NHTSA Complaint #11718093 — 2016 HONDA PILOT

Component or system that failed: The engine failed suddenly while driving. The suspected failure is an internal connecting-rod bearing or related bottom-end engine component. The vehicle is currently at a repair facility and the engine is available for inspection upon request. How safety was put at risk: The engine lost power suddenly and became inoperable while driving. This created a hazardous situation because the vehicle could no longer maintain speed or safely continue in traffic. Sudden engine failure without warning increases the risk of a crash, especially at highway speeds or in heavy traffic. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent shop: An independent repair shop inspected the vehicle and confirmed that the engine has experienced a catastrophic internal failure and will not rotate. The timing belt was confirmed to be intact. The shop advised that the engine requires replacement. A dealer diagnostic is pending or in progress. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance, or others: The vehicle has been inspected by an independent repair facility. It has also been presented to a Honda dealership for diagnostic evaluation. The manufacturer has not yet physically inspected the vehicle. Warning lamps, messages, or prior symptoms: Prior to the failure, the engine developed a knocking noise between approximately 3,000 and 4,000 RPM. The vehicle was driven approximately 80 miles after the noise first appeared. No check-engine light or other warning messages appeared before the engine suddenly failed and the vehicle became inoperable.