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When it comes to Honda SUVs, the Passport is a spacious and reliable option. However, like all sport utility vehicles, it is not immune to problems. These are some of the most common Honda Passport problems reported by real owners, and a way to look up the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm any recalls have been addressed.

Some of the most common Honda Passport problems

RepairPal has some of the most common Honda Passport problems reported by owners. With the most complaints, 33 people have reported an issue with failed o-rings causing the accumulator cover to leak on Passports with automatic transmissions. To fix the problem, drivers can replace the O-rings. Six model years were impacted, mostly between 1994 and 2002.

One of the other most common Honda Passport problems is a check engine light due to a problem with the fuel level sensor. Some users note that the fuel sensor failing might cause “erratic fuel gauge operation” in addition to the check engine light. One suggestion for fixing the issue is a powertrain control module (PCM) software update to get the fuel level sensor to read correctly.

Only owners of three models years logged this issue from 1998 through 2001. The average mileage for this to pop up was between 70,000 and 221,000.

Is the Honda Passport a reliable SUV?

The Honda Passport is a reliable SUV with average problems logged on RepairPal. Both the 1994 and 1996 Honda Passport have a few issues, many of which can be attributed to age. Owners of the 1996 Passport noticed that varnish buildup could cause the hydraulic lash adjusters to stick. This causes a ticking noise in the engine, one of the most common Honda Passport problems. The noise might stop if you can locate the hydraulic lifter to clean it.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has some recalls for the second-generation Passport, which ran from 1997 to 2002. Some of the most common Honda Passport problems relate to the powertrain, structure, suspension, and engine. The NHTSA complaints related to suspension vary. One driver notes the sport utility vehicle began to sway on the highway due to a rusted suspension piece. Others indicated that rust and corrosion were present on the frame.

In 2010, Honda issued a recall for the rear suspension and lower link brackets. NHTSA Campaign Number 10V436000 notes that excessive corrosion may occur and can potentially cause a crash. While this recall may have expired, it appears the issue is ongoing.

Check the NHTSA website for more detailed information

The most common Honda Passport problems for this SUV
A 2019 Honda Passport | Honda

The NHTSA has listings for each year of the Honda Passport. While these are some of the most common Honda Passport problems, searching for a specific year will give you more accurate information. Owners complain of the service brakes failing, which was addressed with a recall back in 2002. NHTSA Campaign Number 02I002001 recalled various Honda and Isuzu SUVs for issues with the anti-lock braking system.

Enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website for information about the specific Honda Passport. Since there was a bit of a break between the second-generation and third-generation Passports, the problems vary greatly. These are some of the most common Honda Passport problems across all generations, as reported by owners.

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