If you own or are considering a 2013 Honda Pilot, you likely value its reputation for reliability and family-friendly space. However, it’s smart to be aware of common issues reported by owners. This guide details the most frequent 2013 Honda Pilot Problems and Complaints to help you make an informed decision.
No vehicle is perfect, and even a trusted model like the Pilot can have its trouble spots. We’ll cover everything from major mechanical concerns to annoying electrical glitches. You’ll learn what to look for, how to address problems, and get a clear picture of the SUV’s long-term ownership costs.
2013 Honda Pilot Problems and Complaints
Overall, the 2013 Honda Pilot is a solid used SUV choice, but it has a few well-documented flaws. The most significant complaints center around the vehicle’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, transmission behavior, and premature brake wear. Many of these issues are consistent across the model years from 2009 to 2015, making them important to check for regardless of mileage.
Let’s break down each major problem area, starting with the most costly and widespread issue.
1. VCM System and Engine Problems
The Variable Cylinder Management system is designed to save fuel by deactivating three cylinders during light-load driving. Unfortunately, it’s the source of numerous complaints and potential engine damage.
* Excessive Oil Consumption: This is the top complaint. The VCM system can cause abnormal piston ring wear, leading to the engine burning oil. You might notice blue smoke from the exhaust or the low oil light coming on between changes.
* Spark Plug Fouling: The cylinders that are deactivated can foul spark plugs with oil, causing misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel economy.
* Premature Engine Failure: In severe cases, the oil consumption can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in scored cylinder walls or complete engine failure—a very expensive repair.
What You Can Do:
1. Check your oil level every other time you fill the gas tank. This is the single most important habit for a 2013 Pilot owner.
2. Look for signs of oil leaks or smoke from the tailpipe during acceleration.
3. Consider installing a VCM disabler (like “VCMTuner” or “S-VCM”). This simple device stops the cylinder deactivation, potentially preventing long-term damage. Many owners report smoother operation and resolved oil consumption after installation.
2. Transmission Issues and Rough Shifting
The 5-speed automatic transmission in the 2013 Pilot isn’t known for being particularly smooth. Complaints are common, though full failures are less frequent than with some competitors.
* Hard Shifting: You may feel a pronounced “clunk” or jerk, especially when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear or during downshifts.
* Hesitation or Slipping: The transmission might hesitate before engaging a gear or feel like it’s slipping, particularly when accelerating.
* Torque Converter Shudder: A common issue feels like a rhythmic vibration or shuddering, typically around 40-50 mph. This is often related to a failing torque converter.
What You Can Do:
1. Ensure the transmission fluid has been changed regularly (Honda recommends every 30,000-45,000 miles under severe conditions, which includes most driving).
2. A transmission fluid drain-and-fill (not a flush) with genuine Honda ATF-Z1 fluid can sometimes improve shifting behavior.
3. If you experience severe shuddering, a mechanic should check the torque converter and transmission mounts.
3. Premature Brake and Rotor Wear
Many owners report that the 2013 Pilot goes through brake pads and rotors much faster than expected, sometimes in as little as 20,000-30,000 miles.
* Warped Rotors: This causes a pulsating or vibrating feeling in the brake pedal when slowing down from highway speeds.
* Noise: Squealing or grinding noises are common complaints, often due to worn pads or rust buildup on the rotors.
What You Can Do:
1. Have your brakes inspected at every oil change. Don’t wait for noises.
2. When replacing, consider upgrading to higher-quality aftermarket rotors (slotted or drilled) and ceramic brake pads. They often last longer and perform better than the original equipment.
3. Avoid “hard braking” when possible and try not to sit with your foot on the brake at long stoplights, as this can generate excess heat.
4. Electrical Gremlins and Accessory Problems
While not universal, several electrical issues pop up in owner forums and complaint databases.
* Bluetooth and Audio System Glitches: The hands-free link system may fail to connect to phones, drop calls, or have unresponsive controls. The entire screen can sometimes go black.
* Power Tailgate Failures: The power liftgate may stop working, get stuck, or operate erratically. This is often due to failing struts or a faulty control module.
* Keyless Entry/Start Issues: The smart key fob may not be recognized, preventing the vehicle from starting. Sometimes simply replacing the fob battery fixes this.
