2021 Honda Passport Reliability ReportKeepScore 88/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2021 Honda Passport
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2023 Honda Passport earns a 91.
- The system most likely to surface first: infotainment system (minor severity).
- Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the visibility:rearview mirrors/devices:exterior.
2021 Honda Passport: Buy or Avoid?
The 2021 Honda Passport is a consistently strong contender for those seeking a highly dependable mid-size SUV with excellent practicality. While not without a few modern electronic quirks, its robust V6 powertrain and proven platform make it a smart choice for long-term ownership, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.
The 2021 Honda Passport is an outstanding choice for buyers prioritizing proven reliability, spaciousness, and a robust powertrain. While its infotainment system can be a minor annoyance, the fundamental engineering is solid, making it an excellent long-term investment. This is a practical, capable SUV that will ser…
Best Model Years
2020, 2021, 2022 (pre-facelift models are excellent value)
Years to Avoid
None specifically for the Passport, as it launched with a relatively solid foundation.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust V6 engine with strong longevity
- Proven platform shared with Ridgeline/Pilot
- Excellent resale value and strong owner community
2021 Honda Passport — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2021 Honda Passport, 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 HondaLink infotainment system can suffer from freezing, slow responses, and occasional reboots. This is generally software-related but can be frustrating.
While largely refined by 2021, some owners still report occasional harsh downshifts or hesitations at low speeds, particularly from 2nd to 1st gear. Often resolved with software updates.
Intermittent reports of the power tailgate not opening or closing smoothly, or sometimes failing to operate altogether. Can be a faulty actuator or sensor.
2021 Honda Passport Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2021 Honda Passport most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, most issues would be covered under the factory warranty. Focus on routine maintenance like tire rotations, oil changes, and addressing any initial electrical or infotainment glitches.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often aligns with major factory service intervals. Expect to replace brake pads, possibly rotors, and perform transmission fluid and differential fluid changes (if AWD). Keep an eye on tire condition and battery health.
Elevated Risk Zone
Components that typically last longer may start showing wear. Consider replacing spark plugs, checking suspension bushings, and inspecting drive belts and hoses. Early VCM issues might become more apparent.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 100k miles, major component failures become more likely across any vehicle. While the Passport's V6 is tough, be prepared for potential alternator, starter, or A/C compressor issues. More pronounced VCM oil consumption may necessi…
2021 Honda Passport Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2021 Honda Passport on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,600 occasionally
How Long Does the 2021 Honda Passport Last?
Follow Honda's Maintenance Minder system diligently, but consider performing transmission fluid changes every 30,000-45,000 miles, especially if towing or driving in harsh conditions, to ensure longevity.
What 2021 Honda Passport Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Powerful and smooth V6 engine performance
- Generous cargo and passenger space
- Comfortable ride quality for long trips
- Capable AWD system for all-weather confidence
Common Frustrations
- Frustrating and outdated infotainment system
- Fuel economy is only average for the class
- Interior materials, while durable, lack a premium feel
- Some report excessive road noise at highway speeds
Who Should Buy the 2021 Honda Passport?
Best For
- Active families needing space and reliability
- Outdoor enthusiasts requiring AWD and cargo capacity
- Commuters seeking a comfortable and dependable daily driver
Not Ideal For
- Extreme off-roaders (it's capable, but not a dedicated trail rig)
- Drivers prioritizing cutting-edge interior tech and luxury
How the 2021 Honda Passport Compares to Rivals
The Passport offers a blend of reliability, practicality, and rugged appeal that slots it comfortably among the top performers in its segment. It often surpasses American rivals in consistent long-term durability, though Toyota still holds a slight edge for some buyers.
More Reliable Than
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (certain engine/transmission options)
- Ford Edge (with specific engine variants)
- Chevrolet Blazer
Comparable To
- Subaru Outback (different segment, similar ethos)
- Toyota 4Runner (different chassis, similar rugged appeal)
- Nissan Murano
Safety Recalls on the 2021 Honda Passport
7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
Honda (American Honda Motor Co) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2020-2022 Passport and Odyssey vehicles. The heating pads behind both side-view mirrors may not be bonded properly, allowing the mirror glass to detach. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Pilot, and 2019-2023 Passport vehicles. Due to a faulty Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) communication coaxial cable connector, the rearview camera image may not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
What breaks on the 2021 Honda Passport?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Honda Passport — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Passport. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2021s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2021 Honda Passport
Parts and accessories matched to your 2021 Honda Passport
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Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
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