CarComplaints.com Notes: Beware the 2003 Honda Pilot once the odometer reaches 100k miles, when two problem defect trends have shown up: transmission failure & ignition switch problems.

Typically a locksmith can fix the ignition switch or it can be replaced for around $700. However the transmission failure is a far more expensive problem, with the average repair cost at well over $3,000. A major transmission recall of over 1 million Honda vehicles back in 2004 dealt with transmission damage due to overheating, but 2003 Pilot transmissions have continued to fail.

5.9

fairly significant
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
14,006 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2003 Honda Pilot engine problems

engine problem

Find something helpful? Spread the word.
Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2003 Honda Pilot:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

2003 Honda Pilot Owner Comments

problem #2

Sep 222003

Pilot

  • Automatic transmission
  • 12 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The accelerator pedal sticks. When the applied the accelerator the vehicle did not respond as it should. The owner has taken the vehicle to the dealer and all they would do is spray the pedal with silicone. They also said that this function is normal for this vehicle. The problem was said to be due to carbon build up. The steering made a clicking and or groaning sound when making left turns as if the transmission was slipping. The noise was near the rear differential.

- Aquinnah, MA, USA

problem #1

Apr 202004

Pilot

  • Automatic transmission
  • 28,000 miles
While applying the accelerator pedal vehicle failed to accelerate. Consumer applied the accelerator pedal numerous times and the vehicle accelerated uncontrollably. Consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle, and drove it to the dealer for inspection. Mechanic could not duplicate the problem.

- Lodi, NJ, USA

Not what you are looking for?