2019 Honda Passport Safety Report

The 2019 Honda Passport presents a mixed safety profile. While it achieved strong NHTSA safety ratings with an overall 5-star rating, including 5 stars for side impact and 4 stars for frontal and rollover, the vehicle has a notable number of complaints and recalls. With 257 total complaints, 7 crashes, and 5 injuries reported, there are clear areas of concern. A significant portion of complaints, 33, fall under 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER,' indicating a broad range of issues. However, specific patterns emerge, particularly with the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (29 complaints) and 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' (15 complaints), often linked to camera and sensor malfunctions that disable critical safety features. The recall history is extensive, with 8 recalls issued. Several recalls directly address critical safety components, such as two separate recalls for 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP' which can lead to engine stalls, and multiple recalls related to the 'BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION' and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE' that impact the rearview camera and instrument panel displays. Furthermore, structural integrity was a concern, with a recall for 'STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD' where the hood latch striker could fail, and another for 'STRUCTURE:BODY' regarding incomplete welding of front frame members, which could compromise occupant protection in a crash. Common complaint patterns include issues with the auto idle-stop feature causing the vehicle to stall or fail to restart, often leaving drivers stranded. Malfunctions of the front camera are also prevalent, leading to the disabling of advanced safety features like Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Despite the high crash test ratings, the volume and nature of complaints, especially those related to engine stalling and the failure of active safety systems, suggest that real-world reliability and safety performance may not always align with initial crash test results. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and ensure all recalls have been addressed.

Our recommendation: While the 2019 Honda Passport has strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the numerous recalls and common complaints regarding electrical systems, engine stalling, and advanced safety feature malfunctions. Ensure all 8 recalls have been completed and consider an extended warranty, especially for electrical and powertrain components.