2005 Honda Pilot Review
Price Range: $4,200 - $4,995
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Roomy interior with eight-passenger seating, versatile storage and cargo-hauling abilities, many standard features, comfortable ride, smooth power delivery.
Cons
- Mediocre towing capacity, side curtain airbags not available, feels big behind the wheel.
What’s new
The 2005 Honda Pilot receives a new 255-hp engine, along with numerous functional changes. A tire-pressure monitoring system has been added, and EX models with leather get vehicle stability control. Slightly increased fuel capacity helps extend driving range, and a revised power steering pump provides improved on-center steering feel. Inside the cabin, the instrument panel has been tweaked with ambient lighting and a six-disc CD changer for all EX trims. A driver footrest has been added, and leather-upholstered EX models can now be had with a sunroof. The LX now has standard keyless entry, and all models get an integrated remote key and fob. Honda has made slight frame changes this year that resulted in improved IIHS crash test ratings.
Edmunds says
One of the best crossover SUVs available, the 2005 Honda Pilot is an excellent choice for large, active families in need of versatility.
For sale near Columbus, OH
70 listings
- $4,200good price$1,766 below market
- 163,006 miles
- 8 Seats, 15 City / 20 Hwy MPG
- 14 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Heated seats
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Third-row seating
Close
Located in Columbus, OH
Visit Kamil Auto Sales And Service online at kamilautosales.net to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 614-323-2033 today to schedule your...
- Features and Specs:
- 17 Combined MPG (15 City/20 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 5FNYF18555B021135
- Stock:
- KF91
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 06-26-2025
- Photos not available$4,995fair price$770 above market
- 257,228 miles
- 8 Seats, 15 City / 20 Hwy MPG
- 28 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Heated seats
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Third-row seating
Close
Located in Lancaster, OH
- Features and Specs:
- 17 Combined MPG (15 City/20 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 2HKYF18565H533326
- Stock:
- 533326
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 04-18-2026
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners of the 2005 Honda Pilot consistently appreciate its remarkable reliability and sturdy construction. Many drivers have clocked high mileage, with several exceeding 200,000 miles, demonstrating the vehicle's longevity when properly maintained. The smooth ride quality is a recurring point of praise, with owners frequently likening it to driving a car rather than an SUV. This helps make long commutes and family road trips far more enjoyable. The interior space and layout of the Pilot earn high marks from families needing room for passengers and cargo, with the versatile third-row seating being especially valued. Drivers enjoy the upright seating position, which enhances comfort and long-distance driving endurance. Another standout feature is the Pilot's capable V6 engine, which many owners find powerful and responsive, allowing for confident highway passing and acceleration. The vehicle's all-wheel-drive capability provides reassurance in inclement weather, like snowy or icy conditions, proving its prowess as an all-season performer. Despite its size, the Pilot’s maneuverability is noted to be excellent, providing ease of navigation in urban settings, which some owners compare favorably against smaller SUVs. The straightforward and functional interior design, although described as spartan by some, is appreciated for its simplicity and durability over time. The Pilot's towing capacity, whilst not the highest, meets the needs of light towing, which fits the requirements of those hauling smaller loads or trailers for weekend getaways. High marks go to the vehicle's solid feel on the road, contributing to a strong sense of safety that many owners value highly, especially in family transport situations. Drivers are pleased with the relatively quiet cabin, noting that the wind and road noise remain unobtrusive at highway speeds, which enhances the driving experience. Owners of Hondas are accustomed to durable engines, and the Pilot’s engine maintains that reputation, seen in its consistent performance and minimal major issues over extended use. Many loyal Honda drivers cite the Pilot as a top vehicle choice for its dependability paired with Honda’s usual low maintenance costs. Utility is another aspect where the Pilot excels, with numerous drivers mentioning its capacity to haul substantial amounts of cargo and gear, making it ideal for active lifestyles. Visibility out of the Pilot is another applauded aspect, providing confidence in changing lanes and parking. The handling, considered car-like and responsive, facilitates driving ease in both dense traffic and open highways. The onboard entertainment options and climate systems are viewed favorably, contributing further to the Pilot’s suitability for long family drives. Additionally, many owners praise the vehicle's ability to comfortably transport both children and adults, which underscores its practicality. Even as their family needs change, many express interest in purchasing another Pilot, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable vehicle choice. Most importantly, many owners experience peace of mind knowing their Pilot has a strong reputation for safety in various driving conditions, contributing to its popularity among families.
