Hello I am a single mom with 3 kids that are outgrowing my vehicle so my question is I am looking at this Honda that is
2013 Honda Pilot EX-L w/DVD
117,000 milage for $17,295
3.5L V6 engine
What do you think about this year engine type etc. Thank you
I would avoid that model year. Of that generation of the Honda Pilot (model years 2009-2015), 2013 had the 2nd most complaints. Some of them had engine hesitating during acceleration (it was not considered a widespread issue, however it was reported primarily amongst 2012-2013 Pilot owners). Realize also the Pilot for that generation came with only one engine 3.5L V6 that came with cylinder deactivation (or what Honda calls VCM). At that mileage (117,000) if the previous owner (or owners) did not disable the VCM (only available via aftermarket) or change the engine oil religiously (if VCM is not disabled, it needs clean oil to operate properly) then I would be weary of purchasing. Cylinder deactivation if not disabled can potentially wear out/even damage engine over time and some earliest years had oil consumption issues because of it; hopefully that vehicle has a detailed service history especially with engine oil and transmission fluid all changed on time. Personally, I avoid any vehicles that have cylinder deactivation systems, especially if keeping a long time. Also, certain 2013 Pilots had a recall for premature piston wear and Honda would replace the entire short block. Not sure if that vehicle VIN was impacted. Overall, the 2014 and 2015 years seem to have the least issues and probably worth looking at those. See links below to shed more light on my comments above:
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Pilot/
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Pilot/2013/
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Pilot/2013/recalls/
https://www.carparts.com/blog/honda-pilot-reliability-and-common-problems/amp/
https://blog.1aauto.com/common-2nd-gen-honda-pilot-problems/
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HUOBKPqg1hY&feature=youtu.be
They're well made, but as with any used car, you always want to have a mechanic check it out before you buy it.
The price also seems quite high due to the current market conditions. Try to pay less if possible.
Another thing worth noting is you may want to avoid the 4 wheel drive unless you feel you need it. More moving parts that wear, worse gas mileage, etc.
What are all your options in your area?
Minus the VCM system (which can be easily disabled with a VCMuzzler) these are great SUVs.
