2011 Honda Pilot Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2011 Honda Pilot's average reliability rating is heavily influenced by numerous critical recalls, especially for passenger frontal air bag inflators.
- Verify that all outstanding recalls, particularly those related to air bags and suspension, have been completed by a qualified technician.
- Despite no logged complaints, the extensive recall history indicates potential for unaddressed issues and warrants a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection.
- Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving an estimated 18 MPG combined, but expect higher fuel costs compared to smaller vehicles.
2011 Honda Pilot
Critical Failure Risk
A significant number of recalls involve Takata passenger frontal air bag inflators. These can rupture during deployment, sending shrapnel into the cabin. This is a critical safety defect.
Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Families seeking a practical, three-row SUV with a history of decent reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers prioritizing a pristine, trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2011 Honda Pilot Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Honda Pilot.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic 5-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
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Most Common Issues
1. Takata Air Bag Inflator Recall
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Suspension Bolt Tightening Recall
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2011 Honda Pilot reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Honda Pilot is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 11. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2011 Honda Pilot for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2011 Honda Pilot?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Honda Pilot is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Honda Pilot?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag System (Takata Inflator) (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).
What engine is in the 2011 Honda Pilot?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2011 Honda Pilot use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Pilot, transmission is Automatic 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Honda Pilot?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Honda Pilot?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2011 Honda Pilot?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Pilot, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2011 Honda Pilot use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Honda Pilot, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 5-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Honda Pilot?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Honda Pilot?
This model year has 11 official safety campaigns listed.