2020 Honda Passport

The 2020 Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and off-road capabilities. It comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Passport’s reliability, ample cargo space, and user-friendly technology. Common complaints revolve around the infotainment system’s interface, the 9-speed transmission’s occasional hesitation, and some wind noise at highway speeds.

Engine

3.5L V6

• VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, spark plug fouling, and engine misfires. This is often attributed to the VCM system, which shuts down cylinders to improve fuel economy.
  • Solution: Some owners have disabled the VCM system using aftermarket devices. Other solutions may include more frequent oil changes and addressing any underlying issues like worn piston rings. Honda has not offered an official fix, and aftermarket fixes may affect the warranty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Aftermarket VCM disabler, $100-$200. Engine repairs, $500 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic

• Hesitation and Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hesitation during acceleration, particularly when shifting from a stop or at low speeds. Rough or jerky shifts between certain gears have also been noted.
  • Solution: Software updates to the transmission control module (TCM) may improve shift quality. In some cases, replacing the transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update is typically covered under warranty. Transmission replacement, $4,000 - $6,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, particularly at highway speeds under light acceleration. This can be caused by a failing or worn torque converter.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, the entire transmission might need replacement, depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Torque converter replacement $1,500-$2,500, transmission replacement $4,000 - $6,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can freeze, lag, or reboot unexpectedly. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have also been reported.
  • Solution: Software updates can often resolve these issues. Resetting the system to factory settings might also help. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update is typically covered under warranty. Infotainment system replacement, $500 - $1,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the rear hatch not aligning correctly, leading to difficulty closing it properly or creating a gap that can allow water or debris to enter.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the hatch hinges and latch mechanism. In more severe cases, the hatch or surrounding body panels may need to be realigned.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the complexity of the adjustment or repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle. This may involve adding padding, tightening loose fasteners, or replacing worn clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+, depending on the complexity of the repair and whether it can be done DIY or requires professional help.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 Honda Passport generally exhibits good reliability, but certain issues are more prevalent. Engine problems related to VCM can lead to costly repairs, and transmission hesitation can be a nuisance. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and minor interior rattles are also common complaints. The severity of these issues varies, and many can be addressed through software updates or minor repairs. However, major repairs like transmission or engine work can be quite expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing.