Used 2013 Honda Pilot SUV Consumer Reviews
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Vibration' can't repair it so call it normal
disappointed88, 02/28/2013
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
109 of 112 people found this review helpful
i purchased a 2013 Honda Pilot in December 2012. The follolwing day i reported a vibration, which service department said was a wheel weight. After leaving the vehicle for 3 days the SD (service department) replaced a front motor mount which was to resolve the problem. No problem solved, Still vibrating. Two weeks later I returned the vehicle for 3 more days. SD replaced the rear motor mount. Still vibrates. After trying to repair the vehice 2 times with no success Honda Customer Service calls it a " Normal vibration".Now that Honda Engineering can't resolve the vibration issue the SD calls it a "Characteristic of the vehicle". The SD informed me that all the 2013 Pilot 2WD have a vibration
A great vehicle in every way
Scott Hansen, 08/05/2015
updated 02/03/2016
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
51 of 54 people found this review helpful
****Update***** My wife and I have had the Honda Pilot for about six months now and my review has not changed one bit. The car is a dream to drive and you can tote around 8 people total if needed, although the very back seat is tight. The car drives like a dream and even my father-in-law said it beats the Buick SUV hands down. It gets great mileage compared to the old Mercury and it looks great. *****Original posting***** My wife and I never buy new cars and the cars we have we keep for 10 or 15 years. The last car that my wife had was a 2002 Mercury Mountaineer and we had it 10 years and it was time to get a new vehicle. Two years ago we purchased a used Honda Civic and are very happy with it so when it came time to research vehicles we knew the Pilot would be one of them. We test drove three different SUV's. We tried the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe and the Toyota Highlander. We did not like the Santa Fe at all. The ride was not nice and despite raves from the reviewers, the interior seemed to be made out of cheep materials. The road we drove on was under construction and we felt every bump and hole we hit. The third row seating area was cramped, and that is being generous. The Toyota Highlander was next and we liked that car. It drove well, it looked nice, it was large and roomy but they tended to be more expensive and with less equipment than the Pilot. When we drove the Pilot I knew right away we found our next car. We drove one that had 17,000 miles on it and it had all the comforts we were used to and a bit more. The seats are very comfortable, there is plenty of second row seating leg room, and the third seat actually looks like it may be comfortable for adults. We liked the way it handled and how intuitive the controls were. I went to work and researched used Pilots and I honed in on three of them, on in Fargo, one where we live in the Twin Cities and one in Wausau, WI. The Fargo one and the Wausau one are about 3 1/2 hours from our house. I hate dealing with car dealerships but because I did the research I knew I was going to pay a fair price. When it came to numbers I wanted a towing lighting system installed as well as winter mats and a cargo area mat. The place in Fargo and I talked and then the place in Wausau and I talked. I was able to get a lower price from the Wausau place even though I was told this was the lowest they could go. They responded well when there was another valid offer on the table. I ended up going with the Wausau one because the vehicle they had was a Certified Honda which meant an extra years warranty. I then paid $795 to kick that out to the year 2020 or 100,000 miles, and with the low number of miles we drive I know I will be covered for five full years. Even with the warranty I ended up paying less than I would have at the Fargo dealer but the Fargo dealer was going to deliver it to my doorstep and I had to pick up the Wausau one. I then went online and found this forum. I was nervous when I read all about the vibration problems when the car goes into ECO mode. Since I did not test drive the exact vehicle I was buying, I thought it could be trouble. I also thought about this when I bought the extended Honda warranty. My wife and I have had the car now for about a month. So far there has been zero problems with vibrations. The car is a dream. It is built well and it gets better gas mileage than our old Mountaineer. It is more comfortable to drive and there is nothing better than getting that new car feeling even if it is a used car. My wife loves it too and is very happy with our choice. We are going to start saving our pennies so we can buy our next car with cash in about 10 years and most likely it will be a Honda or Toyota.
