Used 2005 Honda Pilot SUV Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
I like my Pilot
We bought our Pilot used with about five thousand miles on it. We've had it two years and absolutely no problems. We live in SC. We drove it to Oregon and back this July (100 degrees plus out west). We drove back in three days with sightseeing in Utah. It handled and drove like a dream. There were three of us and our stuff. The engine has great power and does 80 with ease. Gas mileage was as advertised. Stability control saved me from an accident on a five-lane through Charlotte, NC when the guy in the lane to my left started to pull into my lane before he looked, and I instinctively yanked the steering wheel to the right to get away. I would have lost control of a lesser vehicle.
Good but needs some work
I am surprised about my honda pilot. What is surprising me is the extremely carlike performance. The brakes are excellent as well as the acceleration. I quite simply enjoy my vehicle. The navigation system is very easy to use and helpful. There are only two complaints that I have about my pilot.They are about the gas mileage and the transmission. I simply feel that the gas mileage in the city is HORRIBLE, especially when u take into consideration that the engine, while plentiful in horsepower and torque isn't as big as some of its competition. My only other complaint is about the transmission. It seems as though my pilot's transmission seems to quikly downshift under acceleration on the road.
- EX 4dr SUV w/LeatherMSRP: $4,45063 mi away
- EX 4dr SUV w/Leather and Entertainment SystemMSRP: $7,99579 mi away
- EX 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,899193 mi away
Drives like a Honda, what can be better!
Overall, this is the most comfortable and forgiving SUV I have ever driven. With nary a hitch the designers of the Pilot listened to what SUV enthusists wanted and integrated their needs. Feels solid, handles like a passenger vehicle, (not the school bus), while providing ample torque to merge on highways effortlessly. Leather seats, heated front buckets are exceedingly well made, adding a touch of elegance while maintaining Honda's practical roots. One minor flaw, which only goes to show, Hondas' designers are human, is the close proximity of the windshield wiper stalk to the gearshift lever. Every now and then I mistakenly reach for the wiper stalk by mistake, and swish,swish..sigh..
Pilot Fan
This is the best vehicle we have ever owned. It drives like a car but has more than enough room for a family of four plus dogs.
Handles Like a 4WD Civic
I have a 2009 Honda Civic Coupe as a summer driver, and going from that to this is not very hard given how small the Pilot handles for its size. It takes curves like a much smaller car, and has more than enough kick to remind you that you're piloting a V6, instead of the four-banger in the Civic. Definitely recommend this car for anyone looking for an older (but still stylish and functional) SUV. To heck with Ford and Chevy.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2005 Pilot EX-L
I've had this vehicle for 6 months and 9000 miles. The vehicle is extremely peppy. The horsepower is rated at 255. I think the 2006 Pilot is rated at 240. Can this be right? My Pilot is white and has the rear A/C and all windows are tinted. It was one hot summer here in Dallas and this thing kept me cool. A $9 oscillating fan in the back helps things too. I've had two four wheel drive adventures in the Pilot. The first one was in 5 inch deep mud. I was nervous and put the VTM 4 switch on. The Pilot pulled out of the mud fairly easily. The second time was yesterday in some damp grass and I'm guessing a 30 degree angle. It went right up twice. Once with the VTM off and then with the VTM off.
First Honda
I have previously been a Toyota guy, but I've been so impressed with Honda I don't think I will ever go back to Toyota. This vehicle has it all at a lower price. I can only find a few small things that I don't like. If you pay tolls, the coin holder slots are NOT easy to access while approaching a Toll. Also, the rear door has no good place to push it shut. I use the Honda emblem, and the license plate rattles because it is held by only two srews instead of 4.
