The 2016 Honda Passport was Honda's mid-size SUV built on a truck frame, designed to compete with the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco

The 2016 Honda Passport is a body-on-frame SUV that Honda positioned as a more rugged alternative to its unibody CR-V. It came with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 242 horsepower, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The Passport was available in two-wheel drive or real-time all-wheel drive, with a two-speed transfer case on 4WD models that let you shift between high and low range.

This generation Passport (2016 was its final year before Honda discontinued it) shared its platform with the Ridgeline pickup truck, which meant it had a ladder frame, solid rear axle, and genuine off-road capability. It came in two trim levels: EX and EX-L, with the EX-L adding leather, a power moonroof, and upgraded audio. The vehicle sat higher than a CR-V and had more ground clearance, making it genuinely useful for rough terrain rather than just looking the part.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Passport uses a 3.5L V6 with 242 horsepower and a five-speed automatic, delivering adequate power for towing and off-road work but not exceptional fuel economy.
  • Real-time all-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case on 4WD models gives you low-range capability for serious terrain, unlike many modern crossovers.
  • The body-on-frame design means a stiffer ride on pavement than unibody SUVs, but better durability for towing and rough use.
  • Common wear items include transmission fluid, spark plugs, and suspension components, which age faster on vehicles used for off-road driving.

Engine and transmission durability

The 3.5L V6 in the 2016 Passport is the same engine Honda used in the Ridgeline and Odyssey, so it has a proven track record. It runs on regular unleaded fuel and produces reasonable power without requiring premium. The engine is known for longevity when maintained on schedule, though it does not have the fuel economy of smaller turbocharged engines—expect 18 to 21 mpg depending on driving conditions and whether you have all-wheel drive.

The five-speed automatic transmission is also shared across Honda's truck and SUV lineup. It is not a modern eight or ten-speed unit, so it works harder at highway speeds and burns more fuel than newer designs. The transmission itself is reliable, but it does generate heat, especially when towing or driving in stop-and-go traffic. Keeping the transmission fluid clean and at the correct level is essential; Honda recommends checking it every month and changing it according to the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual, which typically calls for changes every 30,000 to 60,000 miles depending on driving conditions.

All-wheel drive and transfer case maintenance

The 2016 Passport's real-time all-wheel drive system automatically sends power to the rear wheels when the front wheels slip, without you having to shift anything. This is convenient on slippery pavement, but it means the system is always working and generating heat. The two-speed transfer case on 4WD models lets you manually shift into low range for serious climbing or descending, which multiplies your engine torque and gives you finer control.

Transfer case fluid should be checked and changed on schedule—typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles if you use low range regularly, or every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for highway driving only. If you hear grinding or whining from the transfer case, or if shifting into low range becomes difficult, the fluid is likely degraded. The all-wheel drive system itself requires no routine maintenance beyond keeping the differential fluid clean, but if you notice vibration or hear clicking when turning, have the differentials inspected; worn bearings or gears are expensive to repair.

Suspension and frame considerations

The Passport uses a double-wishbone front suspension and a solid rear axle with coil springs, a setup that is durable but rides firmer than the independent rear suspension in a CR-V. The solid axle is an advantage off-road because it does not flex and break as easily, but it means bumps transmit more directly to the cabin. Shock absorbers typically last 50,000 to 80,000 miles; if the ride becomes bouncy or you notice the vehicle leaning heavily in corners, the shocks are likely worn.

The frame itself is steel and prone to rust if not protected, especially in climates with road salt or high humidity. Inspect the underside annually for surface rust or corrosion, particularly around the frame rails and suspension attachment points. If rust is caught early, it can be cleaned and sealed; if left to spread, it weakens the frame and becomes a safety issue. The body panels are also steel, not aluminium, so they rust too—keep the undercarriage clean and address any chips in the paint promptly.

Towing capacity and payload

The 2016 Passport is rated to tow 3,500 pounds with the proper hitch and brake controller installed. This is modest compared to a pickup truck but adequate for a small trailer, jet ski, or utility trailer. Towing puts sustained load on the transmission, engine cooling system, and rear differential, so if you plan to tow regularly, budget for more frequent fluid changes and monitor coolant temperature closely.

Payload capacity—the weight you can carry in the cargo area—is around 1,000 pounds depending on trim and options. Exceeding payload capacity stresses the rear suspension and can cause the vehicle to sit nose-up, which affects headlight aim and handling. If you regularly carry heavy loads, consider upgrading to load-rated springs or air suspension, though this is an aftermarket modification and voids some warranty coverage.

Common maintenance and repair costs

Routine maintenance for the 2016 Passport follows Honda's standard schedule: oil changes every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, air filter replacement every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, and cabin air filter every 15,000 miles. Spark plugs are due at 105,000 miles, which is longer than older Hondas but still a significant job because the V6 has plugs in awkward locations. Coolant flushes are recommended every 30,000 miles or as needed.

Brake pads typically last 40,000 to 60,000 miles depending on driving style and terrain. Off-road driving wears them faster because you use engine braking less and rely on the friction brakes more. Rotors often need replacement when pads do, especially if you tow or drive in mountains. Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles and replaced when tread reaches 4/32 of an inch; all-terrain tires, popular on Passports used off-road, wear faster than highway tires and may need replacement every 30,000 to 40,000 miles.

Off-road use and its impact on longevity

The Passport was built for off-road use, but that use accelerates wear on components that highway driving does not stress as heavily. Suspension bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends wear faster when you drive over rocks and ruts. Skid plates protect the undercarriage, but they can trap mud and moisture, which accelerates rust. If you use your Passport off-road, rinse the undercarriage regularly and inspect suspension components every 10,000 to 15,000 miles rather than waiting for the standard service interval.

Differential fluid gets contaminated faster off-road because dust and moisture enter through the breather. If you ford water or drive through deep mud, change the differential fluid when ready afterward; water in the differential causes corrosion and bearing failure. Engine air intake can also draw in dust and water if you drive in dusty or wet conditions, so check the air filter more often and consider upgrading to a snorkel intake if you regularly cross water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace the transmission fluid in a 2016 Passport?

A transmission fluid change typically costs between $150 and $300 at a Honda dealership, depending on your location and whether the service includes a filter replacement. Independent shops may charge less. If the transmission is overheating or showing signs of wear, a full flush (which uses more fluid) may cost $300 to $500.

Can I use the 2016 Passport for serious rock crawling?

The Passport is capable of moderate off-road use—forest roads, light trails, and shallow water crossings—but it is not designed for extreme rock crawling. The solid rear axle and transfer case are durable, but the frame and body panels are not reinforced like a Jeep Wrangler. Serious rock crawling requires aftermarket armor and suspension upgrades.

What is the difference between the EX and EX-L trim?

The EX-L adds leather seats, a power moonroof, a premium audio system, and heated front seats. Both trims have the same engine, transmission, and all-wheel drive system. The EX-L costs more upfront but may hold value better if you plan to resell.

Is the 2016 Passport reliable for daily driving?

Yes, the Passport is reliable for daily driving when maintained on schedule. The V6 engine and transmission are proven designs. The main trade-off is fuel economy and a firmer ride compared to a CR-V, and the body-on-frame design means more road noise at highway speeds.

How often should I change the transfer case fluid?

Honda recommends every 30,000 to 60,000 miles if you use low range regularly, or every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for highway-only driving. If you tow or drive in extreme conditions, change it more often. Check your owner's manual for the specific interval for your vehicle's use pattern.