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My first SUV and it doesn't disappoint
Louie, 04/16/2019
2013 Honda Pilot LX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
26 of 27 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2013 Pilot used with about 32k miles on it back in May 2016. I've had it for 3 years now with 70k miles and the only expenses I've had to pay were for oil changes, transmission flush, a brand new battery, and a set of alloy rims I purchased since the LX comes with regular steel rims. Like most owners here, I did notice the additional vibrations when the ECO light comes on. I spoke to the dealer about that. They explained to me that it's due to the VCM engine using the i-VTEC system to disable one bank of cylinders during specific driving conditions like freeway driving. This is done to save fuel. They further explained to me that since the weight of the vehicle does not change when the VCM disables one cylinder bank, it is normal for the vehicle to experience some reduction of power causing it to "drag" the vehicle weight a little more compared to when the VCM is in full power mode. Thus the vibration. I though well that makes sense. Obviously, if all 6 cylinders are running then the ride is smooth but when you shut 1 or 2 of those 6 then you'll feel some difference. I was happy with the explanation. I noticed that when I'm running on ECO mode the MPG counter rises significantly from 20 mpg to about 23 mpg. I'm ok with a little "discomfort" if it means I gain extra 3 mpg or more. However, all other aspects of the Pilot are excellent. I love the roominess, the available features on the LX and definitely the price I paid for it. Most of all, in the 3 years I owned it, I probably spent less than $400 on maintenance and none on unexpected repairs. This SUV is super reliable and good lookin too. I highly recommend it.
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Best SUV out there
ssmith000, 02/16/2013
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
21 of 22 people found this review helpful
Looked at several different SUVs including the Volvo XC90. The Volvo XC90's ride was too rigid and the design was very outdated. Also, not a lot of space. Saw the Honda Pilot at a local auto show and fell in love. Had all of the features you could ask for. Not to mention the Honda's reputation of being very reliable. The Pilot does not feel like a large SUV when driving, but the cabin space is huge! Plenty of room for 8 adults with plenty of storage. Took it on a long distance trip that was about 7 hours and was completely satisfied with the comfort and drive. Love the navigation, rear entertainment system, backup camera and hands free bluetooth. Overall a great vehicle.
2013 and 2014 have "normal vibration". It drives me crazy!
scoutgator, 01/02/2014
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I would not have bought my Pilot if I had known that there was a "normal vibration" when cruising in ECO mode. Mine is very noticable at 1500 RPM and even according to technician, it shouldn't be there. My car has 5K miles on it. I would have spent my $38K on a different vehicle if I had known this. If you are considering buying a Pilot, test drive it thoroughly at 1500 RPMs!!!
Looking for an SUV...?
hybridman2012, 03/03/2014
updated 03/06/2017
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Well....don't look any further. If you have not owned a Honda (my 5th), you don't know what I mean. Honda reliability, over all comfort, safety, service, price, ( did I mention reliability & safety) and the best dealers around...it's a no-brainer! I get a soild 22mpg all the time and get a 25mpg on cruise, level ground, at 65mph. Beat that anywhere. You are also riding in the safest vehicle make on the market! We live were it snows... no worries it performs great! The 8 passenger capacity will haul the gang in style, without leaving that "one" behind. Just go and drive the Pilot you will come home with it! Financing has always beat the others hands down. Go see for yourself!! Update to my review.... Saw the new Piliots... Like this style better! Traded this for a new Ridgeline... Very nice!
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2013 Pilot vibration
kingsheds, 01/28/2014
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
53 of 61 people found this review helpful
After owning 5 Hondas with no problems the time came to pull the trigger on our biggest purchase to date..a new 2013 Pilot EX-L 4x4, to accommodate our 3rd child. We purchased our pilot in September of 2012. I immediately noticed a bad vibration in Eco and have taken it to Honda 2 times now. I have also had a problem with the brake pedal being squishy. Honda won't do anything about the vibration, and they bled the brakes claiming there was nothing wrong with them. The dealership is also stating that Honda says the vibration is normal in my make and model..WHAT!!..NORMAL!!!! This is a $37,000 vehicle. Honda I'm opting out of the class action suit and suing. I suggest others do the same.
Pilot saved my husbands life!
Jodi, 03/04/2016
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
17 of 19 people found this review helpful
We bought our 2013 Honda Pilot Touring on a Wednesday, picked it up on a Thursday and it was totaled by Saturday by a reckless driver. My husband was alone at a red light when he was hit and pushed into a building. He survived with stiches to the eye, a broken toe & some bumps and bruises. not sure he would've been so lucky in another vehicle. we bought another 2013 Honda Pilot Touring the next Monday from the same people/place. Amine & Joseph at Boch Honda in Norwood Ma were great through both processes.