Honda Pilot Experience
I have owned the vehicle for 5 months and have driven 3300 miles. The vehicle is very well designed, particularly the interior, which can haul much cargo or many people. The third seat can handle two adults, but three would be quite uncomfortable. The ride is excellent, with a good mix between cushy and firm. My biggest complaint is that the vehicle only gets 15 MPG around town and barely 20 on the Interstate, not the 17 and 23 advertised. At least it does run well on regular fuel, which saves 10% of cost. The vehicle does have some strange clunking sounds on occasions, and the dashboard creaks and rattles at times. Overall, I would rate it 8.5 on a scale of 10.
Honda pilot overall great suv
Overall wonderful vehicle. Best car ever driven on ice and snow. Please note i work for a jeep dodge dealership and own multiple 4x4 vehicles other than the honda. Would like some additional features like rolling door locks andauto unlock feature when key is removed from ignition. Was rearended by a furniture truck 2 weeks ago. The truck bumper hit the main reinforcement on the rear bumper. $241 Damage to the pilot and smashed in the front steel bumper of the truck 2-3 inches. This vehicle is built like a tank. I plan to replace this pilot with another. Ps- this is my second pilot in 3 years.
2005 Honda Pilot
The 2005 Honda Pilot is well made in fit & finish. It travels well in comfort & limited road noise. It falls well short of the sticker advertised gas mileage however. Upon returning to the dealer because of 13 to 14 mpg, I was reminded of the 11 to 36 mph fine print. Futher, I was informed that all of the dealership Pilot owners were getting the same mileage. I also find the Pilot hard to start. It requires several overturns of the engine to start. The dealership check this and informed me that this is normal for all pilots. The handrail by the head could be hazardous in quick lateral moves or in accidents. A previous Honda owner, & disappointed.
Almost Perfect
I bought my 05 EX from a car broker 2 years ago in 2008 as I always wanted a SUV for the convenience and to able to go on trips with my family. It's been a great purchase thus far. The pilot has a powerful engine with ample room, the 3rd row seating is not great, but I've been able to fit 9 adults (albeit we're all skinny) comfortably on long trips. I've used it many times to help my friends move, it's easy to fold the 2nd and and 3rd row seats down for transporting large items, it can do it all! This past year I was able to test it out with the record snow falls in the north east, and drove through 2 ft of snow without any problems, if you're thinking about getting an SUV, I recommend it.
Big in a Small Package
This SUV is surprisingly roomy and seats eight quite comfortably (since second row is adjustable) for rides up to 100 miles or so. It's length is less than an Accord or Camry, yet it has the room of many larger SUV's. Gas mileage on the road is averaging 23 MPG, if you keep it at 65 mph.
Not impressed but keeping it real
Purchased an 05' ex cloth 12/05 immediatly began hearing a buzz or rattle coming from the "b" pillar both sides of vehicle just above the front seat belt pivot anchors. Service department, Honda rep and design engineer say it is an "Inherent characteristic of the door seal design" and they can not fix it. They will not buy back the vehicle, so I get to live with a "Buzz" in my ears. @ 310 mi have a rattle from front passenger dash @ the airbag. My mileage is 14.7 mixed driving. Radio reception & sound quality is marginal. Size and seating flexability are near ideal. The engine and tranny work together well. The steering is vague with too much on center play. Honda should be better for $30k
05' Pilot EX does the job.
Love the ride, drives better than most cheap cars around. AWD is great, but this baby needs wider tires, and better performing tires. Snow falls less than 9"inches are a breeze. With the big northeaster though, better tires were needed. I'm not sure about the fuel economy because I'm usually revving highs and driving stop and go a lot. The truck is as reliable as can be. Engine performance is great, wish the tranny was a 6 speed though. Handling is good for a 4400 pound vehicle but bigger tires and rims would help close the gap between SUV and car like handling.
Third Honda in Charlotte
overall great suv, previously owned, a expedition, pathfinder, and 8 explorers, this vehicle far supasses all of my expectations, in comparison to the others. Bought vehicle with optional tow hitch and fender flares for $32,000.This is our 3rd honda 03 civic 04 accord now 05 Pilot will keep on going. shopped 2 dealers in charlotte nc drove them crazy on price and it worked out. looking to put a set of rims and tires on it.
excellent
Awesome! I would take any Honda any day but the Pilot is my fav.
