Does the Honda Pilot have a trailer hitch?
Yes—the Honda Pilot can be equipped with a trailer hitch; a 2-inch receiver is typical when the factory towing package is installed, enabling towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Overview: hitch availability across model years
Understanding whether a given Pilot has a hitch depends on year, trim, and whether the towing package is installed. Here is a general guide to what you should expect on recent Pilots (2016–present redesigns and current 2024–2025 models).
Current model year basics
Most 2020s Pilots offer a factory towing package that includes the hitch receiver and trailer wiring. On lower trims, the hitch may be optional or not installed unless you add the towing package. On higher trims and hybrids, the factory towing setup is more commonly included or readily available as an option.
What’s in the Honda Pilot Towing Package?
To tow safely, a towing package is required. The exact contents can vary by year and trim, but typically includes the following components:
- 2-inch hitch receiver for ball mount and accessories
- Trailer wiring harness (often 4- or 7-pin)
- Electrical and, in many cases, a cooling system upgrade such as a transmission cooler or engine/oil cooler
- Wiring harness and towing-performance features tailored to the model year
These items enable the Pilot to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and used with appropriate towing accessories and hitch options. Availability and exact contents can vary; verify with the dealer or check your vehicle’s window sticker and owner's manual for your specific year and trim.
How to tell if your Pilot currently has a hitch
If you’re evaluating a current vehicle, you can check for a hitch under the bumper, review the official window sticker or build sheet, or confirm via VIN-based build data with a dealer. A 2-inch receiver is standard in most towing configurations when the towing package is installed.
For those who don’t tow often, a hitch can still be useful for bike racks, cargo carriers, or hitch-mounted storage. If there is no hitch installed, adding the factory towing package or an aftermarket option is possible, depending on your needs and local regulations.
Summary
The Honda Pilot is designed to be tow-capable, and most modern Pilots can be equipped with a 2-inch trailer hitch through the factory Towing Package. Whether your specific vehicle has one depends on trim and option choices; if towing is a priority, ensure the towing package is included or be prepared to add an aftermarket hitch. With the proper equipment, Pilots can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
In brief: to tow with a Honda Pilot, expect a 2-inch hitch receiver as part of the factory towing setup, with a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Always confirm the exact specifications for your year and trim.
