2021 Honda Pilot Safety Report
2021 Honda Pilot: Strong Crash Ratings, Numerous Recalls, and Persistent Electrical/Engine Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Honda Pilot
Reliability Score
The 2021 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 2021 Honda Pilot
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Honda Pilot:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Idle Stop Malfunction Engine stalls at stoplights or intersections when the auto idle stop feature is engaged, failing to restart, leading to loss of power and inability to shift gears, increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Failure Windshield camera malfunctions, disabling critical safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking system. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Electrical System Glitches Electrical components (lights, infotainment, dashboard) flash on/off, glitch, or cause the vehicle to turn on/off repeatedly, even when parked. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Rearview camera display intermittently fails to activate or shows a delayed/inoperative image, reducing driver visibility and increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure Fuel pump failure can cause engine stalling while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. Subject to recall. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Brake Master Cylinder Separation Tie rod fastener connecting the brake master cylinder can separate, leading to a loss of brake function. Subject to recall. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Air Bag Sensor Malfunction Occupant classification system sensor for the front passenger airbag may cause unintentional deployment, increasing injury risk. Subject to recall. |
High | Occasional | 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 Pilot:
A significant portion of complaints fall into a general or unspecified category, indicating diverse issues.
Frequent reports of electrical malfunctions, including flickering lights, infotainment issues, and vehicle turning on/off unexpectedly.
Issues related to engine stalling, misfires, and problems with the auto idle stop feature.
Malfunctions of the forward-facing camera and associated safety systems like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.
Complaints regarding airbag system failures, including non-deployment in crashes and sensor issues.
Combined electrical and engine problems, often related to the auto idle stop feature causing stalls.
Issues affecting visibility, including rearview camera failures and potentially side-view mirror problems (related to recall).
Specific complaints about the combined failure of forward collision avoidance and lane departure warning systems.
Reports related to tire issues, including those covered by a recall for over-cured tires.
Concerns where brake function and forward collision avoidance systems are simultaneously affected.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Honda Pilot
Is the 2021 Honda Pilot safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Honda Pilot achieved an excellent 5-star overall safety rating, with strong performance in crash tests (5-star side, 4-star frontal/rollover). However, it has 369 total complaints, 8 reported injuries, and 8 recalls addressing critical safety components like airbags, fuel pumps, and brakes. While crash protection is high, real-world reliability and specific system malfunctions are notable concerns.
What are common problems with the 2021 Honda Pilot?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Honda Pilot include 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (37 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (34 complaints), ENGINE (28 complaints), and FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (25 complaints). Specific problems frequently mentioned are auto idle stop malfunctions causing stalls, failures of the forward-facing camera disabling safety features, and general electrical glitches.
How many recalls does the 2021 Honda Pilot have?
The 2021 Honda Pilot has 8 recalls. These address significant safety concerns such as airbag sensor issues, fuel pump failure, brake master cylinder separation, rearview camera malfunctions, side-view mirror detachment, and tire defects.
Are there issues with the auto idle stop feature on the 2021 Honda Pilot?
Yes, there are numerous complaints regarding the auto idle stop feature on the 2021 Honda Pilot. Many drivers report the engine stalling at stops and failing to restart, leading to the vehicle being stuck in traffic and unable to shift gears, which is a significant safety hazard.
What are the main safety system concerns for the 2021 Honda Pilot?
The main safety system concerns for the 2021 Honda Pilot revolve around the FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE system (25 complaints) and AIR BAGS (21 complaints). Malfunctions of the windshield camera can disable multiple ADAS features, and there's a recall for airbag sensor issues that could lead to unintentional deployment.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Honda Pilot boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the numerous recalls and a high volume of complaints, particularly concerning electrical systems, engine stalls from auto idle stop, and forward collision avoidance system failures. Ensure all recalls have been addressed and consider an extended test drive to check for any intermittent electrical or engine issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Honda Pilot
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Honda Pilot. The data includes 369 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.