The 2007 Honda Pilot is a versatile mid-size SUV, part of its first generation (2003-2008). Known for its practical, boxy body style, it offered seating for eight passengers. Key trims included the LX, EX, EX-L, and a Special Edition. It stood out and gained immense popularity for its legendary Honda reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly utility, providing a compelling alternative to minivans. Used prices typically range from $4,000 to $9,000, depending on condition.
The Good
The 2007 Honda Pilot offers a robust V6 engine providing ample performance for daily driving and light towing. Its strong reputation for Honda reliability gives practical buyers peace of mind. The comfortable, spacious cabin appeals to families, while its functional design and decent value retention make it a smart, dependable choice for those seeking a long-lasting, family-oriented SUV.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2007 Honda Pilot include its relatively poor fuel economy by modern standards and, for some examples, potential automatic transmission issues if maintenance was neglected. Power steering pump leaks are also common. Owners should also watch out for rust on suspension components and the subframe, especially in colder climates.
2007 Honda Pilot: Quick Overview
- Engine: 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC V6. This is the sole engine option, known for its smooth operation and reliability.
- Horsepower: 244 hp at 5,750 rpm. It delivers 240 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, providing confident acceleration for a mid-size SUV of its era.
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimates for the 2007 Pilot were 17 mpg city/22 mpg highway for FWD models and 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway for AWD models. These figures reflect its utilitarian nature rather than efficiency as a primary goal.
- 0-60 MPH: Approximately 7.6 to 7.8 seconds, making it quite competitive for a three-row SUV at the time.
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs for FWD models and a more robust 4,500 lbs for AWD models when equipped with the optional Honda towing package and its transmission cooler.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX: The base model includes standard features such as 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, cruise control, a four-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, and keyless entry.
- EX: Builds upon the LX with 16-inch alloy wheels, a more advanced six-disc in-dash CD changer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, roof rails, body-colored door handles and side mirrors, automatic climate control, and an eight-way power driver's seat.
- EX-L: The premium trim adds luxurious elements like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power moonroof, and heated side mirrors. It also offered optional features like a satellite-linked navigation system with voice recognition or a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
- Special Edition (SE): Typically, the SE trim built on the EX, often adding features like a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and unique badging, offering a value package towards the end of the model year.
2007 Honda Pilot Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2007 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | Pilot |
| Trim | - |
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Manufacturing Details
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Dimensions
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Engine & Performance
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Additional Features
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Pricing
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| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2007 Honda Pilot Have?
While generally reliable, the 2007 Honda Pilot does have several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns that prospective owners should be aware of.
Automatic Transmission Issues: One of the most significant concerns involves the 5-speed automatic transmission. Hard shifting, delayed engagement, or outright failure can occur, especially if the transmission fluid has not been regularly changed (every 30,000-60,000 miles is often recommended, despite longer Honda intervals). These units are known to be sensitive to fluid quality and temperature.
VTM-4 AWD System: The Variable Torque Management 4-wheel drive system can develop issues if its differential fluid is not serviced correctly. Owners might experience binding, shuddering, or noise during low-speed turns, often mistaken for a transmission problem. Regular fluid changes (every 15,000-30,000 miles, depending on use) are crucial for its longevity.
Power Steering Pump Leaks/Noise: It's common for the power steering pump to develop leaks or become noisy, sometimes requiring replacement. The reservoir O-ring is a known weak point.
Timing Belt Service: The 3.5L V6 engine uses a timing belt that requires replacement around 105,000 miles, along with the water pump and tensioner. This is a critical and relatively expensive maintenance item, often costing over $1,000, and should not be overlooked.
A/C Compressor Failure: The air conditioning compressor can fail, sometimes catastrophically, sending debris throughout the system and requiring extensive repair.
Starter Motor: Some owners report starter motor failures, particularly as the vehicle ages and accumulates higher mileage.
Catalytic Converter Failure: "Check Engine" lights related to catalytic converter efficiency are not uncommon, especially on older, higher-mileage examples, leading to costly replacements.
Rust: In regions where road salt is used, rust on the subframe, suspension components, and exhaust system can be a significant issue, impacting safety and repair costs.
Recalls: The 2007 Pilot was affected by the widespread Takata airbag inflator recall, requiring replacement of both driver and passenger front airbags. Owners should verify if these critical safety recalls have been addressed on any specific vehicle they are considering.
Automatic Transmission Issues: One of the most significant concerns involves the 5-speed automatic transmission. Hard shifting, delayed engagement, or outright failure can occur, especially if the transmission fluid has not been regularly changed (every 30,000-60,000 miles is often recommended, despite longer Honda intervals). These units are known to be sensitive to fluid quality and temperature.
VTM-4 AWD System: The Variable Torque Management 4-wheel drive system can develop issues if its differential fluid is not serviced correctly. Owners might experience binding, shuddering, or noise during low-speed turns, often mistaken for a transmission problem. Regular fluid changes (every 15,000-30,000 miles, depending on use) are crucial for its longevity.
