What a 2022 Honda Passport is and why the model year matters

The 2022 Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV built on the same platform as the Honda Ridgeline pickup truck. It seats five, has a body-on-frame design (meaning the metal frame is separate from the body), and comes standard with all-wheel drive. The 2022 model year is recent enough that most examples still carry manufacturer warranty coverage, but old enough that used prices have dropped significantly from new.

The 2022 model year is the third generation of the Passport, which Honda reintroduced in 2019 after a 17-year gap. This means the design and engine are relatively new, but the model has been tested in the market long enough that common problems are documented. If you are shopping for a used 2022, you are looking at a vehicle that is roughly two to three years old, depending on when it was sold.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2022 Passport comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, all-wheel drive standard, and either a six-speed or nine-speed automatic transmission depending on trim level.
  • Used 2022 Passports typically sell for $35,000 to $50,000 depending on mileage, condition, and trim, though prices vary by region and market conditions.
  • Before buying, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, check the service history for regular oil changes and transmission fluid service, and verify the title is clean.
  • Common issues reported on 2022 Passports include transmission hesitation, panoramic sunroof leaks, and infotainment system glitches, though these are not universal.
  • Certified pre-owned Passports from Honda dealers come with extended warranty coverage, while private sales offer lower prices but no dealer protection.

Engine, transmission, and drivetrain specifications

Every 2022 Passport uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with either a six-speed automatic transmission (on base and Sport trims) or a nine-speed automatic transmission (on EX and Touring trims). All models come with all-wheel drive as standard; there is no front-wheel-drive option.

The nine-speed transmission is generally preferred by owners because it offers better fuel economy and smoother acceleration, but it is also more complex and more expensive to repair if problems develop. The six-speed is simpler and less costly to service, though fuel economy is slightly lower. Both transmissions have been reliable in the 2022 model year, though some owners report occasional hesitation or delayed shifts during acceleration—this is usually addressed by a transmission fluid service or software update from a Honda dealer.

The all-wheel-drive system is full-time, meaning it is always engaged. There is no two-wheel-drive mode. The system includes a multi-mode differential that can lock for off-road use, which is one reason the Passport appeals to owners who plan to drive on unpaved roads or trails.

Trim levels and what each one includes

The 2022 Passport comes in four trim levels: Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring. The Sport is the base model and includes the six-speed transmission, 18-inch wheels, cloth seats, a 5-inch touchscreen, and a backup camera. The EX adds the nine-speed transmission, a larger 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a power moonroof.

The EX-L includes leather seats, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a panoramic sunroof. The Touring adds a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a premium audio system, a surround-view camera, adaptive suspension, and additional safety features. When shopping used, the EX-L and Touring models command higher prices, but the nine-speed transmission on EX and above is worth considering if fuel economy matters to you.

All trims include Honda Sensing, which is Honda's suite of driver-information features: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. These features are standard across all 2022 Passports and are valuable for safety and resale value.

Where to find used 2022 Passports and how prices compare

Used 2022 Passports are sold through Honda dealerships (as certified pre-owned vehicles), independent used-car dealers, and private sellers. Certified pre-owned Passports from Honda dealers typically cost $40,000 to $50,000 depending on mileage and trim, and they come with a warranty that extends Honda's original coverage. Private sales usually range from $35,000 to $45,000, and prices are lower because there is no dealer warranty.

Online marketplaces like Autotrader, Cars.com, and Facebook Marketplace list both dealer and private inventory. Local Craigslist and OfferUp listings are common in many regions. Prices vary significantly by region—used Passports tend to cost more in areas with outdoor recreation (Colorado, Utah, Pacific Northwest) and less in urban areas where SUVs are less in demand.

Mileage is the strongest price driver. A 2022 Passport with 20,000 miles will cost $5,000 to $10,000 more than one with 50,000 miles, all else equal. Color, accident history, and service records also affect price. Black and silver Passports typically sell faster and for slightly more than less common colors.

What to inspect before you buy

Before committing to a purchase, hire an independent mechanic to perform a pre-purchase inspection. This typically costs $100 to $200 and is worth every dollar. The mechanic should check the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, cooling system, and all fluid levels. They should also scan the vehicle's computer for any stored or pending fault codes, which can reveal problems that are not yet visible.

Request the complete service history from the seller. Look for regular oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, which is critical for engine longevity. If the vehicle has the nine-speed transmission, check that transmission fluid service was performed at the recommended intervals—Honda recommends this every 60,000 miles or as needed. A vehicle with spotty service records is a red flag, even if it looks clean on the outside.

Check the title to confirm it is clean (no salvage, flood, or lemon-law designation). Run a vehicle history report through Carfax or AutoCheck to verify the mileage is consistent, there are no hidden accidents, and the title status is legitimate. A report costs $20 to $30 and can save you from buying a vehicle with hidden damage.

