Service Bulletin - The vehicle's transmission temperature can become too hot due to automatic transmission fluid deterioration causing high foaming and low viscosity. During extended high load driving, the automatic transmission fluid will foam and cooler flow rate is reduced.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2016 Honda Pilot powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2016 Honda Pilot have filed 193 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 48,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
193
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2012 Pilot | 17 |
| 2013 Pilot | 47 |
| 2014 Pilot | 6 |
| 2015 Pilot | 10 |
| 2016 Pilot (this page) | 193 |
| 2017 Pilot | 118 |
| 2018 Pilot | 71 |
| 2019 Pilot | 84 |
| 2020 Pilot | 30 |
5crashes
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 193 powertrain complaints filed for the 2016 Honda Pilot, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 21 model years of Honda Pilot we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 193.
Owners have filed 193 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Service Bulletin - The transmission has intermittent harsh or jerky upshifts with steady acceleration.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Service Bulletin - The transmission has intermittent harsh or jerky upshifts with steady acceleration.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Service Bulletin - The transmission has intermittent harsh or jerky upshifts with steady acceleration.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Service Bulletin - During a downshift from 9th or 8th gear to 7th gear or lower, a miscalculation in the TCM software causes the MIL to come on with DTC P0716, input shaft [mainshaft] speed sensor [range/performance].
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of the 2016 Honda Pilot report a constellation of serious driveability and safety issues across the powertrain. The most frequent complaint is transmission judder, jerking, and hesitation between 20–60 mph, often accompanied by rough or delayed gear shifts that persist even after transmission fluid service or multiple dealership visits. Several owners cite Honda Service Bulletins 16-091 and 17-015, which acknowledge torque converter lock-up judder caused by deteriorated transmission fluid under high heat loads; some say their VINs were excluded from the fix.
Engine and emissions problems are widespread: check engine lights illuminating for emissions system faults, cylinder misfires (especially cylinder 1 and 2), fuel injector failures, and persistent engine stalling. One owner reports engine stalling at highway speed (75 mph) with complete loss of power and dashboard warning codes for emissions, transmission, and all-wheel drive systems.
The auto idle-stop feature has caused multiple stalling incidents at traffic lights and intersections, with the vehicle unable to restart for 1–2 minutes, leaving drivers stranded in heavy traffic. Battery replacements have not resolved the issue. Several owners describe loss of power or inability to accelerate when trying to leave an intersection or merge onto highways.
Engine knock and connecting rod bearing failures appear in multiple narratives, with owners citing the ongoing NHTSA investigation (recall 23V-751 for 2016 and 2018–2019 model years). Some affected owners' VINs fall outside the recall and Honda has refused coverage.
Owners consistently report dealership service bulletins and attempted fixes—software updates, transmission flushes (sometimes done three times for the same cost), fuel injector replacement—that do not permanently resolve the problems. Honda corporate has often denied assistance when vehicles are out of warranty, citing inability to duplicate issues or claiming VINs do not qualify for recalls or service bulletins despite known defects.
Same Honda Pilot powertrain reports on nearby years: 2013 · 2017 · 2018 · 2019
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission judder, jerking, and shifting problems
Vehicle exhibits persistent jerking, juddering, and rough or delayed gear shifts between 20–60 mph, especially during acceleration from a stop or at highway speeds. Some owners report the vehicle almost feels like it is coming out of gear or losing power. Symptoms occur even after transmission fluid service and multiple dealership repairs.
When: Begins as early as <900 miles (one complaint); recurs from 26,000 to 101,000+ miles; service at 30,000-mile intervals does not prevent recurrence.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle jerks and hesitates when accelerating; Rough or delayed gear shifts; Juddering from torque converter lock-up clutch between 20–60 mph; Vehicle slamming into gear at 25–30 mph after rapid deceleration; Transmission hesitation to engage or shift properly; Hard shifts and jerking at normal acceleration rates; Odometer bouncing during jerking; Feeling of losing power or transmission going out of gear
Codes mentioned: P0716, P0700, P0730, P07A6, P190B, P286D, P07A2, P0776
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission fluid service/flush (single or triple flush); transmission fluid replacement; powertrain control module reprogramming or replacement (cost cited: $1,400 for module, $5,000 for full transmission replacement, $4,000–$7,500 for transmission rebuild); software updates; some owners cite torque converter replacement. Multiple repairs do not permanently resolve the issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda Service Bulletins 16-091, 17-015 (February 2017) acknowledge judder from torque converter lock-up clutch; bulletin states deteriorated transmission fluid (from intermittent high heat loads) is the cause and a software update is available to maintain transmission fluid temperature. However, several owners report their VINs are not covered by these bulletins. Dealerships recommend transmission service but do not guarantee resolution. Honda corporate has denied assistance for out-of-warranty vehicles.
