mi

US $110
Brake light switch kept me from shifting from park to any other gear. 
Honda Pilot in Illinois, United States
Sep 2007 - Jun 2010
Jan 2008

57000 mi

US $117
Simple. SRS light on and rear wiper motor failed. Despite jibber-jabber about diagnostic analysis, I suspect they just reset the light and changed a fuse. No motor replacement. Nothing big. 
Dec 2008

67000 mi

US $240
Rear brake lights out plus routine maintenance. 
Jul 2009

73000 mi

US $800
Struts, brake pads and tie-rod identified by dealer as needing repair. Repair estimate $2,100. Took to an independent who replaced struts (and pads) but said tie-rod was fine. 
Dec 2009

76000 mi
Nothing much. Rear window wiper failed. Plus replaced remote door opener. 
Honda Pilot in Alabama, United States
May 2007 - Mar 2010
Dec 2008

132000 mi

US $175
Front and side motor mounts were broken. Honda tech said this was a common problem for Pilot, odessey, and others with the 6cyl. Ordered parts and replaced by owner. 
Aug 2009

140000 mi

US $100
Removed and cleaned intake manifold due to check engine light reporting EGR low flow. 
Honda Pilot in Alabama, United States
Jun 2008 - Mar 2010
Jul 2008

82000 mi
Middle row seat latch failed 
Honda Pilot in New Jersey, United States
May 2007 - Mar 2010
Jun 2007

65000 mi
Inoperable rear folding seat latch 
Honda Pilot in Arizona, United States
Apr 2007 - Jun 2014
Apr 2008

53000 mi

US $300
Rear AC blower motor went out. 
Sep 2011

88000 mi

US $250
pushing on brake, could not engage transmission. 
Honda Pilot in Minnesota, United States
Mar 2008 - Dec 2013
May 2010

122000 mi

US $280
Accessory belt and idler pulley 
Jun 2013

170000 mi

US $130
Replace brake position / shift interlock switch 
Honda Pilot in Ohio, United States
May 2007 - Mar 2010
Aug 2007

81000 mi

US $22
Defective front driver side wheel bearing discovered during tire rotation. 
Honda Pilot in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2007 - Oct 2011
Feb 2008

117800 mi

C $550
Timing belt replacement. Replaced water pump and auto tensioner while at it. 
Honda Pilot in Texas, United States
Mar 2007 - Oct 2014
Jun 2007

81000 mi

US $13
new gas cap 
Aug 2010

133000 mi

US $975
Replaced front struts and rear shocks at 133000 miles. 
Honda Pilot in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2008 - Jun 2011
Oct 2008

120900 mi

C $140
Replaced lower control arm ball joint and inner tie rod end- Frontend 
May 2009

128340 mi

C $90
Recharges AC system after leak repaired in line. AC fully functional after recharge. 
Aug 2009

130808 mi

C $521
Left rear wheel bearing replaced 
Sep 2009

133300 mi

C $305
Front rotors and pads, right front caliper 
May 2010

140120 mi

C $55
Inner tie rod and Oil filter change 
Honda Pilot in Tennessee, United States
Nov 2008 - Mar 2013
Dec 2008

122000 mi

US $100
I successfully diagnosed and replaced a faulty idle air control valve.  
Sep 2010

153000 mi

US $200
air conditioning quit, was repaired through replacement of resistor.  
Jun 2011

169000 mi

US $380
door lock actuator replaced on passenger side front. 
Honda Pilot in Alabama, United States
Dec 2009 - Mar 2014
Mar 2012

196000 mi
transmission slipping between 2 & 3 gear 
Honda Pilot in Florida, United States
Nov 2009 - May 2011
Aug 2010

66000 mi

US $217
Driver-side window motor ("regulator") died months ago. Got estimate from Pompano Honda to replace at ~$350. Decided to postpone and get estimates from other repair shops. Dealer found cracked front and side(?) engine mounts. Given estimates for about $390, and $160 to repair. Decided to postpone and check with other shops. Shifter interlock locked in "Parked" position. Dealer replaced broken "break light switch" - $115. Dealer charged $91 for 1h diagnostics labor to check for transmission/engine oil leaks, engine mount problems. 
Nov 2010

