2024 Honda Pilot Safety Report
2024 Honda Pilot: Excellent Crash Ratings, But Numerous Recalls and 'Phantom Braking' Complaints Raise Real-World Safety Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2024 Honda Pilot
Reliability Score
The 2024 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 2024 Honda Pilot
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2024 Honda Pilot:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phantom Braking / Forward Collision Avoidance Malfunction The Forward Collision Avoidance system (CMBS) or Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) incorrectly detects obstacles (e.g., shadows, passing trucks) and applies sudden, automatic braking at various speeds, including highway speeds, increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Steering System Malfunctions / Loose Ball Bearing Complaints describe grinding noises, knocking sounds when turning, and a 'Steering assist reduced' warning. A recall (23V735000) addresses a loose ball bearing in the gear box assembly, which can lead to loss of steering control or lock-up. |
High | Common | new-12000 miles |
| Seat Belt Sensor Malfunctions Multiple reports indicate that second and third-row seatbelt sensors repeatedly give false unbuckled alerts, even when occupants are properly buckled, leading to persistent chimes and dashboard warnings. |
Medium | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Auto Idle-Stop Failure / Engine Stall The auto idle-stop feature can cause the engine to fail to restart at stop lights or after stopping, leading to the vehicle becoming unresponsive and requiring towing, posing a hazard in traffic. |
High | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Brake Pedal Pivot Pin Issue A recall (23V736000) indicates the brake pedal pivot pin may not be secured properly, potentially causing the pedal to shift and prevent proper braking, increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Fuel System Leaks / Filler Neck Separation A recall (23V737000) addresses potential separation of the fuel filler neck tube and fuel filler pipe, leading to fuel leaks and an increased risk of fire. |
High | Rare | new-unknown miles |
| Driver'S Seat Cushion Frame Fastener Issue Two recalls (23V734000, 23V733000) indicate that critical fasteners for the driver's seat cushion frame may not be tightened properly, potentially leading to inadequate driver restraint during a crash. |
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 2024 Honda Pilot:
9 complaints related to steering issues, including grinding noises, knocking, and warnings about reduced steering assist, compounded by a recall for a loose ball bearing.
7 complaints (4 under SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE and 3 under FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE) describe 'phantom braking' events where the system incorrectly activates.
5 complaints regarding malfunctioning seat belt sensors, particularly in the second and third rows, giving false unbuckled alerts.
5 complaints related to power train issues, including slow acceleration at low speeds and engine stalling due to auto idle-stop failure.
4 complaints (excluding those combined with FCAA) related to brake issues, including stiff brake pedals and inadvertent braking, supported by a recall for a brake pedal pivot pin.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2024 Honda Pilot
Is the 2024 Honda Pilot safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2024 Honda Pilot achieved excellent crash test ratings with an Overall 5-star rating. However, it has 84 complaints, 2 reported injuries, and 6 recalls, which is a high number for a new model year. Common issues like 'phantom braking' and steering problems, addressed by recalls, indicate potential real-world safety concerns despite strong crash test performance.
What are common problems with the 2024 Honda Pilot?
The most reported issues for the 2024 Honda Pilot include STEERING (9 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7 complaints), VISIBILITY/WIPER (6 complaints), SEAT BELTS (5 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (5 complaints). A significant pattern involves the Forward Collision Avoidance system causing 'phantom braking' and various steering malfunctions, some of which are covered by recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2024 Honda Pilot?
Yes, the 2024 Honda Pilot has 6 active recalls. These include issues with SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS (two separate recalls), SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP, and STEERING:RACK AND PINION:RACK. These recalls address serious safety concerns like loss of steering, brake failure, fuel leaks, and inadequate driver restraint.
How does the 2024 Honda Pilot perform in crash tests?
The 2024 Honda Pilot performs very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an Overall 5-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance.
What should I look out for if I own or plan to buy a 2024 Honda Pilot?
Owners or prospective buyers should be aware of potential 'phantom braking' events, steering system anomalies (noises, warnings), and seat belt sensor malfunctions. Ensure all 6 open recalls, particularly those related to steering, brakes, and fuel systems, have been addressed by a Honda dealership. Pay close attention to any sudden braking without cause or unusual steering behavior.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2024 Honda Pilot boasts excellent crash test ratings, the high number of complaints and 6 recalls for a new model year suggest potential reliability and safety issues, particularly with advanced driver-assistance systems and steering. Prospective buyers should ensure all recalls are completed and be vigilant for 'phantom braking' or steering problems.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2024 Honda Pilot
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2024 Honda Pilot. The data includes 84 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2024 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.