2017 Honda Pilot Problems: 16 Known Issues

How to Fix

Disable VCM using aftermarket devices: VCMuzzler II ($81), VCMTuner II ($150-200), or S-VCM Controller ($180-250). Check oil level every 500-1,000 miles and top off as needed. Use synthetic 0W-20 oil. Replace spark plugs every 30k-50k miles instead of 100k. Severe cases may need engine rebuild ($4,000-$8,000).

Owner tips & cautions

• TipDisabling VCM reduces damage to engine mounts ($800) and minimizes transmission torque converter wear
• TipCheck oil level every 500-1,000 miles and keep 2-3 quarts of oil in vehicle for top-offs
• WarningDo not ignore excessive oil consumption - running engine low on oil can cause catastrophic engine failure

How to Fix

Replace timing belt, water pump, drive belts, and tensioners at 105,000 miles or 7 years as preventive maintenance. Independent mechanic ($900-$1,100) cheaper than dealer ($1,200-$1,500). Always replace water pump with timing belt. Use OEM Honda parts for reliability. Set reminder for next service at 105k intervals.

Owner tips & cautions

• TipReplace timing belt at 105,000 miles or 7 years - waiting until failure causes $3,000-$6,000 in engine damage
• TipAlways replace water pump when replacing timing belt - labor overlap makes it cost-effective
• TipIndependent mechanics charge $900-$1,100 vs dealer $1,200-$1,500 - save $300-$400
• WarningThis is an interference engine - timing belt failure WILL cause severe engine damage requiring $3,000-$6,000 repair

How to Fix

Diagnose by shifting from neutral to drive with the engine running; if the vibrations disappear in neutral, the mounts need replacement. Replace both front and rear ACM mounts with OEM Honda parts ($250 each + $350-$500 labor = $1,200-$1,500 total). Aftermarket mounts ($60-$70) may not meet specs and cause continued vibration. Disable VCM to prevent accelerated wear.

Owner tips & cautions

• TipTest by shifting neutral to drive - if vibration disappears in neutral, mounts are failing
• TipReplace both front and rear mounts together - one failed mount stresses the other
• TipDisable VCM to prevent accelerated mount wear and extend mount life significantly

How to Fix

Have a Honda dealer verify the VIN and stored codes against 20-100 (2016–2017 Pilot, with software update) or 21-010 (2017–2019, without that update); the bulletins require at least 5,000 miles. With only P0420/P0430, perform the cylinder air-fuel test and replace the injectors only if it fails; 20-100 also requires its software update. With the specified misfire or air-fuel imbalance codes, follow the injector-replacement branch and any applicable software update. For a 9-speed automatic under 20-100, also confirm its A/T software is current. Use the complete specified fuel-injector kit (06160-RLV-305 in these bulletin versions), including all must-replace parts, rather than only the six injectors pictured. Honda’s extension is 10 years from original purchase or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, with eligibility confirmed by the dealer. These sources do not direct automatic catalytic-converter replacement. If none of the listed codes is present, continue normal troubleshooting.

How to Fix

Replace both valve cover gaskets and the spark plug tube seals (gasket sets include the tube seals); clean oil from the spark plug wells and inspect/replace any oil-soaked ignition coil boots and fouled spark plugs. Parts are inexpensive ($40-$80 per set) but labor is significant on the rear bank.

How to Fix

Have a Honda dealer check VIN eligibility and whether product update 23-008 remains open. When applicable, complete its PGM-FI software update first. If the condition continues, the separate 23-009 repair applies to eligible 2016–2021 Pilots with the 9-speed automatic and idle stop: replace the starter assembly and both starter-cut relays, adjust the valves and follow all required gasket/bolt and verification procedures. That warranty extension runs 10 years from original purchase with no mileage limit, plus an additional 18 months for 2016 Pilots. Do not extend the 23-009 hardware or warranty branch to a 2022 vehicle from the broader software bulletin. This is not a recall; the saved EA25-004 document is an investigation record and reports complaints even after countermeasures. A dealer must confirm current eligibility and next steps.

How to Fix

Check fuse box for loose fuse controlling touchscreen (common in 2016). Perform hard reset by holding power button 10 seconds or disconnecting battery 10 minutes. Visit Honda dealer for software update (free under warranty). Persistent issues may need infotainment unit replacement ($800-$1,500). Some owners use aftermarket head units ($400-$800).

Owner tips & cautions

• TipCheck for loose fuse in fuse box (fuse not in full contact) - very common in 2016 models
• TipHard reset by holding power button 10 seconds or disconnecting battery 10 minutes often resolves temporary glitches
• TipRequest Honda dealer software update - free under warranty and resolves many infinite loop issues
• WarningIf screen drains battery overnight, disconnect infotainment fuse until dealer repair to avoid being stranded

How to Fix

Pull the radio fuse to test whether the radio is causing the drain. Replace defective Omron AC clutch relay (39794-SDA-A03) with updated Mitsuba relay (39794-SDA-A05). Disconnect or replace Bluetooth/hands-free module if causing drain. Test parasitic draw with multimeter after 30+ minutes. Replace weak battery. Check three main ground connections for oxidation/corrosion.

