Honda Pilot as a toad

[Franklin05]

I was wondering if anyone has towed a Pilot? I know Blue Ox makes a base plate but Honda says not to tow. Someone must tow one. If someone would share their experience and how they prepare the tranny, I would appreciate it. Thanks

[SVTotem]

We have been towing an 06 Pilot this year. We have about 10k miles so far without issues. We are using Blue Ox and Air For e One. Can't speak for later model years.

We follow the same procedure as the CRV. Always go to neutral from drive, not directly from P and reverse. We run the engine and work through the gears at each rest stop.

[JBDISCOVERY]

We went looking for a replacment for our 2006 Saturn Vue which towes 4down with no trouble. The Honda dealer said that the Honda CRV towes 4down. He touted this because he spotted our tow bars. I asked about the Pilot and he stated it WILL NOT town 4down.
Hope this helps.
JimB

[bluepill]

You need to refer to your owners manual. Some years of Honda/Acura are approved for 4 down, some are not. My 2005 MDX and 2006 CRV are approved when the proceedures are followed. If yours is approved, consider changing the trans. fluid every 15K miles. You only need a drain and fill, no flushing or filter change. Use only HONDA FLUID. It should cost $60-$80 parts and labor. It's a very easy DIY project, but the filler bolt on the top of the transmission can be very stubborn, so free it up BEFORE you drain the fluid. 1/2 inch drive 17mm socket is the usual tool with an extension and breaker bar. The drain bolt is a 3/8 inch square drive.