Do Honda Pilots have hitches?
The answer is yes, but it depends on the model and options. Honda offers a factory trailer tow package that adds a hitch and wiring, and Pilots equipped with that package can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Others may rely on dealer-installed or aftermarket hitches with lower towing limits.
Factory hitch options and towing capacity
Most Honda Pilot generations offer a factory Tow Package on eligible trims, which includes a 2-inch hitch receiver and the necessary wiring. Availability varies by year and market, and in some cases a hitch is installed by the dealer as an accessory rather than as standard equipment. When properly equipped, Pilots can tow up to 5,000 pounds; without the Tow Package, towing capacity is typically lower.
- Third- and fourth-generation Pilots (roughly 2016–present) commonly offer a Tow Package on eligible trims, enabling up to 5,000 lbs of towing with the proper equipment.
- Earlier generations could tow as well, but the hitch and wiring were often dealer-installed options rather than standard factory equipment.
- Without the Tow Package, a Pilot’s standard towing capacity is generally around 3,500 lbs, varying by drivetrain and specific configuration.
After reviewing a specific vehicle, confirm the exact towing capability and equipment with the dealer or via the vehicle’s window sticker or VIN lookup. This ensures you’re aligning with the correct year and trim’s specifications.
How to tell if your Pilot has a hitch
Identifying whether your Pilot has a hitch or the towing package is straightforward, but it’s worth a quick check to ensure you’re within safe towing limits.
- Look at the rear bumper area for a 2-inch hitch receiver, which is the telltale sign of a factory or dealer-installed hitch.
- Inspect for a trailer wiring harness connection near the hitch, which indicates readiness for trailer lights and braking equipment.
- Check the owner’s manual or window sticker for towing specifications or notes about the Tow Package.
If you’re unsure, ask a Honda dealer to verify using the VIN. Knowing whether you have the Tow Package helps determine your vehicle’s towing capacity and required safety features.
Key towing considerations
Even with a hitch and the right hardware, towing safely requires other checks: ensure you’re within the recommended tongue weight, use proper hitch equipment, and follow Honda’s towing guidelines, including required cooling and transmission considerations. Weight distribution, braking requirements, and trailer electrical connections all matter for safe operation.
Summary
In short, Honda Pilots can have hitches, but they’re not universal. A factory Tow Package or dealer-installed hitch is needed to unlock the higher 5,000-pound towing capability on many models, while Pilots without that package are limited to lower towing capacities. Always verify the specific configuration for a given vehicle and follow official towing guidelines to stay within safe limits.
Bottom line: if towing is on your radar, look for the Tow Package or an approved dealer-installed hitch, and confirm the exact weight limits for your generation and trim before hitting the road.
How much to add a hitch to a Honda Pilot?
Trailer Hitch
| Retail Price: | $317.00 |
|---|---|
| Our Price: | $189.99 |
What is the weakness of the Honda Pilot?
A: The most common problems across these less reliable Honda Pilot years include transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, peeling paint, recurring fault codes, fuel injector failures, brake issues, and electrical problems.
Do all Honda Pilots have a towing package?
All new Honda Pilot trim levels come with a standard tow hitch and can be built with an available Honda Pilot with tow package for access to the SUV's full towing capacity. The 2025 tow package includes a trailer hitch, harness, hitch ball mount, hitch panel, and professional installation.
Do Honda pilots have a hitch?
Yes, a Honda Pilot can have a hitch, but whether it comes with one depends on the model year and trim level. Some models, like the TrailSport, have a standard factory-installed hitch, while others may require an optional tow package or aftermarket installation.
Factory-installed hitch
- Available on certain trims: Some trims, especially higher-end or off-road-focused ones like the TrailSport, come standard with a trailer hitch.
- Available as an option: A factory-installed tow package, which includes a hitch, is often available as an option on other trims.
Aftermarket options
- Widespread availability: If your model doesn't have a factory hitch, you can easily get one installed after purchase.
- Different sizes: You can choose between a 1.25-inch or 2-inch hitch receiver, depending on your needs.
- Various brands: Many aftermarket brands like Curt, Draw-Tite, and others offer hitches for the Pilot that can be installed with no drilling required.
- Installation: Installation can be a DIY project for those with the right tools and knowledge, or it can be done by a professional.