Power Steering Pump Leaks/Noise: It's common for the power steering pump to develop leaks or become noisy, sometimes requiring replacement. The reservoir O-ring is a known weak point.
Timing Belt Service: The 3.5L V6 engine uses a timing belt that requires replacement around 105,000 miles, along with the water pump and tensioner. This is a critical and relatively expensive maintenance item, often costing over $1,000, and should not be overlooked.
A/C Compressor Failure: The air conditioning compressor can fail, sometimes catastrophically, sending debris throughout the system and requiring extensive repair.
Starter Motor: Some owners report starter motor failures, particularly as the vehicle ages and accumulates higher mileage.
Catalytic Converter Failure: "Check Engine" lights related to catalytic converter efficiency are not uncommon, especially on older, higher-mileage examples, leading to costly replacements.
Rust: In regions where road salt is used, rust on the subframe, suspension components, and exhaust system can be a significant issue, impacting safety and repair costs.
Recalls: The 2007 Pilot was affected by the widespread Takata airbag inflator recall, requiring replacement of both driver and passenger front airbags. Owners should verify if these critical safety recalls have been addressed on any specific vehicle they are considering.
How long will the 2007 Honda Pilot last?
The 2007 Honda Pilot is renowned for its exceptional long-term durability. With diligent maintenance, it's not uncommon for these vehicles to easily exceed 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting well over 250,000 and even 300,000 miles of service. This translates to 15-20+ years of dependable use. The V6 engine itself is robust, often outlasting other components. However, weaknesses over time include potential automatic transmission issues if fluid changes are neglected, a common failure point for power steering pumps, and the inevitable wear of suspension components like bushings and shocks. Rust on the subframe and exhaust can also become a concern in salt-prone areas, impacting its ultimate longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2007 Honda Pilot, being a mid-2000s vehicle, offered technology that was considered advanced for its time but is rudimentary by today's standards.
Built-in Tech: Standard features included a basic trip computer and manual air conditioning on the LX trim. EX and EX-L models upgraded to automatic climate control, offering more convenience. There were no integrated touchscreens or smartphone integration features common today.
Entertainment: The LX came with an AM/FM stereo and a single-disc CD player. The EX and EX-L trims upgraded to a six-disc in-dash CD changer, often with steering wheel-mounted audio controls. For families, the EX-L offered an optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a highly sought-after feature for long trips. An auxiliary input for external devices was not standard and rare.
Driver-Assistance: Modern driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control were not available. The primary driver-assistance feature was standard cruise control. Parking sensors were not offered from the factory.
Safety Features: Honda prioritized safety with a strong suite of standard features for the 2007 Pilot:
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2007 Honda Pilot performed commendably in crash tests:
Built-in Tech: Standard features included a basic trip computer and manual air conditioning on the LX trim. EX and EX-L models upgraded to automatic climate control, offering more convenience. There were no integrated touchscreens or smartphone integration features common today.
Entertainment: The LX came with an AM/FM stereo and a single-disc CD player. The EX and EX-L trims upgraded to a six-disc in-dash CD changer, often with steering wheel-mounted audio controls. For families, the EX-L offered an optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a highly sought-after feature for long trips. An auxiliary input for external devices was not standard and rare.
Driver-Assistance: Modern driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control were not available. The primary driver-assistance feature was standard cruise control. Parking sensors were not offered from the factory.
Safety Features: Honda prioritized safety with a strong suite of standard features for the 2007 Pilot:
- Dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags for the driver and front passenger.
- Side-impact airbags for the front passengers.
- Three-row side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, providing comprehensive head protection in the event of a side impact or rollover.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), enhancing braking control.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
- Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for child seats.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2007 Honda Pilot performed commendably in crash tests:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Earned a perfect 5-star rating for both frontal impact (driver and passenger) and side-impact protection (front and rear occupants). It received a 4-star rating for rollover resistance.
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): Awarded a "Good" rating (the highest available) in its moderate overlap frontal-offset test. It also received a "Good" rating for side-impact protection (when equipped with side airbags, which were standard) and an "Acceptable" rating for rear impact/head restraint evaluations.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2007 Honda Pilot Prices and Market Value
When new in 2007, the Honda Pilot ranged from approximately $27,000 for a base LX FWD model to over $35,000 for a fully loaded EX-L AWD with navigation and rear entertainment. Fast forward to today, current used market prices (2024) typically fall between $4,000 and $9,000, varying greatly based on condition, mileage, and region. The majority of its depreciation occurred in the first 5-7 years, and it's now near its depreciation floor, meaning it holds its remaining value fairly well. Factors affecting its resale value include a well-documented maintenance history, lower mileage, absence of major rust, and the presence of desirable features like AWD, leather, or a DVD player. Honda's strong reputation for reliability significantly bolsters its enduring value.