What You Can Do:
1. For audio issues, try disconnecting the car battery for a few minutes to reset the system. Updating the software at a dealer may also help.
2. For power tailgate issues, listen for straining motors and check if the manual release works. Replacement struts are a common fix.
3. Always keep a spare key fob battery on hand and know where the physical key is inside the fob for emergency entry.
5. Steering and Suspension Concerns
As the Pilot ages and accumulates miles, certain steering and suspension components wear out, affecting ride comfort and safety.
* Steering Wheel Vibration: This is often caused by the worn suspension components or warped brake rotors, as mentioned earlier.
* Clunking Noises Over Bumps: Worn sway bar end links or stabilizer bushings are the usual culprits. They’re relatively inexpensive to replace.
* Excessive Tire Wear: If you notice the tires wearing unevenly or quickly, it could be due to alignment issues or failing suspension parts like ball joints or control arm bushings.
What You Can Do:
1. Have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough suspension inspection during routine maintenance, especially if you hear new noises.
2. Get a wheel alignment checked annually or if you hit a major pothole.
3. Replacing worn components with quality aftermarket or OEM parts can restore the original ride quality.
6. Interior Quality and Wear & Tear
For a family vehicle, the interior can show its age quicker than some owners would like.
* Leather Seat Cracking: Especially on the driver’s side bolster, the leather can crack and split prematurely.
* Dashboard Cracking: Some owners in hotter climates report cracks developing on the top of the dashboard.
* Center Console Latches Breaking: The plastic latch for the center console compartment is a frequent point of failure.
While these aren’t mechanical failures, they are common complaints that affect resale value and owner satisfaction. Seat covers and dashboard protectors can be preventative measures.
Is the 2013 Honda Pilot a Reliable Car?
Despite these problems, the 2013 Honda Pilot often receives average to above-average reliability ratings from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Its key strengths—a practical interior, good safety scores, and a strong engine block—remain. The issues are often predictable and, if caught early, manageable. The realiability often comes down to how well the previous owner maintained it and addressed these known flaws.
What to Look for When Buying a Used 2013 Pilot
If you’re in the market for one, a thorough inspection is non-negotiable. Here’s a quick checklist:
* Service History: Get a complete record. Look for regular oil changes and transmission service.
* Oil Consumption Test: Ask the seller about oil use. If possible, check the dipstick yourself; it should be full and clean.
* Test Drive: Drive it from cold. Feel for transmission shifts, listen for suspension clunks, and test the brakes hard from highway speed.
* Check All Electronics: Pair your phone, test all audio sources, operate the power tailgate multiple times, and try every power accessory.
* Pre-Purchase Inspection: Always, always pay for a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. The $100-$150 cost can save you thousands.
FAQ: 2013 Honda Pilot
Q: What is the most common problem with the 2013 Honda Pilot?
A: The most widespread and serious issue is excessive oil consumption caused by the VCM system, which can lead to engine damage if not monitored closely.
Q: How long does a 2013 Honda Pilot typically last?
A: With proper maintenance and attention to its known issues, a 2013 Pilot can easily reach 200,000 to 250,000 miles. There are many examples on the road with high mileage, which is a testament to its fundamental durability.
Q: Is the 2013 Pilot expensive to maintain?
A: Maintenance costs are average for its class. However, if the VCM-related engine damage occurs or the transmission fails, repairs can be very expensive. Routine upkeep and addressing small problems early are key to controlling costs.
Q: What year Honda Pilot is most reliable?
A: Later models in the second generation (like 2014-2015) had some running changes, but the core issues persist. The third-generation Pilots (2016 and newer) have different, often improved, engineering. Many consider the 2005-2008 first-generation models to be very robust, though older.
Q: Does the 2013 Honda Pilot have transmission problems?
A: It has known issues with rough shifting, hesitation, and torque converter shudder. While not every vehicle experiences a complete failure, the transmission is a common source of driver complaints and should be carefully evaluated.
In conclusion, being informed about the 2013 Honda Pilot Problems and Complaints empowers you to be a proactive owner or a savvy shopper. By understanding the risks associated with the VCM system, staying vigilant about fluid levels, and adressing wear items promptly, you can enjoy the Pilot’s many practical benefits while minimizing its potential downsides. A well-maintained 2013 Pilot can still be a capable and trustworthy family hauler for many miles to come.