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2019 Honda Pilot: engine failure

27 of the 929 complaints about the 2019 Honda Pilot describe engine failure.

owner complaints
27
of this car's complaints
3%
recalls
2
Is there a fix? There are 2 recalls and 29 service bulletins for this area of the car. See below

Engine failure by model year

What owners say

Filed Oct 23, 2026 · Engine · ID

Vehicle developed a rod knock. Confirmed by a certified automotive technician. The noise is most prevalent between 2200 rpm and up. Upon further research have found that this engine and vehicle are under investigation for my exact issue. The vehicle needs a new engine. In the process now acquiring a new engine to install into vehicle. No check engine light at this time. This is a safety risk and if the engine fails my family will be stranded or it could cause an accident. Have spoken with the local honda dealers service manager. He did confirm that this issue is prevalent in these models and that Honda is refusing to cover it at this point.

Filed Oct 20, 2026 · Driver assistance, Engine · RI

Traveling on 295 getting off onto Route 6 West, when suddenly the engine stopped working and miraculously I was able to get to the side of the road into the breakdown lane. The vehicle was towed by AAA to a garage. When the mechanic was able to get it started, it sounded like something was clanking around in the engine. He states it appears a rod broke inside the engine. And now I have to put a brand new engine into it or get rid of it.

Filed Sep 4, 2026 · Engine · WI

Rod bearing failure, diagnosed by Honda Service. At a stop light, vehicle starting making very loud noises (video proof). I pulled over right away and had it towed to not risk an accident or more damage. Honda(same place that the vehicle was purchased at did most preventive maintenance) diagnosis: "Engine Major Miscellaneous | rod bearing failure. removed timing covers and confirmed t belt is intact and holding tension. was able to start motor momentarily and confirmed rod bearing noise. replace motor with used engine" I asked Honda Coporation for a goodwill claim and help and the claim was denied. I appealed this decision. I am asking Honda to consider whether the actual cause of my engine failure could be consistent with the type of internal engine concerns that have been documented on comparable vehicles, and to give my case the attention that such a serious failure warrants. In particular, I asked that Honda: - Reviews the complete authorized-dealer diagnosis, technician notes, repair estimate, and any teardown findings. - Determines and document the specific failed bearing and the suspected root cause of the failure. Review the oil condition, lubrication findings, crankshaft condition, and any other evidence that may explain why the rod bearing failed. -Preserves the failed components and diagnostic records while this request is being reconsidered. -Considers full or substantial goodwill assistance toward repair or engine replacement, including parts coverage, labor assistance, towing or a fair cost-sharing arrangement. This was not an expected maintenance expense, a neglected oil change, or a routine wear item. It was a sudden, serious internal engine failure. I did what Honda asks owners to do: I maintained the vehicle, completed scheduled preventive maintenance, and took well care of it. I HAVE (and provided Honda) proof of ALL PREVENTIVE maintenance completed as recommended, including a costly timing belt change. *NO warnings, lights or signs prior to t

Filed Sep 2, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · TX

The vehicle experienced a check engine light with code P0430 and a failed Air/Fuel ratio test due to defective fuel injectors leaking raw fuel into the exhaust bank. This failure completely mirrors the factory defect in Honda Service Bulletin A21-010 (the federal safety agency ID: 10187008), which extends the fuel injector warranty to 10 years/150,000 miles. A certified Honda dealer verified the exact codes and components but explicitly denied the mandatory corporate warranty extension, attempting to charge $1,804.51 out-of-pocket and ignoring subsequent communication. Unburned raw fuel dumping into the catalytic converter presents a progressive engine failure and exhaust safety hazard.

