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Honda · Mid-Size SUV · 2009–2015

Honda Pilot 2

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda Pilot 2 is available with one engine variant at 253 hp.

3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM · Petrol· 250 PS
2009 2015
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Honda 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM (Petrol, 250 PS) has the J35Z4 (3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Torque converter shudder at 30-40 mph — fluid deterioration

Torque converter lock-up clutch judders between 20-60 mph during light acceleration. Honda TSB attributes it to deteriorated transmission fluid under high heat. Transmission fluid flush can fix it temporarily. Software update to manage fluid temperature was released. Torque converter replacement $1,500-2,500 in persistent cases.

Symptoms: Shuddering between 30-40 mph during light acceleration, vibration through drivetrain
from 100,000 km
Ad torque converter Honda Pilot 2009-2015transmission fluid flush Pilot shudder
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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 9 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda Pilot 2 (2009–2015) — 4 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Body, Electronics, Interior.

Pilot (J35Z4, 2009–2015) — Be Careful: VCM oil consumption — class action, 1 qt per 1,000-2,000 miles, Camshaft lobe wear from chronic low oil, Timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles — critical maintenance. Power: 250 PS.

What to watch out for with the Honda Pilot? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Honda Pilot 2 have? +
The Honda Pilot 2 has 4 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda Pilot 2? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: J35Z4 (3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the J35Z4 (3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM).
Which Honda Pilot 2 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda Pilot 2 — rated: "Decent". {description} 250 hp V6 with 5-speed auto: the Pilot that put VCM on the map for all the wrong reasons. Class action for oil consumption (2009-2013). Burns 1 quart every 1,000-2,000 miles in bad cases. VCM Muzzler ($50) is the essential aftermarket fix. Torque converter shudder at 100k miles. Paint peeling on white models (class action). Fundamentally solid chassis and interior space, but the VCM issue defines this generation.
Is the Honda Pilot 2 worth buying used? +
The Honda Pilot 2 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda Pilot 2? +
The Honda Pilot 2 is available with engine variants from 253 to 253 hp. Petrol: J35Z4 (3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC VCM).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee