2007 Honda Pilot: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
One of the strongest first-gen picks: dependable V6, spacious and cheap to run; watch for salt-belt subframe rust and the Takata recall. 4 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2007 Honda Pilot ranged from $27,690 to $32,540 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
One of the strongest first-gen picks: dependable V6, spacious and cheap to run; watch for salt-belt subframe rust and the Takata recall.
Sources (2)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=honda&model=pilot&m…
- capitalone.comhttps://www.capitalone.com/cars/learn/finding-the-right-car/the-best-model-ye…
Known issues
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Rear subframe / trailing-arm corrosion and separation from the body, especially in salt-belt climates.
occasional · 68 NHTSA complaints · body
-
Takata airbag inflator recall, sensor failures, non-deployment and rupture risk.
occasional · 57 NHTSA complaints · other
-
Automatic transmission failures, including transmission fluid mixing with engine coolant through a failed cooler and shuddering; most reported on the 2005 model year.
occasional · 13 NHTSA complaints · transmission
-
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) activates and applies the brakes randomly with no driver input, sometimes causing swerving, with the VSA warning light on.
commonly reported · 89 NHTSA complaints · brake
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (1)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=honda&model=pilot&m…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Generally durable, 2006-2008 are well regarded and many last well past 200,000 miles.
- Spacious eight-seat interior with a car-like ride and a strong, smooth V6.
- Simple, rugged and inexpensive to maintain.
Cons
- Takata airbag recall, a thirsty V6 and a third row that is cramped for adults.
- Rear subframe rust and separation can occur in salt-belt climates.
- The 2005 model year has notable automatic-transmission weakness (fluid-coolant intrusion and failures); 2006-2008 are the safer used picks.
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX | $27,690 | discontinued | 3.5L V6 | — |
| EX | $30,240 | discontinued | 3.5L V6 | — |
| EX-L | $32,540 | $44,695 | 3.5L V6 | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Sources (3)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2007-honda-pilot-price
- fueleconomy.govhttps://www.fueleconomy.gov/ws/rest/vehicle/menu/options?year=2006&make=Honda…
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/honda-pilot-price
Depreciation
Move your cursor along the line to see the estimated value for any year.
This listing sits above the typical depreciation curve. Common for heavily-optioned cars and for 2021-2023 model years (pandemic-era pricing); the curve is anchored at base MSRP, which excludes options.
Curve anchored at the entry-trim base MSRP ($27,690). Higher trims started higher (up to $32,540), and options added more.
The curve's data ends 10 years in, so the line levels off after that. Treat the tail as a floor, not a forecast: asking prices for older cars depend mostly on condition, mileage, and the current market, and often sit well above it.
Sources (2)
- caredge.comhttps://caredge.com/honda/pilot/depreciation
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/honda-pilot/resale-value
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $500–550/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~250k miles |
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (1)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/honda/pilot
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2007 Honda Pilot have?
Documented issue patterns include: Rear subframe / trailing-arm corrosion and separation from the body, especially in salt-belt climates; Takata airbag inflator recall, sensor failures, non-deployment and rupture risk; Automatic transmission failures, including transmission fluid mixing with engine coolant through a failed cooler and shuddering; most reported on the 2005 model year; Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) activates and applies the brakes randomly with no driver input, sometimes causing swerving, with the VSA warning light on. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2007 Honda Pilot reliable?
One of the strongest first-gen picks: dependable V6, spacious and cheap to run; watch for salt-belt subframe rust and the Takata recall.
How much did the 2007 Honda Pilot cost new?
Between $27,690 and $32,540 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Is the Honda Pilot expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $500–550/year as mileage climbs.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.