Love My Pilot
I drove a Honda CRV for 4 years and while I really enjoyed it I love love love my Pilot. With two teenagers and a big dog we have plenty of room for everyone. The kids really enjoy the rear entertainment system and as a mom I really enjoy the wireless headphones. The luxury of my leather seats make me feel like I am sitting on a cloud. Living in the Northeast this vehicle proved itself to handle wonderfully in the rough winter weather. It drives smooth and silently every time. So did I mention that I love my Pilot.
Still Going Strong
Coming up on 4 years and overall still happy with the Pilot EX-L (non-Nav). The only issue has been the "auto up/down" switch on the drivers door so not bad. Plenty of room for family of three + large dog. Superb handling in the snow and drives/rides like a car, comfortable on long trips. Gas mileage is awful, we have never come close to the advertised mpg even under optimal conditions. Nothing overly jaw- dropping about the Pilot--simply Honda quality, does what is designed to without fanfare.
Just an "OK"
This car didn't live up to my expectations. It's my first Honda and I was surprised that the cockpit has several ergonomic issues. The automatic transmission has the strangest kick down I've ever experienced. It feels like someone's putting on the brakes. Speaking of brakes, the ABS system kick in way too early when braking easy on wet roads causing the car to skid forward much further than you expect it too! Very scary in light snow or rain!!! Every time you step on the brake you get a loud thumping in the rear which is undoubtedly the gas slapping the inside of the tank (annoying).
05 EX with NAV
Overall this was a good purchase. Don't like that the passenger seat does not have power. Even with Premium gas we have not been able to get the stated gas mileage of 22. It really eats gas over 70 mph on the highway. :-( Also, don't quite understand why you can't get both DVD and NAV. The rear seat climate control does not adjust fan speed, only temp. Very peppy for take off. Also, first smaller suv I have not been afraid of rolling in high speed manuevers. Very much liked the safety ratings. The 05 did not come with side curtain air bags, but for $5000 more, the 06 did. The 06 also came with a variable speed motor which greatly improved its gas mileage.
Pilot with a Noisy Bottom
I feel comfortable driving the Pilot. It is great for long trips. The seats go down in the back for more storage and when traveling. It is a nine passenger vehicle, which is great when you need the room for others. I love the leather interior. The DVD Player is excellent. Great surround sound when playing a movie. I feel safe when driving this vehicle. Over all it is a great car.
Dollar value comparison
Having had a RX300 in the family, that we love we think this is still the best combination of interior space..overall design..price on the market....
Best SUV if you have small kids
My wife hates to drive a minivan, so we end up buying the Honda Pilot. This vehicle is so spacious inside that you can bring along almost anything from big tents to huge coolers. This is the ideal car to take to the beach or go camping. For everyday use, this vehicle performs like any other car. But when you need to go pick up big stuff at home depot or lowe's , then this car will give you a smile that lasts all day.
Bad Truck
This is by far one of the worst vehicles that I have ever owned. This truck overheats. The heads went bad the vehicle is a total disaster. Seats are uncomfortable. Interior lights, light up on their own. Would not recommend the car. Would not buy again. I have owned Hondas in the past and this is by far a poorly made car.
great car
i have it for 5 months and already im very satisfied......i love honda its very reliable and suits my needs in every way......you have my vote
Awesome all around suv at a great price!
I bought this for twins that have just arrived and i love this car! It is roomy with nice style although i liked the way the lexus rx330 looked a little better. However, the pilot blew it away with the extra room and all the great options(dvd system, running boards, etc.) For the same price. Highly recommend!!
Great Ride
This is a great vehicle. It's reliable, comfortable and fun to drive. I'm always confident in bad weather. Best of all it drives like a car but does the work of a truck, accommodating large loads, and lots of kids.
Best of all worlds but the wind noise!
