I had a 2004 EXL a w/AWD a that I bought new and ended up trading it in for a new 2011. She had a 170,000 mile on and and never any major problems, that's why I bought another one.

 

How are the transmissions on these pilots and the newer models? What concerns me is the transmissions crapping out which seems to be semi-common based on a google search.. I'm going to be looking at some kind of SUV in the next year or two and honda's problems with their auto trannies concerns me. I'm not sure if something like a pathfinder would be a better option, even though it doesn't drive as nicely as a Pilot..?

Anyone have other recommendations on a used SUV w/ 3rd row seating? I'd like to stay under $20k.

 

Drain and fill the transmission with the Honda's new synthetic ATF fluid three times to get it fully switched to their new formula. Then drain and fill every other oil change and wipe down the magnetic plug.

My first Accord V6 transmission went only 60,000 miles (even with the oil jet TSB) before dying on the recommended fluid change interval. I switched to the above interval on the replacement transmission and have since put 190,000 miles on the replacement without any issues.

I believe on the Pilot, you can also add an external ATF cooler. The Accord V6 doesn't have that option.