Filed Aug 31, 2026 · Engine · 130,000 miles · RI

The contact owns a 2019 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while merging onto the highway at 40 MPH, the vehicle lost power and several warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact coasted the vehicle to the shoulder of the highway, and the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The independent mechanic diagnosed that an unknown engine component failed, causing the timing belt to snap and resulting in engine failure. The contact associated the failure with the federal safety agency Action Number: PE25008 (Engine). The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no open recalls associated with the VIN. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

Filed Jun 28, 2026 · Driver assistance, Engine · MD

While driving, there was a loud noise came from the engine. I immediately pulled over onto the shoulder as I was unable to continue driving. Every time I accelerated, the car with jerk forward and posed an extreme danger for both the the passengers and others on the road. There were numerous error messages appearing on my dashboard, and the loud noise persisted. The local dealer found that there was an issue with the engine and needs engine replacement. I contacted manufacturer HONDA and they not willing to help me as my 6.3 year vehicle is out of 5 year warranty.

Filed Jun 9, 2026 · Engine · NY

Please find the details regarding the sudden, dangerous failure of my vehicle below. The itemized findings are pulled directly from the dealership’s multi-point inspection and diagnostic report. When was the first time (approximate date) you noticed the issue? The issue culminated in an immediate, hazardous crisis on XXX when the vehicle completely shut down while in operation and refused to restart. How often does the issue happen within a time frame (e.g., once a month)? This is a permanent, catastrophic mechanical failure. The engine is completely inoperable and the vehicle is entirely undriveable. What is the name & title of the person(s) assisting you at the dealer? I am being assisted by Victoria Dalessandro at Honda City Long Island in [XXX]. What is the reason/explanation provided by the dealer, as to what caused this issue? Following a formal engine teardown, the dealership confirmed a severe internal failure: a lower engine knock originating from the front connecting rod bearing. This internal component defect completely seized the powertrain, causing the vehicle to shut down and rendering the engine unrepairable. What repairs/services have been completed (if any)? Only the initial teardown and diagnostic inspection have been completed. No repairs will be authorized until American Honda Motor Company, Inc. assumes corporate financial responsibility for this premature powertrain failure. What repairs/services have been suggested? The dealership has stated that a complete engine replacement is required, suggesting a used engine swap ($7,609.92). In conjunction with this catastrophic failure, they have itemized necessary peripheral parts and critical safety wear, including new spark plugs, a replacement drive belt, failed lower control arms ($1,704.28), leaking front struts, degraded stabilizer links, and fluid exchanges. costs estimated for the repair (if any?) The exact total remaining unapproved in the dealership-$10K INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C

Filed May 27, 2026 · Engine · NV

My engine has been diagnosed as having connecting rod bearing knock, which is indicative of failing connecting rod bearings. Two independent mechanics have told me I need a new engine. I'm submitting this complaint as further evidence for the federal safety agency investigation that Honda's Honda Pilot Connecting Rod Bearing Safety Recall had an insufficient of covered vehicles. At the time of purchase and as of today, my VIN is not part of Honda's recall, yet I have experienced connecting rod bearing failure, as have many others. There are several warning Lights including but not limited to ABS, lane assist, trailer assist. So far, my safety is not at risk, but I have a 2 year old grandchild that I drive around multiple times a week. I can’t afford this repair and feel as though I cannot drive this vehicle so I only drive it when absolutely necessary. The vehicle has 82,000 miles on it. Should the engine fail, it's likely that would cause an accident and injury or death. I originally had the vehicle diagnosed because I could hear the noise myself and it was not a normal noise.

Filed May 14, 2026 · Engine · MN

My engine lights turned on Friday, April 24th and I brought in my vehicle to a local dealership on Monday, April 27th. I was informed it was due to a faulty catalytic converter and it was replaced under warranty. The services was completed on Tuesday, April 29th and took my vehicle home. On May 7th, I turn on my engine and all the engine check lights came on. My car was jerky. I was scheduled to bring in my vehicle on May 12th to a local dealership. On May 13th, I received update that my engine had oil leakage and required a new engine. I believe that my 2019 Honda Pilot is among the thousands of Honda Pilot within the make year that are experiencing engine failure. I need support to replace my engine as I should not be responsible as I continue to maintain maintenance on my vehicle and to experience this engine failure issue.