Having had nothing but constant mechanical troubles with a 2000 Suburban but being spoiled by all the cargo capacity, we weren't sure what we would buy. We were surprised by how much we could manipulate the storage with the 60/40 split folds. First road trip was comfortable and we love the car. Did get the sunroof and we are experiencing terrible wind noise though. Not sure what that's about but it's not deterring from the great drive and handling of this car. Since it's a Honda I have no worries about dependability. No more GM for us.
100% BOLD
The new honda pilot is a reiable and fun family SUV. it has great features and has great quality.
A+ for the Honda Pilot
The Pilot is a great SUV - fun to drive, pretty good gas mileage for a car this size, and features that are very easy to use. Also very comfortable to drive. You also make friends instantly - other people driving Pilots tend to wave at you.
2005 Honda Pilot
This is the best car I have ever driven. It drives like a dream, handles wonderfully, and I'm proud to own it.
2005 pilot
Love it!!!!!!!!! The pilot is very smooth and very comfortable to drive. It has alot of leg room and the entertainment system is a bonus. I drive alot of miles and it is a pleasure to drive.
Excellent Family SUV
I never thought I would buy an Van much less an SUV but Honda proved me wrong. Their vans and suv's in mho are the best on the market. Thanks for making an SUV that seats 8. Having 5 in our family gives us the ability to go on long trips and have room for everyone and our stuff. Now you have a truck and my husband is actually considering buying it. He never wanted a truck before.
Outstanding SUV
Excellent handling, great performance, large interior, very functional, exceptional in snow.
Love the Pilot!!!!
Traded in our 2001 Windtsar SportSE Van, and were looking to purchase Odyssey. But after test driving Odyssey, wife wanted to test the Pilot. Fell in love with the Pilot immediately. It rides just like the Odyssey, but appears to have much more room. Engine is very peppy (cruises at 80mph at 2.5RPM) and gets decent gas mileage. We even did a little off- roading, and had no problems with traction or slipping. We didn't think we wanted the EX, as we felt the options weren't anything we needed to spend the extra money on. But after seeing the LX, side by side to an EX, visually, the EX is a much sharper, better looking vehicle. We've had no problems mechanically whatsoever, unlike our Windstar.
I Adore This Car
This is by far the greatest car I've ever owned. Just had to trade it in for a CRV (financial issues) but had the EX-L, which has been almost perfection to own. I was initially worried about the size of the vehicle, but it is such a smooth ride, wisely placed windows (almost no blind spot), and with plenty of pickup, the size was irrelevant almost immediately. I particularly loved the cargo space in the back, and the very comfortable third row. The dash was generally intuitive, and the center console very accessible and full of space. The seats were incredibly comfortable, long or short drives it was amazing. Like any big SUV, would have liked better mileage, but LOVE this car!
Honda Pilot
Great ride, lots of power, not too bad on fule for its size. Very dependable and roomy. Had a Ford Explorer before and this is a dream compared to that. Better gas milage, handling, ride' with more room. Wife loves it.
2005 Honda Pilot
The Pilot is a very solid feeling vehicle. It is roomy and the interior fit and finish is impecable. It is suprisingly agile and is fun to drive. It is extremely quiet around town, but there is some road noise at highway speeds. Honda's reliability has always been exceptional and the Pilot should be no different. I would recommend this SUV to anyone.
Great ride quality, low gas mileage
I love this Pilot the more I drive it. I also have an S2000 and this is fine when the whole family has to go. It rides so well. I am used to my 4-Runner It does not even come close the performance of this. Even the new ones with the V8 engine. I only have about 3000 miles so far and have had not one little problem so far. Typical Honda quality.
Happy honda owner
This is our first honda and after test driving the highlander and then the pilot, we were sold on the pilot. Much more comfortable and a smoother ride. My husband was not excited about an SUV, but found comfort with the government safety rating .