Common Issues
The 2005 Honda Pilot faces a number of recurring issues that have affected its owners' experiences. A notable problem is the tendency for the radiator and transmission to develop issues due to radiator cooler fittings failing, which can lead to costly repairs. Several drivers report that this failure results in coolant mixing with transmission fluid, prompting premature transmission wear or failure. Owners advise replacing the radiator or installing an external transmission cooler to forestall this issue. Fuel economy is another common complaint, with city mileage often falling short of expectations, a point of frustration for those mindful of fuel costs. Power delivery, while generally smooth, is occasionally marred by an unexpectedly sensitive throttle response, which some find takes time to adjust to. Although the Pilot handles well, its brakes are another frequently mentioned area of concern—owners note that they often require more frequent replacement than anticipated. Rust issues, particularly affecting the frame, become a concern for some, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt exposure. The fan motor for the air conditioning has also caused trouble, vibrating annoyingly at high speeds for several drivers. Interior complaints include the presence of road noise, despite an otherwise quiet engine, which can detract from the overall driving experience at higher speeds. Seating comfort in the third row is another issue, described by multiple owners as cramped and best suited for small adults or children. Leather seats are prone to cracking, especially the driver’s seat, with some needing multiple replacements within a few years. Electrical quirks, such as malfunctioning sensors, are mentioned with frustration as they contribute to the vehicle’s less-than-perfect reputation. Some owners have reported spontaneous interior rattles and buzzes, particularly from the dashboard, which can be a source of ongoing annoyance. The climate controls and radio system design are criticized for being somewhat unwieldy and not as ergonomic as drivers would prefer. Transmission woes extend beyond the cooler fittings, as some drivers note the automatic transmission can be jerky and occasionally slips gear. The tire pressure monitoring system is another problematic feature, giving inconsistent readings that can lead to unnecessary maintenance panic. Visibility out of the rear can be somewhat impaired when the third row is occupied, making parking and navigating tight spaces more challenging. High maintenance costs, when broader issues do occur, are a deterrent for some previous Honda enthusiasts who expect lower upkeep obligations. Additionally, the frequent need for brake and tire replacements can become quite costly over time. Engine problems, though less common, are nonetheless severe when they arise, with instances of engine failure reported at unexpectedly low mileages. Despite its strong powertrain, these problems can overshadow the Pilot's generally favorable performance characteristics.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2005 Honda Pilot is a mixed bag in the realm of everyday driving experiences. It is widely praised for its spacious interior and flexible seating arrangements, making daily tasks like school drop-offs and grocery runs a breeze. Owners enjoy its car-like handling, which simplifies navigating through city traffic. The Pilot’s visibility, especially in front and to the sides, is frequently noted as enhancing maneuverability, a major boon for urban drivers. For those with lengthy commutes, the vehicle's smooth ride and snug seats contribute to a generally comfortable experience. Users celebrate the reliable powertrain and appreciate the SUV’s acceleration, allowing them to merge onto highways with confidence. However, intrusive road noise on highway journeys can detract from an otherwise serene cabin environment. The cargo space, particularly when the third row is folded down, remains a favorite characteristic among families and active individuals. Its all-weather capability and four-wheel drive provide reassurance during adverse weather, fostering a sense of security during those unpredictable daily conditions. Despite these positives, routine experiences with the 2005 Pilot aren’t without their challenges. Fuel efficiency isn’t the strong suit of this SUV, frequently disappointing those expecting thriftier fuel consumption. Additionally, several drivers express frustration over more frequent maintenance demands, such as replacing tires and brake pads. Electrical gremlins, mostly minor, persist in causing annoyance with random sensor malfunctions that blacken an otherwise reliable driving record. Maintenance-savvy owners seem to extract better longevity from their Pilots, relishing its durable build when regularly serviced. At its core, the Pilot provides a favorable balance of comfort, utility, and performance for many of its users. Complaints regarding seat discomfort, particularly during extended trips, are prominent, yet individually vary depending on driver height and posture. The SUV’s exterior styling, while not groundbreaking, meets the average owner’s taste and satisfies their baseline aesthetic preferences. Day-to-day driving does highlight some weaknesses in the vehicle’s acoustic insulation, leading to increased cabin noise on tougher road surfaces. While it envelops families easily, some owners note the interior’s utilitarian look, wishing for a touch more flair. The infotainment system, now outdated, satisfies basic needs, but modern conveniences are noticeably absent for tech-savvy drivers. On the upside, the Pilot’s conducive layout for easy loading and unloading is a valuable trait for any busy household's routine. Ultimately, the vehicle has earned a reputation as a dependable workhorse, and for many owners, it aptly fits the bill as a family-centric SUV…
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$293/mo for Pilot LX
Pilot LX
vs