Test drive the vehicle on both highway and local roads. Listen for transmission hesitation or rough shifts, unusual engine noise, and suspension clunks. Check that all windows, locks, and infotainment features work. If the vehicle has a panoramic sunroof, look for water stains on the headliner or carpet, which indicate a leak.

Known issues and common repairs on 2022 Passports

The 2022 Passport is generally reliable, but a few issues have been reported by owners. Transmission hesitation or delayed shifts are the most common complaint, usually occurring during acceleration from a stop. This is often resolved by a transmission fluid service or a software update from a Honda dealer, and it is not typically a sign of transmission failure.

Panoramic sunroof leaks have been reported on some EX-L and Touring models. Water can enter the headliner and drip onto the rear seats or carpet. This is usually covered under warranty if the vehicle is still within the manufacturer's coverage period, but if you are buying a used model outside warranty, repair can cost $500 to $1,500 depending on where the leak originates.

Infotainment system glitches, including touchscreen freezing or Apple CarPlay disconnecting, have been reported on some units. These are usually fixed by a software update at a Honda dealer. A few owners have reported premature brake wear, though this is not widespread and may be related to driving habits rather than a design flaw.

The all-wheel-drive system and engine have not shown widespread problems in the 2022 model year. Rust is not typically an issue on vehicles this new, though road salt in winter climates can accelerate corrosion on the undercarriage if the vehicle is not regularly washed.

Certified pre-owned versus private sale: warranty and protection

A certified pre-owned 2022 Passport from a Honda dealer comes with a warranty that typically extends the original manufacturer coverage by an additional three years or 36,000 miles from the date of certification. This means you get peace of mind on major repairs, and the dealer has already inspected the vehicle and addressed any obvious problems. The trade-off is a higher purchase price, usually $5,000 to $10,000 more than a comparable private sale.

A private sale offers a lower price but no warranty protection unless the vehicle is still within the original manufacturer warranty (which depends on the purchase date and mileage). If you buy a private 2022 Passport with 40,000 miles, you may still have some factory warranty remaining, but you should verify this with a Honda dealer before purchase. Once the factory warranty expires, all repairs are your responsibility.

Some private sellers offer a limited warranty or money-back may provide, but this is rare and should be documented in writing. If you choose a private sale, the lower price should reflect the added risk of no warranty coverage. An independent pre-purchase inspection becomes even more important in a private sale because you have no recourse if a major problem appears after purchase.

Financing and insurance considerations

Used 2022 Passports can be financed through banks, credit unions, or dealer financing. Interest rates for used vehicles are typically higher than for new ones, and your rate depends on your credit score, the loan term, and the lender. A 60-month loan at 5% to 8% interest is common for buyers with good credit; rates can be higher for those with lower credit scores.

Insurance costs for a 2022 Passport are moderate for its class. Full coverage (liability, collision, and comprehensive) typically runs $100 to $150 per month depending on your age, driving record, location, and the insurance company. Get quotes from multiple insurers before you buy, because insurance costs can vary significantly and should factor into your total cost of ownership.

Consider the cost of maintenance and repairs when budgeting. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and air filter replacements are inexpensive, but major repairs (transmission, suspension, or engine work) can be costly. Setting aside $100 to $150 per month for maintenance and unexpected repairs is a reasonable estimate for a vehicle this age.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I expect to pay for a used 2022 Passport?

Prices typically range from $35,000 to $50,000 depending on mileage, trim level, and whether it is a private sale or certified pre-owned. A Sport or EX with 40,000 to 50,000 miles usually sells for $38,000 to $43,000. An EX-L or Touring with lower mileage can reach $48,000 to $52,000. Check local listings to see what similar vehicles are selling for in your area.

What is the difference between the six-speed and nine-speed transmission?

The nine-speed (on EX and above) offers better fuel economy and smoother acceleration, while the six-speed (on Sport and base EX) is simpler and cheaper to repair. Both are reliable in the 2022 model year. If you drive mostly highway miles, the nine-speed will save you money on gas. If you drive mostly city miles, the difference is minimal.

Should I buy from a dealer or a private seller?

Dealers offer warranty coverage and have inspected the vehicle, but charge more. Private sellers offer lower prices but no warranty. If the vehicle is still within factory warranty coverage, a private sale can be a good value. If warranty has expired, a certified pre-owned from a dealer provides protection against unexpected repairs.

What should I look for during a test drive?

Listen for transmission hesitation or rough shifts, unusual engine noise, and suspension clunks. Check that all windows, locks, and infotainment features work. If equipped with a panoramic sunroof, look for water stains on the headliner. Test the all-wheel-drive system on different road surfaces if possible.

Is the 2022 Passport reliable?

The 2022 Passport has a solid reliability record. The engine and all-wheel-drive system are proven. The most common issues are transmission hesitation (usually fixed by service or software update) and panoramic sunroof leaks on some models. Have a pre-purchase inspection done to catch any problems before you buy.