The 2000 Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV built on a truck frame with seating for five

The 2000 Honda Passport is a body-on-frame sport utility vehicle that seats five passengers across two rows. It shares its platform with the Isuzu Rodeo, which Honda manufactured and rebadged during this generation. The vehicle measures roughly 185 inches long and 72 inches wide, making it compact enough for city driving but substantial enough to handle cargo and towing.

This model year came standard with a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. Transmission options were a five-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. The Passport came in two trim levels: the base LX and the higher-equipped EX, which added features like leather seats, a power sunroof, and upgraded audio.

The 2000 Passport was Honda's last year before discontinuing the nameplate in North America. If you are considering buying one used, understanding its strengths and weaknesses will help you make an informed decision about whether this particular vehicle meets your needs.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2000 Passport uses a truck frame and V6 engine, giving it genuine off-road capability but also a rougher ride on pavement than car-based SUVs.
  • Common issues include transmission problems in automatic models, rust in the frame and undercarriage, and higher fuel consumption compared to modern vehicles.
  • The manual transmission is generally more reliable than the automatic, though both require regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs.
  • Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds, and the vehicle can handle moderate off-road use, but age-related wear affects most examples on the market today.

Engine performance and fuel economy

The 3.2-liter V6 is a durable engine that responds well to maintenance. It produces adequate power for highway merging and moderate towing, though it is not particularly quick by modern standards. The engine runs on regular unleaded gasoline and does not have significant known defects, though spark plugs and ignition coils should be inspected during any pre-purchase inspection.

Fuel economy for the 2000 Passport ranges from 16 to 18 miles per gallon in mixed driving, depending on transmission type and driving habits. The manual transmission typically achieves slightly better mileage than the automatic. By today's standards this is poor, so budget accordingly if you plan to drive the vehicle regularly. Owners report that highway driving yields better efficiency than city driving, particularly when the vehicle is not towing.

Regular oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles and air filter replacements will keep the engine running smoothly. Coolant flushes should occur every 30,000 miles to prevent corrosion inside the engine block, which can lead to overheating.

Transmission reliability and known issues

The five-speed automatic transmission in the 2000 Passport has a documented history of problems. Owners report harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and complete transmission failure between 80,000 and 150,000 miles. Transmission rebuilds or replacements can cost $2,500 to $4,500, making this a significant financial risk when buying a used example. Before purchasing an automatic model, have a transmission specialist perform a pre-purchase inspection and test drive to check for slipping or abnormal noises.

The five-speed manual transmission is considerably more reliable. It is simpler mechanically and does not have the same failure patterns as the automatic. If you find a manual-transmission Passport in good condition, it is generally the safer choice for longevity. Clutch wear is normal and replacement costs between $800 and $1,200, which is far less than automatic transmission work.

Transmission fluid should be checked regularly in both types. For automatics, fluid changes every 30,000 miles can extend transmission life, though this does not eliminate the risk of failure. Manual transmissions require less frequent attention but should be inspected if you notice grinding or difficulty shifting.

Rust, frame condition, and undercarriage wear

The 2000 Passport is now over 20 years old, and rust is a serious concern in any climate where road salt is used. The frame, suspension components, and undercarriage are particularly vulnerable. Inspect the frame rails underneath the vehicle with a flashlight and probe suspect areas with a screwdriver to check for soft spots or holes. Frame rust that penetrates the metal compromises structural integrity and is expensive or impossible to repair properly.

The body panels and door frames also rust from the inside out, especially around windows and along the bottom edges. Surface rust can be addressed with sanding and paint, but deep rust requires panel replacement. Check the wheel wells, rocker panels, and the area where the doors meet the body for bubbling paint or visible corrosion.

Suspension components including control arms, tie rods, and sway bar links corrode and wear out over time. Listen for clunking sounds when driving over bumps, which indicates worn bushings or ball joints. These repairs are necessary for safety and can add up quickly if multiple components need replacement.

Off-road capability and towing capacity

The Passport's truck-based design gives it genuine off-road ability. The body-on-frame construction, available all-wheel drive, and ground clearance of 8.6 inches make it capable of handling rough terrain, forest roads, and moderate obstacles. The transfer case allows you to shift between two-wheel and four-wheel drive, and low-range gearing provides additional torque for climbing steep grades.

