2016 HONDA PILOT service

104 || 105
DRIVING
DRIVING
How to weigh the trailer loads using a public scale
Check each weight in the order indicated as shown. Refer to the table be\
low for
each weight’s limit except for the tongue load.
•  If you cannot weigh the rear axle, subtract 1 from 2.
•  The maximum gross combined weight (4) decreases by 2% for every 1,000 feet
(305 m) of elevation.
•  To calculate the tongue load, subtract 5 from 6.
•  Refer to the trailer owner’s manual for additional information.
Fully load the vehicle and trailer. An attendant who watches the scale is needed
as all occupants should stay in the vehicle.
If a public scale is not available,
add the estimated weight of
your cargo load to the weight
of your trailer (as quoted by
the manufacturer), and then
measure the tongue load with
an appropriate scale or tongue
gauge or estimate it based on
cargo distribution.
1. Front gross axle weigh t
2. Gross vehicle weight 4. Gross combined weight
3. Rear gross axle weight 5. Hitched trailer weight
6. Unhitched trailer weight
Weight limit fo
r 2WD models AWD models
Front gross axle2,734 lbs
(1,240 kg)2,855 lbs
(1,295 kg)
Gross vehicle 5,545 lbs

(2,515 kg) 5,842 lbs
(2,650 kg)
Rear gross axle2,921 lbs
(1,325 kg)3,097 lbs
(1,405 kg)
Gross combine d8,025 lbs

(3,640 kg) 9,755 lbs
(4,425 kg)
Pre-tow checklist
When preparing to tow, and before driving away, ensure the following:
•  The vehicle has been properly serviced, and the suspension and the cooli\
ng
system are in good operating condition.
•  Avoid towing a trailer during your vehicle’s first 600 miles (1,000 km).
•  The trailer has been properly serviced and is in good condition.
•  All weights and loads are within limits. Never exceed the gross weight r\
atings.
•  Check if all loads are within limits at a public scale. If a public scal\
e is not
available, add the estimated weight of your cargo load to the weight of \
your
trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer) and the tongue load.
•  The hitch, safety chains, and any other attachments are secure.
•  All items in or on the trailer are properly secured and cannot shift whi\
le you drive.
Exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer \
can
cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting \
to driv
e.
WARNING

126 || 127
DRIVING
DRIVING
Refueling
Use the proper fuel and refueling procedure to ensure the best performan\
ce and
safety of your vehicle.
Fuel Information
Use of unleaded gasoline of 87 octane or higher is recommended.
•  Honda recommends TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline where available.
•  Do NOT use gasoline containing more than 15% ethanol.
•  Do NOT use gasoline containing methanol.
•  Do NOT use gasoline containing MMT.
We recommend quality gasoline containing detergent additives that help
prevent fuel system and engine deposits. In addition, in order to mainta\
in good
performance, fuel economy, and emissions control, we strongly recommend the
use of gasoline that does NOT contain harmful manganese-based fuel addit\
ives
such as MMT, if such gasoline is available.
NOTICE
How to Refuel
1. The fuel fill door is located at the left rear of the
vehicle. Park next to the service pump that is
most accessible.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Press the fuel fill door release button on the
driver’s door. The fuel fill door opens.
4. Place the end of the filler nozzle on the lower part
of the filler opening, then insert it slowly and fully.
5. After filling, wait about 5 seconds before
removing the filler nozzle. Close the fuel fill door
by hand.
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously
injured when handling fuel.
•  Stop the engine, and keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
•  Handle fuel only outdoors.
•  Wipe up spills immediately.
WARNING
Refueling from a Portable Fuel Container
If you need to refuel your vehicle from a portable fuel container, use the funnel
provided with your vehicle.
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Press the fuel fill door release button. The fuel fill
door opens.
3. Wrap a cloth around the built-in key. Put it into
the cover slot as shown in the image, and remove
the cover.
4. Remove the funnel from the cover.
5. Place the end of the funnel on the lower part of
filler opening, then insert it slowly and fully. Make
sure that the end of the funnel goes down along
with the filler pipe.
6. Fill the tank with fuel from the portable fuel
container. Pour fuel carefully so you do not spill
any.
7. Remove the funnel from the filler neck. Wipe up
any fuel from the funnel before storing it.
8. Shut the fuel fill door by hand.
Funnel
Cove r
Funnel
The fuel ller opening is designed to accept only service station \
ller nozzles for
refueling. Use of smaller diameter tubes (e.g., to siphon fuel for othe\
r uses) or
other non-service station devices can damage the area in and around the \
ller
opening.
Do not insert the nozzle of a portable fuel container or any funnel othe\
r than the
one provided with your vehicle. Doing so can damage the fuel system.
Do not try to pry open or push open the sealed fuel tank with foreign ob\
jects. This
can damage the fuel system and its seal.
NOTICE