Engine misfiring, rough idle, and stalling
Engine exhibits persistent misfiring (particularly cylinders 1 and 2), rough engine shaking during driving and idling, and unexpected engine stalling. Problems occur at low mileage with regular maintenance and recur despite attempted repairs.
When: Begins at 67,000 miles (one owner, recurring); at <900 miles on new purchase; as early as 15,000–30,000 miles. Stalling events occur at traffic lights, intersections, and while driving at low to moderate speeds.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine misfiring; Rough engine shaking; Engine stalling at stop lights and intersections; Rough or unstable engine operation; Engine hesitation and loss of power; Loss of power requiring vehicle to coast or restart; Engine knocking sound; RPM surging (e.g., to 4–5 RPM) without driver input
Codes mentioned: P0369, P0328, P2638
Repairs/costs cited: Cylinder 1 repairs attempted; fuel injector replacement (all cylinders or multiple injectors); spark plug and coil replacement; engine camshaft assembly replacement; sensor replacement; valve adjustment (intake and exhaust valves); engine replacement (cost cited: approximately $9,000; one owner cited $20,000 repair estimate).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One complaint cites an ongoing federal investigation into 2016 Honda Pilot engine defects. Honda Service Bulletin referenced in one complaint suggests this is a known issue. Rod bearing failure has a partial recall (23V-751 for 2016 and 2018–2019 models), but multiple owners report their VINs are excluded and Honda has denied coverage or goodwill assistance. One owner mentions Honda 'Goodwill Program' exists but approval is not guaranteed.
Emissions system faults and check engine light
Check engine light appears intermittently or persistently; dashboard displays 'Emissions System Problem' message. Engine hesitation occurs when the light is illuminated. Symptoms appear and disappear unpredictably, making diagnosis difficult.
When: As early as ~77,000 miles; appears intermittently from 0–60 mph; can persist for 30 minutes to several days.
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light appears and disappears randomly; Emissions system problem message on dashboard; Engine hesitation when check engine light is displayed; Uncertainty about vehicle power availability (e.g., to complete a turn, pass, or climb a hill)
Repairs/costs cited: Knock sensor replacement; fuel injector replacement (all cylinders); fuel tank cap inspection (ruled out as cause). Dealership unable to diagnose when CEL is not actively displayed; some owners unable to obtain diagnosis at independent shops for the same reason.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Fuel injector replacement is the standard dealer recommendation; Honda does not offer fuel injector cleaning as an alternative. One owner notes there is no recall for their VIN despite fuel injector issues. Multiple owners report dealerships will not perform diagnostics unless the check engine light is illuminated.
Auto idle-stop system stalling and failure to restart
Automatic idle-stop feature engages at traffic lights and stops but fails to restart the engine when the driver releases the brake pedal. Vehicle becomes stranded, unable to move, with dashboard lights flashing and unable to shift out of neutral. Requires 1–2 minutes to restart or multiple restart attempts.
When: Reported from 2018 onward; occurs at 28,000 to 125,000+ miles; happens unpredictably at traffic lights and intersections, often in heavy traffic or hot weather.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts down via idle-stop feature as designed; Failure to restart when brake is released; All dashboard warning lights illuminate; Vehicle shifts to neutral unexpectedly; Inability to shift gears or engage drive; Vehicle unable to move for 1–2 minutes; Hazard lights unable to engage in some cases; Multiple restart attempts required
Codes mentioned: P2638
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replacement (multiple replacements, though batteries test fine); push-start button replacement; software updates for TCM/PGM; valve adjustment; Honda states no permanent fix is known. One owner notes there is no way for average drivers to disable the system or shift to neutral in the event of electrical failure, creating a safety hazard if the vehicle stalls in traffic.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda dealerships have blamed the battery despite independent testing showing the battery is functional. Service Bulletin 20-117 cited for push-start button switch replacement. Honda Corporate Tech Line has instructed dealerships to perform standard fixes (battery, switch, software) with no resolution. One complaint references a NHTSA investigation opened in June 2022 after 220+ complaints; no known fix exists.
Unintended acceleration or loss of power/control during driving
Sudden loss of engine power or unintended acceleration events while driving, often at highway speeds. Vehicle may downshift unexpectedly, RPM surge, loss of response to accelerator pedal, or complete engine shutdown. Multiple warning lights illuminate and vehicle may enter limp mode or shift to neutral.
When: Reported at 50–75 mph during highway driving, on freeways, and in residential areas. One incident at 15 mph; one during acceleration from stopped position.