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disappointed88
disappointed88, 09/15/2013
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
I now have returned my 2013 Honda Pilot for repair for the fourth time in 10 months for the same vibration issue. After taking the service manager for a 50 mile road trip, he said the vibration was the worst he had experienced. After 3 days I have been advised that all the 2013 Honda Pilots have a similar vibration. How this suddenly happened, I do not know. Honda response is that this is a "Normal Vibration". I have never heard of such Bull. This has to be the worst vehicle I have ever owned and now Honda is offering NO help on this issue.
rotor problem
scott, 10/06/2015
2013 Honda Pilot LX 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
30 of 35 people found this review helpful
I'm generally happy with my pilot but I'm miffed currently. This summer the truck started to vibrate while braking on the highway. A quick Internet search found many complaints of warped front rotors at low mileage. Honda's position is that repair isn't covered under the warranty. The dealer charged $180 to cut the front rotors. Honda should do right by its customers and issue a recall to cover these defective parts.
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Bought With Some Reservations
Mike, 12/15/2015
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I will preface my remarks by saying that I got a great deal on a left-over 2013 model so I am not overly disappointed with this purchase. With that being said, the engineering that went into designing the cargo area with either row of back seats down is horrible. The cargo area has a terrible backward slope resulting in anything you stow ending up at the lift-gate. The road and wind noise are excessive, overall outward vision is poor, oil change cost is expensive with the 0w-20 oil requirement, and the electronic gadgetry lags behind other like-level vehicles. And finally, at 14,000 miles the left front inner CV boot self-destructed resulting in a new driveshaft and bearings. I do like the power lift-gate, the back-up camera, storage slots and cubby holes, and the center front console is cavernous. I hate to say it but, with the exception of better gas mileage, I sometimes miss my 1999 Isuzu Trooper LS.
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VCM Issue
mostmiles, 01/02/2015
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
From the day I drove the car off the lot, I have had concerns about vibration noises and hesitation in the engine. I am just about up with my warranty period and have complained about these issues every time I go for service. The dealer maintains there are no bulletins that address this issue; however, I have noted on other sites that there are complaints about this issue. Other than that, I love the car - especially the extra space for transporting lots of stuff. I also appreciate Honda's pricing structure - unlike Toyota's which is difficult to figure out.
Great Vehicle - Well Loaded
chrisallen2, 05/07/2013
2013 Honda Pilot LX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
We purchased the LX. This is my first actual "new" vehicle purchase so it could be that I'm just overly excited about things that the rest of the world who have actually purchased new cars before consider normal, but it seems to me that the base model is actually pretty well loaded. So much so that I could not justify spending the extra money on another trim. It drives smooth, has plenty of room even in the back seat, suprisingly and while it would be nice to have the navigation and entertainment system, considering the difference in price, I'm very happy with the features on the LX.
Disappointing Experience and VCM Woes
restlesspirate, 03/16/2014
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
I traded a CRV for this 2013 Honda Pilot 4WD Touring. The Pilot came home and immediately had a moonroof leak that soaked the interior. The drain tubes were disconnected from the factory. That should have been a sign. The MPG never made it to 25 on the highway, and averages of 15-17 were common in mixed driving over 7000 miles, even with minimal passengers. The VCM was horrible. Sometimes it felt like a bad torque converter, other times it stumbled on flat ground regularly while activating/deactivating cylinders. The only way to tolerate driving it is to drive it in D3, which shouldn't be necessary on a 40K vehicle. We traded back into a Camry SE V6. Honda has VCM troubles.
Still like my pilot
at2005, 12/09/2013
updated 06/09/2016
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD w/Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
**update** 3 years in & I still like the pilot. The usb system doesn't support the new iPhone as an iPod very well. There's a clunking in my steering whenever I turn that two different dealerships can't find. The truck still handles the same. The 3rd row rocks. The kids actually FIGHT to sit back there. Very dependable vehicle. I'll probably keep it for another 5-6 years. *** I love this vehicle so much! It's a dream to drive. I went from a luxury SUV to the Pilot & am pretty satisfied with it. I love the way the Pilot drives & parks. I've owned cars that don't handle as nicely as this truck does. The only thing I would improve is the ride. It's much rougher/tougher that my previous SUV, but other than that I'm in love. If they keep this vehicle like this or improve it further I will be a Pilot owner for life.