128 || 129
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
Learn about what to do in critical or emergency situations.
Smart Entry Remote Battery Strength
If the battery life in your remote transmitter is weak, a message appear\
s in the MID
with information on how to start the engine.
1. Touch the back of the remote transmitter to the
ENGINE START/STOP button while the indicator is
flashing.
2. With the brake pedal pressed, press the ENGINE
START/STOP button within 10 seconds.
Jump Starting
Turn off the power to electric devices, such as audio and lights. Turn off the engine,
then open the hood.
1. Remove the engine compartment cover (see page
146).
2. Remove the holding clips and the air intake duct.
3. Connect the first jumper cable to your vehicle’s
battery (+) terminal.
4. Connect the other end of the first jumper cable
to the booster battery (+) terminal. Use a 12-volt
booster battery only.
5. Connect the second jumper cable to the booster
battery (-) terminal.
6. Connect the other end of the second jumper cable
to the engine hanger as shown. Do not connect this
jumper cable to any other part.
7. If your vehicle is connected to another vehicle,
start the assisting vehicle’s engine and increase its
rpm slightly.
8. Attempt to start your vehicle’s engine. If it turns
over slowly, make sure that the jumper cables have
good metal-to-metal contact.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead\

compounds. Wash your hands after handling.
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
Clip
Air intake duct
Pin
Engine cover
Shift Lever Does Not Move*
Follow the procedure below if you cannot move the shift lever out of Par\
k (P).
1. Set the parking brake.
2. Remove the built-in key from the remote
transmitter.
3. Open the lid of the console compartment.
4. Wrap a cloth around the tip of a small flat-tip
screwdriver. Put it into the shift lock release slot as
shown in the image, and remove the cover.
5. Insert the key into the shift lock release slot.
6. While pushing the key down, press the shift lever
release button and place the shift lever into Neutral
(N). The lock is now released. Have the shift lever
checked by a dealer as soon as possible.
After the Engine Starts Once your vehicle’s engine has started, remove the jumper cables in the following
order:
1. Disconnect the jumper cable from the engine hanger.
2. Disconnect the other end of the jumper cable from the booster battery’\
s (-)
terminal.
3. Disconnect the jumper cable from your vehicle’s (+) terminal.
4. Disconnect the other end of the jumper cable from the booster battery’\
s (+)
terminal.
5. Have your vehicle inspected by a nearby service station or a dealer.
Cover
Release
button
Shift lock
release slot
*if equipped
A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriou\
sly
injuring anyone nearby.
Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the batt\
ery.
WARNING

130 || 131
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
Overheating
If the temperature gauge needle is at the H mark, the engine suddenly lo\
ses power,
or steam or spray comes out from under the hood, your engine is overheat\
ing.
1. Immediately park the vehicle in a safe place. Turn
off all accessories and turn on the hazard warning
lights.
2. If steam or spray is not present: Keep the engine
running and open the hood.
If steam or spray is present: Turn off the engine and
wait until it subsides. Then, open the hood.
3. Check that the cooling fan is operating and stop the engine once the tem\
perature
gauge needle comes down. If the cooling fan is not operating, immediatel\
y stop
the engine.
4. Once the engine has cooled down, inspect the coolant level and check the\

cooling system components for leaks. If the coolant level in the reserve\
tank
is low, add coolant until it reaches the MAX mark. If there is no coolant in t\
he
reserve tank, make sure the radiator is cool, then cover the radiator ca\
p with a
heavy cloth and open the cap. If necessary, add coolant up to the base of the
filler neck, and put the cap back on.
Once the engine has cooled sufficiently, restart it and check the temperature gauge.
If the temperature needle has gone down, resume driving. If it has not g\
one down,
contact a dealer for repairs.
Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.
Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.
WARNING
Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant \
to
spray out, seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiato\
r cap.
WARNING
Continuing to drive with the temperature gauge needle at the H mark may \
damage
the engine.
NOTICE
Reserve tank
MAX
MIN
Emergency Engine Stop*
The ENGINE START/STOP button may be used to stop the engine due to an
emergency situation even while driving. If you must stop the engine, cho\
ose one of
the following operations:
•  Press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for
two seconds, or
•  Firmly press the ENGINE START/STOP button two
times.
Emergency Towing
Call a professional towing service if you need to tow your vehicle.
All models
Flat bed equipment: The operator loads your vehicle on the back of a tru\
ck. This is
the best way to transport your vehicle.
2WD models
Wheel lift equipment: The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the front
tires and lift them off the ground. The rear tires remain on the ground.\
This is an
acceptable way to tow your vehicle.
Trying to lift or tow your vehicle by the bumpers will cause serious dama\
ge. The
bumpers are not designed to support the vehicle’s weight.
Improper towing such as towing behind a motorhome or other motor vehicle\
can
damage the transmission.
NOTICE
*if equipped
The steering wheel will not lock. Because turning off the engine also di\
sables the
power assist the engine provides to the steering and braking systems, it\
will require
significantly more physical effort and time to steer and slow the vehi\
cle. Use both
feet on the brake pedal, if necessary, to slow the vehicle and stop immediately in a
safe place.
Do not press the button while driving unless it is absolutely necessary \
for the engine
to be switched off.