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of power at highway speed; Engine downshift to low RPM or high RPM surge (5,000–7,000 RPM); Vehicle fails to accelerate or respond to throttle input; Vehicle decelerates rapidly without driver input; All warning lights illuminate (emissions, transmission, all-wheel drive, brake, power steering); Vehicle shifts to neutral while in drive; Engine shutdown and restart cycle; Brake failure (in one incident); Steering wheel lock (in one incident)
Codes mentioned: Emissions System Problem, All-Wheel Drive System Problem, Transmission System Problem
Repairs/costs cited: Dealerships unable to diagnose; one owner was told to videotape the event while driving (unsafe). Vehicle towed to dealership multiple times with no permanent resolution. One incident resulted in dealership recommending full transmission replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership test drives failed to reproduce the issue. Honda corporate has not provided solutions in several cases. One narrative mentions the NHTSA is investigating similar incidents.
Engine knock and connecting rod bearing failure
Engine develops a loud knocking sound, indicating connecting rod bearing failure or crankshaft defect. Engine may lose power, seize, or require complete replacement. Some owners' VINs fall outside the official recall (23V-751) despite experiencing the exact failure described.
When: Can occur with minimal warning at 40,000 to 171,000 miles. One owner reports a small ticking noise the week before bearing failure was confirmed.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud knocking or ticking sound from engine; Loss of power while driving; Engine stall; Smoke from engine bay; Engine unable to stay running or accelerate
Repairs/costs cited: Full engine replacement (cost cited: ~$9,000 to $20,000 or more). One owner paid out-of-pocket; another had extended warranty coverage. No repair other than replacement is viable.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 23V-751 issued 11/08/2023 for certain 2016 and 2018–2019 Pilot vehicles due to manufacturing defect in engine crankshaft; multiple owners report their VINs are NOT covered by the recall despite experiencing identical failures. Honda corporate has denied coverage or 'goodwill' assistance for out-of-recall VINs. One owner reports Honda initially said no warranty extension applied, though case was later opened for potential 'Goodwill Program' review with no guarantee.
Transmission module/control system failures
Transmission control module or related software fails, causing erratic transmission behavior, loss of diagnostics, or inability to shift properly. Problems may persist after software updates or module recalibration.
When: Reported from 3 to 5+ years of ownership; can occur within months of purchase.
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission will not shift into gear or remain in gear; Unable to shift into reverse or neutral; Transmission shifts unexpectedly or gears change independently while driving; All warning lights and check engine light illuminate; Hard jolts and violent shuddering during gear engagement
Codes mentioned: P0730, U1211, U0404
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission module repair or recalibration; software updates; complete transmission replacement. One owner required transmission module repair/recalibration after 3 years of dealership inability to diagnose the issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships may attribute issues to transmission fluid deterioration or perform software updates. One owner reports dealership indicated problems could not be duplicated until warranty expired, then recommended module repair. Honda service bulletin 19-004 cited as addressing transmission software issues in similar scenarios.
Infotainment and electrical system glitches
Infotainment system (backup camera, audio, navigation, screen) fails intermittently during driving. System may reboot, freeze, go black, or malfunction. Vehicle stalling events may be related or coincident.
When: Reported from early ownership; recurring despite replacement attempts.
Symptoms owners cite: Backup camera goes black while reversing; Entire infotainment system reboots while driving; Audio screen freezes and audio ceases; Navigation screen blacks out; Entire screen goes black except time display; DVD player loops
Repairs/costs cited: Infotainment system replacement attempted but issues recurred; DVD player replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership stated unable to replicate issues without visual evidence; even when provided video/photographic evidence, dealership said no tests could be run. One system replacement was attempted but problems returned.
Synthesized from 193 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
For the past 2 months my car sometimes says key remote problem when I push the button to start it. I have 46000 miles on it.
1. Keyless start system problem error warning 2. Transmission or throttle issue: jerky or choppy acceleration when at low or moderate acceleration between speeds of 20 to 50 MPH or during cruising at speeds of 20 to 50 MPH. Brought it to dealership 3 times for issue, first two times under warranty, at what time the software for the transmission was updated which rectified issue for 3 months.…
There is no way for the driver of the car to put the transmission into neutral if needed with an electrical/battery failure. According to Honda, there is a special mechanical device that tow truck drivers would have that physically attaches to the engine to shift the car into neutral. In addition, the honda mechanic that I talked to today said even if the average driver had one of these…
Tl* the contact owns a 2016 Honda pilot. While driving various speeds, the vehicle jerked, stalled, and all the warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact took the vehicle to Honda of aventura (2150 ne 163rd st, north miami beach, fl 33162) numerous times. The battery was replaced and the software was updated several times. The contact was also informed that the failures…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2016 Honda Pilot?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2016 Honda Pilot?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 193 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 106 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, with the median around 48,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 30,000; a quarter make it past 70,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2016/Honda/Pilot.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.