Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Honda Pilot
The 2016 Honda Pilot shows significant concerns with engine and electrical systems, backed by numerous owner complaints and recalls. Other notable issues include the fuel system and hood latch. The number of recalls and almost 1,800 complaints indicate potential reliability challenges. Despite this, a careful inspection might reveal a well-maintained model.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Honda Pilot has 8 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,724 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V365000 Rear Suspension Components May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V858000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V751000 Engine Damage from Connecting Rod Bearing Wear NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V932000 Hood May Open While Driving NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V219000 Fuel Tank may Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V417000 Fuel Tank May Have Insufficient Welds NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V668000 Improper Software to Module FMVSS 126,135,138 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V424000 Rear Seatbelt May Be Trapped NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 781 complaints
- Electrical System 582 complaints
- Unknown or Other 292 complaints
- Power Train 201 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 174 complaints
- Structure 54 complaints
Of the 1,724 complaints on file, 23 report a crash and 10 a fire; across all 1,724 complaints, owners report 20 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine seizing
How to check: Inspect for engine noise during idle and acceleration.
Instrument cluster issues
How to check: Check for warning lights that should not be on.
Hood latch failure
How to check: Ensure hood is secure and latch is intact.
Fuel tank leaks
How to check: Check under vehicle for any fuel leaks or odor.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or clicking.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on dash.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor for smooth gear transitions.
Red flag: Harsh or jerky shifting.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure stable, quick acceleration.
Red flag: Engine hesitation or lag.
- 05
Braking test
What to check: Test for firm, responsive braking.
Red flag: Soft or spongy brake pedal.
- 06
Steering maneuver
What to check: Evaluate ease of steering.
Red flag: Steering wheel vibrations.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine ever seized or had issues?
- Have the fuel system recalls been addressed?
- Any persistent electrical problems?
- Was the hood latch recall performed?
- Are there any active warning lights on?
- Have you noticed any fuel leaks?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history
- Recall repair receipts
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
- Previous owner details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Honda Pilot at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 Honda Pilot? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.