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Honda missed
rickricka, 12/20/2013
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
Got my 13 Honda Pilot 5 months ago, 17k miles, at about 10k the known and accepted (By Honda ) Shudder Vibration in the VCM started, Since I drive so much it is not a characteristic I can accept, it shudders and vibrates at about 1500-2200 rpm. I will write to Honda but don't expect anything back since the dealership is aware, so should be HONDA. If you don't care about long trips being disgustingly frustrating, buy it, if you want a reasonable ride ,stay away until Honda get its right. ALSO Bluetooth Microphone is from the dark ages ( Toyota fixed theirs years ago) it doesn't work well with cell phone. I think I trade for a better ride,but it will hurt because may features are nice
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L
Shannon, 04/02/2015
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
15 of 17 people found this review helpful
I purchased our pilot used with 21,000 miles. Still had factory warranty. After about 6 months of ownership I noticed the plastic above rear hatch was starting to separate from the window, which looked terrible. I brought it to the dealer and they told me it was a "feature". I kept complaining and they said they would fix it once and not again. They fixed it and it has already started to separate from the window. The straw that broke the camels back is a shudder when the ECO kicks in. When just barely accelerating the car would shudder, shaking the steering wheel and floor. I brought it to them twice for the same reason, and was told that is a "feature of the car". I just sold it.
Serious ECO Issues *** Do Not Buy ***
Michael, 09/29/2015
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
18 of 21 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2013 Pilot Touring 2WD fully loaded and noticed hesitation when the vehicle is in ECO mode. The dealer is aware of the problem but says there is no fix for the problem. My problems started at 3000 miles. The problem really occurs when in ECO mode going up hill. When the stuttering/hesitation starts you will feel as though you are on a rodeo bull. In addition, I notice serious front-end shaking with no evident cause. I though I was the only person, but when Googled I discovery many pilot owners experiencing the same issues. See the links below. http://www.piloteers.org/forums/14-problems/33382-2013-pilot-constant-eco-vibration.html http://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Pilot/2013/drivetrain/power_train.shtml Sincerely, Michael
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Starts falling apart at 100K
Bob B, 07/13/2019
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
We purchased our first new Honda in 2013. A Pilot. It cost a lot but we heard Hondas run forever. Now we’ve hit 100K miles and it’s falling apart. They extended the warranty on one defective part to 100K. Guess when it broke? 102K. Also my power steering pump is leaking. Auto door locks keep breaking. Window motor issues. What’s next? I won’t buy a Honda again. My Dodge lasted much longer.
Still love my Pilot at 5 years
Marilyn, 06/07/2018
updated 12/07/2018
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
My Pilot continues to be the best car I have owned. Maintenance costs are minimal. Performance is outstanding. Cargo space is great. I am not planning to replace it any time soon, but after seeing a friends new Pilot, I am disappointed. The latest model lacks many of the things I enjoy most about my 2013 model. I am hoping that when I do decide to get a new vehicle, Honda will have changed again. I love the dependability and space in my Pilot. The new Pilots may look more sleek than my "box" but it comes by sacrificing passenger and cargo space. Hoping my Pilot keeps performing as it has and I don't have to replace it any time soon. I would like to stay with Honda and would hate to sacrifice dependability for space.
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2013 Honda Pilot (93,000 Miles)
Jay S., 06/14/2021
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 2013 Honda Pilot EX-L in August 2013. I have 93,000 miles on the odometer. All service work performed at dealership with scheduled maintenance. Tires and a battery have been my only replacements since purchase, along with the routine oil changes and tire rotations. I love the ride, the handling, large windows, center console and built-in 18 CD Burner/Player. Over 360 songs on its hard drive! Who need Sirius XM? Although I had it for years. Several long distant trips to Florida, Nashville, Virginia, seats are very comfortable and plenty of head & leg room as well. The new Pilots I've been told not as reliable, I hate the body style (looks like a van), push button start (yuk!) tiny arm rests (really?). I'll be keeping my 2013 Honda Pilot for another 100,000 miles and more. No body rust at all, still looks great for an 8-year old vehicle.