69000 mi

US $180
Window motor replaced. 
Honda Pilot in Colorado, United States
Jul 2009 - Jul 2021
Aug 2009

73000 mi

US $500
Replaced motor mounts 
Dec 2010

84000 mi

US $350
Rear seat would not fold down. Cable assembly inside the seat was replaced. 
Apr 2012

96000 mi

US $450
Electronic Front door locks stopped working. Both front door lock actuators were replaced. 
Dec 2013

105000 mi

US $800
replaced electric door lock for rear driver side door 
Nov 2014

110900 mi

US $270
Ignition switch would not turn. The ignition switch tumbler was rekeyed. 
Mar 2016

122000 mi

US $525
replaced CV axle replaced Right inner tie rod end replaced front lower control arm bushings left and right 
Feb 2017

128000 mi

US $1300
Remove and replace rack and pinion 
Jul 2017

130982 mi

US $690
replaced ignition switch 
Honda Pilot in Virginia, United States
Jun 2009 - Mar 2010
Jul 2009

110000 mi

US $39
AC blower stopped working 
Honda Pilot in Wisconsin, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2021
Apr 2010

105800 mi

US $1275
Small oil leak in oil pump. Replaced gasket. 
May 2011

126000 mi

US $550
Ride became rough over bumps, cruise control deactivated over any bump in road. Replaced worn front struts. The stabilizer links were rusted tight and needed to be torched off. Installed new links. The SRS light came on and stayed on. Removed and replaced the left front seat belt buckle. 
May 2013

151000 mi
Rear stabilizer links were squeaking over bumps. Parts replaced. The door lock on the front passenger door stopped working. Replaced the lock actuator. 
Oct 2013

157300 mi

US $172
Inconsistent engine rpm's at idle speed. Replaced transmission 4th gear pressure switch. 
Jun 2014

171000 mi

US $842
Right front and left rear control arms very cracked. Replaced. 
Jul 2015

185700 mi

US $384
Coolant crossover tube had a small leak. Installed new O-ring and gaskets and bled out the cooling system. 
Aug 2016

193600 mi

US $462
Noticed transmission slipping when it shifted. Malfunction light came on. Dealer suggested getting vehicle towed. Replaced 4th gear transmission switch. 
Dec 2016

195000 mi

US $60
Gearshift difficult to shift into gear. Believe shift cable was seized, possibly related to work done in August. Adjusted shifter cable. 
Jun 2018

201000 mi

US $374
Check engine light and VTM-4 light came on. Error code P1491 indicated EGR valve. Replaced EGR valve. 
Honda Pilot in Massachusetts, United States
Feb 2010 - Apr 2015
Sep 2010

83000 mi

US $250
driver's side door lock actuator is broken and dealer did not have part and it cost over $250 so I decided to wait.car can still be locked by pushing the door button down, but remote doesn't work on that door. 
Mar 2011

89000 mi

US $900
right front wheel bearing, ABS sensor, steering linkages, alignment 
Jul 2011

94000 mi

US $250
replaced driver side door lock actuator 
Oct 2011

97000 mi
Honda battery only 2 years old (was a 100 month battery) died and all cells failed. Dealer replaced at no cost to owner. 
May 2013

118000 mi

US $1000
replace struts, tie rods and shocks SRS light on-driver's side seat belt sensor faulty 
Aug 2013

120700 mi

US $300
front passenger side door lock actuator replaced 
Honda Pilot in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2010 - Oct 2013
Apr 2011

123380 mi
Daytime running lights module required resoldering 
Jun 2012

138880 mi
srs light illuminated 
Honda Pilot in Michigan, United States
Apr 2010 - Mar 2018
Feb 2011

136000 mi

US $170
Wheel Studs broke on long drive. 
Sep 2011

149000 mi

US $60
had a little rattle in front end on bumpy roads. Replaced sway bar links and bushings. 
Mar 2013

170000 mi

US $90
Code saying EGR valve bad. Replaced valve and still had code. Took off the top of EGR ports and cleaned them (they were totally clogged). Cleared code and problem fixed. 
Aug 2013

