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Honda · Mid-Size SUV · 2016–2022

Honda Pilot 3

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda Pilot 3 is available with one engine variant at 284 hp.

3.5L V6 Earth Dreams · Petrol· 280 PS
2016 2022
Be Careful 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Honda 3.5L V6 Earth Dreams (Petrol, 280 PS) has the J35Y6 (3.5L V6 Earth Dreams) — rated: "Be Careful", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!ZF 9-speed shift quality — class action (2016-2018 worst)

ZF 9HP: harsh shifting, jerk on takeoff, unexpected acceleration/deceleration. 2016-2018 worst affected. Class action filed. Honda software updates improve but don't fully resolve. TCM miscalibration is the root cause. By 2019+ largely fixed through software updates.

Symptoms: Harsh shifts, jerk on takeoff, unexpected acceleration/deceleration, shift noises
from 50,000 km
Ad ZF 9-speed Honda Pilot9HP transmission Pilot class action
 High

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 8 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda Pilot 3 (2016–2022) — 3 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Brakes, Electronics, Body.

Pilot (J35Y6, 2016–2022) — Be Careful: NHTSA 23V751: rod bearing failure — 248,999 vehicles recalled, VCM oil consumption — compounds rod bearing failure risk, Intake valve carbon buildup (DI). Power: 280 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 3 have? +
The Honda Pilot 3 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda Pilot 3? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: J35Y6 (3.5L V6 Earth Dreams). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the J35Y6 (3.5L V6 Earth Dreams).
Which Honda Pilot 3 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda Pilot 3 — rated: "Decent". {description} 280 hp V6 in a family SUV: fundamentally solid engine, BUT: recall NHTSA 23V751 for incorrectly machined crank journals. Engine failure without warning, replacement $7,800-16,800. VCM oil consumption compounds the risk. ZF 9-speed judders on 2016-2018. Before buying: check BOTH recall status AND oil level.
Is the Honda Pilot 3 worth buying used? +
The Honda Pilot 3 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda Pilot 3? +
The Honda Pilot 3 is available with engine variants from 284 to 284 hp. Petrol: J35Y6 (3.5L V6 Earth Dreams).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee