Honda Pilot 2003 through 2005

robr2 · May 2003

"Can't figure out why they want me running around on overinflated tires, but whatever. I just deflate them when I leave each time."

Has something to do with Firestone and Explorers I'll bet. As long as the dealership inflates to max pressure, they CYA themselves.

dklanecky · May 2003

More likely the lowest level trainee they can find to change oil and check tire pressure always inflates to the max pressure listed on the side wall.

I'd call the service manager back and ask what his(her) procedure is for determining proper tire inflation pressure and whose job it is to supervise that task.

I see this happen at those "Oil Change Only specialty places" fairly often but it should never happen at a new car dealer!

stever · May 2003

Usually the tires are over-inflated by the factory so they won't flat spot until delivery to the dealer. The dealer is supposed to adjust them when they prep the rest of the car. Often it's overlooked. It'd be fun to see what percentage of potential buyers walk away after a "bumpy" test drive from a poorly prepped new car.

Why the service department would over-inflate them again and again is a really good question!

Steve, Host

dski · May 2003

This is one of those issues I find very annoying. I've had tire dealers tell me to always inflate to the MAX Listing on the side wall and that is absolutely WRONG!

That listing is the Max the tire can handle but it does NOT mean it should used on every vehicle. Follow the manufactures recommendations as a Minimum. I beleive you can feel safe with as much as a 10% increase but IMO using the MAX is not the best in most cases

As far as the Firestone/Ford commment goes.. Remember, that situation was with an extremely LOW recommendation (mid to low 20's in psi) 32 is not a low psi situation for most tire/ vehicle combinations.

I agree the poor ride comment reported earlier was likely a result of over inflation. That should have come to mind when I commented.

Just my 2 cents worth on the subject
Drew

robr2 · May 2003

"As far as the Firestone/Ford comment goes.."

I made that reference. In today's litigious society, I would not be surprised if that were not the case. In the same vein, I purchased tires mounted on rims from tirerack. They came inflated to the full 44 psi max pressure even though they knew what vehicle it was for. NTB recently sent me on my way with 2 new tires over inflated - and I watch them check the pressure.

markjenn · May 2003

I think expecting Tire Rack to inflate tires to a specific car mfg's recommendations prior to shipping is asking a bit much. Anybody replacing tires/wheels hopefully has a enough sense to adjust tire pressure. And with aftermarket wheels and tires, typically of a difference size that the original, the recommended tire pressure on the car's door jamb is really only a starting point.

On new cars, tires are always adjusted to max on the sidewall to avoid flat-spotting since the cars sit a lot and are winched down on transporters. This is a good idea, but dealers are supposed to adjust them down when they deliver a car. They typically don't which speaks volumes to the care most cars get prior to delivery. My experience is that they make sure the car looks good, but that's about it.

Service departments often inflate all tires during service to some arbitrarily high value for every car going through the shop. The reason: it takes too much time to look up the correct pressure which varies from vehicle to vehicle.

Bottom line: You're really on your own with tire pressure. Invest in a good gauge and maybe even an air compressor.

- Mark

christopherp · May 2003

I am interested to know if other Pilot owners use car seats in the second row seats. When gaining access to the third row seats, the second row slides and tilts forward. How does this work with a car seat? Will the second row slide forward without tilting because the car seat is there? How is it accessing the third row with car seats in the second row?

dski · May 2003

>>Bottom line: You're really on your own with tire pressure. Invest in a good gauge and maybe even an air compressor.<<

Totally agree.. one thing more.. When taking a pressure reading, make sure it's a Cold Tire reading. The psi recommendations are for Cold Tire readings. Always check after the car has been sitting for at least 3 hours otherwise your not setting the proper pressure.

Drew

davisdog · May 2003

You have to tilt the seats before they will slide, so if there is a carseat there you can't move it...that being said, the seats are a 60/40 split and since the pilot is so wide I have two car seats (alpha omega's) on the 60 (driver/middle) side in the 2nd row for our 1/3yr olds. That leaves the Passenger side open for somebody to sit in and also allows unhindered access to slide that seat for access to the 3rd row

fedlawman · May 2003

The sun shining on one side of the car is enough to raise the pressure of the tires on that side...make sure the tires are cold and in the shade.

porknbeans · May 2003

You are lucky to have young, young ones still. Mine aren't much older (3 and 7), but I doubt that they would be willing to sit next to each other for an extended period of time. We will be taking delivery of our Pilot in September. When we go on trips we have a travel suitcase that goes between our kids, filled with toys, books, colors, etc. to keep them occupied.

fedlawman - Good to see you around. I haven't heard from you lately. I must not be reading the same boards as you anymore.

fedlawman · May 2003

Thanks for remembering!

After two years and 32,000 miles, my SUV ownership experience has been completely satisfying and uneventful.

I'm not around here much anymore because I don't really have anything earth shattering to say.

These days, I'm looking at sport sedans to replace my aging Honda Accord. I lurk in the BMW 3 series, Acura TSX, and Saab 9-3 sedan boards.

See ya!

davisdog · May 2003

There's already a fine line between love and war for the two kids at this age...My greatest fear is the little one will demand a window seat also...and then there will be a fight between him and the dog (a black lab) over who gets the other window

porknbeans · May 2003

Heres some updated information

http://www.edmunds.com/new/2003/honda/pilot/100076609/roadtestart- icle.html?articleId=76080&editorialpage=page008&tid=edmun- ds.e.longterm.content..2.Honda*

dski · May 2003

Saw your comment about shopping Sports Sedans and the Saab as an option.

We're on our 3rd Saab ('94 900SE, '98 9-5SE and now the 9-5 Wagon). They have been awesome! The new 9-3 looks very cool but make sure they discount. They are a bit pricey when optioned but Saabs are usually discounted heavily.

Good Luck
Drew

porknbeans · May 2003

I test drove one a few months back and it drove really well but reminded me too much of a Malibu on the interior. Besides that I needed a crowbar to remove myself from the back seat. The room (not just in the 9-3) and additional seating were big reasons my wife chose the Pilot. Looking forward to doing some Piloting.

lenkerry · May 2003

Has anyone noticed that when the water comes out of the rear window washer it comes out in a stream, rather than spray, which does very little to clean the rear window. I asked my dealer about it who said that this was normal. I looked at several other Pilots on the lot and they have the same nozzle that shoots the water out in a stream. The Odyssey's have a nozzle with a diffuser built in so the water comes out in a spray. The two part numbers are different and the one on the Odyssey is $6 more than on the Pilot. Did Honda really try to save 6 bucks by installing a nozzle that doesn't spray? Has anyone had the same problem and try to replace the Pilot's nozzle with the one for the Odyssey? I know this is minor, but I really expect more from Honda.

Bloke · May 2003

I just traded an 02 9-3 for a Pilot myself. Needed more room for me and the kid.

fedlawman · May 2003

I drove the Vector and liked it a lot, though it doesn't stir my soul quite like the BMW 3 series.

However, with a $3500 rebate and GM Employee pricing, the Vector is significantly less expensive than the Bimmer.

Tough choice.

toca · May 2003

That $6 savings per vehicle equates to $480,000 to Honda based on their 80,000 Pilot build plan (At least I think it's 80K).

1/2 million here and there adds up quickly and makes them fat and happy.

cds12 · May 2003

A half mil to Honda is nothing. Not even pocket change.

robr2 · May 2003

That $6.00 is more like $0.48 at manufacturer cost. The 99-01 Ody's used a stream nozzle as well and the 02+ use a spray type. The orginal CRV used the stream as well and is now a spray. It's a feature that gets improved over time.

And in the grand scheme of things: it's only a spray nozzle people - let's keep it in perspective.

hermes1 · May 2003

We leased a '03 Honda Pilot in Sep.'02 after being advised by Volvo that our XC 90 would not be delivered until Jan.'03--we couldn't wait as our '99 XC 70 warranty was about to expire and we needed the space with three kids: two car seats, a double stroller...our only gripe about interior features with the Pilot is that the second row of seats isn't adjustable.

