by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2009 Honda Pilot Review: Unreliable Year For The Popular Midsize SUV

Rating: 4.40
Based on 86 Owner Reviews
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2009 Honda Pilot is a mid-size SUV known for its spaciousness, reliability, and family-friendly features. It belongs to the second generation (2009-2015) of the Pilot. Key trims include LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. New, the Pilot ranged from approximately $28,000 to $38,000. Its popularity stems from its eight-passenger seating, reputation for dependability, and car-like handling compared to truck-based SUVs.
The Good

The 2009 Honda Pilot offers a smooth and reliable V6 engine. Its spacious and comfortable interior appeals to families. Honda's reputation for reliability provides peace of mind. The Pilot's practical design makes it a solid value for those needing a dependable, roomy SUV. It provides confident handling for everyday driving.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2009 Honda Pilot include potential VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) issues leading to oil consumption, transmission problems in some cases, and some reports of cracking dashboards. Watch for signs of excessive oil usage, rough shifting, and unusual noises during test drives. Rust can also be a concern in northern climates.

2009 Honda Pilot: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.5-liter V6
  • Horsepower: 250 hp @ 5700 rpm
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (2WD models), 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway (4WD models). Actual mileage may vary.
  • 0-60 Times: Around 8.3 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 4,500 lbs (2WD) or 4,500 lbs (4WD, with towing package).
  • Trim Level Features:
    • LX: Basic features include cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and a basic audio system.
    • EX: Adds alloy wheels, tri-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system, and body-colored exterior trim.
    • EX-L: Features leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and an available navigation system and rear-seat entertainment system.
    • Touring: Includes all features of the EX-L plus a premium audio system, parking sensors, and a power tailgate. Often includes navigation and rear entertainment as standard.

Note that feature availability may vary slightly based on region and specific vehicle configuration.

2009 Honda Pilot Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2009
Make Honda
Model Pilot
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City GREENSBURG
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine J35Z4
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 5 Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2009 Honda Pilot Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2009 Honda Pilot often center around the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system. This system, designed to improve fuel economy, can sometimes lead to excessive oil consumption. Owners may notice the engine burning oil at a higher rate than expected, potentially causing damage if not monitored closely. Some owners have reported that disabling the VCM system helps alleviate this issue. Another common concern involves transmission issues, such as rough shifting or slipping, although this is less widespread than the VCM oil consumption issue.

Dashboards cracking, especially in warmer climates, have also been reported. Check for cracks, particularly around the airbags. There may be recalls regarding airbags, so verifying recall history is essential. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around these issues persisting over time. Regular maintenance, especially oil changes, is crucial to mitigate potential VCM-related problems. Some owners report that the rear air conditioning system may require attention over time. Before purchasing, thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history and perform a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems.

How long will the 2009 Honda Pilot last?

