2003 Honda Pilot
Introduction: The 2003 Honda Pilot is a mid-size SUV that offers a comfortable ride and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. It is available with three engine options: a 2.4L 4-cylinder, a 3.0L V6, and a 3.5L V6. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic transmission for the 4-cylinder engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission for the V6 engines. The Pilot is known for its reliability, but it does have some common issues.
Engine 2.4L 4-Cylinder (160 horsepower/161 lb-ft torque)
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Causes a vacuum leak, leading to rough idling, stalling, and decreased fuel economy. Replace intake manifold gasket. $300 - $500+
3.0L V6 (210 horsepower/225 lb-ft torque)
- No Issues Found
3.5L V6 (240 horsepower/245 lb-ft torque)
- VTEC Solenoid Failure: Causes a loss of power and increased engine noise. Replace VTEC solenoid. $200 - $300+
Transmission 5-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Transmission Slipping: Causes the transmission to slip gears, resulting in a loss of power and difficulty shifting. Rebuild or replace transmission. $2,000 - $4,000+
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Strut Mount Failure: Causes a rattling or clunking noise when going over bumps. Replace strut mounts. $200 - $400+
Electrical
- Alternator Failure: Causes the battery to not charge properly, leading to a loss of electrical power. Replace alternator. $500 - $700+
Exterior
- Door Lock Actuator Failure: Causes the door locks to not work properly. Replace door lock actuator. $200 - $400+
Interior
- Climate Control Panel Failure: Causes the climate control system to not work properly. Replace climate control panel. $300 - $500+
- Cruise Control Failure: Causes the cruise control system to not work properly. Replace cruise control module. $200 - $400+
Summary: The 2003 Honda Pilot is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues. The most severe and expensive issue is transmission slipping, which can cost $2,000 - $4,000+ to fix. Other issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure and strut mount failure, are less costly but still inconvenient. Overall, the Pilot’s issues are manageable and do not significantly impact its reliability.