Shortly after taking delivery, we encountered problems with starting the vehicle. It frequently takes multiple attempts for the engine to start. While the vehicle has been into the dealership for service a half dozen times, they denied there was a problem until the last visit when they admitted there is a "long-start" problem that has to do with the pressurization of the fuel system. Even now, no solution is being offered other than we need to wait while the pressure builds up (we've been advised to wait until the "malfunction indicator lamp" goes off before attempting to start--which takes 20-30 seconds--even though the owner's manual advises that the lamp goes off after the engine starts). This is unacceptable for a new vehicle particularly in extreme cold and heat with young children.

But it doesn't end there. On a half dozen occasions the engine has not started until it was jump started. This has happened under varying scenarios--first start of the day and 15-20 minutes after stopping to drop off or pick up a family member at the commuter train station. We've incurred incidental costs associated with this. On different visits to the dealership they've changed the battery, the alternator and each time done a comprehensive check of the electrical system. But still no fix.

Most recently the "low oil pressure indicator" started flashing a few weeks after being in for scheduled maintenance. Explained as being linked to the electrical problems even though a colleague of mine said the explanation doesn't hold water as the low oil pressure indicator is a mechanical system. If their explanation was correct, he wonders, why aren't the other indicators acting up as well?

I'm dealing with the Service Manager and the General Manager. They have been in touch with Honda's tech line. Most recently they kept the vehicle for 10 days but, all to no avail.

Is anyone else having similar problems? Any resolution to your problems? Any advice? Thanks.

my3kids · May 2003

This is probably unrelated, and likely too simple a fix for your issue, but have seen it mentioned time and time again....

The key contains a chip that has to be recognized by the car when inserted. Try inserting the key, waiting a second or two until the green light goes off, then turn the key to start the car. Many, many people have written about the car not starting the first try, or even after multiple tries. All have said once they waited that second before turning the key, that the car started normally. Probably yours is a different issue, but you could try it to see if you have any success.

sbcooke · June 2003

If it is on lease I would have them get you a new car. You may have to take another 3 years from today, but you should be able to argue and get a swap for nothing more than the extended lease time. Sounds like a lemon (or a problem that the dealer isn't willing to fix).

Did you try another Honda dealership? They may give you a whole different approach, like changing out some of the fuel pressure regulator/pump pieces.

markjenn · June 2003

Sorry for your troubles. They sound fairly severe.

I'd starting thinking about the lemon law process. Read the brochure and document everything including casual conversations with the dealer. Be cordial and professional, but firm. Once you meet the lemon law bar (typically when the dealer hasn't been able to fix something in a specified number of trys), tell the dealer and Honda that you are planning on returning the car under the lemon law process. This will get their attention, especially if they know you have a strong basis for your claim.

- Mark

ssminton · June 2003

As strange as it sounds, it may likely be the keys! Last February (took delivery of my Pilot in Jun 02), I suddenly began experiencing problems where my car wouldn't start with my regular key? In a near state of panic, I decided to try one of my spares that I keep in the car for sports activities. Fortunately it started the car, although quite roughly. When I got home, I tried the other spare, which also would not work. All these keys worked at delivery. I took the Pilot and all the keys to the dealer for evaluation. Upon "repair", my Pilot started much more consistently and "stronger". Something to check...

sjwsmw · June 2003

Yeah, it's small, and thankfully so. The stream is pretty useless. My '88 Jeep Cherokee had the sprayer on the wiper arm and did a beautiful job. Too bad they decided to shortcut that.

Well, can the Ody sprayer be used in the Pilot??

miked20 · June 2003

I have done extensive research on the Pilot and have decided to go ahead and buy one. There are a few concerns that I'm trying to decide if I should hold off till the 2004 model. Most of these concerns have come from reviews or chat rooms like this one. These concerns include:

1. Head lights seem too dim and could even be considered a safety hazard.
2. The gear shifter is too easily put into the incorrect position (D1 or D2).
3. The 2nd row seats needs to be able to have some adjustment for people in the third row.