134 || 135
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
Changing a Flat Tire
If a tire goes flat while driving, grasp the steering wheel firmly, and brake gradually
to reduce speed. Then, stop in a safe place. Replace the flat tire wit\
h the compact
spare tire. Go to a dealer as soon as possible to have the full-size tir\
e repaired or
replaced.
Getting Ready to Change the Tire
Park the vehicle on a firm, level, non-slippery surface. Apply the par\
king brake,
shift to Park (P), and turn the vehicle off. Turn on the hazard warning lights.
1. Push the rear edge of the handle on the floor lid
and open the lid.
2. Pull and remove the cover. Take the wheel nut
wrench and jack handle bar out of the rear side
compartment.
3. Loosen the strap, then take the jack out.
4. Remove the cover and the rubber plug on the
cargo area lining to access the shaft for the spare
tire hoist.
5. Put the wheel nut wrench with the jack handle bar
on the hoist shaft. Turn the wrench to the left to
lower the spare tire to the ground.
Handle
CoverWheel nut wrench
Jack
handle bar
Jack
Rubber plug
Cover
Wheel nut wrench
Jack
handle bar
6. Keep turning the wheel nut wrench to create
slack in the cable.
7. Remove the bracket from the spare tire.
8. Place the compact spare tire wheel side up under
the vehicle body, near the tire that needs to be
replaced.
9. Loosen each wheel nut about one turn using the
wheel nut wrench.
Bracket
Setting Up the Jack
1. Place the jack under the jacking point closest to
the tire to be changed.
2. Turn the end bracket clockwise (as shown in
the image) until the top of the jack contacts the
jacking point. Make sure that the jacking point
tab is resting in the jack notch.
3. Raise the vehicle, using the jack handle bar and
the jack handle, until the tire is off the ground.
Jack handle barWheel nut wrench as jack handle
The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone unde\
rneath.
Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the
vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.
WARNING
Do not use the jack if it doesn’t work properly. Call your dealer or a professional
towing service.
NOTICE

142 || 143
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE
Safety Precautions
Some of the most important safety precautions are listed below; however, we cannot
warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing mainte\
nance.
Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.
Maintenance Safety
•  To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks\
, and flames
away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.
•  Never leave rags, towels, or other flammable objects under the hood.
•  To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not
gasoline.
•  Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with the battery\
or
compressed air.
•  Do not run the engine in confined spaces where carbon monoxide gas can\

accumulate.
Vehicle Safety
•  The vehicle must be stationary, and parked on level ground with the parking
brake set and the engine off.
•  Be aware that hot parts can burn you.
•  Be aware that moving parts can injure you.
•  Do not open the hood while the Auto Idle Stop function* is activated.
Improperly maintaining this vehicle or failing to correct a problem befo\
re
driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed. \
Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations according
to the schedules in this guide.
WARNING
Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can \
cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and precautions in this guide.
WARNING
Learn about basic maintenance that you can perform on the vehicle yourse\
lf, as well
as information about how to best maintain the vehicle.
MAINTENANCE
*if equipped
Maintenance Minder™
When maintenance is due, the system message indicator comes on and a mes\
sage
appears on the display every time you turn the vehicle on. See page 144 to check
what maintenance is due indicated by the codes that appear.
Press the Info (p/q) button on the steering wheel to change displays.
System message indicator
Main
items Sub items
Maintenance Minder message
• Independent of the Maintenance Minder information, replace the brake fl\
uid
every 3 years.
•  Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 km).
•  Adjust the valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 if they are noisy.
U.S. models
Maintenance, replacement, or repair of emissions control devices and sys\
tems
may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individuals using \
parts
that are certified to EPA standards.
According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenan\
ce on the
maintenance main items marked with # will not void your emissions warranties.
However, all maintenance services should be performed in accordance with the
intervals indicated by the multi-information display.