$237/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Reliability
The 2005 Honda Pilot has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 16 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
16 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 19V501000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- E5D, X5C
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-10-16 to 2004-12-13
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1657752
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2012 RL, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are E5D and X5C.
- Recall Number:
- 19V499000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- Q5A, Y58
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-08-22 to 2002-08-22
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 3947
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2003-2006 MDX, 2001-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot and 2006 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are Q5A and Y58.
- Recall Number:
- 19V182000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- U40,M45,O4
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-08-12 to 2005-09-02
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1101534
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.
- Defect Consequence:
- An explosion of an inflator within the driver frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver, front seat passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning on April 17, 2019, however, dealers are ready to begin repairs immediately. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is O41. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is U40.
- Recall Number:
- 19E068000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- AS1019XXXX
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 3744
- Defect Description:
- Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain Accelerator Pedal Assemblies part numbers 699-114 and 825-5029-1, sold as replacement parts for 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2004-2008 Acura TL and TSX, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2007-2011 Honda Element, 2005-2008 Honda Pilot and 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline vehicles. The rotating portion of the accelerator pedal assembly may bind. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 124, "Accelerator Control Systems."
- Defect Consequence:
- If the accelerator pedal binds, the engine may not quickly return to idle after the pedal is no longer pressed, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Dorman will notify owners, and qualified service facilities will replace the affected accelerator pedal assemblies, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin by December 2019. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, using option 5. Dorman's number for this recall is AS1019XXXX.
- Recall Number:
- 18V268000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- C1X
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-10-21 to 2005-01-28
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 492
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 CR-V, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.
- Defect Consequence:
- An incorrectly installed air bag may deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin June 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are K1P, and M1O.
- Recall Number:
- 17V029000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- KD9, KE0
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 308884
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2011 Honda Element vehicles, 2005-2012 Acura RL vehicles, 2006-2012 Honda Ridgeline vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles and 2005-2008 Honda Pilot vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2009 Acura RL and Honda Element vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles, 2005-2008 Honda Pilot vehicles and 2006-2009 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2008 Acura RL, Honda Element and Honda Pilot vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles and 2006-2008 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KD9 and KE0.
- Recall Number:
- 16V344000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- KA0, KA1,
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1790894
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2011 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2011 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2008 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2008 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2008 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling model year 2002-2004 Odyssey and model year 2003-2004 Acura MDX, Honda Element, and Honda Pilot vehicles originally sold, or registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began June 27, 2016. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KA0, KA1, KA2, and KA3.
- Recall Number:
- 15V320000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 5100000
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2007 Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2006 Ridgeline, 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2003-2006 Acura MDX, and 2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion and other factors, including manufacturing variability that, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238, select option 4. Note: Vehicles that have had their driver frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy prior to September 12, 2014 need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Vehicles that, on or after September 12, 2014, received a remedy for a prior driver frontal air bag inflator recall already received an inflator of a different design, and therefore are not included in this recall and do not require additional servicing. Note: This recall fully supersedes recalls 08V-593, 09V-259, 10V-041, 11V-260, 14V-351 and 15V-153.