While these are all minor and I believe that the truck is still the best on the road for the money. I would hope Honda is going to address these in the 2004 model. I would also like to see them add options like sun roof and heated side mirrors and seats. Does anyone know of any web site that can give insight to the 2004 model? I'm also interested when the 2004 model is most likely to hit the street.

babyb · June 2003

Working for Honda dealership and wondering that same question myself, has me doing a little forecasting. Looking at previous models and the minor changes that occur during the 5 year production of a body style I have come up with the following.

1. Honda normally does not make changes in the 2nd model year of a generation. Thinking back to the previous Accord, it was not until 2001 that they made appearance changes along with the in dash 6 cd changer and radio controls on the steering wheel standard on the EXs. The previous generation of the Civic was the same way. It was not until the last to model years that they did some minor design changes along with some standard equipment changes.

2. I am sure they would like to work out current bugs without causing new ones.

3. With the new Odyssey set to come out for 2004, they may have had more of a focus on that...

One additional thought...normally when making changes, Honda is not the best about "letting the cat out of the bag." Meaning, you might know the same time the dealers do of any changes.

silverpilot03 · June 2003

With a minor adjustment, I was able to make the headlights much better. I also installed the foglights, which really help the near-field vision. I bought them on ebay for 216.02, and see them frequently for 235. The gearshift is NOT a problem after a few weeks. I did hit the wiper stalk at first, but now it is fine. My biggest issue is with the seat bottom and adjustment. I am 5' 10" and 190, but I cannot seem to find a comfortable position for that seat bottom. The headrest is also non-functional, in that it is several inches from my head when the back is adjusted comfortably. For a few dollars more, Honda could have made it articulating and useful.

qbrozen · June 2003

I've never had a problem with putting the gearshift in the wrong position. Like silverpilot, however, I have grabbed the wiper stalk more than once when looking for the gearshift.

I haven't noticed the dim headlights that others have complained about. Then again, I don't live in the middle of Kansas.

the 2nd row seats do tilt, but that's it. It does help a little, but you'll never fit huge people back in the 3rd row comfortably. I don't know of a midsize SUV where you can.

pwm88 · June 2003

Does anyone know if any new ratings especially rollover for Honda Pilot is out ?
Thanks.

qbrozen · June 2003

not rollover, but the rest are.

its on the nhtsa site and has been discussed on hondapilot.org

hairong · June 2003

I've had this problem six or seven times during my six months of ownership. I found the old trick for american cars with the same problem works quite effective for the Pilot too. Tap you gas a little when you turn the key! Worked for me every single time.

The very first time it didn't start, I tried four times (just turning the key) in five minutes, with different light/radio on/off combinations, to no avail. Finally I decided to use the good 'ole trick, it worked like a charm.

It may be a "low fuel pressure" problem, but I am sure it has nothing to do with "malfunction indicator lamp" on or off.

I wonder where did Honda source Pilot's ignition system?

cmcardle · June 2003

Just bought my new Pilot over the weekend... big thanks to those who post and provide all sorts of information.

I plan to replace the OEM headlights with brighter bulbs, and wonder if someone could tell me what size(s) the Pilot takes. Neither PIAA nor Sylvania have their sites updated with the Pilot's data.

Thanks.

porknbeans · June 2003

Check out post #161. I don't know how to make a link so if somebody could help me out.

I'm looking to do the same thing when we take delivery.

rerenov8r · June 2003

It is very straightforward.

Put your mouse on the number associated with the post you want to link to. Then right click (so that the 'context menu' pops up) and select "Copy Link Location".

Then in you new post just do a paste (you can use Ctrl V) and voila -- canadiancl Jan 5, 2002 6:22am
the forum software (WebEx) work its magic!

BTW Are you sure you meant post #161???

porknbeans · June 2003

Oops, sorry. It is post 161, but from the Pilot: Problems and Solutions. Let's see if your lesson works.

brews1 "Pilot Owners: Problems & Solutions" Apr 29, 2003 1:41pm

Brews talks about the Sylvania "cool blue" bulb that he used and then in post 163 silverpilot mentions the Philips bulb that he used. Thanks for the lesson and I hope this helps.

porknbeans · June 2003

is to learn how to type things in bold or italics. Thanks rerenov8r.

cmcardle · June 2003

if I was supposed to read that in a Beavis & Butthead voice. "Check out those headlights!" "Huh huh... yeah." "Give me the high beams, baby."