144 || 145
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance Minder Service Codes
These codes indicate what services are due on your vehicle.
*1: If the message Maintenance Due Now does not appear more than 12 months after the display
is reset, change the engine oil every year.
#: See information on maintenance and emissions warranty.
*2: If you drive in dusty conditions, replace the air cleaner element every \
15,000 miles (24,000 km).
*3:
If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of s\
oot in the air from industryand diesel-powered vehicles, replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
CODEMaintenance Main Items
A
Replace engine oi l*1
BReplace engine oil*1 and oil lter
Inspect front and rear brakes
Check parking brake adjustment
Inspect tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and boots
Inspect suspension components
Inspect driveshaft boots
Inspect brake hoses and lines (Including ABS/VSA)
Inspect all uid levels and condition of uids
Inspect exhaust system#
Inspect fuel lines and connection s#
*4:If you drive regularly in very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°\
C), in very low temperatures
(under -20°F, -29°C), or towing a trailer, replace every 60,000 \
miles/100,000 km.
*5:Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds or trailer towin\
g results in higher level
of mechanical (Shear) stress to uid. This requires differential \
uid changes more frequently
than recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your \
vehicle under these
conditions, have the differential uid changed at 7,500 miles (12,00\
0 km), then every 15,000 miles
(24,000 km).
CODEMaintenance Sub Items
1
Rotate tires
2Replace air cleaner element*2
Replace dust and pollen lter*3
Inspect drive belt
3
Replace transmission uid, transfer uid
4Replace spark plug s
Replace timing belt and inspect water pump*4
Inspect valve clearance
5
Replace engine coolant
6Replace rear differential ui d*, *5
*
*if equipped
Under the Hood
Opening the Hood
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface, and set the
parking brake.
2. Pull the hood release handle under the lower left
corner of the dashboard.
3. Push up the hood latch lever in the center of the
hood to release the lock mechanism, and open
the hood.
4. Remove the support rod from the clamp using the
grip. Mount the support rod in the hood.
When closing, remove the support rod, and
stow it in the clamp, then gently lower the hood.
Remove your hand at a height of approximately
12 inches (30 cm) and let the hood close.
Brake fluid (black cap)
Battery
Engine oil fill cap
Lever
Support rod Grip
Clamp
Pull
Washer fluid
Engine coolant
reservoir tank Engine oil dipstick
(orange)
Radiator cap
Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised. The hood will strik\
e the
wipers, and may damage either the hood or the wipers.
Do not open the hood while the Auto Idle Stop* function is activated.
NOTICE
*if equipped

148 || 149
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE
Adding Oil
1. Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap.
2. Add oil slowly.
3. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap, and tighten it
securely.
4. Wait for three minutes and recheck the engine oil
dipstick.
Do not fill the engine oil above the upper mark. Overfilling the eng\
ine oil can result
in leaks and engine damage.
NOTICE
Engine oil fill cap
Resetting the Engine Oil Life
If you change or replace the vehicle’s engine oil yourself, you must reset the
engine oil life. Use the steering wheel buttons to operate the menu.
1. Use the Info (p/q) buttons to scroll to the Vehicle
Settings menu. Press the RESET button to enter the
menu.
2. Scroll to Maintenance Info, and select it.
3. Press and hold the RESET button to enter the oil life
reset mode.
4. Select Reset. The maintenance codes disappear,
and the engine oil life returns to 100%.
Failure to reset the engine oil life after a maintenance service results\
in the
system showing incorrect maintenance intervals, which can lead to seriou\
s
mechanical problems.
NOTICE
Engine Coolant
Park the vehicle on level ground. Check the reserve tank and the coolant\
level in the
radiator. We recommend Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2.
Checking the Reserve Tank
1. Check the amount of coolant in the reserve tank.
2. If the coolant level is below the MIN mark, add
the specified coolant until it reaches the MAX
mark.
3. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.
Adding Coolant
1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2. Remove the engine compartment cover.
3. Turn the radiator cap counterclockwise and
relieve any pressure in the coolant system. Do
not push the cap down when turning.
4. Push down and turn the radiator cap
counterclockwise to remove it.
5. The coolant level should be up to the base of the
filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.
6. Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.
7. Pour coolant into the reserve tank until it reaches
the MAX mark. Put the cap back on the reserve
tank.
Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant \
to spray
out, seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiato\
r cap.
WARNING
If temperatures consistently below −22°F (−30°C) are expec\
ted, the coolant
mixture should be changed to a higher concentration. Consult a dealer fo\
r details
for more information.
NOTICE
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills
immediately; they can damage components in the engine compartment.
NOTICE
Radiator
cap MAX
MIN