The 2016 Pilot is the launch year of the third generation with the new J35Y6 V6 and the 9-speed ZF 9HP automatic on Touring/Elite trims. The 9-speed had widely reported shifting issues and Honda updated the software multiple times. The Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system also continues to cause oil-consumption complaints.
Launch-year 9-speed and VCM issues hurt this years score. The 6-speed Pilot trims are dramatically better.
Harsh shifts, gear hunting, and torque-converter judder on Touring/Elite. Multiple Honda software updates (TSB 17-043, 17-072). Some cars need valve-body replacement.
View P0700 Diagnosis →Variable Cylinder Management deactivates cylinders, accelerating ring wear. Some owners install VCMuzzler to disable. Class action settlement covered some 2008-2013 V6s; 2016 not directly covered.
View P0301 Diagnosis →Idle-stop battery fails early. Aftermarket disable kits common.
Run free diagnosis →System fails to restart at lights. Honda TSB addresses with software updates. Many owners disable.
Run free diagnosis →Display Audio freezes, lost backup-camera image. Multiple software updates released through 2018.
Run free diagnosis →Same low-mount condenser issue as the Accord. Rocks puncture it.
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Stick to EX or EX-L with the 6-speed automatic. Avoid Touring/Elite 9-speed cars unless software updates are documented.
Below average. Launch-year 9-speed problems are the dominant complaint. The 6-speed trims are far more reliable.
Plan $700-$1,000/year by year 5. Add $2,500 for transmission valve body or VCM piston-ring service if needed. Lifetime non-routine cost $4,000-$7,500 to 150K miles.
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If your 2016 Honda Pilot is throwing a check engine light, these are the codes most often associated with the problems above. Click any code for full diagnosis steps and typical repair costs.
Below average for a Honda. The launch-year 9-speed and VCM are the dominant complaints. The 6-speed trims are much better.
The ZF 9HP 9-speed transmission on Touring/Elite trims. Honda issued multiple software updates and some cars needed valve-body replacement.
EX-L. It has the 6-speed automatic that avoids the 9-speed complaints entirely.
The 6-speed trims routinely reach 200,000 miles. 9-speed cars often need transmission work earlier.
VCM cars can consume up to 1 quart per 1,000 miles. Check oil every fill-up and consider disabling VCM aftermarket.
Yes including Takata airbags and several minor campaigns. Check VIN at nhtsa.gov.