Just bought 2005 Pilot
I bought my 2005 pilot just under a month ago. Originally I purchased the Pilot for its 8 passenger capacity and just thought of it as a good people hauler. It is a very fun SUV to drive. I still have a grin on my face everytime I drive it. I traded in a 95 bmw 325is(very fun car) and I have no regrets. After a month of owning it. I love the way it drives. I do have two compliants though. I can't seem to find the perfect position with the power driver seat. And the steering column shifter takes getting used to. I like have the extra storage space between the driver the passenger seat though.
Solid Vehicle
This an extremely solid vehicle. I really have no complaints. I live in Michigan where we get a lot of snow and ice. It's nearly impossible to get this car to slip or slide. It has more than enough cargo space, yet it doesn't feel like an enormous vehicle when you're in it. I did have to have a power window motor replaced, but it was covered under warranty. Other than that, I haven't had so much as a hiccup through 53,000 miles. The only issue I have is that the Pilot is kind of boring. There's nothing exciting about the interior or exterior design, but I can think of much worse problems to have.
So far, so good...
Bought this pilot used about 1 year ago and so far it has met my high expectations. It rides great, has plenty of interior room for anything we want to carry, will pull a medium sized trailer with no problem, and I'm happy.
Hard to beat the Pilot
My fifth Honda: one Civic, two Accords and an MDX. Our Pilot is one week old today. Looked at the Pilot for my wife because I love my 01 MDX. The build of this vehicle is amazing. It feels, sounds and rides like my MDX. I dont know how people get mileage down in the low teens I get 16-17 around the city and 21-23 on the highway in my MDX and the first tank in my Pilot was 16.5/ city driving. Those drivers must have a lead foot. FYI: Your TMV is too high. Pilot's can be had at invoice at a number of Baltimore/Washington area dealers. I am sure the dealers hate hearing me say that.
Air Noise
The only thing I see wrong with the Pilot is there is no option for a sun roof, and when you have windows down there seems to be a air pocket noise at a certain speed that makes you roll the windows up.
Best SUV On The Market for the Price
No other suv on the market touches the Honda Pilot for the price. With advanced features, build quality and Honda reliability, Honda offers an incredible vehicle for the price. It drives like a dream, gets incredible gas mileage for its size, and the assembly is perfect in every way. Don't pass this one up!
Pilot
Very comfortable ride and interior. Good visibility and tons of storage space. Good for short and tall people. Great offroad.
Jerky ride
Just purchased my Honda and the one problem that is major for me besides not getting the gas mileage it shows on its sticker, is how jerky it is when the motor/engine shifts gears up & down. Feels like you are driving it incorrectly. Was told all SUVs shift like that but I had owned one from another make prior to the Pilot and it was not that way.
Best SUV I have ever had.
We bought this 2005 EX-L to replace a 2003 Pilot. After 57,00 miles, this has been the best driving SUV I have ever owned. The power was surprisingly peppy. It is easy to maneuver and drives more like a car than a truck. I am having a difficult time justifying paying up for a 2009 Pilot that weighs 177 pounds more, 3ft pounds more torque, but 5 less horsepower (250 vs 255). I added the tow package on myself and tow my motorcycles, Waverunner, and loaded utility trailer weighing 2000#+ with ease through Wisconsin hills. I bought an aftermarket Garmin GPS and don't really miss any of the other new gadgets. We have had a few minor problems that were covered by the warranty. Great in snow/ice.
Awesome Family Car
I love my honda Pilot. We shopped every SUV on the market and can be particular. The Pilot fit all our needs--good car for the $, reliable, good size, and stylish. Prior to the Pilot, I had a Nissan Pathfinder SUV, then a Toyota Camry, then a mini-van. I have now found my dream car! It is great for young children. The 3rd row is small, however, no smaller than the mini-van's 3rd row. Its awesome that the all rows fold flat--unlike the van. It is a very powerful car, hugs the road well,and great in the snow. I feel safe in this car and it feels good to know I am investing in a car that has a great safety rating, is realiable, and roomy enough for a young and growing family. Way to go Honda