Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Some of the most common issues with the 2020 Honda Passport include electrical system malfunctions, brake problems, and transmission issues.
To date, the 2020 Honda Passport has been recalled eight times for various defects, including issues related to the fuel pump, rearview camera display, and other structural problems.
One significant recall involves the fuel system, specifically the fuel pump. On December 17, 2023, Honda announced recall number 23V-858, affecting a wide range of models, including certain Honda Passport vehicles.
The recall was initiated due to the potential failure of the fuel pump inside the fuel tank.
Continue reading to learn more about the safety concerns affecting drivers of the 2020 Honda Passport.
Common 2020 Honda Passport Problems
- Transmission: Rough shifting; transmission slipping; grinding noise when shifting from 7th to 8th gear
- Electrical System: Instrument cluster failure; Infotainment system errors
- Braking System: Decreased braking power; strange braking noises; ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning light
2020 Honda Passport Transmission Problems
The 2020 Honda Passport has been the subject of numerous complaints, particularly regarding its transmission.
One of the most common problems reported is transmission slipping and rough shifting, which can affect the overall driving experience.
Some Honda drivers have noted delayed or erratic shifting, which may cause sudden accelerations or decelerations, posing serious safety risks on the road.
Other concerns include grinding or jumping sensations during acceleration, which could indicate deeper mechanical problems.
In some cases, owners have also reported hearing whistling noises or detecting a burning smell coming from under the hood, both of which suggest transmission-related issues.
These problems are frequently associated with the ZF 9-speed automatic transmission, a component used in the 2020 Passport that has garnered a significant number of complaints.
The ZF transmission has even been the focus of a class-action lawsuit due to its recurring issues.
2020 Honda Passport Electrical System Problems
One of the more common electrical system issues in the 2020 Honda Passport is an engine idle stop malfunction, where the engine may fail to restart after stopping at traffic lights or during heavy traffic, leaving drivers stranded unexpectedly.
Sudden battery failures without any warning have also been reported, causing the vehicle to shut down while on the road. These electrical issues can be alarming, especially when the vehicle loses power in traffic.
Another problem that owners have encountered is dashboard errors. These errors often involve multiple warning messages appearing on the dashboard, but without clear indications of the actual problem.
This can leave drivers confused about the severity of the issue and unsure of the necessary steps to resolve it.
In response to these concerns, Honda has issued recalls to address some of the electrical system problems affecting the Passport and similar models.
One recall identified by NHTSA Recall No. 23V-431 was issued on June 14, 2023. This recall involves a defective Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) communication coaxial cable connector that can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.
Another recall, NHTSA Recall No. 20V-440, was issued on July 27, 2020, and pertains to incorrect central network software programming in certain Passport vehicles.
This issue can cause errors that delay or prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, again violating FMVSS No. 111.
A separate NHTSA recall under campaign number 20V-439 wasalso issued on July 27, 2020. This recall involves incorrect instrument panel control module software in specific Passport vehicles.
This defect can result in the instrument panel failing to display critical information like engine oil pressure, speedometer readings, and gear selector position.
2020 Honda Passport Brake System Problems
The 2020 Honda Passport may be prone to unexpected braking, where the vehicle may brake heavily and without warning.
This issue is often attributed to defects within the Honda Sensing system, which relies on radar and camera inputs to help maintain safe driving conditions.
Passport drivers have also reported hearing squeaking or grinding noises when braking. These sounds can indicate potential problems with the brake pads or rotors, suggesting that maintenance may be required to ensure safe operation.
These strange sounds can also be accompanied by a noticeable decrease in braking power, which some owners have reported as a troubling reduction in braking effectiveness.
This can compromise the vehicle’s ability to stop promptly, posing risks to both drivers and passengers.
Complaints from Passport Drivers
“Having just purchased a Honda Passport I have had nothing but problems with the infotainment system. The screen goes completely blank and the driver display goes completely black so you have no idea what is going on. It happens with no warnings. Sometimes the unit will reset itself and then go black again. This is not an item the dealer can fix. An Engineer from Honda has to come to the dealership and remove the entire dash. Getting an engineer to the dealership takes months. I have been a big Honda fan but no more. I would not recommend this vechical or any other Honda. There is a class action suit. Google honda infotainment problems.”
“From the time I picked up my new Passport, it has had repetitive problems ranging from constant vehicle instability warnings, a driver’s side window that gets stuck open (in Minnesota in the winter), defective front windshield (internally chipped under the mirror encasement) that spidered throughout, auto-start that does not reliably work, a defective seatbelt that damaged the footwell, a defective infotainment center (see class action lawsuit against Honda). The undercarriage began to rust just months after purchase (I have just over 6000 miles on it and rust continues to progress). When one attempts to shift from park or reverse into drive, it often takes two or three presses of the drive button before the car will move forward. We have been a honda family for almost three decades but this will be our last.”
“I bought a 2020 passport Elite and I had to get rid of it. The lane sensing is too sensitive and vibrates the steering wheel way too much. Also, the vehicle won’t stay planted on the road and sways all over the place. It makes long drives a chore. I got the alignment looked at twice by two different honda dealerships and they couldn’t find the problem. Also, gas mileage is horrible. Beware if you’re looking at a passport.”
Steps to Take with a Defective Vehicle
If you find that your 2020 Honda Passport consistently fails to meet quality and performance standards while still under warranty, you may have legal options available through the lemon law.
The lemon law typically states that a vehicle is a lemon if it has been subject to a reasonable number of repair attempts to fix the recurring issues that substantially affect its safety, use, or value. Be mindful that most states have their own lemon law, which may differ.
Should your vehicle qualify as a lemon, you may be entitled to remedies such as a refund, a replacement vehicle, or cash compensation, depending on the specific lemon law applicable in your state.
If you opt for a refund or replacement, keep in mind that the manufacturer may deduct a usage fee for the time the vehicle operated without issues.
In the case of a replacement vehicle, you could be responsible for any price differences that arise between the original and new vehicle.
Ultimately, if you suspect your 2020 Honda Passport may be a lemon, consider consulting with a legal expert who specializes in lemon law to discuss your options and ensure your rights are protected.
Get Expert Help from Lemon Law Experts Today!
If you own a defective Honda Passport, the Lemon Law Experts provide unparalleled expertise in handling lemon law claims.
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Time is critical in lemon law cases. If you suspect your Honda Passport may qualify as a lemon, the Lemon Law Experts are dedicated to resolving your vehicle issues promptly and ensuring your safety on the road.
To receive a free, no-obligation consultation, contact us at (877) 885-5366 or fill out our online form today.