- Recall Number:
- 14V700000
- Manufactured from:
- 2002-02-21 to 2005-03-30
- Defect Description:
- American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic, 2003-2004 Civic CNG and Element, 2002-2005 CR-V, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2005 Accord, Pilot, Civic Hybrid, and Acura MDX, 2005 Acura RL and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa are addressed by this recall. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger+s frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 14V353000
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-08-12 to 2004-09-24
- Defect Description:
- American Honda Motor Company, Inc.'s (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2003-2005 Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot and Acura MDX, model year 2003-2004 Odyssey and Element, and model year 2005 Acura RL, and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in California, and equipped with Takata-brand air bag inflators. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger+s frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflators in all affected vehicles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during August 2014. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 14V351000
- Defect Description:
- American Honda Motor Company, Inc. (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2001-2007 Accord (4-cylinder), 2001-2002 Accord (V6), 2001-2005 Civic, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2007 Pilot, 2006 Ri
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver side frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the vehicle occupants.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflators in all affected vehicles, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 13V092000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- S87, S88,
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-07-29 to 2005-08-29
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 183576
- Defect Description:
- Honda is recalling certain model year 2005 Pilot vehicles manufactured July 29, 2004, through August 29, 2005; model year 2005-2006 Acura MDX vehicles manufactured September 16, 2004, through September 22, 2005; and model year 2005 Acura RL vehicles manufactured March 1, 2004, through June 29, 2005. An electrical capacitor may have been damaged during the manufacturing of the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) control module causing intermittent, automatic, minor brake application. However, if the driver applies the brakes while the VSA is malfunctioning, the vehicle may come to an abrupt stop. Additionally, due to a loose ground connection, certain model year 2005 Pilots have a VSA system that may apply partial brake force, without the illumination of the brake lights, whether or not the driver is using the brakes.
- Defect Consequence:
- Sudden inadvertent braking, especially without illumination of the brake lights, may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Owners will be notified and instructed to take their vehicles to a dealer of their respective brand. The dealer will install a partial wiring harness containing a capacitor for the VSA modulator, free of charge. The affected model year 2005 Pilots will have their ground connection tightened. The recall is expected to begin on, or about, April 12, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 12V136000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- S34, S51
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-07-29 to 2005-08-29
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1375217
- Defect Description:
- HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2004 CR-V; MODEL YEAR 2003 THROUGH 2005 PILOT; AND MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 CIVIC VEHICLES. IN MARCH 2012, HONDA FILED A DEFECT REPORT TO RECALL CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2004 CR-V AND CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003 PILOT VEHICLES. IN AUGUST 2012, HONDA INFORMED THE AGENCY THAT IT WAS INCLUDING AN ADDITIONAL 820,789 VEHICLES INCLUDING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AND 2005 PILOTS AND MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 CIVICS. THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VEHICLES BEING RECALLED IS NOW 1,375,217. DUE TO TENSION FROM THE COMBINATION SWITCH WIRING HARNESS, WEAR ON THE SURFACE OF THE ELECTRICAL TERMINAL CAN OCCUR, YIELDING COPPER OXIDE, WHICH INCREASES ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE. INCREASED ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE MAY CAUSE THE TERMINAL ENDS TO MELT WITHIN THE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF THE TERMINAL ENDS MELT WITHIN THE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR, THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE, REDUCING DRIVER VISIBILITY AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE LOW BEAM TERMINAL HARNESS OR REPLACE THE LIGHTING SWITCH AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE ORIGINAL RECALL BEGAN IN APRIL 2012. OWNERS OF VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THE SEPTEMBER 2012 EXPANSION WILL BE NOTIFIED IN SEPTEMBER 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 08E013000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 2032
- Defect Description:
- HONDA IS RECALLING 2,032 HITCH STYLE BIKE RACKS SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE ON MY 2003-2007 AND SOME MY 2008 HONDA PILOT, RIDGELINE, AND ACURA MDX VEHICLES. A PINCH BOLT EXISTS BETWEEN THE BIKE ARM BRACKET AND THE UPRIGHT ASSEMBLY OF THE "HITCH" STYLE BICYCLE RACK.
