What are the most common problems with the 2018 Honda Pilot?

Significant safety-critical recalls, particularly for the fuel pump and engine internal components, demand careful attention and verification of repairs.

How many recalls does the 2018 Honda Pilot have?

The 2018 Honda Pilot currently has 42 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2018 Honda Pilot a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Significant safety-critical recalls, particularly for the fuel pump and engine internal components, demand careful attention and verification of repairs. Despite a high recall count, consumer complaints are minimal, suggesting proactive manufacturer response or incomplete complaint data. The Pilot earns a top 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating strong performance in crash tests. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, rated at 21 MPG combined. The absence of specific complaint topics means potential issues must be inferred from recall data and reliability assessments. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2018 Honda Pilot?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2018 Honda Pilot.

2018 Honda Pilot Report

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

Updated Jun 6, 2026Ryan Davis39 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Significant safety-critical recalls, particularly for the fuel pump and engine internal components, demand careful attention and verification of repairs.
Despite a high recall count, consumer complaints are minimal, suggesting proactive manufacturer response or incomplete complaint data.
The Pilot earns a top 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating strong performance in crash tests.
Fuel economy is respectable for its class, rated at 21 MPG combined.

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Overview

2018 Honda Pilot

The 2018 Honda Pilot presents itself as a capable three-row SUV, boasting a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provides adequate power for family duties, achieving an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined. However, a high volume of recalls, especially those related to the engine and fuel pump, raises concerns about its long-term mechanical integrity. While consumer complaints are notably absent, the sheer number and nature of the recalls suggest a higher-than-average risk profile for used car shoppers.

Critical Failure Risk

The fuel pump module can fail, leading to stalling and potential loss of propulsion. This is a recurring issue with multiple recalls.

Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$6,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls42

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families needing three rows of seating and Honda's reputation for practicality.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal mechanical concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Honda Pilot Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

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

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Most Common Issues

1. Fuel Pump Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Engine Hard Parts Failure (Connecting Rod Bearings)

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 - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

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

42 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2018 Honda Pilot reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Honda Pilot is 6.8/10. Reliability score is 6.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 42. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Honda Pilot for daily use?

Practicality score is 6.1/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 8. 5 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 510 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Honda Pilot?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Honda Pilot is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 6.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Honda Pilot?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $1,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Honda Pilot?

Base MSRP is $41,970.

What engine is in the 2018 Honda Pilot?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2018 Honda Pilot use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Honda Pilot, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Honda Pilot?

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Honda Pilot?

12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Honda Pilot?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Honda Pilot, seating capacity is 8.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Honda Pilot use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Honda Pilot, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Honda Pilot?

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Honda Pilot?

This model year has 42 official safety campaigns listed.