Rod bearing failure

What got replaced

Owners who name the part that was replaced mention the rod bearing (181 reports), the crankshaft (24 reports) and the engine (23 reports).

Recalls and investigations

One recall on the engine covers the 2016 model year. A recall on the same system isn't always the same failure, so read the defect text.

All 8 recalls on the 2016 Honda Pilot, with the owner complaints on each recalled system

NHTSA investigations into the engine on the Pilot

What owners paid

29 of the 181 reports quote a price. Each dot is one quote. The middle half runs $7,000 to $10,000.

When it happens

The middle half of failures fell between 83,000 and 134,000 miles, from the 72 reports that gave a mileage.

What owners wrote

“My engine has developed a severe internal engine/rod knock due to connecting rod bearing failure. My vehicle which is a 2016 Honda Pilot was built at the Lincoln Alabama plant but my VIN was excluded from recall 23V751 based on production dates. However my engine is failing from the same exact crankshaft and bearing defect.”

Filed Jul 22, 2026

“All engine rod bearings had to be replaced due to engine knocking. Vehicle had 61,379 miles when repair was performed 10/02/25. Repair was performed by the manufacturer's dealership.”

Filed Nov 26, 2025 · 61,379 miles

“Started hearing rattling sound on acceleration yesterday. Today heard it again. Engine light came on and a lot of other safety lights came on and noted less power with hitting accelerator. Took it to dealer. They are investigating but say it is the connecting rod bearing failure that so many Hondas have. My car currently is not in the recall list by Honda. It is a 2016 Pilot, 105,000 miles”

Filed Oct 23, 2025 · 105,000 miles

“The engine failed and has to be replaced. Mechanic said rod bearing caused engine failure. Daughter was stranded on side of the road due to sudden failure. There was no warning and the vehicle only has 120,000 miles on it with all oil changes done as required.”

Filed Jan 27, 2025 · 120,000 miles

Guide Paid for this repair before a recall covered it? How recall reimbursement works

Other problems on this car

• Engine stalls or loses power while driving 413 reports
• Check engine light or misfire 165 reports
• Battery dies or the car will not start 159 reports
• Infotainment, screen or backup camera fails 147 reports
• Multiple warning lights come on at once 97 reports
• Transmission shudders, slips or shifts hard 74 reports
• Auto start-stop will not restart the engine 54 reports
• Engine rattles or ticks 51 reports
• A/C blows warm or the compressor fails 38 reports
• Traction control or StabiliTrak light comes on 37 reports
• Fuel pump failure 34 reports
• Brakes grind, pulse or wear early 31 reports