- Defect Consequence:
- WHEN MOVING THE BIKE ARM BRACKET TO ITS DOWN POSITION, THIS PINCH BOLT HAS THE POTENTIAL OF CAUSING SEVERE LACERATION OR AMPUTATION TO THE USER'S FINGERTIPS OR HAND.
- Corrective Action:
- OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT THULE AT 800-THULE91 (800-848-5391) TO OBTAIN A FREE REPAIR KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS OR OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.
- Recall Number:
- 05V039000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- P70
- Manufactured from:
- 2005-01-14 to 2005-01-22
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 203
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN MINIVANS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE STEERING COLUMN MAY BE INCORRECTLY ASSEMBLED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.
- Defect Consequence:
- LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL CAN CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.
- Corrective Action:
- OWNERS WERE NOTIFIED BY TELEPHONE ON JANUARY 25, 2005, AND ARRANGEMENTS WERE MADE TO HAVE THEIR VEHICLES TOWED TO THEIR DEALERS AND HAVE THE REPAIRS PERFORMED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 25, 2005.
- Recall Number:
- 04V541000
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-10-27 to 2004-11-01
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 61
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, SOME FUEL TANKS WERE IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED.
- Defect Consequence:
- IN A CRASH, THE FUEL TANK COULD BE DAMAGED AND LEAK FUEL. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS REPLACED THE FUEL TANK. ALL OWNERS WERE NOTIFIED BY TELEPHONE ON NOVEMBER 10, 2004.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
Honda Pilot Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(78%)
4(17%)
3(3%)
2(1%)
1(1%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
I love my Pilot, even at 187,000 miles!
4.88 out of 5 starshampton6410, 08/20/2012
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
We bought our Pilot used in 2009 and now even at 187,000 miles it still drives just as good.
We have not had any major issues and only do the Honda recommended maintenance.
We do change the oil at 3000 mile intervals, not 5,000.
The Pilot has been a great car overall.
The only thing that I wish was better was the gas mileage.
We have also owned two CRV's and currently own a 2005 Accord, … and all have been great.
We have had no major issues even with our 2003 CRV with 197,000 miles that we just traded in on the Accord.
10 year old Honda Pilot...strong vehicle.
5 out of 5 starsChris Williamson, 06/16/2016
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
I've always wanted an SUV. Dreamt of driving a Ford Explorer. Then I came across this Honda Pilot at the dealership's used lot. It had one adult owner and meticulous records, taken in for oil changes, maintenance, and repair like clockwork. So it was in great condition and it showed. I've now been driving it for a few months and I love it! It has 3 rows of seats in case I need to haul … people, but those fold down to create a lot of cargo space if I need to haul equipment. It's a 2005 so of course I upgraded the stereo (had a tape player lol). The speakers are next. the starter went out as did the AC. The starter was a pain to fix but I did it myself. The AC I haven't taken in yet. Hopefully it doesn't cost too much. Overall a great ride!
Great even after 250k miles!
