VTC Actuator Rattle on Cold Start
high- Typically appears
- 30–120k mi
- Estimated repair
- $200 – $500
2017 Honda
PilotSUV
SUV
The 2017 Honda Pilot is a third-generation, three-row family SUV that was fully redesigned for the 2016 model year. It seats up to eight passengers and pairs a 3.5L V6 with either a 6-speed automatic or a 9-speed automatic depending on trim. Compared to the outgoing generation, the third-gen Pilot is roomier, quieter, and better-equipped, making it one of the most practical mid-size SUVs in its class. For daily family use the Pilot delivers well-rounded performance — comfortable highway cruising, a usable third row, and a spacious cargo area. The base FWD configuration works fine for most Lake Geneva driving, though AWD is worth seeking out on a used example given Wisconsin winters. Overall build quality is solid for a Honda, and the 3.5L V6 is a known long-runner. The main weak spots in this generation are the 9-speed automatic (found on upper trims) and the VTC actuator — both worth checking on any used example.
Reliability
4/5
Verified data
Specs shown for Pilot FWD — the most common configuration.
Other trims may vary in engine, drivetrain, or fuel economy. Sign in to see your vehicle's exact specs.
Engine
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Drivetrain
FWD
Fuel
Gasoline
MPG
20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined
Seats
—
Doors
—
Body
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Overview
AI-curatedThe 2017 Honda Pilot is a third-generation, three-row family SUV that was fully redesigned for the 2016 model year. It seats up to eight passengers and pairs a 3.5L V6 with either a 6-speed automatic or a 9-speed automatic depending on trim. Compared to the outgoing generation, the third-gen Pilot is roomier, quieter, and better-equipped, making it one of the most practical mid-size SUVs in its class. For daily family use the Pilot delivers well-rounded performance — comfortable highway cruising, a usable third row, and a spacious cargo area. The base FWD configuration works fine for most Lake Geneva driving, though AWD is worth seeking out on a used example given Wisconsin winters. Overall build quality is solid for a Honda, and the 3.5L V6 is a known long-runner. The main weak spots in this generation are the 9-speed automatic (found on upper trims) and the VTC actuator — both worth checking on any used example.
Known for
- Roomy, practical three-row interior
- Smooth, refined 3.5L V6
- Strong IIHS safety scores
- Honda long-term reliability reputation
Best for
- Families needing three-row seating
- Highway commuters and road-trippers
- Buyers prioritizing cargo versatility
- Drivers who want SUV practicality without truck-based ride
Watch for
- 9-speed automatic on EX-L and above — known for shudder and hunting
- VTC actuator rattle on cold starts (common on 3.5L V6)
- Torque converter shudder complaints on 2016–2018 models
- Infotainment touchscreen responsiveness issues on early units
Common issues by mileage
6 knownVTC/VCM Solenoid Faults
medium- Typically appears
- 40–100k mi
- Estimated repair
- $150 – $450
9-Speed Automatic Torque Converter Shudder
high- Typically appears
- 20–80k mi
- Estimated repair
- $400 – $1,800
Transmission Hesitation / Rough Shifting (9-Speed)
medium- Typically appears
- 10–60k mi
- Estimated repair
- $0 – $300
A/F Sensor / O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Faults
medium- Typically appears
- 80–150k mi
- Estimated repair
- $150 – $400
Infotainment Screen Unresponsiveness / Display Unit Failure
medium- Typically appears
- 50–120k mi
- Estimated repair
- $300 – $900
Maintenance schedule
- 1 Every 5,000–7,500 miles or per Honda Maintenance Minder Engine oil & filter change — full synthetic 0W-20
The 3.5L V6's VTC actuator and VCM solenoids are oil-pressure dependent. Using the correct viscosity and not stretching intervals is the single best way to avoid VTC rattle and solenoid codes.
- 2 Every 30,000 miles on 9-speed; every 45,000 miles on 6-speed Transmission fluid change (CVT/AT)
Honda's 'lifetime' fluid recommendation is not realistic for Wisconsin drivers. Fresh fluid helps the 9-speed shift more crisply and can reduce shudder. Use only Honda DW-1 ATF.
- 3 Every 90,000 miles Spark plug replacement (iridium)
Factory iridium plugs have a long service life, but worn plugs on the 3.5L V6 can worsen hesitation symptoms that get blamed on the transmission.
