2013 Honda Pilot Reliability ReportKeepScore 87/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2013 Honda Pilot
- Outscores the 2011 Honda Pilot by 9 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: variable cylinder management (vcm) system (moderate severity).
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
2013 Honda Pilot: Buy or Avoid?
The 2013 Honda Pilot stands as a remarkably dependable family hauler, offering robust reliability for its segment with only a few specific areas requiring attention. While its Variable Cylinder Management system can cause some headaches, addressing it proactively turns this SUV into one of the most confident used buys for families seeking space and AWD capability.
The 2013 Honda Pilot remains an outstanding choice for families needing a practical, reliable, and spacious three-row SUV. With awareness and proactive management of its few known weaknesses, particularly the VCM system, this vehicle is built to deliver many years of dependable service and strong value.
Best Model Years
2012-2015
Years to Avoid
Earlier 2nd generation models (2009-2011) had more pronounced VCM issues and generally higher recall rates.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust J-series V6 engine (when VCM is managed)
- Excellent build quality and interior durability
- Strong resale value and broad parts availability
2013 Honda Pilot — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2013 Honda Pilot, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The VCM system on the 3.5L V6 can lead to excessive oil consumption due to piston ring wear on cylinders that frequently deactivate. This also causes premature spark plug fouling and can lead to engine vibrations or engine mount failure.…
While generally reliable, the 5-speed automatic can develop torque converter shudder, especially if transmission fluid changes are neglected. Less commonly, premature wear can occur, resulting in harsh shifts or slippage.
The power steering pump on these models is a known weak point, prone to developing leaks and a characteristic whine, particularly when cold or at full lock. Hoses can also degrade and leak, leading to fluid loss and potential pump failure.
2013 Honda Pilot Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2013 Honda Pilot most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the vehicle should primarily require routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin/engine air filter replacements. This is often still under powertrain warranty.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage typically signifies a major service interval for Hondas. Expect to address transmission fluid changes, spark plug replacement (especially if VCM is active), and potentially the first signs of VCM-related oil consumption.
Elevated Risk Zone
The 3.5L V6 engine typically requires a timing belt and water pump replacement around this mileage (or 7 years), which is a significant service. Power steering pump issues may also become apparent.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, general wear and tear components will need attention. This includes suspension components, catalytic converter efficiency issues, and continued vigilance for VCM-related engine issues or torque converter shudder.
2013 Honda Pilot Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2013 Honda Pilot on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2013 Honda Pilot Last?
Focus intensely on verifying service history, especially for the timing belt/water pump, and be prepared to address the VCM system if you plan on long-term ownership, particularly if buying a higher-mileage example.
What 2013 Honda Pilot Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional interior space and versatile third-row seating
- Reliable powertrain (outside of VCM) that lasts for hundreds of thousands of miles
- Good all-weather capability with available VTM-4 AWD system
- Strong resale value and reputation for dependability
Common Frustrations
- Mediocre fuel economy for its class, especially with AWD
- Dated infotainment system and interior design compared to rivals
- VCM-related engine vibrations and oil consumption are a persistent frustration
- Road noise can be pronounced at highway speeds
Who Should Buy the 2013 Honda Pilot?
Best For
- Growing families needing reliable three-row seating
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking long-term value and durability
- Owners who prioritize utility and cargo space over luxury features
Not Ideal For
- Performance enthusiasts or those seeking sporty handling
- Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else
How the 2013 Honda Pilot Compares to Rivals
The 2013 Honda Pilot is a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment, offering a balance of utility, reliability, and value that often surpasses many domestic and some foreign competitors in the long run.
More Reliable Than
- Dodge Durango (pre-2011 models)
- Ford Explorer (pre-2011 models with 6F-series transmissions)
- Nissan Pathfinder (older VQ-engine models with CVT)
Comparable To
- Toyota Highlander (though Pilot offers more utility)
- Acura MDX (mechanically similar, but Pilot is less complex)
- Subaru Tribeca
Safety Recalls on the 2013 Honda Pilot
6 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 2014 Honda Insight and Acura TSX and TSX Wagon, 2014-2015 Honda Crosstour and Pilot vehicles nationwide, as well as certain 2014 Honda FCX Clarity and Fit EV vehicles in Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Texas, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan) and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Honda is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Acura TSX, TSX Wagon and ZDX, Honda Crosstour, Insight, Fit and Pilot vehicles, 2011-2012 Honda Accord and 2011 Honda Civic NGV, Civic, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Lastly, Honda is recalling certain 2010-2013 Acura TSX and ZDX, Honda Crosstour, Fit, Insight and Pilot, 2011-2013 TSX Wagon, 2010-2012 Honda Accord and 2010-2011 Honda Civic NGV, Civic, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag air bag inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
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 2013 Honda Pilot?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Honda Pilot — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Pilot. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2013s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2013 Honda Pilot
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