What type of coolant does Honda Pilot use?
The Honda Pilot uses Honda Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2, also known as Honda Long-Life Coolant. It is typically blue and is designed to be mixed 50:50 with distilled water.
Understanding Honda Long-Life Coolant Type 2
Key facts about the coolant used in the Pilot and other modern Honda models:
- Type and branding: Honda Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (Long-Life Coolant Type 2).
- Color: commonly blue, though always verify the label on the product you purchase.
- Mixing ratio: typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Some formulations are sold pre-diluted; if you buy concentrate, mix 1 part concentrate with 1 part distilled water.
- Compatibility: formulated for modern Honda cooling systems (often aluminum engines); avoid mixing with Type 1 (older green) coolant in the same system unless a full flush is performed.
- Brand and quality control: use only Honda-approved coolant for the Pilot to ensure proper corrosion protection and performance.
- Service interval: replacement timing is specified in your owner's manual; for many modern Hondas with Type 2, it’s commonly around 5 years or 60,000 miles, but always verify for your exact model year.
Bottom line: use Honda Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2, mix as directed, and follow the replacement interval in your owner's manual. Mixing different coolant types can cause cooling system damage.
How to check or replace the coolant
If you are maintaining the cooling system yourself, follow these general guidelines. Work only when the engine is cold and on a level surface.
- Park on a level surface and allow the engine to cool completely to avoid scalding from hot coolant.
- Locate the expansion/overflow reservoir and check the coolant level against the markings on the side of the reservoir.
- If topping off is needed, use only Honda Genuine Long-Life Coolant Type 2 and a 50/50 mix with distilled water (or pre-mixed 50/50 if available).
- Avoid adding any other coolant brands or mixing Type 1 and Type 2 together in the same system.
- For a full coolant flush or replacement, drain the old coolant, flush with distilled water if needed, reinstall components as necessary, and refill with Type 2 coolant at the correct 50/50 ratio.
- After refilling, run the engine with the radiator cap off until bubbles cease and the thermostat opens, then top off to the proper level with the engine off and cool.
Disposal: dispose of used coolant at a certified recycling facility. Do not pour it down the drain or onto the ground. If you’re unsure about the process, seek professional service.
Model-year variations
Current-generation Pilot (2016–present)
For the current-generation Pilot, Honda continues to specify Honda Long-Life Coolant Type 2. Use Honda Genuine Type 2 coolant and follow the 50/50 mixing guideline with distilled water. Always check the owner’s manual for the exact replacement interval applicable to your trim and region.
Earlier generations
Across earlier Pilot generations, Honda’s guidance has generally aligned with Type 2 long-life coolant for regular service. If you own a very old Pilot or are performing a coolant flush, verify the correct type with the owner’s manual or a Honda dealer to avoid mixing incompatible formulations. In most cases, Type 2 is appropriate for modern maintenance, with a full flush recommended if you are unsure about what was previously used.
Summary
The Honda Pilot uses Honda Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (Long-Life Coolant), typically blue in color. It should be mixed 50/50 with distilled water unless you purchase a pre-diluted 50/50 formulation. Use only Type 2 coolant in the Pilot and follow the replacement interval specified in your owner's manual. If in doubt, consult a Honda dealer or qualified mechanic to ensure optimal cooling-system protection and performance.