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Another solid Pilot
strokeoluck2, 12/27/2012
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
We trade our '08 Ex-L in on a '13 Touring model. So far, we love it. It's very smooth and comfortable on the road. We've not experienced any of the "chugging" sensation when in cruise mode, as others described on the '12's. And I really don't understand why people complain about the Pilot's acceleration - it's MORE than adequate for soccer moms. I have a 330 HP BMW sports car, and I can tell you I am VERY pleased with the acceleration of the Pilot. Only drawback so far has been the navigation system. It's ok once you get used to it, but it's not real intuitive. It would also be nice to have remote start (not on a $40k car?!), but that's a bit nit-picky. Overall, another solid Pilot.
2013 "Pilot" ECO Mode Vibration
dr_frivolous, 03/12/2013
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This being my second new Honda Pilot in six years I would have to say I'm somewhat disappointed. Even though the 2013 Pilot has been totally redesigned from my previous 2008 Pilot, I've found serious flaws with the engine and transmission. The 2008 Pilot never had any noticeable "spark knock" whereas the 2013 definitely does. Also, there is a distinct vibration while in ECO mode when traveling on relatively flat roadways when applying light fuel pedal pressure. Lastly, the molding over the rear door is noticeable uneven. It appears (with the exception of the molding) these are things I will have to live with as the Dealership says they are natural characteristics of the vehicle.....
Vibration and Engine Ringing
kr1839, 07/30/2013
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Go on a long test drive before buying this vehicle and tell the salesman not to talk so you can listen and feel without distraction. This vehicle has a pronounced vibration in echo mode which can be felt and heard. My vehicle also developed a very suttle ringing and I only have a few thousand miles on it. The dealer says it is just part of the vehicle design and that their computers say nothing is wrong. So I'm SOL. I loved my first Honda Pilot but I won't buy another Honda product after this experience.
Great car!
Audrey Weaver, 03/16/2019
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I love my pilot! I was surprised on the gas mileage! Its is not as bad as I thought it was gonna be! The third row seat is great. I bought my pilot in 2016 and so far have had no issues with it whatsoever!
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Loved my Pilot!
MBRS2020, 07/03/2020
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD w/Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I absolutely loved my 2013 Honda Pilot. When I stepped onto the full size SUV scene back in 2011 (had a 2011 Pilot before I traded it in for a 2013), it had the most cargo room in its class and still does! It had all the luxury features I was looking for and more; leather heated seats, power sunroof, power tailgate, back-up camera, tons of storage, great cup holders and console space, awesome sound system, rear entertainment system, tinted (privacy glass) back windows, USB ports, V6 engine, low maintenance costs and excellent safety features to boot. The technology was ahead of its time and it was super reliable the entire 8 years I owned it. of course I was diligent with all of the recommended maintenance and it was still running great. I would have continued to drive it for several more years, but another driver ran a red light and clobbered my driver-side front quarter panel and door. The car was pretty smashed up and all of the driver side airbags deployed, but I walked away with only minor injuries (testimony to the outstanding safety features in Honda’s vehicles). The car was totaled and was still worth over $11,000 with 196,000 miles on it. I will definitely miss that car and highly recommend it to anyone looking for quality, comfort and longevity!
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Bad Vibration in ECO mode
rich_a6, 03/06/2014
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV w/Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
When in ECO mode and you encounter a slight grade where there is a light loading on the engine, it vibrates and makes a droning noise. It does it anywhere from 35mph and up including highway speeds. It did not do it on my Odyssey in ECO mode. The shop mechanic first said it was "Normal". I have had 20+ cars in the last 50 years and this isn't normal. Then he said this was very typical of the 2013 Pilots. Honda mad a design change in 2013 and don't apparently don't have a clue how to fix it!
hesitation
Don Wagner, 12/16/2015
updated 12/19/2016
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV w/Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
10 of 12 people found this review helpful
This Honda model has a terrible hesitation problem. Often it will quit running and let you sitting in the middle of an intersection, and sometimes it just quits running altogether. I had to have towed to the dealer recently and after having the vehicle two days thet told me it had a bug, the size of a gnat in the air/fuel mixture chamber. Told me it was repaired, but it still has the same problem.
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Good not great
Greg, 02/20/2018
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
Honda is supposed to be one of the best for value and reliability but my experience with two Honda Pilots has shown me that this brand is just average at best. My first Pilot a 2008 blew the engine at 70,000 miles (no one believed that could happen with a Honda but it did!). We replaced with a 2013 that is developing a long list of repairs already at 70,000 miles. Both were/are faithfully serviced at the dealer. My enthusiasm for Honda Pilots is definitely not as positive as it used to be.