5 out of 5 starsLuke E., 01/31/2019
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV w/Leather, Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
Perhaps the number one problem consumers have with this car (based on reviews and word-of-mouth) is that the radiators fail. This is common for this year of Pilot in particular, and involves the intra-radiator transmission cooler fittings failing and mixing fluids. Antifreeze is really horrible on automatic transmission clutch packs and burns them out quickly (when, not if), leaving you … with a time bomb of a vehicle. Fortunately (though I didn't think it was fortunate when reading the Carfax!), my Pilot was involved in an front-end collision when it was nearly new, resulting in a new unit being installed and removing the radiator that was part of the "bad batch." I have since bypassed the radiator cooler with an external unit (and temp gauge for good measure) and have had no issues (the pan temp remains below 160 at all times). This was because the current "replacement" radiator has over 200,000 miles on it and I didn't want to take any chances on the fittings failing again. However, if you own this vintage of Pilot, I would recommend you either replace the radiator or bypass it with an aftermarket transmission cooler ASAP. Most of the bigger RV-rated air coolers are more than sufficient. As for other maintenance items, I do all my own work so the following list of replacements should be taken with a grain of salt and do not consider labor costs. So far, I have replaced the alternator, both manifold pre-catalytic converters (the rear bank was a particular PITA), the ground strap, had to seal the fender grommets (was leaking into the cabin), replace exhaust rubber hangers, and do a valve adjustment. Everything else was standard maintenance including two timing belts, batteries, tires, spark plugs, fluid changes, etc. I would not trade this Pilot for the world. My only gripe is that it does not have side curtain airbags; it only has front side airbags. However, I knew this when I bought the vehicle. It has been flawless thus far with regular fluid changes, and I wouldn't give up my car for anything. The drivetrain is strong enough that it will last to 400k. The interior is spartan (to be generous), but I love my Pilot!
Powerfull fun car!
5 out of 5 starsPilotman08, 03/01/2017
2005 Honda Pilot EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
My 2005 pilot has 205,500 miles on it currently sitting. We take it all over Colorado. I am a college student with a 2 hour commute each day and this car just makes it so enjoyable. The ride is excellent. It’s very smooth (luxury car smooth) and it’s got a weighty feel to the ride making it feel very secure and planted on the road. Road and wind noise is pretty good in terms of being … quiet, but it could be a little better. Steering is moderately heavy not super light or too heavy, adds to the planted feel. Braking is not the best given it’s 4500 pounds, so be prepared to replace brake pads quite often along with tires. The engine is probably the best part of the driving experience, it’s got a ton of character. Driving the pilot around town, it’s got a strong acceleration feel off the line and the gas pedal is a little too sensitive at first (easy to get used to) so it feels quite fast. Easy to beat people from a red light to merge or change lanes. Floor it and the engine sounds way to good after you cross vtec. People say the engine lacks low end torque, but I think this car has lots of torque. Floor it from a stop and the steering wheel jerks to the right (and it’s 4wd), it’s just a side effect of a really really peppy engine. Mine at 204k beat my friends 2004 cayenne v6 in a race time and time again, so it’s saying something there (even though the v6 cayennes are basically a v6 Touareg). Highway merging and passing are extremely easy with this engine and confidence inspiring. Visibility both forward backwards and also out the sides is excellent and confidence inspiring. Interior is free of rattles or creaks and each and every part is still fit in place like it’s new. No scratches on any interior panel either. Seats look brand new and are sort of firm, but extremely supportive And way to comfy (excellent bolstering and grip). It makes me sleepy sometimes lol. Interior is all hard plastic minus where you keep your elbows, but the plastic doesn’t feel cheap and hollow, and the interior feels quite nice for the price. In the 200k+ miles that I’ve owned this car, the only issues were the ac going out at 130k and replacing brake pads and tires way to often. Recently my motor mount wore off but that’s just going to happen on each and every car. Transmission is still holding up as we speak and I continue to beat the crap out of this car (random full throttle accelerations, racing friends, fast turns, and hard braking) so it’s probably the reason why my tires and brakes wear out so often, but this drivetrain was meant to be beat on! The car loves to rev and the engine and transmission are holding up extremely well for my style of driving (I give it 25% throttle at every stop light) for the last 4 years. Oh forgot to mention that the cargo room is absolutely massive. With the third row seats up it’s a little tight and the third row itself is cramped and best suited for small adults or kids but with the seats down and even the second row seats down you can practically sleep in it without your feet touching the tailgate. I RECOMMEND THIS CAR HIGHLY FOR ANYONE WHOS LOOKING FOR A DECENTLY FUN TO DRIVE, COMFORTABLE, AND PRACTICAL CAR THATS EXTREMELY RELIABLE AND WITH A VERY PEPPY ENGINE
2005 Pilot Features & Specs
LX
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $27,550 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $293/month |
| Seating | 8 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.3 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | four wheel drive |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Pilot include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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