2014 Honda Pilot

The 2014 Honda Pilot is a popular mid-size SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It was offered with a single engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 250 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Pilot for its family-friendliness, ample cargo space, and smooth driving experience. However, some common complaints include the outdated 5-speed transmission, which can feel sluggish compared to newer vehicles with more gears, as well as the fuel economy not being as competitive as some newer SUVs.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, spark plug fouling, engine misfires, and vibration due to the VCM system switching between 6 and 3 cylinders. Some owners report the engine running rough or experiencing a lack of power.
  • Solution: Disabling the VCM system with aftermarket devices, replacing fouled spark plugs, and in severe cases, replacing piston rings to address oil consumption.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300+ for VCM disabler, $100-$200 for spark plug replacement, $2,000 - $4,000+ for piston ring replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, such as the valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifting between gears, particularly noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and replacement. In some cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for fluid flush, $500 - $1500+ for valve body repair/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or shuddering at low speeds, particularly when the torque converter is locking up.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush using Honda Genuine ATF-DW1 fluid, and in severe cases, torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for fluid flush, $800 - $1500+ for torque converter replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits noticeably lower than the front, especially when carrying passengers or cargo. This can lead to a bouncy or uncomfortable ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shocks and/or springs. Upgrading to heavy-duty springs can help prevent future sagging.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the parts and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently drains, requiring jump starts or premature battery replacement.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain, which could be a faulty relay, module, or aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to lock or unlock, often affecting one or more doors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear liftgate struggles to stay open or slams shut unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacing the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Outdated maps, slow response times, or complete failure of the navigation system.
  • Solution: Updating the navigation system software or map data. In severe cases, the entire unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software/map updates, $500 - $1500+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: A/C blows warm air, even when set to the coldest setting.
  • Solution: Recharge A/C refrigerant, repair A/C compressor or replace A/C components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the components.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Honda Pilot is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues to be aware of. The most concerning issues relate to the engine’s VCM system and the 5-speed transmission. Addressing these problems can range from relatively inexpensive fixes, like disabling VCM or replacing spark plugs, to more costly repairs such as piston ring replacement or transmission work. Electrical and suspension issues are also common, but generally less severe and expensive to fix. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchase decision. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.