What are the most common Honda Passport problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2001 Honda Passport has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Clutch Shudder and 2nd-Gear Failure, Frame Rust and Rear Suspension Mount Corrosion, Timing Belt and Water Pump Neglect Leading to 3.2L V6 Engine Damage. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Honda Passport reliable?
The 2001 Honda Passport has 10 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Clutch Shudder and 2nd-Gear Failure and Frame Rust and Rear Suspension Mount Corrosion and Timing Belt and Water Pump Neglect Leading to 3.2L V6 Engine Damage and Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture and Unsafe Deployment. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Honda Passport problems?
Repair costs for known Honda Passport issues range from $0 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Clutch Shudder and 2nd-Gear Failure, typically costs $1,800-$3,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Clutch Shudder and 2nd-Gear Failure?
The first-generation Passport's 4-speed automatic is widely documented for torque-converter clutch shudder, slipping, harsh shifts, and eventual hard-part failure, especially loss of 2nd gear. Honda issued service information tied to Isuzu-sourced driveline components, and owner… Repairs typically run $1,800-$3,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport Frame Rust and Rear Suspension Mount Corrosion?
In rust-belt states, first-generation Passports are known for severe frame corrosion, especially around rear suspension attachment points, body mounts, and underbody crossmembers. Owners report failed inspections, unstable rear-end behavior, and cases where rust perforation makes… Repairs typically run $500-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport Timing Belt and Water Pump Neglect Leading to 3.2L V6 Engine Damage?
The 3.2L V6 used in the first-generation Passport relies on a timing belt service interval that many used examples miss. When the belt, tensioner, or water pump fails, owners report sudden no-starts, stalling, or catastrophic internal engine damage because the engine is interfere… Repairs typically run $700-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture and Unsafe Deployment?
Early Honda Passport models were included in the large Takata airbag inflator safety campaign affecting many Honda/Isuzu-built vehicles. The defect can cause the front airbag inflator to rupture during deployment, sending metal fragments into the cabin and creating a serious inju… Repairs typically run $0-$300. Severity: high.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport Ignition Switch Failure Causing Intermittent No-Start and Electrical Accessory Loss?
Early-2000s Honda and Honda-badged trucks had recurring ignition-switch electrical contact failures, and Passport owners report intermittent no-starts, stalling, or dash/accessory power dropping out when the key is moved. The problem is often heat-related and may begin as occasio… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: medium.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport ABS Hydraulic Unit / Wheel Speed Sensor Faults Causing ABS Warning Lights and Loss of Anti-Lock Function?
Multiple Passport owners report persistent ABS warning lights, often traced to failed wheel speed sensors, damaged sensor wiring, or faults in the ABS hydraulic control unit. On older rust-belt vehicles, corrosion at connectors and tone ring damage are common contributors. When t… Repairs typically run $150-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport Exhaust Manifold Stud Breakage and Exhaust Leak Tick on 3.2L V6?
The 3.2L V6 used in the first-generation Passport is known to develop exhaust leaks from broken manifold studs or warped manifold sealing surfaces as the vehicle ages. Owners commonly describe a ticking noise on cold start, exhaust smell, and occasional failed emissions testing. Repairs typically run $300-$1,400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2000-2022 Honda Passport Rear Differential Binding and Dual Pump Fluid Chatter on 4WD Models?
Honda/Acura AWD systems are well known for rear differential chatter or binding during low-speed turns when the fluid degrades, and Passport-related owner complaints and service guidance describe groaning, hopping, or a dragging sensation from the rear axle. On first-generation 4… Repairs typically run $120-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport Power Window Regulator and Door Lock Actuator Failures?
Owners of first-generation Passports frequently report slow or failed power windows and intermittent power door locks, especially on high-mileage vehicles. Regulators wear out, plastic guides break, and lock actuators weaken with age, sometimes leaving the window stuck down or a… Repairs typically run $100-$450. Severity: low.
What is the 2000-2002 Honda Passport Valve Cover Gasket and Spark Plug Tube Seal Oil Leaks Causing Misfires?
Aging 3.2L V6 Passports commonly develop oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets and spark plug tube seals. Owners report burnt-oil smell, oil on the cylinder head, and in some cases oil filling the plug wells and causing ignition misfires. This is a typical age-related failure on… Repairs typically run $120-$600. Severity: low.
