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.
1.8
hardly worth mentioning
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
92,000 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.
The front lower ball joint on my 2003 Honda Pilot separated while being driven out of a parking lot. The front right suspension collapsed. Upon inspection, the joint had never been lubricated when the car was assembled. This joint is a "lubed-for-life" joint that cannot be inspected or lubricated once assembled. The protective boot and retaining clip were in perfect condition when the joint failed. I am a mechanical engineer (Tennessee license # 110751) and have been involved in several metal failure investigations. I am certain that this joint failed due to having not been lubricated at the factory. This car had been inspected by a Honda dealership as a certified used car and had also been serviced at the Honda dealership where it had passed their suspension check. If this failure had occurred 10 minutes earlier or later we would have lost control of the vehicle on the interstate at 70mph. The car has never been in an accident or abused in any way. Neither Honda usa nor the two dealerships involved would recognize the seriousness of this failure. The lower control arm, hub assembly, and steering knuckle were replaced at my expense.
- Bells, TN, USA
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- Bells, TN, USA