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VCM Horrible
thebigv21, 08/26/2014
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
12 of 15 people found this review helpful
My wife had this vehicle for a month. While driving, when the engine went into ECO mode there would be a stutter and hesitation. The entire floor would vibrate. I researched this problem and it seemed that a lot of people were having the same issue without a fix. I traded the vehicle in instead of dealing with this. Bought a highlander and it runs much better.
paint failure and engine valve problems
Dave's Not Here, 12/09/2022
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
If you love dumping money into your vehicles this model is for you, the pilot is a roomy well designed SUV... However Honda will not back up the faulty rings on their engines... costing you about 5500$ and as for the paint primer problems anywhere from 3000-15000 $ on a paint job
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Loved my Pilot.
KA Cheatum, 05/16/2018
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I drove this vehicle for four years and never for a moment had any regrets. The leather interior was Labrador friendly - easy to clean. All three seating areas are comfortable. I really liked having the shifter above the console, leaving room for my bag. The cargo area is cavernous with the third row of seats flat. I would not have traded, but I fell for the new Pilot and the new safety features. The only thing I would like to have had on my 2013 and my new one is a rear facing laser to vaporize the fools who drive with their heads in the clouds or their phones or where ever their heads are that they cannot see another vehicle in their immediate path! There are multiple rearend collisions daily on one busy street!
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6 year review
Jack Reese, 03/13/2019
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The steering is a little too quick to suit me. There is logic built in to the key buttons that lowers the windows and sunroof partially when buttons are pushed in certain sequence(which I have never figured out). To return to your Pilot in the rain and find windows and sunroof partially open is a real bummer. The horizontal trim on the outside of front doors is very easy to chip when the car next to you is careless with their door openings(different material needed?). The parts man suggested touch-up paint as solution(not a good solution). Love the body shape and roominess.
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First new car ever
pilot27106, 10/02/2013
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV w/Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my first new car ever. That being a 2013 Honda Pilot exl. I did much of the same research on here and still decided on the Honda. I will say it is not as stylish as the others. However, there are a few great things to be said about the SUV. Gas mileage averaging 22.5 in the city. I drive mainly in the city. Nice heavy duty plastics used. Not cheap materials like the rest. No squeaks and rattles. The seats are very comfortible in the front and rear with plenty of leg room. Finally, it has more than enough power. I promise! I have yet to find a situation that I have needed a 300hp or twin turbo motor. This is a utility vehicle. I have owned 50 plus cars,tr
Loved my pilot!
Margaret, 07/13/2020
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
We bought our 2013 used in 2014. It was a great car. Very little problems, normal repairs brakes tires etc. I never noticed the problems others seem to have with ECO. I loved the heated seats, the lift-gate, and being able to record CDS to play back. When the grandkids wanted Trolls there it was. The radio controls were easy to use as well as the heating and air. The lumbar adjustment was so nice. seats comfortable. Great to lay down the seats and have room to haul things. I carried my grandkids a lot and adults could fit in the back too. Unfortunately we were rear-ended and it was totaled. I was planning on keeping it many years. We are having a hard time replacing it-- trying to find something as good as this car was.
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Nice car but due for an update
bebo2014, 12/25/2012
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
33 of 45 people found this review helpful
This is my second Honda Pilot. Honda is very well known for producing reliable vehicles. This Pilot is no exception. Very roomy from inside. Smooth drive on highways. Acceleration is sluggish. You also feel like driving a truck rather than an SUV. I used to own a Murano before my new pilot, which was more fun to drive. I like the boxy exterior which makes it more unique than current SUVs in the market today. Seats are comfortable. Excellent sound for the Touring although does not carry a brand sound system like the majority of other SUVs. I am getting about 24 MPG on highways but about 14 to 15 MPG in the city.
Base Model Pilot Still a Lovable Vehicle
jmdrbp1, 04/17/2013
2013 Honda Pilot LX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I purchase my 2013 Pilot LX having some regrets for not getting the 4wd model and a sun roof. I have since changed my mind. I like the spacious interior, solid ride and more than adequate pick up on the highway or when I need it. The seat adjustment gives me a high ride and excellent visibility. Spacious cargo space with the seats down. I love my Pilot.