2007 Honda Pilot Cost of Ownership
The 2007 Honda Pilot can be an economical vehicle to own, provided a well-maintained example is acquired. Insurance costs are generally reasonable for an older, family-oriented SUV. Fuel is a significant ongoing expense; with EPA ratings of 16-17 city/22 highway mpg, it's not fuel-efficient by modern standards. Routine maintenance, like oil changes, is affordable. However, major repairs such as the 105,000-mile timing belt service (which includes the water pump) can be costly, often exceeding $1,000. Neglected transmissions or VTM-4 systems can also lead to expensive repairs. Overall, it's moderately economical if preventative maintenance is followed, but older vehicle repairs are inevitable.
2007 Honda Pilot Fuel Efficiency
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2007 Honda Pilot Safety Rating
NHTSA
2007 Honda Pilot Insurance
Insurance for a 2007 Honda Pilot is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2007 Honda Pilot Compare to Other Vehicle?
The 2007 Honda Pilot competed in a crowded mid-size SUV segment against notable rivals like the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Murano, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Trailblazer, and Hyundai Santa Fe.
Performance: The Pilot's 3.5L V6 (244 hp) offered strong, refined performance for its class, often competitive with the Highlander's V6. It generally outmatched the V6 offerings of domestic rivals like the Explorer and Trailblazer but couldn't keep pace with their optional V8 engines. The Murano, with its more car-like platform, often felt nimbler.
Features: The Pilot was well-equipped for its era, especially in EX-L trim with available navigation and DVD entertainment. It was comparable to the Highlander in terms of offerings. Domestic SUVs sometimes offered more luxury features or a wider range of options, while Korean rivals like the Santa Fe might have provided more features for the money, albeit with some reliability trade-offs in that generation.
Reliability: This is where the Pilot truly shone, standing alongside the Toyota Highlander as a class leader. Both Japanese SUVs enjoyed a reputation for exceptional long-term durability, often surpassing domestic and some Korean competitors of the era. The Pilot's V6 and overall build quality were highly regarded, assuming proper maintenance.
Price (Used): Due to their strong reliability and brand prestige, both the 2007 Pilot and Highlander tend to command higher used market prices than comparable Ford Explorers, Chevrolet Trailblazers, or even Hyundai Santa Fes from the same year.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Pilot's 3.5L V6 (244 hp) offered strong, refined performance for its class, often competitive with the Highlander's V6. It generally outmatched the V6 offerings of domestic rivals like the Explorer and Trailblazer but couldn't keep pace with their optional V8 engines. The Murano, with its more car-like platform, often felt nimbler.
Features: The Pilot was well-equipped for its era, especially in EX-L trim with available navigation and DVD entertainment. It was comparable to the Highlander in terms of offerings. Domestic SUVs sometimes offered more luxury features or a wider range of options, while Korean rivals like the Santa Fe might have provided more features for the money, albeit with some reliability trade-offs in that generation.
Reliability: This is where the Pilot truly shone, standing alongside the Toyota Highlander as a class leader. Both Japanese SUVs enjoyed a reputation for exceptional long-term durability, often surpassing domestic and some Korean competitors of the era. The Pilot's V6 and overall build quality were highly regarded, assuming proper maintenance.
Price (Used): Due to their strong reliability and brand prestige, both the 2007 Pilot and Highlander tend to command higher used market prices than comparable Ford Explorers, Chevrolet Trailblazers, or even Hyundai Santa Fes from the same year.
Alternatives:
- Similar Alternatives: The 2007 Toyota Highlander is the Pilot's closest rival, offering similar reliability, but often with a slightly less spacious third row. The 2007 Acura MDX, built on a related platform, offers a more luxurious experience, better handling, and a more powerful engine, but at a higher price point for both purchase and ownership.
- Better Alternatives (depending on needs): If maximum cargo and passenger space are paramount, a larger, body-on-frame SUV like a Chevrolet Tahoe or Ford Expedition might be "better," but these incur significant penalties in fuel economy and maneuverability. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency and a car-like ride over ruggedness, a crossover like the Nissan Murano or a smaller SUV might be considered.
Final Verdict: Is the 2007 Honda Pilot a Good Vehicle?
The 2007 Honda Pilot is ideal for families or individuals needing a spacious, reliable, and practical three-row SUV without breaking the bank. It excels for those prioritizing proven durability, ample cargo space, and a confident, albeit not sporty, driving experience.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but under specific conditions. As a used vehicle, it offers excellent value. It's crucial to seek out an EX or EX-L trim for the best balance of features and comfort. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is non-negotiable, focusing heavily on transmission health, VTM-4 system (if AWD), and verification of the timing belt service. Buyers should budget for potential deferred maintenance, as it's an aging vehicle. If you find a well-maintained example with documented service history, especially the timing belt, the 2007 Pilot can provide many more years of dependable service at a very economical price point.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but under specific conditions. As a used vehicle, it offers excellent value. It's crucial to seek out an EX or EX-L trim for the best balance of features and comfort. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is non-negotiable, focusing heavily on transmission health, VTM-4 system (if AWD), and verification of the timing belt service. Buyers should budget for potential deferred maintenance, as it's an aging vehicle. If you find a well-maintained example with documented service history, especially the timing belt, the 2007 Pilot can provide many more years of dependable service at a very economical price point.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.