The 2006 Pilot lasts around 250,000 miles with no serious mechanical problems. At $4,768 to $7,178, it’s a good value for a dependable SUV with room for the whole family.
Is the 2006 Honda Pilot a Good Used SUV?
- Yes, 2006 is a good year for the Pilot. Owner reviews praise the dependable engines, passenger space, and car-like driving experience.
- Interior quality is good for the price, but the entry-level models have a lot of plastic trim.
- Reliability ratings are great. Models from 2006 through 2008 are good choices, with more engine problems in 2009.
- Performance is average for a midsize SUV from the standard V6 engine.
- The Pilot is a very safe SUV, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is okay, at up to 18 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Pilot?
- Consumer Reports says the Pilot offers a comfortable ride in a versatile package with above average owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Pilot a 4.7/5 liking the roomy interior, but disliking the low towing capacity.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the 2006 Pilot a 4.7/5 and enjoy the high-quality interior, but dislike the poor off-road performance.
What Common Problems Does the 2006 Honda Pilot Have?
Common problems with the 2006 Honda Pilot include broken window regulators, misfiring in the engine, and clear coat failure.
Broken window regulators are the most common complaint from owners at around 75,000 miles. The regulator assembly in the door breaks, and the only solution is to replace it for about $350.
Misfiring engines are another issue that shows up at around 120,000 miles. The problem is most often caused by worn-out spark plugs. A new set of spark plugs costs roughly $400 to install.
Clear coat paint issues are mentioned by owners at around 100,000 miles. Paint that’s improperly cared for and left in the sun will start to break down over time. The only way to fix the problem is by repainting the affected areas at a cost of around $1,000 per panel.
There are 10 recalls, with the most serious being for the accelerator pedal binding, which increases the risk of an accident.
How Long Will the 2006 Honda Pilot Last?
A property maintained 2006 Honda Pilot should last around 250,000 miles, similar to other midsize rivals like the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are average compared to other SUVs, at $400 per year, according to Repair Pal.
Most 2006 Pilots will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace items including the throttle body for $500, the radiator costing $900, and the A/C expansion valve which costs $300.
It is very reliable- takes me to and from places I need to go, and rides well on the highway. No problems.
It is very reliable. Always starts up even in cold weather. There are no significant problems. Had some minor work done, muffler and power steering wheel line.
Yes it's reliable & no I've had it for one year & no problems as of yet. Very affordable & durable highly recommended!!
It is a very reliable family car with child proof doors and tinted windows to block sun from baby's eyes.
My car is definitely reliable. I have had my car for almost 4 years now and never really anything that has been too costly.
Power steering pump is starting to fail. The air conditioner rattles a little. We have been very satisfied with this vehicle. Gas is a little expensive on it.
My vesicle has been very reliable with getting places safely. I have not had any issues with my car.
So far it’s been reliable. The only problems I've had are typical maintenance that is to be expected with a car that old and that has that many miles. Brakes. Tires. Radiator.
How Much Is the 2006 Honda Pilot Worth?
Blue book values range from $4,768 to $7,178, making the Pilot a bit more expensive than a Jeep Grand Cherokee or Nissan Pathfinder. When new, the price range was $26,995 to $33,045. Depreciation is similar to rivals, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Pilot?
There are three models of the Pilot available. Technology was just updated for the 2006 model year, with a full redesign coming in 2009.
LX is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry
- Power Windows & Locks
- AM/FM/CD Stereo With 4 Speakers
EX is a step up, adding:
- Unique 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Improved Front Suspension
- Power Driver’s Seat
- HomeLink Garage Door Opener
- AM/FM/CD Stereo With Satellite Radio and 7 Speakers
EX-L is the flagship model and has:
- Leather Seating
- Sunroof
- Heated Front Seats
- Touchscreen Navigation System
What Engines Come In the Pilot?
The only engine found in the Honda Pilot is an average 3.5L V6 which makes 244 horsepower and gets up to 18 MPG combined. Performance is average, taking about 8.3 seconds to go 0-60 MPH. The towing capacity is lower than its rivals, at only 4,500 pounds.
What Colors Does the Pilot Come In?
How Big Is the Pilot?
The 2006 Honda Pilot is an average midsize SUV similar in size to the GMC Envoy and Hyundai Santa Fe. Passenger room is good in the first two rows. The third row has limited legroom, and is best suited to younger children.
Cargo space is average for a midsize SUV, with 15.9 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 47.6 behind the second, and up to 87.6 cubic feet with all rows folded flat.
How Does the Pilot Compare to the Competition?
The Toyota Highlander is a popular competitor costing about $1,500 more. Interior materials are nicer in the Highlander, but the 4WD system is better in the Pilot. We recommend the Pilot since it’s a bit roomier, but both are great choices and very dependable SUVs.
The Ford Explorer is another competitor costing about $500 more. Passenger room is better in the Explorer, but the Pilot has more up-to-date technology for the era. We recommend the Pilot since it will last a lot longer, and is more affordable to own.
Do Owners Recommend the Honda Pilot?
Yes. It is very dependable. It is got over 200k miles, and I just got back from a 4-hour 300-mile road trip with no problems.
Yes. It is great on gas. Is large enough for the family. Runs well too. I love the heated leather seats.
Yes it is an awesome vehicle, I personally love that it's a family car. So spacious & roomy for my 6 children. I only wish it had a bigger trunk but I personally love Honda.
It is a great and very reliable family car to use daily. So far no problems and smooth riding through and through. Expands with a 3rd row for more passengers.
Absolutely its dependable and it has great gas mileage. I appreciate that when something does go wrong there are a bunch of dash lights that I can look up the meaning and can get it fixed with ease.
Yes, still works well. Only need to replace power steering pump! The overall ride is great! We have 260,000 miles on it!
Yes it is. Great and spacious for my family. Has a lot of storage areas as well. Great for traveling!
I like it. It’s my mommy mobile. It drives smooth. Feels safe. Has room for my two kids and their things plus groceries and other people if need be.