179000 mi
Battery light came on. Replaced alternator. 
Nov 2013

184000 mi

US $240
Driver and passenger front door locks not locking when using key fob. Replaced lock actuators. 
Jul 2014

191200 mi

US $120
Replaced rear pads and rotors...kept hearing a squealing driving...replaced rear calipers. fixed. replaced front and passenger side motor mount 
Jul 2015

206300 mi

US $10
Exhaust separated between catalytic converter and pipe. 
Aug 2015

207100 mi

US $250
Front Passenger Strut Leaking. Replaced both front struts with quickstrut. 
Oct 2015

208300 mi
Uneven brake pad wear...found that the caliper was stuck. Rebuild caliper slides. This seemed to fix problem for a while, but squeaking is back. Will just replace calipers at a later date. 
Dec 2015

210000 mi

US $20
headlight went out...replaced bulb 
May 2016

218600 mi

US $60
Alternator Bracket Broke. Replaced bracket and belt. 
Nov 2016

227600 mi

US $170
Exhaust leak. Shop replaced the flex joint. 
Apr 2017

234000 mi

US $12
Long heat shield came loose. Put some hose clamps around it to keep it in place. 
Jul 2017

238000 mi
Transmission was getting hard to shift from park to drive. Took off a cover on the bottom of trans and lubricated it. 
Honda Pilot in Ohio, United States
May 2010 - Mar 2015
Nov 2012

169300 mi
Airbag (SRS) light was on. Dealer repaired faulty seatbelt switch at no charge. Very pleased. 
Dec 2013

188000 mi

US $220
Worn Outer Tie Rod End. Did Both As A Precaution. Did Alignment. 
Jun 2014

192000 mi

US $650
Worn from struts. Purchased strut/spring assembly from majestic honda and installed myself. Replaced sway bar links at the same time as precaution. Engine mount was torn/broken. The one that mounts to the passenger side inner fender. 
Jan 2015

168000 mi

US $200
Worn sway bar bushing where it connects to body. Labor hard parts cheap. Common clunk issue for pilot Power door lock on drivers door would not work. Had to use key. Found bad actuator. Common pilot issue. 5 on a scale of 1-10 in difficulty. 
Honda Pilot in Florida, United States
Jul 2009 - May 2018
Mar 2010

90000 mi

US $13
Nuisance alarm activation, inside lights came on intermittently while driving, driver's door showed as open. Replaced driver's door plunger switch. 
Feb 2011

95200 mi

US $12
Burned out driver's side headlamp bulb. Replaced (5 minutes). 
Nov 2011

90000 mi

US $25
Replaced failed tie rod end boot (right outer). Tie rod still had no play; boot less than 1/2 cost of tie rod and can be replaced without altering alignment. Replace rotors due to pulsation during braking. Pads still more than 50%, did not replace. Noticed failed tie rod end boot (separate item) Replace outer tie rod end boot on right side. 
Oct 2012

99000 mi

US $55
side panel on driver's seat came loose. 2 of 3 attachment points on the plastic broke. Panel replaced with new factory part. 
Sep 2014

104000 mi
SRS light on. An independent shop had diagnosed the problem as a failed sensor in the driver's seatbelt buckle, but Honda won't sell that part. Honda fixed it at no cost (replaced buckle). 
Feb 2015

105000 mi

US $73
Replace right rear window regulator with aftermarket part. Window dropped while rolling down and would not move. Replace front ball joints, sway bar links, and left outer tie rod end boot. Replace front ball joints, sway bar links, and left outer tie rod end boot. Replace right rear window regulator with aftermarket part. Window dropped while rolling down and would not move. 
Mar 2015

105000 mi
AC compressor locked up. Diagnosis only. Appointment for repair booked. 
Apr 2015

107000 mi

US $1552
AC compressor locked. Replace compressor, receiver/drier and condenser. Evacuate/recharge/test. Replace grenaded AC compressor, condenser, receiver/drier. Recharge and test. 
May 2015

107000 mi

US $67
Driver's seat moulding with seat controls failed (plastic fractured around screw base). Replaced with new Honda factory part. 20 minutes tops. 
May 2016

