Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2020 Honda Pilot Reliability ReportB grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

82/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: B

A practical and safe family SUV that requires informed ownership to navigate its known powertrain weaknesses.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2020 Honda Pilot

  • The system most likely to surface first: 9-speed automatic transmission (major severity).
  • Has 10 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the back over prevention: sensing system: camera.
  • Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2021 Honda Pilot earns a 88.

Is the 2020 Honda Pilot Worth Buying?

The 2020 Honda Pilot is a commendable choice for families seeking a spacious and safe SUV, but buyers must be acutely aware of its specific powertrain quirks. While generally robust, the 9-speed automatic transmission and the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system in the V6 engine introduce notable risks that elevate its ownership commitment. This is a solid contender, provided you meticulously address these known weak spots.

Biggest Strengths

  • Excellent safety ratings and robust structural integrity
  • Spacious and versatile interior suitable for large families
  • Generally strong 3.5L V6 engine (mechanically sound aside from VCM)

What Tends to Fail First on the 2020 Honda Pilot

The systems that break first on the 2020 Honda Pilot. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
9-Speed Automatic Transmissionmajor
2
Engine Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)major
3
HVAC Systemmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

2020 Honda Pilot Recall History

10 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Odyssey, 2019-2020 Passport, and 2019-2021 Pilot vehicles. Incorrect instrument panel control module software can cause the instrument panel to not display critical information, such as engine oil pressure, speedometer, and gear selector position until the next ignition cycle. Additionally, it can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 101, "Control and Displays" and 111, "Rearview Mirrors."

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Pilot, 2019-2020 Odyssey and 2019-2020 Passport vehicles. Incorrect central network software programming may cause several errors to occur that can delay or prevent the rearview camera image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."

What breaks on the 2020 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.

2020 Honda Pilot Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

Relevant Products for Your 2020 Honda Pilot

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Frequently Asked Questions

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