4 Star Reviews for 2009 Honda Pilot

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.49/5 Average
198 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The fully redesigned 2009 Honda Pilot midsize crossover SUV sports more rugged exterior and interior styling along with a more usable third-row seat.

Pros:
  • Comfortable ride, ample cargo capacity, refined powertrain, adult-ready third-row seat, innovative interior storage.
Cons:
  • Poor braking distances, not enough power, fuel economy should be better, button-happy stereo and climate controls.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 198.00
  • door locks - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    Have had numerous problems with the locks on the doors. First it was on the rear cargo door. Had to be fixed 4 times, i had the car for 3 months. Now a year later and the lock on the rear driverside door is loose. when you drive the interior lights flash and a red car lights up on the console. Not safe when you are driving around children. This is my first honda, ive always owned a chevy. not thinking ill buy another one.

  • Good Vehicle - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    I bought my 2009 Pilot in January 2009. I enjoy the vehicle. Road noise could be less. Occasionally I can hear gas swishing in the tank on curvy drives, but not too often. Its very comfortable inside, the ride is standard for a SUV, not car like, but its fine. I live in the city of Boston, so most of my mileage is city driving. Disappointed with the gas mileage. I do about 90% city, I average about 14.5 per tank overall city/hwy. I installed a wood grain dash kit to cover cheap looking plastic dash. The radio buttons a bit busy but you get used to it.The pick up is good, no problems with the power. Overall I am happy with the Vehicle.

  • Good car - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    I have found this car to be very good for a family of 5. There is lots of room for when traveling. It fits both me and my husband I am 5 ft he is 6 ft. seats are comfortable and nice, seems to go well in the snow.

  • Great reliable vehicle but poor gas milege and acc - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    I read some of the bad reviews but I guess I ended up with a good one. So far I have 108k miles and never had any problems. Just regular oil change and Thats it. There was a recall on the front suspension making noise. Just gotta take it in to the dealer to get it fixed for free. Its roomy and its a great family car, has enough space for all your stuff for long road trips. But, lol Yea theres always something. Its a great family vehicle but when u are driving by yourself and u wanna have some fun, nope. The acceleration is horrible esp if your trying to merge on to free way. Handeling is less than sub par. Bottom line: great family vehicle, but very boring car. Gas mileage could improve.

  • So Far So Good - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    I just traded in my 2006 Pilot for the 2009 because I could not find a 2008 SE in my area. That being said, I read all of the reviews and was quite hesitant, but so far I am pleasantly surprised and happy with the vehicle. It is definitely geared more toward its competitors of the Pathfinder and 4Runner in that it drives much more like a truck which will be a disappointment for anyone looking for the new Pilot to be exactly like the old. With that being said, its overall functionality is much more than the previous models in that it is much more spacious, heavy duty and an "all around" family vehicle.

  • 09 Pilot changed for the better - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    Have owned the vehicle for 1 year and have taken several 400-600 mile trips but mostly drive it around town. Averages 18.6 per gallon. 3rd row seat actually usable as opposed to our 08 Pilot. They stretched this wheelbase about 3 inches and it made a difference in 2nd/3rd row legroom (especially 2nd row) and in ride quality. Ride is firm to sporty but definitely not carlike (like Highlander). Auto (5 speed) transmission shifts seemlessly and goes in and out of cylinder deactivation without any noticeable difference in performance. Cabin seems quiet (for a Honda) and the 4wd is awesome in the rain. Massive amount of cargo space with 3rd row seat stowed away. Front seat ergonomics good with leather.

  • So Far So Good - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    Purchased Pilot after looking at a lot of competition. Our last Honda (88 Accord) had 250K miles when we sold it and was still going strong. We have taken this vehicle on several trips, including one to the mountains, and have averaged 20.5 MPG overall in 7700 miles, and have seen 25 MPG on short trips. The wife loves all of the places to store stuff. I wish the tires were quieter, and the RES allowed for the kids to listen to a different radio station than the driver. The hard plastics inside scratch much too easily, and the passenger seat doesnt have enough thigh support. Rear camera should show up on display instead of mirror. Need better cushioning under cargo area carpet.

  • Too many trips to Dealer for small repair - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    From the factory the windshield wiper needed adjusting. It would bang against the frame. Center console power plug comes out. Dealer replaced, new one same problem. Internal linkage in air box prevented recirc from working. Had to replace air box. DS Door lock actuator buzzing. Remote key fobs not working. Dealer said it is a design problem and no solution at this time. Drive train good, driven 30k in first year without a problem. MPG as expected 21 on highway.

  • Very uncomfortable seats - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    Im 6ft 4in, with a 34 inch waist -- not that big, but I find the drivers seat very uncomfortable. Its too small and the outside ridges are too hard. Ive driven older Honda Pilots and liked them, which is one reason we bought a new one. Dont know what they changed, but it was not for the better. My wife has no problem, but if youre my size, or larger, beware.

  • I like it - 2009 Honda Pilot
    By -

    Purchased in Jan 09 after much looking and reading. I read so many complaints about the styling that I almost did not buy it. I traded a Landcruiser because I was looking for something with better gas mileage, and economy. I love my Pilot. Once you are in the car, you forget about the boxy style. I am getting twice the gas mileage as in my previous car. It is a safe, fun , reliable car to drive. I bought the 4wd for traveling off road later. I plan to keep my Pilot for many years. Service has been very good.

Honda Pilot Reviews By Year:
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