Back on topic... Brews1, SilverPilot or anyone else: there are different size/ styles of bulbs (9003, 9004, 9005 or H3, H4, etc.). Example, my Highlander uses 9006 for low beams, 9005 for high. Do you happen to know which ones the Pilot uses, or did someone at the autoparts store just give you the right ones?

tidester · June 2003

Place the tags and around the text you want italicized. Replace the i's with b's to make the text BOLD.

tidester, host

stever · June 2003

As an alternative to the "tap the gas" trick, try turning the ignition to the "on" position but don't crank the engine for ten seconds or so. Then try to start it.

The theory is that this gives the fuel injection a few seconds to "prime" everything with less risk of flooding it.

How Karl spent his summer vacation:

The Road Warrior, Breakdown and Twister

Steve, Host

silverpilot03 · June 2003

I do not have access the the Pilot right now, but the correct bulb size (HB3/9004 think?) is in the owner's manual. The trick is not replacing the bulb, although I did do that. I used a European approved Philips that was supposed to be brighter that the factory Philips. The real answer is to adjust the headlight UP slightly. Be careful though, too much adjustment and you will blind oncoming traffic AND the high beams will point up in the sky. The adjustment is on the back of the headlight bucket with a little arrow showing the direction to turn for an UP adjustment. Also, I did install the foglights. Unfortunately, I have only driven at dusk so far, but the initial test around the block proved that the fogs did help in the immediate foreground. Good Luck

porknbeans · June 2003

Tell Karl I'm all with the Nextel thing. Their coverage is aweful. But, I'm still getting the Pilot.

cmcardle · June 2003

Thanks. Bought the car, but haven't taken delivery yet, so I don't have the manual. I was just getting headstart on accessories since I know I'm going to upgrade the bulbs anyway. (I will also be mindful of the angle adjustment.)

Thought I'd check to see if anyone remembered what that size was, without sending them out to the car to check the manual.

01r1 · June 2003

Steve, thanks for the link. That really did sound like an adventure!

joey2brix · June 2003

This proves my point about a lower level of quality control on the Canadian built Honda's.
The 3.5L engine has been in use for a few years now. How does a water pump just start acting up during August's production? Poor quality control on the parts supplier. This is part of the problem with a model that's high in demand. Too much of a rush to get the units out the door and problems slip through. I'm still a big Honda fan, but I would wait another year until some of the "domestic" bugs get ironed out.

silverpilot03 · June 2003

Since the Pilots, mdxs and odysseys are made on the same line at the same plant, would there be a difference in the QC? Maybe some components are sourced specifically, like the water pump for the Pilot from supplier A, but the pump for the mdx from supplier B. If A has a casting problem, them only the Pilots will be affected. I would think that the SPEED of the line would be the same for all vehicles. The demand should force MORE Pilot's to be produced, but not at a necessarily faster rate? So far my pilot has had a few issues. A spacer on the strut tower was missing which caused a clicking/snapping sound. The silver paint is splotchy. This could be due to line speed or just QC. At least the transmission is MADE IN JAPAN. But they just had problems with those too.

moonkat · June 2003

Karl needs to read the forums on his own company's website.

We've owned our Pilot since July and the wife love's it. I researched the Pilot and Odyssey for years through Edmund's before buying and kept up to date on Pilot and Ody issues through this and other forums and Honda sent me a notice. I knew about the water pump recall early on and made a trip to the dealer in Sept 02 (?) to take care of it.

I don't see that Honda dropped the ball. More like this "Goudy Honda" and Karl's/Edmund's service department. Oh, and I would love for Karl to attempt the same trip in the "Pacifica" and demonstrate the improved DCM transmissions and A/Cs.

Honda Pilot 2003 through 2005

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