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2018 Honda Pilot Review: Reliable & Roomy Midsize SUV With Low Ownership Costs

Rating: 4.57
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The Honda Pilot is a mid-size SUV, first introduced in 2003. The 2018 model year is part of the third generation. It's a popular choice for families due to its spacious three-row seating, practicality, and reputation for reliability. Key trims include LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. The 2018 Pilot offers a blend of comfort, safety features, and a smooth ride, making it a compelling option in its class. Original pricing ranged from around $31,000 to $48,000.
The Good

The 2018 Honda Pilot boasts a reputation for strong reliability and a comfortable ride, appealing to practical buyers. Its V6 engine offers adequate performance. The spacious interior and family-friendly features make it attractive to those seeking comfort and convenience. While the design is conservative, it's functional and timeless. It also offers a good value proposition considering its features and longevity.

The Bad

Some owners have reported issues with the 2018 Honda Pilot's infotainment system, including slow response times and glitchy software. The nine-speed automatic transmission (found in higher trims) has been known to have some rough shifts. Also, the exterior styling is often considered bland compared to some competitors. Make sure to check for proper operation of all electronics during inspection.

2018 Honda Pilot: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.5-liter V6
  • Horsepower: 280 hp @ 6,000 rpm
  • Fuel Economy:
    • 2WD: 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
    • AWD: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times: Around 6.2 - 6.9 seconds (depending on configuration)
  • Towing Capacity:
    • 2WD: 3,500 lbs
    • AWD: 5,000 lbs
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LX: Standard features include a rearview camera, 18-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, a 5-inch display screen, and basic safety features.
    • EX: Adds an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Honda Sensing suite of safety features (adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning), blind spot monitoring, and tri-zone automatic climate control.
    • EX-L: Leather upholstery, a power tailgate, sunroof, heated front seats, and an available navigation system or rear-seat entertainment system.
    • Touring: Adds a nine-speed automatic transmission (AWD models), 20-inch alloy wheels, a premium audio system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and parking sensors.
    • Elite: Includes all the features of the Touring trim, plus heated second-row seats, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

2018 Honda Pilot Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2018
Make Honda
Model Pilot
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City EAST LIBERTY
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 8
Engine & Performance
Engine J35Y6
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 9-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 9-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Standard
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
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2018 Honda Pilot Have?

The 2018 Honda Pilot, while generally reliable, has experienced some reported issues. A common complaint involves the infotainment system, with users reporting slow response times, glitches, and occasional freezing. Some owners have also noted issues with the nine-speed automatic transmission (found in higher trims), including rough shifting and hesitation. It's advisable to check the transmission's performance during a test drive.
Recalls for the 2018 Pilot have addressed issues such as potential fuel leaks, which could increase the risk of a fire. It is important to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns mainly revolve around the electronic components and the potential for transmission issues. Regular maintenance, including timely fluid changes, is crucial to mitigate these concerns. Some reports suggest that the frequency of these issues may increase with higher mileage, making a thorough inspection of a used 2018 Pilot essential.

How long will the 2018 Honda Pilot last?

