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
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Honda Pilot Have?
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?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
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
Interior Colors
2009 Honda Pilot Prices and Market Value
2009 Honda Pilot Cost of Ownership
2009 Honda Pilot Fuel Efficiency
2009 Honda Pilot Safety Rating
NHTSA
2009 Honda Pilot Recalls & Defects
Seat Belts:front:webbing
AIR Bags
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2009 Honda Pilot Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Honda Pilot Compare to Other Wagon?
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?
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!
Mary Mo on June 3, 2020
One of the most reliable cars I have ownedI 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 on March 12, 2020
Best car I have ownedIt 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
pilotphobe on February 27, 2020
Extremely Reliable CarThe 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
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!!!
JFranklyn on March 19, 2019
Another in a long line of reliable carsThis 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.
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!
James on November 20, 2018
extremely reliable, best interior comfortGreat 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.
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.
cmj on October 15, 2018
Most reliable car I've ever ownedTHis 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