Honda Pilot III (YF3) (2015 – 2022)

Reliability score : 8.5/10

The third-generation Honda Pilot (YF3) is a large 3-row family SUV (up to 8 seats), designed primarily for the North American market. It breaks away from the boxy design of the previous generation (YF1) to adopt softer and more aerodynamic lines. Based on a platform shared with the Acura MDX and the Honda Odyssey, it stands out for its ride comfort, generous interior space, and robust 3.5L V6 engine from the EarthDreams family. A major facelift occurred in 2019, bringing aesthetic tweaks, a modernized infotainment system (with a physical volume knob), and a lifesaving reprogramming of the 9-speed automatic gearbox. According to data from ADAC and J.D. Power, the Pilot ranks above average in its category in terms of overall reliability, earning the 'Recommended' label from Consumer Reports

✅ Strengths

Overall reliability of the 3.5L V6 engine block (confirmed by ADAC and Consumer Reports)
Exceptional interior space and modularity (up to 8 real seats)
High-level suspension comfort and soundproofing
Highly capable i-VTM4 AWD system on snow
High resale value on the North American market

⚠️ Weaknesses

Hesitant and jerky ZF 9-speed automatic gearbox (high trims) on 2016-2017 models
Slow and bug-prone infotainment system on 2016-2018 models
Sensitivity of the direct injection to carbon buildup at high mileage
Numerous NHTSA recalls regarding electronics and accessories

🎯 Verdict

The third-generation Honda Pilot is an excellent choice for large families looking for a spacious, comfortable SUV equipped with an extremely robust V6 engine. Data from ADAC and J.D. Power confirm its above-average reliability. Verdict: BUY, but with an important nuance depending on the year and trim. Strongly favor the facelifted models (2019-2022) which correct the early flaws of the ZF 9-speed automatic gearbox and offer a multimedia system that is finally up to par. If your budget points you toward the 2016-2018 models, prefer the LX, EX, or EX-L trims equipped with the 6-speed automatic gearbox, which is much smoother and more reliable than the 9-speed automatic of the early years. Make absolutely sure that the critical recalls (fuel pump, timing belt, connecting rods) have been performed.

Common issues

Problèmes de transmission (hésitations, à-coups, changements de vitesse brusques) sur les modèles équipés de la boîte 9 rapports (2016-2017 principalement). High

🔧 50 000 – 120 000 km

💶 3 000 – 6 000 $USD (remplacement/reconstruction)

Tester la transmission à fond, vérifier l'historique des mises à jour logicielles.

Consommation d'huile excessive et ratés d'allumage dus au système VCM (Variable Cylinder Management). moyenne à haute

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 500 – 2 000 $USD (nettoyage, bougies, module VCM)

Envisager un module de désactivation VCM pour prévenir les problèmes.

Fuites du condenseur de climatisation entraînant une perte d'efficacité ou panne complète du système. Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 700 – 1 200 $USD (remplacement du condenseur)

Vérifier le bon fonctionnement de la climatisation avant achat.

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement (écran figé, redémarrages intempestifs, caméra de recul). faible à moyenne

🔧 Dès 30 000 km

💶 0 – 1 000 $USD (mise à jour logicielle à remplacement module)

Tester toutes les fonctions multimédia et la caméra de recul.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing belt	£700 – 1 300
Complete brakes	£350 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.