While there is nothing notably wrong with the 2nd gen Honda Pilot, all vehicles have their common problems. This post reviews the top 5 Honda Pilot problems of the 2nd generation, years 2009 to 2015.
7 Common Issues on the 2nd Gen Honda Pilot (2009 to 2015)
1. VCM Problems
Symptoms of VCM Problems
- Engine feels like it’s shifting while driving
- Engine feels like it’s gaining or losing power while driving
- Higher oil consumption and maybe a check engine light for codes P3400 or P3497
Causes of VCM Problems on the 2009 to 2015 Honda Pilot
The variable cylinder management (VCM) shuts down and reactivates cylinders inside the engine as needed. For example, driving up a hill requires more work from all 6 cylinders. If the VCM is malfunctioning, it will control cylinders in unnecessary ways for the driving conditions, such as jumping between cylinders when instead it needs all 6 cylinders firing.
The engine might also consume more oil. If the oil level falls low often but there is no sign of an oil leak, the engine is consuming the oil and expelling it out the tail pipe. The oil light or the check engine light might also turn on.
The spark plugs might also foul early from oil consumption, meaning there are black oil deposits on the spark plug. Codes P3400 or P3497 might also appear with high oil consumption, and these codes mean there is an issue with the VCM.
How to Fix VCM Issues
Replace the oil if there is high consumption and bring the Pilot to the dealership for a reprogram.
2. Ticking or Knocking Engine Noises
Symptoms of Engine Noises
- Ticking noise near the valve cover with the engine cover
- Knocking noise near the valve cover
Causes of Engine Noises
If the engine is warm, the bridge bolts that hold the valve’s pivot point can loosen and move the pivot point, making a chattering sound.
How to Fix Knocking or Ticking Engine Noises on the 2nd Gen Honda Pilot
Access the engine head. Reloosen and tighten all of the bridge bolts. Since there’s an opportunity, we recommend adjusting the valves at the same time.
3. Sunroof Has Problems Operating
Symptoms of Sunroof Problems on the 2nd Gen Honda Pilot
- Sunroof tends to not open on command
Causes of Sunroof Problems
A control module powers the sunroof. The control module can be defective, but sometimes it just needs a reprogram.
How to Fix Sunroof Problems
Reprogram the module with a high-end scanner or bring it to the dealership or a mechanic and have it reprogrammed.
4. Interior Leather Fading and Tearing
Symptoms of Interior Leather Issues on the 2nd Gen Honda Pilot
- Arm rests and other interior leather tend to wear and can tear
How to Fix the Interior Leather
If the arm rest is damaged, replace the unit or cover it with new covering.
5. Peeling Running Board Mats
Symptoms of Peeling Running Boards
- The black mat on the chrome running boards peels and loosens
Causes of Peeling Running Boards
The plastic or rubbery mat or cover on the running boards acts as a grip. The black mat that should adhere to the chrome running boards can peel off, bubble, and feel squishy when touched.
How to Fix Peeling Running Boards
Adhere the black mat to the running board with adhesive. Clamp it and let it sit for a few hours. Replacing the running board is also an option, but more costly.
6. Headlight Low Beams Don’t Work
Symptoms of Headlight Low Beam Problems
- One low beam stops working and the other stops working or both don’t work.
Causes of Headlight Low Beam Problems on the 2009 to 2015 Honda Pilot
The low beams not working on the 2nd gen Pilot is caused by a wiring issue. There may be a slight smell of smoke entering the passenger compartment. The wiring connection on the headlight stalk switch can burn, overheat, and melt.
How to Fix Low Beam Wiring Problems
It could possibly cause a fire, so we recommend fixing the wire or replacing the wiring harness.
7. Paint Peeling
Symptoms of Paint Peeling
- Paint tends to peel away in between the windshield and the sunroof
Causes of Paint Peeling
Not enough preparation at the factory is typical, especially on the white models
How to Fix Paint Peeling
Fix it as soon as possible to stop the paint peeling from spreading by sanding it, repainting it and priming it.
2nd Generation Honda Pilot Model Years
- 2009 Honda Pilot
- 2010 Honda Pilot
- 2011 Honda Pilot
- 2012 Honda Pilot
- 2013 Honda Pilot
- 2014 Honda Pilot
- 2015 Honda Pilot
Related Content
- What Are Low Beam Headlights?
- Car Sunroof Leaking?
- Car Diagnosis By Sound: Certain Sounds and What They Could Mean
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