With proper maintenance, a 2018 Honda Pilot can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, providing 10-15 years of service. Hondas are known for their longevity. However, long-term durability depends heavily on maintenance habits. Neglecting regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and other scheduled services can significantly shorten its lifespan. The most significant long-term weaknesses tend to be related to electronic components, as mentioned earlier, and potential transmission issues on models equipped with the nine-speed automatic. Keeping up with maintenance is crucial for maximizing its lifespan and reliability.
Positive Owner Reviews
TheDivision
The SUV meet all my family need with space, seating and tech that come from the factory are perfect for us. My wife works as an independent contractor she has a lot of equipment to move during the job hours. Picking kids from school after work work out perfectly without having to toll trailer around with her.
Rissajanelle
Had everything I wanted in a car and more love driving my car now it's beautiful, and reliable, wouldn't change a thing. Define recommend to anyone
Nancy Ann
This car does mets all of my needs. My back seat goes down and I made a bigger truck I even more room in there
Negative Owner Reviews
LR
This car had no power, the infotainment was sluggish and not responsive at all. The safety system was so strange to the point when you would be in a curve and there was also another car there, it would dream at you thinking you were going to hit them. You stop in traffic and it would scream at you that there were cars around you setting off your sensors. You could ultimately only control the DVD player from the rear seats and the movies would start over every time. I do t know what's worse, you getting frustrated because you can't assist your children in getting their movie playing or your children getting frustrated the movie starts over each time you get in and out of the car. I have owned 2 CRV's in the past and felt they were great quality cars. That was really why I went with the pilot. After 4 months, we felt like it was a very unreliable car and was ready to get rid of it. So glad we did and hate that we even wasted money and 4 months on that car.
cowtown
This my fourth Pilot. Replaced 2013 with 2018 EX-L . Not impressed with exterior styling. Interior is very bland and Captains chairs armrests are awful. Interior has no character like previous models. Purchased vehicle August 2018. Maybe in time the car vehicle will grow on me. Selling factor for me was "It's a Honda" and they are great vehicles.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2018 Honda Pilot offers a respectable array of tech and safety features. Standard tech includes a rearview camera and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims feature an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Optional features include a rear-seat entertainment system with a Blu-ray player, navigation, and a premium audio system.
Driver-assistance features are bundled in the Honda Sensing suite, which is standard on EX trims and above. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and road departure mitigation. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available on higher trims.
The 2018 Honda Pilot received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" designation. These ratings reflect the Pilot's strong performance in crash tests and the effectiveness of its safety features.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
White Diamond Pearl
Lunar Silver Metallic
Modern Steel Metallic
Crystal Black Pearl
Dark Cherry Pearl
Steel Sapphire Metallic
Interior Colors
Black Leather
Gray Leather
Beige Leather
Espresso Leather

2018 Honda Pilot Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2018 Honda Pilot ranged from approximately $31,000 for the base LX trim to around $48,000 for the top-of-the-line Elite trim. Current used market prices typically range from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on mileage, condition, and trim level.
The Pilot holds its value relatively well due to its reputation for reliability and its popularity as a family vehicle. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, service history, and trim level. Lower mileage, a clean title, and documented maintenance records command higher prices. Higher trims with more features also tend to retain more value.

2018 Honda Pilot Cost of Ownership

The 2018 Honda Pilot is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel economy is decent for its class. Maintenance costs are relatively low, thanks to Honda's reputation for reliability. Regular servicing, like oil changes and tire rotations, will be needed. While repairs can be more expensive than some other vehicles, the frequency of repairs is generally low. Long-term ownership costs are manageable, making it a reasonably affordable option for families.

2018 Honda Pilot Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 21 gallons
City Mileage 18 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 26 miles/gallon