With proper maintenance, a 2009 Honda Pilot can easily exceed 200,000 miles and provide 15+ years of service. Good maintenance habits are key, including regular oil changes (especially given the VCM concerns), transmission fluid services, and timely replacement of wear items like brakes and tires. Long-term durability depends heavily on addressing potential issues like oil consumption and transmission health. Weaknesses over time often relate to suspension components, bushings, and the aforementioned VCM and transmission concerns. Rust can become an issue in regions with road salt.
Positive Owner Reviews
Mary Mo
I love this car I love the size it is very comfortable and any passenger is always comfortable and it plenty of room. It's the perfect car
Jayc
It is a very reliable car I never had a problem with it the family loves it . Took us everywhere and brought us from every place we went with our a problem
Heather B.
Years ago I had a Nissan Murano. I had more problems with that car so my mechanic told me to get a Honda Pilot and that I would never see him again. lol I did and I can tell you that I have had no serious issues at all. That was eight years ago. I have 160K miles on it and I am passing it down to my son, who is getting his license in two weeks. I expect to get another 100K+ on it. It still rides tight... still comfortable... still look great!!!
Negative Owner Reviews
SmileAllDay
Honda has such a great name, but I found this car quite a disappointment. There are several little annoyances. The doors don't have that halfway stop point that you count on so many times when you are getting in and out of the car, or when your hands are full, and I have had the door come flying shut on my leg so many times.....ugh! Why can't it just have the halfway stop point like all other doors? Then there is the fresh air intake on the passenger side. In the winter when you have the heater on you must switch the system to recirculation (which you usually only use on defrost or air conditioning) otherwise the passenger gets blasted with cold air from the fresh air intake which is directly above the passenger's legs. I don't like that the seat heater is a "switch" instead of a button. I would prefer that it just stay off when you shut the car off, rather than the switch staying on which makes it come on when you start the car again. The bigger disappointments were that just one year after purchasing the vehicle the timing belt and serpentine belt tensioner had to be replaced which were very expensive repairs. Most recently the motor that moves my seat had to be replaced. We take better care of our vehicles than the average person and have just been disappointed in the great reputation of Honda.
GMC Lover
We had traded our Envoy XL Denali for this garbage. If you want to know where all your recycled plastic is going, it's right in here. There's plastic galore, not one hint of wood. Also the car is terribly underpowered, going from a 300hp V8 to a 250hp V6. There is absolutely no insulation, sometimes I can even hear the engine revving over the radio. The navigation is also no good. It tells you when to turn at almost the exact instant the turn has to be made.The exterior is also cheap. If you're going to spend 40k on a car, it better be worth it. The paint is thin, so it constantly scratches. The pin-striping is falling off, and it looks like a box. Also, the trunk is so tiny. You can't put anything in there without putting the third row down. The seating is also cramped. I'm 5'5" and cramped in the second row, and in the third row, my knees are resting against the second row. Overall horrible car. Not one thing I like about it. Can't wait until the lease is up so we can get an Acadia Denali.
Morsabalto
The only reason we went with the Pilot was because of the outstanding lease deal we got. EX-L for $345/mo 12k/yr with no money down except for tax & tags. Gas mileage is quite disappointing considering is has the cylinder management. Driving 65mph we strive to get 20mpg over long family trips. The stereo is the worst I have ever had in vehicle let alone a $37,000 one! It does ride very good for a truck. Other than a burnt out map light bulb 27k miles has come at the price of 4 oil changes and tire rotations. Overall it's a very average truck that leaves me wanting more. If I had to do it all over I would have went with the GMC Envoy or Buick Enclave.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2009 Honda Pilot's built-in tech was relatively basic for its time. Standard features included a CD player with auxiliary input and basic climate controls. Higher trims like the EX-L and Touring offered optional features such as a navigation system (with a small screen), a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and a multi-speaker premium audio system.

Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain airbags). The Touring trim added parking sensors as an optional feature.

Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally positive for the 2009 Honda Pilot. It typically received good ratings in frontal offset and side impact crash tests. It's important to verify the specific ratings from these organizations for the 2009 model year.

The available entertainment system was a single screen DVD player mounted in the roof for rear passengers to watch. The navigation system was rudimentary by today's standards, but offered basic turn-by-turn directions. The audio system in higher trims provided better sound quality than the base model.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Alabaster Silver Metallic
Bali Blue Pearl
Dark Amber Metallic
Formal Black
Polished Metal Metallic
Redrock Pearl
Taffeta White
Interior Colors
Tricot Fabric Gray
Tricot Fabric Beige
Leather Gray
Leather Beige

2009 Honda Pilot Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2009 Honda Pilot ranged from approximately $28,000 to $38,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Pilot has depreciated significantly, but its strong reputation for reliability helps retain some value. Factors affecting resale value include maintenance history, accident-free status, low mileage, and trim level (Touring models typically command higher prices). The presence of desirable options like navigation and the rear entertainment system can also positively influence resale value.

2009 Honda Pilot Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2009 Honda Pilot are typically moderate, reflecting its safety record and common vehicle status. Fuel costs can be relatively high, given its V6 engine and fuel economy figures. Maintenance is generally affordable, thanks to Honda's reliability and readily available parts. However, potential VCM-related repairs and transmission issues can lead to higher repair bills. Overall, the 2009 Pilot is neither the most economical nor the most costly to own, falling into a middle ground depending on its condition and maintenance history.

2009 Honda Pilot Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2009 Honda Pilot Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2009 Honda Pilot Recalls & Defects

