What do you think about first gen Honda Pilots… any big issues?


If it’s been driven in areas where they use road salt, check the rear subframe. They tend to rust badly.

Weston said:
If it’s been driven in areas where they use road salt, check the rear subframe. They tend to rust badly.

Yeah, living in Ohio, most first gens here have serious rust problems.

I love mine. It’s a 2005 with 293,000 miles, and I’ve only done regular maintenance and servicing. No major issues at all.

Definitely check for rust where the body and rear subframe connect. It’s a common problem.

I just picked up a 2005 with 194k miles. So far, it’s running great. The main things are to check for rust on the rear subframe and keep up with regular maintenance.

The 06-08 models are better. The 03-05 ones (and similar year Accords, Odyssey, and Acura TLs) have known transmission issues.

My wife’s 2005 Pilot EXL AWD has 270k miles. We’ve done valve adjustments, spark plugs, and a timing belt. Other repairs include resealing the oil pump, replacing the torque converter, and fixing the rear main seal. Maintenance has been key, but the power steering pump has a small leak, and the camshaft thrust plate seals seep a bit. Despite these, it runs strong, though the fuel economy could be better. I’m debating whether to keep pushing it to 500k miles or move on to something more efficient.

Try to find a 06-08 model if you can. They have updated transmissions and clear taillights. First gens are generally solid, but after 17+ years, finding one in good shape might take a while, especially in places like the Midwest where rust is a big issue.

Just keep in mind that Honda’s 4-cylinder engines tend to last longer and have fewer issues compared to their V6s. The J-series V6 is powerful but has a reputation for burning oil and other problems. I’ve owned over 20 Hondas, and the V6 models always gave me more trouble than the 4-cylinders.

I had a 2004 Pilot EX 4WD for three years. Bought it at 112k miles and sold it when the transmission started slipping at 145k. Early 2000s J-series automatics are known for overheating and failing. If you want a first gen, look for a 2006-2008 model with the revised transmission.

Our 2003 Pilot made it past 200k miles despite my dad not being great with maintenance. It even had multiple warning lights on the dash.

A friend of mine got theirs to 450k miles before a deer totaled it. Mid-2000s Hondas do have sensitive transmissions, so make sure it’s inspected, but they’re solid otherwise.

High mileage isn’t my thing, but make sure you get one with side airbags if possible. It’s a good safety feature.

Like others have said, check the rear subframe to make sure it’s not falling apart from rust.