2018 Honda Pilot Safety Rating

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

2018 Honda Pilot Recalls & Defects

Seats
Recall date 2018-04-05
Recall no. 18v221000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2018 Honda Pilot and Ridgeline Vehicles and 2018 Acura MDX Vehicles. THE Front Driver and Passenger Powered Seats IN THE Honda Vehicles and THE Driver Powered Seats IN THE Acura Vehicles MAY Have Been Assembled With Improperly Manufactured Rivets. IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Rivets CAN Break Causing THE Seats NOT TO BE Secured TO THE Floor. AS Such, These Vehicles MAY Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 207, "seating Systems," and 210, "seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, IF THE Seat Does NOT Remain Secured TO THE Floor, THE Seat Occupant HAS AN Increased Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver Seat Frame Assembly IN Acura MDX Vehicles, and Replace THE Driver and Front Passenger Seat Slide Rail Frames IN Honda Pilot and Ridgeline Vehicles, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 30, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall IS D0s, and T0t.
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.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:belts and Associated Pulleys
Recall date 2019-04-12
Recall no. 19v298000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Acura MDX and Honda Pilot Vehicles and 2019 Acura Rlx, RLX Sport Hybrid, TLX and Honda Odyssey and Ridgeline Vehicles. THE Timing Belt Teeth MAY Separate From THE Belt.
Consequence Teeth Separation From THE Timing Belt MAY Result IN AN Engine Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicle and Replace ANY Affected Timing Belt Free OF Charge. Vehicles Receiving A Replacement Timing Belt Will Also Have THE Engine Inspected and ANY Damaged Components Will BE Replaced FOR Free. THE Recall Began June 7, 2019. Honda Owners MAY Contact Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS L4m. Acura Owners MAY Contact Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Acura's Number FOR This Recall IS Z4l.
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.
Structure:body:hood
Recall date 2021-11-29
Recall no. 21v932000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2019 Passport, 2016-2019 Pilot, and 2017-2020 Ridgeline Vehicles. THE Hood Latch Striker MAY Become Damaged and Separate From THE Hood, Which CAN Result IN THE Hood Opening While Driving.
Consequence A Hood That Opens While Driving CAN Obstruct THE Driver's View and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Either Repair THE Hood Latch Striker, or Replace THE Hood IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 18, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS Pbv.
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.nhtsa.gov.
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hood:latch
Recall date 2021-11-29
Recall no. 21v932000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2019 Passport, 2016-2019 Pilot, and 2017-2020 Ridgeline Vehicles. THE Hood Latch Striker MAY Become Damaged and Separate From THE Hood, Which CAN Result IN THE Hood Opening While Driving.
Consequence A Hood That Opens While Driving CAN Obstruct THE Driver's View and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Either Repair THE Hood Latch Striker, or Replace THE Hood IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 18, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS Pbv.
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.nhtsa.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:hard Parts Internal/Mechanical
Recall date 2023-11-13
Recall no. 23v751000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2015-2020 Acura Tlx, 2016-2020 Acura Mdx, 2016 and 2018-2019 Pilot, 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Odyssey Vehicles. DUE TO A Manufacturing Error, THE Connecting ROD Bearing IN THE Engine MAY Wear and Seize, Damaging THE Engine.
Consequence A Damaged Engine MAY RUN Improperly or Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire, Crash, or Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Repair, or Replace THE Engine AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed March 28, 2024. 2016-2017 Acura MDX Owner Letters Were Mailed November 1, 2024. 2016-2020 Acura MDX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed IN Mid-december 2024. Honda Began Mailing Owner Notification Letters AS OF March 18, 2024. 2015-2016 Acura Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed Mid-december 2024, 2018 Acura TLX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed THE END OF March/Early April 2024, 2019 Acura TLX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed Mid-may 2024, 2020 Acura TLX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed Mid-june 2024, and 2016-2020 Acura MDX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed January 27, 2025. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR These Recalls ARE XG1 and Gg0.
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.nhtsa.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2023-12-18
Recall no. 23v858000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, Cr-V, Hr-v, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura Ilx, Mdx, MDX Hybrid, Rdx, Rlx, Tlx, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda Cr-v Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity Phev, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX Vehicles. THE Fuel Pump Inside THE Fuel Tank MAY Fail.
Consequence Fuel Pump Failure CAN Cause AN Engine Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed September 6, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE KGC and Kgd. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Numbers 21v-215 and 20v-314.
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.nhtsa.gov.

2018 Honda Pilot Insurance

Insurance for a 2018 Honda Pilot is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2018 Honda Pilot Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2018 Honda Pilot competes with the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, and Kia Telluride. In terms of reliability, the Pilot is generally on par with the Highlander, often considered a benchmark. The Explorer offers sportier handling but may not match the Pilot's reliability. The Traverse provides more cargo space, but its fuel economy is lower. The Telluride (later model years) offers more features and a more modern design at a similar price point.
Regarding performance, the Pilot's V6 engine is adequate, but the Explorer's optional turbocharged engines offer more power. Feature-wise, the Pilot provides a good balance, though some competitors offer more advanced tech.
If reliability is your top priority, the Toyota Highlander is a similar alternative. For more cargo space, consider the Chevrolet Traverse. If you want a more modern design and features, a newer Kia Telluride (if budget allows) is a worthwhile upgrade. Each vehicle has its strengths and weaknesses, making a test drive and comparison crucial.