110000 mi

US $52
Surging at 45 MPH, torque converter lock/unlock cycle. EGR valve known to cause this symptom. EGR valve replaced (very easy access). 
Feb 2017

114000 mi

US $55
Lockup engaging and disengaging at about 40 mph. Engine RPM fluction accompanying. CEL code 1491 (insufficient flow, EGR) hard starting, poor idle. cleaned EGR passages. 
Honda Pilot in California, United States
Jun 2009 - Feb 2022
Aug 2012

131300 mi

US $370
Front right CV boot cracked and leaked out grease. Installed new axles on both sides. Partsgeek.com had new axles for $45/ea! 
May 2013

140000 mi
Malfunctioning rear hatch lock switch was not allowing system to enter sleep mode. Causing battery to drain over the course of several days of non-operation. 
Dec 2014

147000 mi
3 electric door locks are not working. 
Mar 2016

152000 mi

US $45
Replaced 3 door lock actuators. 
Honda Pilot in New York, United States
Dec 2008 - Jul 2017
Feb 2010

12500 mi

US $40
Had oil pressure sensor replaced. Not under warranty, cost $38.00 at local repair shop. Oil light would flash when vehicle first (cold) started, would stay out when restarted. Replace oil pressure sensor. Light would flash when SUV was first started, then go out if SUV was restarted. Honda had TSB on problem. 
Feb 2014

31900 mi

US $400
Clear coat peeling from plastic trim parts and real spoiler. Had to be stripped and repainted. Seems to be common problem with Honda's. 
Sep 2014

36000 mi

US $300
Passenger side rear window would not go up. Replaced regulator. 
Dec 2014

38000 mi

US $200
Check engine light came on. Was diagnosed as a problem with a fuel vapor sensor. Replacement part had to ordered from Honda. 
Honda Pilot in Louisiana, United States
Dec 2007 - Jun 2013
Jan 2009

197000 mi

US $2400
Ordered new transmission due to failure of original equipment transmission, at about 197000. Note that this transmission had been the subject of a recall by Honda in 2004. 
Honda Pilot in Virginia, United States
Nov 2008 - Mar 2010
Dec 2008

96000 mi
Transmission would suddenly downshift 2 gears while constant driving at a constant speed. Very hard, abrupt downshift that if uncorrected would have eventually destroyed the transmission and drivetrain. Transmission replaced, but still has probs. 
Mar 2009

98000 mi
The replacement transmission was replaced again. This time it works fine 2000 miles later. 
Honda Pilot in Michigan, United States
Apr 2009 - Dec 2012
Dec 2009

155000 mi

US $11
Low beam headlight burned out. Due to location of bulb and fastening hardware close to air filter air box, it took me about 5 minutes to replace it. Probably due to inexperience.  
Feb 2011

175000 mi

US $750
EGR clogged, causing "check engine" light to come on. Tie rod end needed replacing. 
Jun 2012

190000 mi

US $525
Two of three motor mounts were replaced 
Honda Pilot in Ohio, United States
Jun 2009 - Jun 2011
Jul 2009

109000 mi

US $1200
Sqeaking driver's side window. Shop lubed the "channel" to address it. Front passenger side door lock motor broken. The lock no longer goes up or down along with the other doors when auto door lock/unlock is used. Paid about $50 to diagnose; not paying approx $400 to repair. Living with problem.  Rear passenger side seatback (top side of the seatback) latch that allows the seatback to fold down and seat move forward has a broken wire or connection, so it doesn't work. Paid about $50 to diagnose but not paying the approx $200 to $400 to fix. AC lines that run from front to rear AC unit have a leak. Dealer recharged the system, which provides a temporary fix. New parts and fix will be about $500. Dealer only charged $100 when recharge was estimated at $170. Inside rear door panel won't stay in place, exposing wires underneath. 
Nov 2009

110500 mi

US $300
Right or left tie rod needed replaced during installation of new tires. 
Aug 2010

132000 mi

US $800
Automatic lock motors on three of four doors needed replaced. They stopped working and thus required manual lifting of the locks once driver entered the vehicle. Problem rendered the autolock keyfob useless. 
Honda Pilot in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2005 - Sep 2012
Aug 2005

