2017 Honda Pilot Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2017 Honda Pilot
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the structure:body:hood.
- Scores 8 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Honda Pilot earns a 86.
- The system most likely to surface first: 9-speed automatic transmission (zf9hp) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2017 Honda Pilot?
The 2017 Honda Pilot is a spacious and practical family hauler, but it’s a vehicle that demands a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a clear understanding of its specific weaknesses. While the 6-speed automatic models offer solid dependability, the 9-speed transmission in higher trims and the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system are significant areas of concern that can lead to costly repairs if not addressed proactively. For the savvy buyer, it can still be a valuable asset, but don't go in blind.
While the 2017 Honda Pilot offers tremendous practicality, its known issues with the 9-speed transmission and VCM system prevent a full recommendation. If you find a 6-speed model (LX, EX, EX-L) with documented maintenance and are willing to address VCM proactively, it can be a decent buy. Otherwise, the risk of sig…
Best Model Years
2018-2022 (later models with updated 9-speed software or the more reliable 6-speed)
Years to Avoid
2016-2017 (early 3rd-gen models with unrefined 9-speed transmission and prominent VCM issues)
Biggest Strengths
- Spacious and versatile interior
- Strong V6 engine performance (when VCM is managed)
- Excellent safety ratings and features
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 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.
Commonly found in Touring and Elite trims, this transmission is prone to harsh shifts, hesitation, delayed engagement, and outright failure. Issues stem from software calibration and internal component wear. Honda issued multiple TSBs fo…
The VCM system, designed to improve fuel economy by deactivating cylinders, can lead to excessive oil consumption, fouled spark plugs, piston ring wear, and premature catalytic converter failure due to oil burning. This is a design flaw…
The HondaLink infotainment system, particularly the touchscreen unit, is known for freezing, being unresponsive, restarting randomly, and experiencing Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity issues. It can also lead to parasitic battery…
2017 Honda Pilot Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 Honda Pilot most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Warning Zone
At this mileage, expect the first signs of infotainment glitches. For Touring and Elite trims, the 9-speed transmission might start exhibiting initial rough shifts or hesitation, often addressed by dealer software updates.
Maintenance & VCM Onset Zone
This mileage often marks the start of routine maintenance like brakes and tires. More critically, VCM-related issues such as increased oil consumption or subtle misfires might begin to surface if the system is not mitigated. Transmission…
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond the 90,000-mile mark, the risks associated with the VCM system become more pronounced, potentially leading to piston ring wear. 9-speed transmission failures become more likely, often requiring major repair or replacement. Timing…
High Risk / Major Component Failure Zone
At this point, both the VCM system and the 9-speed transmission are operating on borrowed time without proactive intervention or previous major repairs. Engine integrity due to VCM and transmission reliability become the primary concerns…
2017 Honda Pilot Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Honda Pilot on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., VCM diagnosis, electrical module, suspension components)
How Long Does the 2017 Honda Pilot Last?
Target models under 60,000 miles if possible, ensuring a thorough inspection of the VCM system and transmission. Higher mileage units (90,000+) are significantly riskier unless major VCM or transmission work has already been completed and documented.
What 2017 Honda Pilot Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Extremely versatile and spacious third-row seating and cargo capacity.
- Smooth and powerful V6 engine (when VCM is not an issue).
- Comfortable ride quality for long road trips.
- Excellent safety ratings and available driver-assist technologies.
Common Frustrations
- Frustrating and glitchy infotainment system.
- Harsh and unpredictable shifts from the 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Concerns over VCM leading to oil consumption and engine damage.
- Some owners find road noise to be higher than competitors.
Who Should Buy the 2017 Honda Pilot?
Best For
- Large families needing regular third-row access and cargo space.
- Drivers seeking a comfortable and safe vehicle for road trips.
- Buyers who understand the VCM issue and are willing to install a mitigation device.
Not Ideal For
- Anyone who prioritizes worry-free, absolute bulletproof reliability above all else.
- Buyers unwilling to research or mitigate known VCM system issues.
How the 2017 Honda Pilot Compares to Rivals
The 2017 Pilot offers excellent space and safety, but its reliability is hampered by specific powertrain choices compared to top-tier competitors like the Highlander, which generally has fewer significant long-term failure points.
More Reliable Than
- Dodge Durango (less reliable powertrain options)
- Ford Explorer (more common suspension and electrical gremlins)
- Chevrolet Traverse (can suffer from significant engine issues in earlier generations)
Comparable To
- Nissan Pathfinder (has its own CVT-related issues)
- Kia Sorento (generally good, but can have specific engine recalls)
NHTSA Recalls
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2019 Passport, 2016-2019 Pilot, and 2017-2020 Ridgeline vehicles. The hood latch striker may become damaged and separate from the hood, which can result in the hood opening while driving.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
What breaks on the 2017 Honda Pilot?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Honda Pilot by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Pilot. Click any year for its full report.
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