Ranks #231 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 (3.0★)
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★)
231 2018 Honda Pilot (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Honda Pilot a Good Wagon?

The 2018 Honda Pilot is an excellent choice for families seeking a reliable and spacious mid-size SUV. Its comfortable ride, ample seating, and good safety ratings make it a practical option. It's worth buying, especially as a used vehicle, given its depreciation. Opting for the EX or EX-L trims offers a good balance of features and value.
However, buyers should be aware of potential infotainment and transmission issues and ensure all recalls have been addressed. If you prioritize a sportier driving experience or cutting-edge technology, other options might be more suitable. Ultimately, a thorough inspection and test drive are recommended before making a purchase.

2018 Honda Pilot Owner Reviews

4.57
Overall rating
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ron boccio on April 18, 2023

Honda will not start

2018 Pilot Touring , the car shut off 1 day , Roush Honda in Ohio has had the car for 1 month , the part coming , control unit , smart power , has been 2 recalls on the car shutting off . I thought Ohio is the Honda capital of the US ? Been serviced at Honda since day 1 , 130,000 miles

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W Cotter on August 6, 2022

Beware the 2018 Honda Pilot!

Easily the worst car I've ever owned. Honda used to be reliable, but this SUV is a mess. Lots of glitches from bad software/hardware. Not a reliable car like they used to be. First one we had was a lemon, second one was only marginally better. Beware the 2018 Honda Pilot!

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Burtie on April 20, 2022

Pilot Letdown

Too many issues with the vehicle to mention. Now transmission sensor issues. Bought a Honda for perceived reliability. Actually requires more time in the shop than my last 5 cars. More money = more repairs needed. Stay away from the Pilot.

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LR on April 26, 2021

Worst car we have ever owned

This car had no power, the infotainment was sluggish and not responsive at all. The safety system was so strange to the point when you would be in a curve and there was also another car there, it would dream at you thinking you were going to hit them. You stop in traffic and it would scream at you that there were cars around you setting off your sensors. You could ultimately only control the DVD player from the rear seats and the movies would start over every time. I do t know what's worse, you getting frustrated because you can't assist your children in getting their movie playing or your children getting frustrated the movie starts over each time you get in and out of the car. I have owned 2 CRV's in the past and felt they were great quality cars. That was really why I went with the pilot. After 4 months, we felt like it was a very unreliable car and was ready to get rid of it. So glad we did and hate that we even wasted money and 4 months on that car.

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TheDivision on April 7, 2021

Awesome SUV

The SUV meet all my family need with space, seating and tech that come from the factory are perfect for us. My wife works as an independent contractor she has a lot of equipment to move during the job hours. Picking kids from school after work work out perfectly without having to toll trailer around with her.

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0

Rissajanelle on March 4, 2021

Love my car

Had everything I wanted in a car and more love driving my car now it's beautiful, and reliable, wouldn't change a thing. Define recommend to anyone

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CapeHondaFan on February 17, 2021

A big step up to Elite trim level

We were looking for a mid-size SUV because getting in and out of my 2014 Honda Accord was getting a little difficult. We found this Pilot Elite and got a good deal, and the car is hitting on all cylinders. Yes, we will get lower gas mileage, but the more comfortable ride and higher seating position are worth it.

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Nancy Ann on November 28, 2020

Our Honda Pilot's I love them it seems like every

This car does mets all of my needs. My back seat goes down and I made a bigger truck I even more room in there

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Malia on November 23, 2020

Great car, very quiet & luxurious

Great car, very spacious and feels luxurious. I upgraded from my last car. It was tough to pull the trigger & go up in price but do happy I did

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Maxxrott on November 22, 2020

I have been and my family are Honda owners

I am please with this vehicle, but I just purchased it and I have so many things to appreciate once I get to enjoy and become familiar with them.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.