Honda EX
Charlie M., 07/31/2017
updated 08/09/2022
2013 Honda Pilot EX 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
Purchased October 2016 with about 36,000 miles. The worst thing I don't like is the seats. The material is cheap, which is gray cloth, is hard to clean. The seats are very stiff. It's standard that it does not come with the 3rd-row floor mat. I had to purchase an aftermarket one for $24 from an Online store which was hard to find a place that sells it(autoanything.com). Dealerships don't sell it individually. The Bluetooth won't connect with my Galaxy S6 but it does with iPhones. After a month of driving it, the wheel bearing had to be replaced. My auto technician said it's a common issue and the quality of OEM part is terrible. This was under 40,000 miles. Along with the sensor for the traction control had to be replaced every time tires are taken off. So my technician said he couldn't fix the traction control to function. The dealership has to program it. My windshield had a crack from something that hit it on the freeway, probably a small rock off the dump trucks. The "Acoustic" or original Honda windshield costs $1200. Instead, I bought a low-end replacement for $250. It works fine. I bought the SUV for some $25,000, $3000 under KBB value. The trade-in value is $18,000 , which is terrible. That's $10,000 difference from the market value- of $28,000. I give it an overall grade of "B-" for the electronic technology, 2nd generation looks better and it has more room compared to my 2005 Honda Plot EX. July 2020. Now at 86,xxx miles, front suspension needs repairs and rear shocks were replaced, luckily they were the Lifetime brand. I only paid for labor for new shocks. The stains are worst now. They can't be cleaned. When I make "U" turns it makes a whirling noise. My technician can't figure it out. February 2021. 91,xxx miles. I will give it a "C". Seat stains just get worse. I've given up on it. Gas MPG has gone down. The gauge average for the city is 15 mpg. Trade-In value at this point is only worth about $10,000. The market value dropped $8,000 in 5 years. Hondas usually hold pretty well in value but maybe not this model. February 8th, 2022. 107,xxx miles. Stains on seats are still visible and cannot be cleaned. Suspension needs replacement parts and transmission fluid needs to be changed every year-front and back. Rear wiper doesn't have an exact OEM replacement at stores. They can only be found at the dealership. Prefer my 2005 Honda Pilot EX still running at 208,xxx miles. August 9, 2022. 113,xxx miles. The driver seat makes a loud noise when moving it back. Again, I’ve given up on the seat stains as they just get worse. Prefer to drive the other Pilot-2005 model with 213,xxx miles.
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Very Good Ride
HJA, 10/29/2022
2013 Honda Pilot EX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Not only do you get a great ride but you can carry all your stuff with the 3rd row down. Looks great and handles well. Would buy this again.
Loved our 2011 Pilot bought a second one
jplyman, 10/05/2013
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
We have a 2011 Pilot EX-L and it has been great so great in fact that I purchased a second one. If your looking for a car ride or a station wagon SUV than this will not be your car. However, it excels at what it does and that is being a SUV that can carry anything and everyone. We comfortably fit all three of our kids in the middle row (2 car seats (3&4 and 11 yo). It is not the quietest SUV but that is what the radio is for ;-). The reliability and safety is awesome. Also, the value is hard to beat - I looked at all the competitors but the American SUV's just cost to much to get the same features that we wanted (leather & sunroof). Didn't like the lower seat height of the CX-9
Long trips? Great ride!
Diana Perry, 01/27/2017
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've driven 2/3 of the continental U.S. and this vehicle has been very comfortable and reliable. Through heavy rain, wind, and on slick roads it handles extremely well.
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Honda has lost it...
rick2456, 11/22/2013
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 17 people found this review helpful
I have bought 4 Honda's in my lifetime, including the 2013 Pilot touring 4wd. Only some minor issues thus far, but for sure the dealerships and Honda corporate are always trying to downplay the problems or consider them "normal". Honda has lost me for life. My other complaints are related to the ergonomics of the vehicle. 1) Can't load MP3 or WMA files on the hard drive. CD songs only. 2) Navigation doesn't show as much info as even a $80 GPS and you have to pay $150 for map updates. 3) No always on compass. The only compass is the navigation and it only points toward the north. Doesn't show you what direction you are heading. 4)Climate controls are ridiculous and hard to find/use.
honda pilot
ivan_babij, 02/14/2014
2013 Honda Pilot EX 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
15 of 25 people found this review helpful
Honda pilot is a great car, roome and comfortable. To prevent engine vibrations in "eco" mode, which is only happens in cold weather, use premium fuel in winter and mid grade or regular in summer. Fill out a full tank with premium fuel and drive 75 mph on Highway with D3 on for about 20 miles and it's gone. Pilot is much beter choise that his rival's Pathfinder and Grand Cherokee, because they aretrue lemon cars with transmission problem's.
