You may want to get your vehicle looked at. The new Pilot's engine is one of the quieter ones out there based on my personal observation and owners' reviews. I sometimes can't even tell if mine idling amid usual outdoor ambient noise.

Can't argue about the sound system though, except that a 6 might be a bit generous.

 

2. The engine noise. I can't understand why the largest engine manufacturer in the world would engineer an engine that ticks so loudly at idle? My 2005 Acura MDX was quieter at idle. Drives me insane. Does anyone have an explanation for the noise?

The high pressure fuel injectors ( for the direct-injection engine ) make a distinct ticking sound. With current technology, this is the price for the efficiency and performance of this engine design. I don't hear it from inside the vehicle with the windows closed, but it is quite obvious with windows open or outside the vehicle. Be glad it's not a diesel...

 

I don't hear any loud ticking coming from my Elite engine. Maybe I'm not listening hard enough?

 

I hear a ticking from my engine but that's due to the direct injection as stated above. It's only obvious from outside.