Towing capacity is rated at 5,000 pounds with the proper hitch and brake controller installed. This is sufficient for small trailers, jet skis, or light recreational equipment. The V6 engine has adequate power for this load, though acceleration with a full trailer will be noticeably slower. Always verify that the specific vehicle you are considering has a factory or properly installed towing package, as aftermarket hitches may not be rated for the full capacity.

Off-road use accelerates wear on suspension components, tires, and the undercarriage. If you are considering a Passport that has been used for serious off-roading, budget for suspension inspection and potential repairs. Tires should be checked for uneven wear, which indicates alignment or suspension problems.

Interior comfort and technology features

The 2000 Passport interior reflects early 2000s design. Cloth seats are standard on the LX trim, while the EX offers leather upholstery. The cabin is functional but not luxurious by modern standards. Storage cubbies and cup holders are limited, and the dashboard layout is straightforward without the integrated technology found in newer vehicles.

The audio system varies by trim level. Base models have a straightforward AM/FM radio, while EX models include a CD player. Aftermarket stereo upgrades are common and relatively inexpensive if you want to add modern features like Bluetooth or a backup camera. The air conditioning system should be tested during any inspection, as refrigerant recharges and compressor repairs can be costly on older vehicles.

Power windows, locks, and mirrors are standard on all 2000 Passport models. The power sunroof on EX models is a nice feature but can develop leaks over time. Check for water stains on the headliner or carpet near the sunroof opening, which indicates past or present leaks.

Maintenance costs and parts availability

Parts for the 2000 Passport are generally available through Honda dealers and aftermarket suppliers, though some components are becoming harder to find as the vehicle ages. Engine parts, filters, and common wear items are readily available at reasonable prices. Transmission parts and some electrical components are more expensive and may require ordering.

Routine maintenance including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks should cost between $150 and $300 per service at an independent shop. Dealer service is more expensive but may be necessary for warranty work if you purchase from a dealer. Brake pads, air filters, and cabin air filters are inexpensive and straightforward to replace.

Budget for unexpected repairs when buying any 20-year-old vehicle. Suspension components, cooling system parts, and electrical issues are common in this age range. Setting aside $500 to $1,000 annually for maintenance and repairs is a reasonable estimate for a well-maintained example.

What to check during a pre-purchase inspection

Before committing to a purchase, have a trusted mechanic perform a comprehensive inspection. Request that they specifically check the transmission for slipping or harsh shifts, the frame and undercarriage for rust, and the suspension for worn components. Ask for a written report detailing any issues found and estimated repair costs.

Test drive the vehicle on both city streets and highways. Listen for unusual noises from the engine, transmission, or suspension. Check that all gauges, lights, and controls function properly. Verify that the air conditioning blows cold and the heating works. Test the four-wheel drive system if the vehicle has it, and confirm that it engages and disengages smoothly.

Request service records from the seller showing regular maintenance. A vehicle with documented oil changes, fluid flushes, and repairs is generally a better purchase than one with no history. If records are unavailable, assume the vehicle has not been maintained consistently and factor additional inspection and repair costs into your offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I expect to pay for a 2000 Honda Passport in good condition?

Prices vary significantly based on mileage, condition, and location. A well-maintained example with under 150,000 miles typically ranges from $4,000 to $7,000. Vehicles with higher mileage or visible rust sell for less. Always factor in the cost of needed repairs when calculating the true purchase price.

Is the 2000 Passport safe by modern standards?

The Passport lacks modern safety features like electronic stability control, multiple airbags, and backup cameras. It has basic airbags and anti-lock brakes, but crash test data is not available for comparison to modern vehicles. If safety is your primary concern, a newer used SUV will offer significantly better protection.

Can I use a 2000 Passport for daily commuting?

Yes, though fuel costs will be higher than a sedan or modern SUV. The ride is stiffer than car-based vehicles, and road noise is more pronounced. If your commute is short, the Passport is practical. For long daily drives, consider the fuel economy and maintenance costs carefully.

What is the difference between the LX and EX trims?

The EX adds leather seats, a power sunroof, upgraded audio with a CD player, and additional interior trim. Both trims have the same engine and transmission options. The EX commands a higher price but offers more comfort features. Choose based on your budget and whether the additional features matter to you.

Should I buy an automatic or manual transmission Passport?

The manual transmission is significantly more reliable and less prone to failure. If you are comfortable driving a manual, it is the better choice for longevity. The automatic offers convenience but carries a higher risk of expensive transmission repairs. Factor this into your decision based on your driving preferences and budget for potential repairs.