33796 mi
Honda replaced rear air vents because original installation fell apart. Honda replaced inside door handles. Honda replaced windshield washer sensor. 
Jul 2007

83362 mi
Honda replaced rear door under 5 yr warranty due to rust through. 
Sep 2008

93675 mi

C $337
Replaced front stabiliser links and bar bushings to stop rattle & clunking. 
Oct 2008

95220 mi

C $195
Replaced RF door lock actuator 
Apr 2009

99845 mi

C $459
Replaced front left inner tie rod. Replaced lower steering linkage. Replaced front left inner tie rod . Replaced lower steering linkage. 
May 2010

109120 mi

C $280
Pssenger door lock frozen & could not open the door.Had to replace the door lock assembly. Pssenger door lock frozen & could not open the door.Had to replace the door lock assembly. 
Jun 2010

109430 mi

C $1987
Ignition key could not be inserted. Replaced ignition switch and 2 new keys. Replaced water pump, timing belt, alternator belt Ignition key could not be inserted. Replaced ignition switch and 2 new keys. Replaced water pump, timing belt, alternator belt 
Jan 2011

112840 mi
Rust through on left rear wheel opening where steel meets fender meets plastic skirt. Many cars on the road like this. 
Oct 2011

117335 mi

C $1234
Replaced front flex pipe Replaced rear swaybar links Rust through on left rear wheel opening where steel fender meets plastic skirt. Many cars on the road like this. Repaired & repainted rust through on left rear wheel well quarter panel. Repaired & painted rust through on left rear wheel opening where steel fender meets plastic skirt. Many cars on the road like this. Replaced front flex pipe Replaced rear swaybar links Replaced rotors and pads all 4 wheels 
Apr 2012

121520 mi

C $551
Creaking noise in top right rear. Removed right rear interior panel & adjusted to find noise. Found 2 anchor bolts allowing movement between cross support bracket in front of bottom cargo area. Replaced & tightened bolts. Creaking gone. 
Jul 2012

124000 mi

C $90
Circuit board for DRL cracked & broke the solder line. Repaired it on the bench with a soldering iron. 
Honda Pilot in New York, United States
Feb 2009 - Jul 2016
Mar 2009

60000 mi

US $600
60,000 mile check - oil, wipers, rattle in left side driver wheel...lube 
Jan 2010

96200 mi

US $400
Transmission light went on - bad sensor in 4th gear or something. 
Mar 2012

88000 mi

US $500
tire "bushings" were weakened and needed to be replaced. 
Sep 2012

93000 mi

US $150
needed new battery 
Jun 2015

111000 mi

US $410
Rear Spoiler broke off and went flying on exit ramp. 
Jul 2016

117000 mi

US $1200
new front struts and rear sway bars. Ignition key not working. Had locksmith repair full ignition and provide new keys. 
Honda Pilot in New York, United States
Aug 2010 - Jul 2012
Sep 2010

108000 mi
Heard a scraping noise when turning the wheel to the left. Brought it to the dealer, said nothing's wrong but the backing plate should be adjusted and that will fix the problem. 
Oct 2010

108800 mi

US $905
Continued to hear the same scraping noise as before the last visit. This time they said the left wheel bearing assembly and axle need to be replaced. Don't understand how a week before this they said nothing was wrong with the same noise. 
Mar 2011

116000 mi
Grinding noise while braking. Assumed it was brakes, brought it in and was told brakes are fine, they don't hear any noise. 
Jul 2012

130000 mi

US $350
Ignition cylinder locked and key would not turn. Needed to replace cylinder. 

Return to top

2003 Honda Pilot 4-door

6-cylinder automatic AWD

Honda Pilot in Idaho, United States
Sep 2007 - Mar 2010
Sep 2008

70000 mi

US $300
Slight hesitation at 40 mph. Diagnosed as EGR valve defect. Fixed under recall at no cost. 

Return to top

See TrueDelta's information for all SUVs
See TrueDelta's information for all Honda models.

2003 Honda Pilot Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2003 Honda Pilot problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.