Seat Belts:front:webbing
Recall date 2011-09-09
Recall no. 11v468000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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 LAP Section OF THE Seatbelt MAY BE Incomplete or Missing.
Consequence IF THE Stitching IS Incomplete or Missing, THE Seatbelt MAY Detach From THE Anchor Webbing, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy Honda Dealers Will Conduct A Specialized Inspection OF THE Driver and Front Passenger Seatbelts, and IF Necessary, Replace THE Seatbelts, Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON October 5, 2011. Owners MAY Contact Honda Automobile Customer Service AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes Honda's Recall Campaign Number IS R95.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags
Recall date 2013-01-18
Recall no. 13v016000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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 Cover MAY BE Missing.
Consequence THE Absence OF More Than ONE Rivet Could Alter THE Performance OF THE Driver's Airbag During Deployment. This Could Potentially Increase THE Risk OF Injury During A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners and Instruct Them TO Take Their Vehicle TO A Honda Dealer. THE Dealer Will Inspect THE Driver's Airbag Module and Replace IT IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 14, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes Honda's Recall Campaign Number IS S75.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2016-05-24
Recall no. 16v346000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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, 2007-2011 Cr-v, 2010-2011 FCX Clarity and Insight, and 2009-2011 Fit, and Pilot Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands, or "zone A." Additionally, Unless Already Included IN "zone A" Above, Honda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008 Honda Accord, 2006-2008 Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic GX, and 2007-2008 Cr-v Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "zone B." Vehicles NOT Originally Sold or Ever Registered IN Either Zones A or B ARE NOT Subject TO This Safety Recall. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Front AIR Bags, These Inflators MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 2017. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall IS Ka4, Ka5, Ka6, and Ka7.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2017-01-10
Recall no. 17v030000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2012 Acura Tsx, 2011-2012 Acura TSX Wagon, 2010-2012 Acura Zdx, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2012 Honda Accord Crosstour and Honda Insight, 2009-2012 Honda Fit, 2009-2012 Pilot, 2007-2011 Honda Cr-v, 2012 Honda FCX Clarity and 2006-2011 Honda Civic, Civic Hybrid, Civic NGV Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands, or "zone A." Additionally, IF NOT Included IN "zone A" Above, Honda IS Recalling Certain 2009 Acura Tsx, Honda FIT and Pilot, 2008-2009 Honda Accord, 2006-2009 Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic Ngv, and 2007-2009 Honda Cr-v Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "zone B." Additionally, IF NOT Included IN "zone B" Above, Honda IS Recalling Certain 2008 Honda Accord, 2006-2008 Honda Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic NGV and 2007-2008 Honda Cr-v Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Front AIR Bags, These Inflators MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger Side AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer HAS Mailed AN Interim Notification, and Will Send A Second Notification When Parts ARE Available. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE KE1 and Ke2.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-04-26
Recall no. 18v268000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 Cr-v, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline Vehicles. THE Front Passenger AIR BAG MAY Have Been Installed Incorrectly During Replacement.
Consequence AN Incorrectly Installed AIR BAG MAY Deploy Improperly IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 22, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE K1p, and M1o.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2017-08-31
Recall no. 17v545000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2012 Accord, 2010-2012 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic, 2007-2011 Cr-v, 2009-2012 FIT and Pilot, 2010-2012 Insight, and 2009-2012 Acura TSX Vehicles That Received Replacement Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators. ONE Dealership MAY Have Incorrectly Installed THE Replacement AIR BAG Inflators.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, AN Incorrectly Installed Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator MAY Deploy THE AIR BAG Improperly, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 30, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE O07, Y0a, N06, G05, M04, Y01, and O09.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-01-09
Recall no. 18v042000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Acura Tsx, Zdx, Honda Accord Crosstour, Fit, Insight and Pilot Vehicles, 2011-13 Acura TSX Sportswagon, 2010-2012 Honda Accord,, 2010-2011 Honda Civic, Civic Ngv, Civic Hybrid and Cr-v Vehicles and 2013 Honda FCX Clarity and FIT EV Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." Additionally, Honda IS Recalling Certain 2010-2012 Acura Tsx, Honda Accord, Accord Crosstour, FIT and Pilot, 2010-2011 Honda Civic, Civic Ngv, Civic Hybrid and Cr-v, and 2010 Acura ZDX and Honda Insight Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." Unless Included IN Zones A or B Above, Honda IS Recalling Certain 2009 Acura Tsx, Honda Accord, Civic, Civic Ngv, Civic Hybrid, Cr-v, Fit, and Pilot Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment (such AS After A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Replacement OF THE Original AIR Bags), MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Higher Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 16, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE B0K and L0j.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-05-16
Recall no. 19v378000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2014 Acura Tsx, 2011-2013 TSX Sport Wagon, and 2010-2012 ZDX and 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic Ngv, 2012-2014 Crosstour, 2007-2011 Cr-v, 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2013 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot Vehicles. THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator MAY Have Been Installed Incorrectly During Replacement.
Consequence AN Incorrectly Installed AIR BAG Inflator MAY NOT Properly Deploy THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Inflator Installation And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 5, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE M4o, P4r, T4q, and W4p.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-06-27
Recall no. 19v502000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2014 Acura Tsx, 2011-2014 TSX Sport Wagon, 2010-2013 Zdx, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic and Civic Hybrid, 2008-2010 Civic GX Ngv, 2012-2015 Crosstour, 2007-2011 Cr-v, 2009-2013 Fit, 2014 FIT EV, 2010-2014 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot Vehicles. THE Vehicles ARE Equipped With Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS A Recall Remedy Part or Replacement Service Part, That MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 12, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE F5F and Q5e.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2009 Honda Pilot Insurance