Owner tips & cautions

• TipPull radio fuse to test if radio is causing drain - if drain stops, radio is the culprit
• TipTest parasitic draw with multimeter after vehicle sits 30+ minutes - normal is 12-30mA, over 80mA is excessive
• WarningAllow at least 30 minutes for vehicle to fully fall asleep before measuring parasitic draw

How to Fix

Have a Honda dealer check the VIN for recall 23V858. The dealer will replace the fuel pump module with an improved part, free of charge. The illustrated replacement is representative, not an exact part number. A check-engine warning is possible but is not guaranteed before a stall; do not deliberately reproduce a stall.

How to Fix

Have the dealer inspect and, if needed, reposition/recalibrate the front radar and update the Honda Sensing / CMBS software to the latest calibration. Keeping the radar area (lower grille/emblem) clean and free of ice, mud, and aftermarket badges reduces false triggers. In severe cases the radar unit is replaced. Document events and report to NHTSA.

How to Fix

After confirming both loss of cooling and staining at the receiver/dryer cap, have a qualified A/C technician follow Honda bulletin 18-080. Recover the refrigerant, remove the condenser and replace the filter sub-assembly (80101-TG7-A02: cap, filter and desiccant bag), then reinstall, evacuate, recharge and verify cooling. If there is no cap-area staining, continue normal diagnosis. This bulletin does not direct automatic replacement of the whole condenser. Follow the exact refrigerant/oil and service procedure; on Honda Sensing vehicles, the bulletin also requires radar aiming when the radar has been removed or replaced. Normal warranty rules apply; this is not a recall or a current promise of free repair.

How to Fix

Diagnose by removing the actuator (three 7mm screws on its underside, disconnect the linkage rod) and confirming the blend door itself moves freely. Replace the failed air-mix actuator with a new unit; on most Pilots the front actuator is accessible without full dash removal, though some jobs are labor-intensive. Recalibrate the climate control after replacement.

How to Fix

Replace defective Omron relay (39794-SDA-A03) with updated Mitsuba relay (39794-SDA-A05) at dealer ($20-$40 part + $50-$100 labor) or DIY (relay in engine bay fuse box). If AC still not working, check refrigerant level and recharge ($150-$200). If clutch physically failed, full compressor replacement required ($1,200-$1,900).

Owner tips & cautions

• TipEasy DIY repair - relay located in engine bay fuse box, takes 5 minutes to replace
• TipCheck for battery drain overnight - if present, AC clutch relay likely stuck closed
• WarningLow refrigerant from failed relay can damage AC compressor - replace relay immediately when AC stops working

How to Fix

For an eligible Touring or Elite with intermittent harsh upshifts during steady acceleration, follow Honda bulletin 20-029 and update the TCM software. First confirm the vehicle has at least 500 miles, because the TCM needs that distance to learn the driving pattern. After the update, adaptation takes about another 500 miles. A 2016 Pilot also requires the specified PCM idle learn; omitting it can cause a hard shift. Other transmission symptoms need normal troubleshooting. The bulletin does not prescribe transmission replacement, a fluid change or a new control module. Normal warranty rules apply; this is not a recall or a promise of free repair.

How to Fix

Check if vehicle covered under Honda warranty extension (Service Bulletin 19-055 for 2013-2015 Taffeta White, 19-057 for 2013-2016 White Diamond Pearl - 7 years/no mileage limit). Visit Honda dealer for free paint repair/replacement if within extended warranty. For out-of-warranty, contact Honda corporate for goodwill repair consideration. Independent body shop repair costs $800-$2,000 depending on area. Document peeling with photos.

Owner tips & cautions

• TipCheck TSB A19-055 for warranty extension eligibility - 2014-2015 Taffeta White covered 7 years/no mileage limit
• TipDocument peeling with photos and contact Honda corporate for goodwill repair even if out of warranty
• TipJoin class action lawsuit if eligible - provides leverage for repair compensation
• WarningPeeling paint exposes bare metal to rust - address promptly to prevent structural damage

How to Fix

Have a qualified technician identify the leak source before replacing seals or the differential. For 2016–2017 AWD vehicles covered by A17050C, inspect the pressure sensor and check port above the apparent leak: tightening or replacing a confirmed loose/damaged sensor, or tightening the check port, may be sufficient. Follow the exact service procedure and fitment requirements. For the separate 2019 owner-reported concern, diagnose the leak; one owner’s pressure-switch replacement is not a universal remedy or proof the bulletin applies. Do not automatically replace the complete differential. This is not a recall or a promise of free repair.