Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Honda Pilot
The 2017 Honda Pilot shows multiple complaints, mainly about the engine and electrical system. With four recall campaigns, issues such as fuel pump failure and hood latch separation need attention. However, data is somewhat limited, so ensure careful inspection for general wear and these specific concerns.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Honda Pilot has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 937 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 #26V332000 Air Bags May Deploy Unintentionally During a Crash NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V858000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V932000 Hood May Open While Driving NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 476 complaints
- Electrical System 266 complaints
- Unknown or Other 136 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 123 complaints
- Power Train 122 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 31 complaints
Of the 937 complaints on file, 9 report a crash and 5 a fire; across all 937 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine reliability issues
How to check: Check for abnormal noises or vibrations during cold start.
Frequent electrical problems
How to check: Test all electronics, including lights and infotainment.
Fuel pump failure risk
How to check: Verify if the fuel pump recall was serviced.
Hood latch failure
How to check: Inspect hood latch condition and attachment.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Rough start or loud noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brake response and feel.
Red flag: Soft or delayed braking
- 04
Acceleration
What to check: Monitor power delivery for inconsistencies.
Red flag: Delayed or jerky acceleration
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Listen for engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Noisy engine or vibrations
- 06
After parking
What to check: Turn off engine, listen for unusual sounds.
Red flag: Ticking or clunking noises
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel pump recall been completed?
- Any recurring electrical problems?
- Have you experienced engine issues?
- Are there any pending safety recalls?
- Has the hood latch been inspected?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history
- Recall repair records
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Honda Pilot at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 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.