Is the 2011 Honda Pilot a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
B+8/10
The 2011 Honda Pilot EX-L is a solid, reliable midsize SUV, but be mindful of potential transmission issues.
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Pros
- Spacious interior
- Strong V6 engine
- Reputation for reliability
Cons
- Mediocre fuel economy
- Transmission issues
- Outdated infotainment system
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
17 mpg
Maintenance cost
$1,100/yr
Expected lifespan
200,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Transmission shudder
- Oil consumption
- Electrical system malfunctions
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (11)
The 2011 Honda Pilot has 11 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Suspension (campaign 10V640000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Air Bags — Frontal — Passenger Side — Inflator Module — Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Acura TSX, 2011 TSX Wagon, 2010-2011 Acura ZDX, 2008-2011 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic, Civic Hybrid, and Civic GX, …
- Seat Belts — Front — Webbing — HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2011 PILOT VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 13, 2008, THROUGH AUGUST 30, 2011. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE STITCHING THAT SECURES THE END OF THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER …
- Air Bags — Honda is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Pilot and 2011-2013 Odyssey passenger vehicles manufactured from March 13, 2008, through December 21, 2012. One or more rivets that attach the airbag module to the airbag …
- Suspension — HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010-2011 HONDA ACCORD V6 AND MODEL YEAR 2011 HONDA PILOT VEHICLES. THE BOLTS THAT ATTACH THE LOWER LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT DAMPER BRACKET TO THE FRONT SUSPENSION AND THE SPINDLE NUTS …
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.