2014 Honda Pilot Reliability ReportKeepScore 86/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2014 Honda Pilot
- Outscores the 2012 Honda Pilot by 3 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (vcm system) (moderate severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
2014 Honda Pilot: Buy or Avoid?
The 2014 Honda Pilot stands as a remarkably dependable and practical family SUV, an excellent used vehicle choice if you prioritize longevity and utility. While not without a few common Honda quirks, primarily related to its Variable Cylinder Management system, it largely upholds Honda's reputation for robust engineering and minimal major headaches. This generation of Pilot represents one of the safest bets for reliable family transportation.
The 2014 Honda Pilot is an excellent choice for a used family SUV, offering a blend of reliability, practicality, and proven longevity. With proactive attention to its few known weaknesses, particularly the VCM system and routine fluid changes, this vehicle will provide many years and miles of dependable service. It…
Best Model Years
2012-2015 (late 2nd Generation)
Years to Avoid
Avoid earlier 2nd Gen models (2009-2011) that had earlier versions of the VCM system and more prominent issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust J-series V6 engine (aside from VCM)
- Strong resale value and owner loyalty
- Spacious interior with flexible seating
2014 Honda Pilot — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 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 Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, designed for fuel economy, can lead to excessive oil consumption, fouled spark plugs (especially in cylinders that deactivate), and premature motor mount failure due to vibrations. This can…
While generally durable, the 5-speed automatic transmission can experience shuddering from the torque converter or hard shifts if the fluid is neglected. Pressure switches can also fail, leading to delayed engagement or erratic shifting.…
Leaks from the power steering pump or hoses are common on this generation, often causing a whining noise, difficult steering, and potential fluid loss. This is typically due to O-ring degradation or hose clamp issues. It's a persistent a…
2014 Honda Pilot Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 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 is still relatively new. Focus on routine oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin/engine air filter replacements to ensure a strong foundation for long-term reliability. Check for any early manufacturing defects.
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical service interval. Ensure spark plugs are inspected/replaced (especially if VCM is active), transmission fluid is drained/filled, and the timing belt (if applicable to this engine variant) is on your radar. Power steeri…
Elevated Risk Zone
Expect potential wear items to emerge. Listen for power steering pump whine or check for leaks. Inspect suspension components like control arm bushings and struts. VCM-related oil consumption should be monitored closely if not already ad…
High Risk Zone
Beyond this point, more significant repairs become increasingly likely. Monitor for engine performance issues related to VCM, listen for transmission irregularities, and inspect for exhaust system rust. Prioritize addressing any VCM issu…
2014 Honda Pilot Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 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 2014 Honda Pilot Last?
Focus on vehicles with a complete service history, especially evidence of transmission fluid changes and spark plug replacements. A lower mileage model (under 100k) is ideal, allowing you to proactively address VCM before it becomes a major problem.
What 2014 Honda Pilot Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Reliable and durable, inspires confidence for long trips.
- Vast interior space, comfortable for large families and cargo.
- Excellent visibility from the driver's seat.
- Good resale value and strong demand in the used market.
Common Frustrations
- Mediocre fuel economy, especially with the VCM system active.
- Dated interior design and technology compared to newer rivals.
- The VCM system's quirks are a common source of frustration.
- Ride can be a bit firm and truck-like for some.
Who Should Buy the 2014 Honda Pilot?
Best For
- Families needing abundant space and three rows of seating
- Buyers prioritizing reliability and lower long-term ownership costs
- Anyone needing confident all-wheel drive capability
Not Ideal For
- Performance enthusiasts seeking a sporty drive
- Luxury seekers desiring premium materials and advanced tech
How the 2014 Honda Pilot Compares to Rivals
The 2014 Pilot maintains Honda's strong reliability reputation, often outperforming many domestic and some import competitors in its class, particularly those with less proven powertrains. It typically lags only slightly behind the Toyota Highlander, mainly due to the specific…
More Reliable Than
- 2014 Ford Explorer (earlier EcoBoost reliability concerns)
- 2014 Dodge Durango (higher frequency of electrical/drivetrain issues)
- 2014 Nissan Pathfinder (early CVT reliability woes)
Comparable To
- 2014 Toyota Highlander (similar strong reliability, less VCM-specific issues)
- 2014 Chevrolet Traverse (decent engine, but transmission can be weak link)
Safety Recalls on the 2014 Honda Pilot
3 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 2014 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.
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Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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