Filed Apr 26, 2026 · Engine · OK

While driving on the highway, the vehicle experienced sudden engine failure at highway speeds, putting the safety of our son and others drivers at risk. The engine completely lost power. The diagnosing dealership confirmed failure of a connecting rod and bearings and internal engine damage with metal present throughout the engine, requiring full engine replacement at an estimated cost of over $17,000. The car is still at the South Pointe Honda dealership in Tulsa, OK. The diagnostic was also confirmed by a Honda certified mechanic at another independent shop. No others have inspected the vehicle. This appears consistent with reported issues involving connecting rod bearing failures in Honda V6 engines of similar model years. The failure occurred prematurely and without warning, raising concerns about reliability and potential safety risks if loss of power occurs during operation. There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of a problem prior to failure. The vehicle has been properly maintained and was not subject to abnormal use. I am submitting this complaint due to the severity of the failure, the high repair cost, and concern that similar failures may pose a safety risk to other drivers.

Filed Apr 6, 2026 · Engine · MI

I am submitting this complaint to report a catastrophic engine failure in my 2019 Honda Pilot Elite that is consistent with the defect described in the federal safety agency Safety Recall 23V‑751, and to request that my vehicle be included in the recall or that the scope of the recall be expanded. My vehicle, manufactured in July 2018, experienced a sudden onset of engine knocking accompanied by a flashing check engine light and a P0301 (cylinder 1 misfire) diagnostic code while driving at highway speeds. After safely returning home and attempting reasonable repairs, I brought the vehicle to a Honda dealership for inspection. The technician determined that: •The cylinder #1 connecting rod bearing had spun •There was extensive internal engine damage •Metal shavings were present in the oil pan •The engine required replacement of the short block assembly The total cost of repair was $9,784.94. This failure mode is identical to the defect described in Recall 23V‑751, which attributes rod bearing failure to manufacturing issues with the crankshaft. Despite this, my VIN is not currently included in the recall. Key concerns: •My vehicle falls within the same production timeframe as affected vehicles •The failure mode is identical to the recalled defect •The failure occurred under normal driving conditions •The vehicle was properly maintained and not abused This raises serious concerns that the defect extends beyond the currently defined recall population.I respectfully request that the federal safety agency: 1.Investigate this incident as part of the ongoing review of Honda 3.5L V6 engine failures 2.Determine whether Recall 23V‑751 should be expanded to include additional vehicles 3.Consider my vehicle for inclusion in the recall due to identical failure characteristics This issue represents a significant safety concern, as sudden engine failure at highway speeds could lead to loss of control or increased risk of collision. Supporting documentation is attached.

Filed Mar 8, 2026 · Engine · CA

While traveling at highway speeds, we experienced a check engine lights with loss of power. After carefully pulling off of the highway, we stopped at a gas station where the engine ultimately stalled. Upon attempting restart, the engine cranked twice and then stopped. Trying to start the engine again. All we heard was a click this time around and the engine is now fully seized. Thank goodness we were able to pull off the highway and the issue happened in a way that my family and I were safe.

Service bulletins that may apply

Related recalls

Engine and engine cooling: engine: hard parts internal/mechanicalReported November 13, 2023 · 248,999 vehicles affected
What is wrong
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.
Risk
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.

Recall number 23V751000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: gasoline: belts and associated pulleysReported April 12, 2019 · 93,946 vehicles affected
What is wrong
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.
Risk
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.

Recall number 19V298000 · Recall details

Questions about the 2019 Honda Pilot engine failure

Is engine failure a common problem on the 2019 Honda Pilot?

27 of 929 owner complaints about the 2019 Honda Pilot (3%) mention engine failure. The model year with the most reports is 2016.

Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 2019 Honda Pilot?

There are 2 recalls and 29 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.

Other symptoms on the 2019 Honda Pilot

Backup camera 103Stalling 96Start-stop 70Collision warning 66Fuel pump 61Adaptive cruise 59Lane assist 54Check engine light 53Won't start 49Screen failure 38Headlights 36Hesitation 32Knocking 30Jerking 24Warning lights 21Loss of power 15Misfire 13Shudder 11Battery drain 10Won't shift 10Phantom braking 7Sudden acceleration 6Transmission failure 6Harsh shifting 5

All model years of the Honda Pilot

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