2017 Honda Pilot Buyer's Guide: The Practical Family Hauler

Why the 2017 Pilot?

The 2017 Honda Pilot represents the second year of Honda's third-generation midsize SUV. This generation brought dramatic improvements: a more modern design, significantly better interior, improved handling, and competitive fuel economy. The Pilot became one of the most practical choices in the three-row SUV segment.

Eight years later, the 2017 Pilot remains competitive. Prices have settled into the $20,000-$30,000 range depending on trim and condition. The Pilot's practicality— excellent cargo space, usable third row, and Honda's reputation—continues to attract family buyers. Understanding the transmission situation is key to making a good purchase.

Trim Level Comparison

EX-L: The Practical Choice

The EX-L trim offers the best combination of features, value, and the reliable 6-speed automatic. Standard features include: leather seating, heated front seats, power liftgate, tri-zone automatic climate control, HomeLink, and memory driver's seat. The 6-speed automatic shifts smoothly and has a proven reliability record.

The EX-L misses Honda Sensing (standard on Touring) and navigation, but aftermarket solutions or smartphone integration address these gaps. For buyers prioritizing reliability over technology, EX-L is the smart choice.

Touring: The Technology Package

Touring adds Honda Sensing (collision mitigation, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, road departure mitigation), navigation, rear entertainment system, heated steering wheel, and premium audio. It also uses the 9-speed automatic, which provides slightly better fuel economy but introduces the transmission variable.

If Honda Sensing safety features are important, Touring is the entry point. Verify transmission software updates, test drive extensively, and consider extended warranty coverage for peace of mind.

The Transmission Question

6-Speed Automatic (LX, EX, EX-L)

Honda's 6-speed automatic is a proven transmission used across their lineup for years. Smooth shifting, predictable behavior, and excellent durability. With regular fluid changes (every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving conditions), these transmissions routinely exceed 200,000 miles. This is the safe choice for risk-averse buyers.

9-Speed Automatic (Touring, Elite)

The ZF 9-speed automatic was new for the 2016 Pilot and had teething issues: harsh shifting, hesitation when accelerating, and hunting between gears during light throttle. Honda released multiple software updates throughout 2016-2017 that significantly improved behavior.

When evaluating 9-speed models:

• Ask for service records showing transmission software updates
• Conduct extended test drive (30+ minutes) in varied conditions
• Pay attention to behavior in parking lots, city driving, and highway
• Note any harsh shifts, hesitation, or gear hunting
• Consider remaining warranty or extended coverage

What to Inspect

Transmission Behavior

An extensive test drive is essential. Drive in city traffic, on highways, through parking lots, and up hills. The transmission should shift smoothly without harsh engagement or hunting. Some slight firmness is normal; repeated harsh shifts or extended hesitation warrant concern.

Oil Consumption

Some Honda V6 engines consume oil between changes. Check the dipstick during inspection— level should be near full mark. Ask the seller about oil consumption patterns. Consumption up to 1 quart per 5,000 miles is generally considered acceptable. Higher consumption may indicate piston ring or valve seal issues.

Infotainment System

Test all infotainment functions: radio, Bluetooth pairing, navigation (if equipped), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and backup camera. Early systems had some freezing issues addressed by updates. Response should be reasonably quick. Replacement head units are available if original systems are problematic.

HVAC System

The Pilot has tri-zone climate control. Test all three zones (driver, passenger, rear) for both heating and cooling. Rear HVAC issues are occasionally reported. Both front and rear should blow cold air quickly.

Ownership Costs

• Fuel Economy: 19 city/27 highway (FWD), 18/26 (AWD). Real-world: 21-24 MPG.
• Insurance: Average rates for a family SUV.
• Maintenance: Standard Honda maintenance schedule. Oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles (0W-20 synthetic recommended).
• Common Repairs: Brakes ($300-$500 per axle), transmission fluid change ($150-$300), spark plugs (~$300 at 100K).
• Tires: 245/50R20 (Touring/Elite) or 245/60R18. Budget $700-$1,000 for quality replacements.