2023 Honda Pilot Safety Report
2023 Honda Pilot: Strong crash ratings, but 5 recalls and emerging steering/electrical issues raise concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Honda Pilot
Reliability Score
The 2023 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 2023 Honda Pilot
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Honda Pilot:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Pedal Pivot Pin Not Secured Recall for improperly secured brake pedal pivot pin, potentially preventing brake application and increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Fuel Injection Software Error Recall for a software error in the fuel injection system that can lead to engine stall or loss of power, increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Fuel Filler Neck Separation Recall for potential separation of the fuel filler neck and pipe, leading to fuel leaks and increased fire risk. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Unsecured Driver'S Seat Recall for driver's seat critical fasteners, where an unsecured seat may not adequately restrain the driver during a crash. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Loose Steering Gearbox Ball Bearing Recall for a manufacturing error in the steering gearbox assembly that can result in loss of steering control or lock-up. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| False Seatbelt Warnings Rear and middle row seatbelt sensors frequently trigger false warnings and alarms even when buckled, causing distraction. |
Medium | Occasional | new-38000 miles |
| Steering Knocking/Groaning Noises Reports of knocking or groaning sounds when turning the steering wheel, with some owners having steering rack replacements. |
Medium | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Sudden Unintended Braking/Surging Isolated reports of the collision mitigation braking system engaging without reason or the vehicle surging forward unexpectedly. |
High | Rare | new-unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Honda Pilot:
Issues include inoperable rearview mirror console, emergency brake unavailable warnings, and general electrical system failures.
Complaints of knocking sounds, hard to turn steering wheel, and loss of steering control, leading to multiple steering rack replacements for some.
Frequent false warnings and alarms for unbuckled rear and middle row seatbelts, even when properly fastened.
Reports of windshield optical distortion, stress fractures in the windshield, and sudden shattering of the back glass.
Rough idling, engine miss-fires, and hesitation/surging when entering traffic.
Issues with 3rd row headrests not locking, driver seat becoming loose/rocky, and water leaks soaking seatbelts/airbag electronics.
Problems with the electric brake system, brake pedal sticking, and sudden unintended braking.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Honda Pilot
Is the 2023 Honda Pilot safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2023 Honda Pilot received a 5-star overall safety rating, indicating strong crash protection. However, it has 5 open recalls addressing critical safety components like brakes, steering, and fuel system, and 95 complaints with 2 reported injuries, suggesting some emerging reliability and safety concerns that buyers should be aware of.
What are common problems with the 2023 Honda Pilot?
The most reported issues for the 2023 Honda Pilot involve the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints), STEERING (7 complaints), and SEAT BELTS (5 complaints). Specific problems include false seatbelt warnings, knocking noises in the steering, and various electrical malfunctions. There are also significant recalls related to the brake pedal, fuel system, and steering gearbox.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 Honda Pilot?
Yes, the 2023 Honda Pilot has 5 active recalls. These include issues with the brake pedal pivot pin, fuel injection system software, fuel filler neck separation, unsecured driver's seat fasteners, and a loose ball bearing in the steering gearbox. These are serious safety concerns that should be addressed by a dealership.
How does the 2023 Honda Pilot perform in crash tests?
The 2023 Honda Pilot performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for side impact protection, and 4 stars for both frontal crash and rollover resistance.
Should I be concerned about the steering issues in the 2023 Honda Pilot?
Yes, steering issues are a significant concern for the 2023 Honda Pilot. There is a recall for a loose ball bearing in the steering gearbox that can lead to a loss of steering control, and NHTSA complaints specifically mention knocking sounds and difficulty turning the steering wheel, with some owners requiring multiple steering rack replacements.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2023 Honda Pilot has excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 5 active safety recalls and emerging complaints regarding steering, electrical systems, and seatbelts. Ensure all recalls have been addressed before purchase and consider an extended warranty.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Honda Pilot
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Honda Pilot. The data includes 95 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 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.