I'm looking at getting a 2nd gen honda pilot. Really want a 2nd gen MDX, but the wife does not like the "look" of the MDX...damn, I really wanted the 3.7 6spd with sport shift.

So, I'm looking for a 2nd gen pilot but not finding much info on MMC and such. Wiki shows 2012 facelift (MMC?) and then also more changes to the interior electronics, so sounds like 2013+ is the one to shoot for?

When did the 2nd gen Pilot get VCM? Was it available from launch in 2009?

Thanks for the advice!

 

Anyone?

 

I would recommend taking a look at the on-line Consumer Reports for the Honda Pilot to identify which year models have better service/maintenance records than other years. I used this to pick out my 2006 Honda Pilot (used) to ensure that I stayed away from years that tended to have a higher amount of problems than other years. Consumer Reports shows all that information.

Best SUV Reviews ? Consumer Reports

I got a one-year online subscription for about $35. I think you can also get a one-month subscription for around $7. Well worth the investment as it worked out great for me - my Pilot runs perfect!

I wish you all the best in your choice!

 

I would encourage you (or wifey lol) to reconsider the MDX. I see a fair amount of issues with the second gens over the first. Too soon to say on the third but frankly I'm unimpressed with what I've seen thus far. We see a lot of oil consumption issues with the sencond gen due to the combination of poor piston rings and VCM. Compliance (lower control arm) bushings and front struts are pretty common issues on many of these as well as the occasional leaky power steering rack ($$$). Most of the problems aside from these are due to neglect of maintenance/abuse.

From what I understand from a good friend at an Acura dealer the MDXs don't have nearly the issues we're seeing from the Pilots but some of that may also be due to the fact that the average new Acura buyer tends to maintain their vehicle better than the average new Honda buyer. Lack of VCM also plays a huge role in the oil consumption of the MDX.