Lives up to expectations
Hayden Garriques, 09/20/2017
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
It has an "Eco" function that cannot be overridden. At cruising speed the computer takes over and adjusts the engine work rate do that gas mileage is optimized. When this happens, there is a perceptible difference: you hear it and feel it. If you go into a testdrive without knowing or anticipating this event, the experience will be underwhelming. It is easy to get accustomed to the sensation though, especially when you realize the benefit: persistently getting 25mpg on a large body suv. Most vehicle in this class aren't so generous. The ride is not luxurious, but always comfortable. It is too early in ownership for me to comment on reliability of this particular vehicle, but it is a Honda. On prior experience the notion of an unreliable Honda is, by now, oxymoronic.
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ECO mode issue
rachlk, 08/01/2014
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV w/Navigation (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
There is a problem when the car goes into ECO mode. The dealer told me it was normal and that I must be over sensitive to vibration & sound. It feels like a "hesitation" or "stutter" and is NOT normal! *sigh* I love everything else about my Pilot, but am sad to say I'm currently looking to trade it due to this issue.
Family Vehicle
gregnice23, 03/26/2013
2013 Honda Pilot EX 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 13 people found this review helpful
With the birth of our son we had to upgrade and get a family vehicle. I had Honda's before but I wanted a change to something different. Looked at the CX-9 and we liked it a lot, too bad Mazda has crummy leasing programs. I wanted no part of an unsafe boring looking Highlander and all the problems Toyota has nowadays. JGC was close but American reliability is no way close to the Japanese lets be real. The Pilot is safe. That is all that matters right now to me for our son, Safety. Cargo area is great, it really does swallow up stuff. Ride is comfortable and gas mileage is adequate it is a 4X4. People who buy cars who worry about gas mileage go hug a tree and get a hybrid. Pilot=Family Safe.
Best vehicle I have ever owned...
hondaloverinmd, 03/29/2014
2013 Honda Pilot EX 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
13 of 27 people found this review helpful
..and that's saying a lot - this is my 9th vehicle, 4th Honda, and 2nd Honda Pilot. Had my first Pilot ('05 model) for 7 years. Just bought a 2014 EX 4WD. There is NO engine vibration when in the VCM (aka, ECO) mode. Honda has reduced exterior noise considerably from my first Pilot - this one has a very quiet interior. Very smooth engine and transmission - typical Honda. Fantastic amount of interior space and cargo room. Great looking SUV, unlike many of the so-called modern SUVs that look like ugly, glorified station wagons. I love everything about the Pilot. The USB port and bluetooth hands-free link are much appreciated. Thanks Honda!!!
My review after over a year with our 2012 Pilot
antons911, 03/23/2013
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 18 people found this review helpful
Love the pilot for the interior space, real SUV look, solid feel while driving on freeways. Amazing interior space. Fits what ever you wanted to haul. The reality is, there is no competitor with ability to fit your family or things like the Pilot. We tried everything, and if you want third row to fit three people, there is really nothing out there that has that room for legs (armada, sequoia, all horrible).
Beyond Expectations
commandoii, 08/18/2013
2013 Honda Pilot Touring 4dr SUV 4WD w/Navigation and Rear Entertainment (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Okay, I bought this car for my wife and now I want one. Drove everything in this category, CX9, Stretch and non stretch Sante Fe, GM moon rovers, explorer. Big fan of explorer looks and big Ford fan in general, but it drove (actually rented) too big and sadden to say, My Touch is out of touch. This pilot was very well equipped and drives fantastic and the Consumer Report parking lot handling quips are BS - it handles them with no problem. Everything inside is just right. But most of all the wife "loves" her pilot and for me that is all that matters. BTW those that don't like the boxy look try a few add-ons (eg.visors) , they sweeten the look. You don't drive the look. Great product!!
Honda Pilot
chris352, 04/10/2013
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the second Pilot I have purchased. This is the best vehicle I have owned. It is reliable, safe, great in the snow and multifunctional.