2004 Honda Pilot EX review from North America

The door seals rub and make noise. This is a design flaw experienced by many other Pilot owners.

A collapsed brake line caused the rotors to warp and the brake master cylinder to fail at about 78000 miles.

There is a clunking noise coming from the underside of the front when I go over small bumps. I have had some bushings replaced, but it is still there. The dealer cannot find anything (or just doesn't look hard enough), but this sound reminds me of suspension noises an older Ford Explorer makes - not a $35000 Honda.

The driver's seat rocks slightly due to a cracked seat frame (my fault according to the dealer).

This car feels very substantial on the road. The ride is velvety smooth, and the handling is very good for something this tankish. The steering feel is good, but a little heavy; turning the steering wheel requires two hands or really strong fingers.

Outward visibility is outstanding with very few blind spots (be careful backing up, though). Wet handling with the standard Goodyear Integrity tires is scary - be super careful, as the Pilot will plow straight ahead at anything above 35 mph.

I get about 19 mpg in mixed driving with A/C off.

The front seats are very comfortable if you're as tall as I am (6'3") ; the seats have excellent leg support compared to almost anything I've driven except for Mercedes-Benzes.

Even with the smooth ride, high levels of suspension noise, plus squeaky door seals are distracting. Engine noise is not bad, however.

Console storage space is virtually endless, although I am always losing papers and change with the sliding door.

Getting into the Pilot is relatively easy, but the doors, like in all Hondas, will fall on your legs on the slightest incline. If you wear pants that are any color other than dirt brown, don't get the running boards.

The climate control system is excellent, but Honda A/C compressors make a cheap sounding whistling noise that can be heard outside the car.

The gauges are evenly lit at night in a nice expensive looking green (Think early 1990s high end audio equipment). Too bad the premium stereo, even with a "subwoofer" is only so-so.

Overall interior lighting is great, but the visor lights are kind of useless.