2021 Honda Passport Safety Report
2021 Honda Passport: Strong Crash Ratings, but Frequent Forward Collision Avoidance and Powertrain Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Honda Passport
Reliability Score
The 2021 Honda Passport receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Honda Passport
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Honda Passport:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unintended Collision Mitigation Braking System (Cmbs) Activation The vehicle's CMBS system activates brakes without an imminent threat, causing sudden deceleration and increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Engine Stall/Failure To Restart After Idle Stop The engine fails to restart after the auto idle stop feature engages, leading to vehicle immobilization, often in traffic. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure A recalled fuel pump can fail, causing an engine stall while driving and increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Brake Master Cylinder Separation A recalled issue where the brake master cylinder can separate, leading to a loss of brake function. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Rearview Camera Display Failure A recalled faulty communication coaxial cable can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, reducing rear visibility. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Transmission Hesitation/Failure To Engage Transmission is slow to engage from reverse to drive or experiences power loss/hesitation while driving. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Engine Knocking/Rod Bearing Failure Abnormal knocking sounds from the engine, potentially indicating connecting rod bearing failure requiring engine replacement. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Honda Passport:
Frequent complaints about the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) activating without cause, leading to sudden braking.
Issues include engine stalling, failure to restart after idle stop, and transmission hesitation or failure to engage.
Reports of engine knocking, rod bearing failure, and general power loss.
Combined issues of service brake problems and unintended CMBS activation.
Problems with the electrical system, including infotainment unit restarts and general electrical malfunctions.
General service brake issues, including master cylinder concerns and loss of braking function.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Honda Passport
Is the 2021 Honda Passport safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Honda Passport received an excellent 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars for side impact and 4 stars for frontal and rollover tests. However, it has 122 complaints, including 10 crashes and 3 injuries, with a notable pattern of issues related to its forward collision avoidance system and powertrain, which have led to unintended braking and engine stalls.
What are common problems with the 2021 Honda Passport?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Honda Passport are related to the FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE system (19 complaints), with many owners experiencing unintended braking. POWER TRAIN (17 complaints) and ENGINE (7 complaints) issues, such as engine stalls and failures to restart after idle stop, are also frequently cited. There are also concerns with the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6 complaints) and SERVICE BRAKES (6 complaints).
Has the 2021 Honda Passport been recalled?
Yes, the 2021 Honda Passport has been subject to 5 recalls. These include recalls for the fuel pump (NHTSA Recall 21V-215), brake master cylinder (NHTSA Recall 21V-215), rearview camera display function (NHTSA Recall 23V-858), air bag occupant classification sensor (NHTSA Recall 23V-858), and side-view mirror heating pads (NHTSA Recall 21V-215).
Are there issues with the automatic emergency braking system?
Yes, there are significant issues reported with the automatic emergency braking system, specifically the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS). It is the most complained-about component (19 complaints), with numerous owners reporting instances of the system activating and braking the vehicle without any actual obstacle or threat, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 Honda Passport?
When considering a used 2021 Honda Passport, pay close attention to the operation of the forward collision avoidance system for any signs of unintended braking. Also, check for any powertrain irregularities, such as engine hesitation, stalling, or issues with the auto idle stop feature. Ensure all 5 recalls have been addressed by a Honda dealership, particularly those related to the fuel pump, brake master cylinder, and rearview camera.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Honda Passport has strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring complaints regarding the forward collision avoidance system and powertrain, and verify that all 5 outstanding recalls have been completed for critical safety components.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Honda Passport
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Honda Passport. The data includes 122 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Honda Passport an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.