Insurance for a 2009 Honda Pilot is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2009 Honda Pilot Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2009 Honda Pilot competes with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Traverse, and Ford Explorer. Compared to the Explorer, the Pilot offers better fuel economy and more passenger space. The Highlander boasts similar reliability and a slightly more refined ride but can be more expensive used. The Traverse offers more cargo space but is often considered less reliable.

In terms of features, the Pilot is competitive, offering similar amenities to its rivals. However, some competitors may offer more advanced technology for the model year. Reliability is where the Pilot shines, often outperforming the Traverse and Explorer. The Pathfinder is a decent alternative, offering similar performance and features, but its reliability record isn't as strong as the Pilot's.

A similar or potentially better alternative would be the Toyota Highlander, particularly if reliability is a top priority and budget allows. The Mazda CX-9 (later models) could also be considered for its more engaging driving dynamics, although it may not be as spacious.

Ranks #288 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
288 2009 Honda Pilot (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Honda Pilot a Good Wagon?

The 2009 Honda Pilot is an ideal choice for families seeking a spacious, reliable, and affordable used SUV. It's worth buying if it's well-maintained, has a clean title, and passes a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. Pay close attention to potential VCM-related oil consumption and transmission issues. The EX and EX-L trims offer a good balance of features and value. Avoid examples with excessive rust or signs of neglect. Given its age, buying used is the only option, so prioritizing condition and maintenance history over trim level is crucial.

2009 Honda Pilot Owner Reviews

4.40
Consumer Rating, Based on 86 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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HondaMan on October 18, 2020

Always buy Honda.

Great vehicle. Roomy, reliable, functional and smooth. Used my Pilot for work as a contractor while shuttling the family around town. The perfect SUV for anyone!

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Mary Mo on June 3, 2020

One of the most reliable cars I have owned

I love this car I love the size it is very comfortable and any passenger is always comfortable and it plenty of room. It's the perfect car

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Jayc on March 12, 2020

Best car I have owned

It is a very reliable car I never had a problem with it the family loves it . Took us everywhere and brought us from every place we went with our a problem

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pilotphobe on February 27, 2020

Extremely Reliable Car

The 2009 honda pilot is what a utility family car should be.. It is extremely reliable, never for once have I had to go to the service shop except for an oil change or tyre replacement. Its interior comfortably seats a family of 7 plus luggage and its incorporated dvd player(touring model) makes for an engaging road trip experience for kids. Really love this car

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Heather B. on August 18, 2019

Comfortable! Reliable!

Years ago I had a Nissan Murano. I had more problems with that car so my mechanic told me to get a Honda Pilot and that I would never see him again. lol I did and I can tell you that I have had no serious issues at all. That was eight years ago. I have 160K miles on it and I am passing it down to my son, who is getting his license in two weeks. I expect to get another 100K+ on it. It still rides tight... still comfortable... still look great!!!

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JFranklyn on March 19, 2019

Another in a long line of reliable cars

This vehicle is a God send, it is the same color as my first Honda, snd has reopened my eyes to Honda automobiles. We will be buying another Honda soon.

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Makena on December 16, 2018

Can't wait for the miles to come!

Perfect size for my growing family, reliable and not a totally mom car! It's high off the ground and I feel safe driving it in the winter!

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James on November 20, 2018

extremely reliable, best interior comfort

Great SUV for snow, 8 passenger for kids and friends, nice DVD entertainment package, great sound system. Like my wood grain dash. Fantastic Comfortable car that is a great people mover.

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Alli on October 31, 2018

We just bought it.

So far we have enjoyed this car. The children love the DVD player. It?s my husbands car and he is very pleased. I have a 2012 Honda Pilot so we knew we wanted another one.

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cmj on October 15, 2018

Most reliable car I've ever owned

THis car has met all my needs these past 9 years!! Seats 8 people, great for carpooling. Easy to put seats down, ample storage in back for wide width capacity, like being up high to see, Smooth rides, not too long that I can't easily park. Good looking "truck",Dash Controls easy to use and access,heated seats great! Good acceleration, No major repairs-Service costs seem expected and not out of control. Driving Technology not up to date, but who needs it if you have a iPhone. Fair gas mileage for an SUV-24miles/gal

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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.