NHTSA Complaint #11619121 — 2017 HONDA PILOT

1. While driving on the highway at approximately 70 MPH, the engine’s crankshaft and connecting rod bearings suffered premature wear, leading to a catastrophic engine seizure. The engine failed while the vehicle was in motion, leaving us in a highly dangerous situation. The odometer reading at failure was 60,764 miles. 2. This mechanical failure put my children’s lives and mine at significant risk. When the engine seized, the vehicle rapidly decelerated without warning, which could have easily resulted in a high-speed collision and potentially fatal consequences. By sheer luck, I was able to navigate across lanes of traffic and pull the car onto the shoulder without incident, narrowly avoiding a serious accident. 3. I authorized a full engine tear-down to pursue goodwill assistance from Honda of America, but despite the clear mechanical failure, my request was ultimately denied. The root cause of the failure was the shredding of the connecting rod and related rod bearing, which led directly to the engine seizing. Despite this, the vehicle is not covered under safety recall report 23V-751, and Honda of America has refused to offer any goodwill assistance. 4. The vehicle was inspected and diagnosed by a certified Honda dealership, further confirming the severity of the issue. 5. There were no warnings, error messages, or any indication of mechanical problems prior to the engine seizing, leaving no opportunity to take preventive action before the failure occurred. This version highlights the severity of the mechanical failure, the danger to your family, and the steps you have taken to seek assistance, providing a stronger basis for requesting recourse.