2009 Honda Pilot Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2009 Honda Pilot
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (vcm system) (major severity).
- Has 9 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
- Scores 9 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2007 Honda Pilot earns a 87.
Is the 2009 Honda Pilot Worth Buying?
The 2009 Honda Pilot is a spacious and practical family hauler that offers decent overall reliability, but its VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system introduces a significant risk of costly engine issues. While fundamentally a robust platform, a proactive approach to VCM and meticulous maintenance are crucial to avoid major headaches and ensure long-term satisfaction.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust V6 engine (if VCM is addressed)
- Spacious and versatile interior
- Strong resale value
What Tends to Fail First on the 2009 Honda Pilot
The systems that break first on the 2009 Honda Pilot. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
2009 Honda Pilot Recall History
9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 CR-V, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2011-2014 TSX Sport Wagon, 2010-2013 ZDX, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic and Civic Hybrid, 2008-2010 Civic GX NGV, 2012-2015 Crosstour, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2013 Fit, 2014 Fit EV, 2010-2014 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
What breaks on the 2009 Honda Pilot?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Honda Pilot Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Pilot. Click any year for its full report.
2009 Honda Pilot Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2009 Honda Pilot
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Frequently Asked Questions
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