2018 Honda Pilot Safety Report
2018 Honda Pilot: Strong Crash Ratings, but Significant Engine, Fuel System, and Transmission Recalls and Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Honda Pilot
Reliability Score
The 2018 Honda Pilot 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 2018 Honda Pilot
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Honda Pilot:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Stalling/Loss Of Power Numerous complaints and recalls (e.g., timing belt, engine hard parts) point to engine issues causing sudden loss of power or stalling while driving, increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | 50000-100000 miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure A widespread recall addresses defective fuel pumps that can lead to engine stall. Complaints indicate both low and high-pressure pump failures. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Transmission/Torque Converter Failure Complaints frequently describe delayed acceleration, loss of power, transmission warning lights, and complete transmission failure, often linked to torque converter issues (P0741 code). |
High | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Hood Latch Separation A recall addresses the hood latch striker potentially separating, which could cause the hood to open while driving and obstruct the driver's view. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Camshaft Sensor/Engine Timing Issues Complaints mention P0369 codes, camshaft sensor failures, and engine knocking, sometimes leading to complete engine failure. |
Medium | Occasional | 70000-90000 miles |
| Front Seat Security In Crash A recall indicates that front driver and passenger powered seats may not remain secured to the floor in a crash, increasing injury risk. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Honda Pilot:
62 complaints related to engine issues, including stalling, knocking, loss of power, and complete failure, often linked to manufacturing defects or timing belt problems.
52 complaints regarding fuel system, primarily fuel pump failures (both low and high pressure), leading to engine stalls and drivability issues.
30 complaints about power train, frequently involving transmission malfunctions, delayed acceleration, and torque converter failures (P0741).
23 complaints, often related to warning lights, sensor failures (e.g., camshaft sensor), and electrical issues impacting engine operation.
11 complaints, including seat belt snapping or issues with seat security, correlating with a recall for front seat attachment.
9 complaints, including issues with the hood latch, which is also subject to a recall.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Honda Pilot
Is the 2018 Honda Pilot safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Honda Pilot received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall). However, it has 413 complaints and 5 recalls, primarily concerning engine, fuel system, and transmission failures that can lead to loss of power or stalling, posing a safety risk despite strong crash performance.
What are common problems with the 2018 Honda Pilot?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Honda Pilot are engine problems (62 complaints), fuel system failures (52 complaints), and power train/transmission issues (30 complaints). These often manifest as sudden loss of acceleration, engine stalling, or torque converter malfunctions.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Honda Pilot?
Yes, the 2018 Honda Pilot has 5 recalls. These include issues with the fuel pump, engine hard parts, hood latch striker, timing belt, and front seat security in a crash. It's crucial to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Does the 2018 Honda Pilot have transmission problems?
Yes, the 2018 Honda Pilot has a notable number of complaints (30 under POWER TRAIN) and specific issues like torque converter failure (P0741 code) and delayed acceleration, indicating recurring transmission problems.
What is the reliability of the 2018 Honda Pilot?
The reliability of the 2018 Honda Pilot is impacted by significant mechanical issues, particularly with the engine, fuel system, and transmission, as evidenced by 413 complaints and 5 recalls. While some owners may not experience these, the data suggests a higher propensity for critical component failures compared to vehicles with fewer complaints and recalls.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the strong crash test ratings but significant recalls and complaints regarding critical engine, fuel, and transmission components, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended, along with verifying all 5 recalls have been completed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Honda Pilot
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Honda Pilot. The data includes 413 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 11 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Honda Pilot 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.