- 4 First change at 10 years / 120k miles; every 5 years after Coolant drain & refill (Honda Type 2 blue)
Honda's long-life coolant does hold up well, but should not be ignored indefinitely on a Wisconsin vehicle subject to thermal cycling.
- 5 Every fall (September–October) Battery load test
The 3.5L V6 with VCM puts extra demand on the battery during cylinder deactivation events. A marginal battery that passes a surface charge test can fail at -10°F. Test it before winter, not during.
- 6 Every 3 years regardless of mileage Brake fluid flush
Brake fluid is hygroscopic. Wisconsin salt and temperature swings accelerate moisture uptake, lowering the boiling point and promoting corrosion in calipers and ABS components.
- 7 Every 15,000–20,000 miles Cabin & engine air filter inspection
Dusty gravel roads common around Lake Geneva clog filters faster than EPA test-cycle estimates assume.
- 8 After every significant road-salt event; full inspection every spring Undercarriage rinse & inspection
Road salt in Walworth County is aggressive. Inspect subframe mounting points, brake lines, and exhaust hangers each spring — catching surface rust early is far cheaper than replacing rusted-through components.
Always defer to the manufacturer's service manual for warranty-mandated intervals.
Cost of ownership
Annual maintenance
$600 – $1,100
Fuel
At 23 MPG combined and ~15,000 miles/year, expect roughly 650 gallons of regular 87 octane per year — around $2,100–$2,500 at current Midwest pump prices.
Insurance
Mid-size SUV; expect $1,200–$1,800/year for full coverage in the Lake Geneva area for a typical adult driver, depending on trim, history, and carrier.
The Pilot is a mid-cost-of-ownership vehicle. Routine maintenance is affordable and the 3.5L V6 is not parts-hungry when maintained. The main budget risk is the 9-speed transmission on upper trims — a torque converter job or TCM replacement can run $800–$1,800 at an independent shop. Fuel costs are the largest ongoing expense; the V6 rewards steady highway driving over city stop-and-go.
Seasonal care
Lake Geneva, WI Winter
- Switch to a dedicated winter tire set — the Pilot's weight (4,200+ lbs) means all-season tires lose grip quickly below 25°F, and FWD provides no safety margin on Lake Geneva ice without proper rubber.
- Test the battery every October. Cold cranking a VCM V6 at sub-zero temps with a 4-year-old battery is a recipe for a no-start.
- Use washer fluid rated to at least -30°F and keep the reservoir full — salty spray from Highway 12 and County H will empty it fast.
- Inspect wiper blades in November; switch to winter-style blades if you park outside — standard frames ice up and leave streaks.
- Flush and check coolant freeze protection to at least -34°F; Wisconsin can see -20°F ambient with dangerous wind chills.
- After any significant snowfall or salt event, rinse the undercarriage at a touchless car wash — focus on wheel wells and the rear subframe area where the Pilot tends to hold road salt.
Summer
- Check tire pressure monthly — for every 10°F rise in temperature, pressure increases ~1 PSI; overinflation in July heat causes uneven wear and a harsher ride.
- Run the A/C on full cool for 5 minutes before a long drive to check for weak airflow or warm output; recharge or service the refrigerant loop before a family road trip, not during one.
- Inspect the cabin air filter before summer — a clogged filter cuts A/C efficiency noticeably in a three-row cabin.
- Check coolant level and condition; the 3.5L V6 works harder towing or carrying full passenger load in July heat — a marginal cooling system shows up in summer.
- Inspect brake pads and rotors after spring; Wisconsin winters are hard on brake hardware and summer towing/load demands expose any marginal components.
Comparable vehicles
2017 Toyota
Highlander
Direct three-row competitor at a similar price point. The Highlander's 3.5L V6 and 8-speed automatic is more refined and trouble-free than the Pilot's 9-speed. Slightly less cargo room but stronger resale value.
2017 Mazda
CX-9
Three-row mid-size SUV with a turbocharged 2.5L I4. Sportier driving experience, premium interior quality, but smaller third row and less max cargo volume than the Pilot.
2017 Ford
Explorer
Three-row family SUV in the same segment. More powerful V6 option and available tow capacity, but the Explorer has a weaker long-term reliability record than the Pilot, particularly transmission and cooling issues on the 3.5L EcoBoost.
2017 Kia
Sorento
A step down in size (two-row standard, cramped optional third row) but priced below the Pilot new and used. Strong warranty coverage and improving reliability make it a budget-friendly alternative for buyers who don't truly need three rows.