How to Change Automatic Transmission Fluid on a Honda Pilot
by Grace Mclain
Your Honda Pilot's automatic transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles. The transmission fluid keeps the internal gears and seals inside of the transmission lubricated and cool. The transmission fluid is pumped out of the transmission pan and circulates throughout the transmission. After about 30,000 miles, the automatic transmission fluid begins to break down and should be replaced.
Step 1
Drive the Honda Pilot for 10-15 minutes to heat up the transmission fluid. Park it in a safe and cool work area and open the hood.
Step 2
Jack up the front of the vehicle and place jack stands on both sides under the designated jacking points. Lower the jack so that the Pilot comes to a secure rest on the stands. Leave the jack under the Pilot in the upright position.
Step 3
Locate the transmission fluid drain plug. This is on the lower driver side of the transmission. The drain plug has a big bolt head with a square hole in the center.
Step 4
Position the fluid catch pan under the drain plug. Insert the square end of the 3/8 inch drive ratchet in the drain plug. Turn the drain plug counterclockwise to remove it. Pull the drain plug out and allow all of the transmission fluid to drain out. Put the plug back in and tighten it with the ratchet.
Step 5
Crawl out from under the Pilot and go to the front of the engine. Raise the hood and secure it in place. Locate the transmission dipstick on the driver side of the engine. The transmission dipstick has a yellow handle. Pull the dipstick out of the tube and set it to the side.
Step 6
Slide the 1/4-inch plastic tubing onto the long neck of the funnel. Slide the tubing inside of the dipstick hole.
Step 7
Slowly pour in all four quarts of automatic transmission fluid through the funnel. Remove the funnel and the tubing from the dipstick tube. Reinsert the dipstick.
Step 8
Crank the engine and let it run for about two minutes. Turn off the engine and wait two minutes. Check the transmission fluid. The fluid level should be on the full mark. Close the hood.
Step 9
Jack the front of the Honda Pilot back up and remove the jack stands. Lower the Pilot back to the ground.
References
- "Haynes Repair Manual; Honda Pilot (2003 thru 2007) and Acura MDX (2001 thru 2007) Haynes Repair Manual"; John Haynes; 2008
Tips
- Honda recommends Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 automatic transmission fluid in all Honda Pilots.
Things You'll Need
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Fluid catch pan
- 3/8-inch drive ratchet
- Long neck funnel
- 1/4-inch plastic tube
- 4 quarts of Honda Genuine ATF-Z1
Warnings
- Wear protective gloves and glasses when draining the hot transmission fluid.
Writer Bio
Grace Mclain has been writing professionally since 1998. Her articles have appeared on eHow.com, Answerbag.com and LIVESTRONG.COM, and she specializes in automotive and business topics. McIain has a professional writing certificate from JB Hunt in Little Rock, Ark.
