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2016 Honda Pilot Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2016 Honda Pilot Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • With zero recalls and zero complaints, the 2016 Honda Pilot appears safe on the surface, but 199 TSBs suggest potential for numerous minor to moderate issues.
  • The 3.5L V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission with All-Wheel Drive offer balanced performance for a family SUV.
  • Achieving 21 MPG combined, fuel costs are moderate for its class.
  • A 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating provides peace of mind for families.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Honda Pilot

The 2016 Honda Pilot presents itself as a practical family hauler with a strong emphasis on safety, boasting a 5-star overall NHTSA rating. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and available All-Wheel Drive provides competent performance for daily driving and road trips. However, a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicate a higher likelihood of encountering various minor to moderate issues compared to vehicles with cleaner records. While no safety recalls or owner complaints were logged, the sheer volume of TSBs warrants careful consideration and a meticulous pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A high number of TSBs point to potential issues with the vehicle's infotainment system, navigation, and other electronic control modules. These can manifest as minor annoyances or more significant operational problems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.8/ 10

Practicality

5.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a safe and spacious SUV with good fuel economy for its class.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers expecting near-flawless reliability with minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Honda Pilot Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Honda Pilot.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
8
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

1. Software Glitches and Electronic System Issues

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Transmission Fluid Leaks

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $120 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Honda Pilot reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Honda Pilot is 9.8/10. Reliability score is 9.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Honda Pilot for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 8. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 524 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Honda Pilot is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Infotainment System (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2016 Honda Pilot use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Honda Pilot, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Honda Pilot, seating capacity is 8.

What body style is the 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Honda Pilot, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Honda Pilot use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Honda Pilot, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2016 Honda Pilot good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2016 Honda Pilot is a family-oriented SUV that prioritizes comfort and practicality over performance.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Honda Pilot?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Highlander and 2016 Ford Explorer.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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