When is the best time to sell a 2020 Honda Pilot?
Sell your 2020 Honda Pilot now in spring 2026. It holds a resale value of $17,850 and trade-in of $14,350 in areas like 78701 (Austin, TX). Kelley Blue Book data shows it gained $480 this year after a $5,024 drop in 2025. Wait longer, and value falls faster toward the 5-year 48% depreciation mark.
Here's what you need to know:
- Current values (March 2026): Resale $17,850, trade-in $14,350. That's after 15% loss ($3,215) over last 3 years.
- Recent trend: Up $1,329 in 2024 to $22,394 resale, then down $5,024 in 2025 to $17,370.
- 5-year mark: Hits 48% depreciation by end of 2025, resale around $23,000 average from $50,400 new.
- Future outlook: Expect 52% loss ($26,394 resale) at 5 years, dropping to $22,090 by year 7.
| Year | Depreciation | Resale Value | Trade-In Value | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $11,723 | $21,065 | $18,157 | KBB |
| 2024 | +$1,329 | $22,394 | $19,771 | KBB |
| 2025 | $5,024 | $17,370 | $15,210 | KBB |
| Now | +$480 | $17,850 | $14,350 | KBB |
"A 2020 Honda Pilot has depreciated 48% after 5 years," says CarEdge, based on analysis of good-condition vehicles averaging 13,500 miles/year (Source: CarEdge Depreciation Report, 2026).
Why now beats waiting
Your Pilot sits in the 25-75% percentile for SUV depreciation. It lost 27% ($6,295) over 3 years per KBB. Spring triggers high demand from families in Texas areas like 78701. Summer road trips boost SUV sales too. By fall 2026, it turns 6+ years old. Resale could dip to $23,305 (46% residual).
New Pilots and rivals like Toyota Highlander pull buyers away. Honda models retain 60.5% value at this age, rated 'Good'. Sell before mileage hits 80,000+ (assuming 13,500/year).
Practical steps to sell
- Check your VIN on KBB or Edmunds for 78701-specific value.
- Clean it, fix small issues, and get a pre-sale inspection.
- List private party for $17k+ or trade to dealer for $14k quick cash.
- Time for April-May: Tax refunds drive buyer traffic.
Sidekick tracks your Pilot's exact depreciation score with local Austin data. Owners using it time sales to grab 5-10% more value.
Values shift with market. In 78701, low supply of midsize SUVs helps now. Act fast before Q3 slowdown.