What year Honda Pilot can tow 5000 lbs?
The Honda Pilot can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but only on newer models equipped with Honda’s Tow Package. Earlier generations top out around 4,500 pounds. This article explains which years can reach 5,000 pounds, what equipment is required, and how to tow safely.
Tow ratings by generation
Second generation (2009–2015)
During the second generation, the Pilot’s official maximum towing capacity was typically 4,500 pounds. The 5,000-pound rating was not standard on this generation, and reaching 4,500 pounds generally required proper equipment that was available on select trims.
Before this list, here is the key takeaway for this generation:
- 2009–2015 Honda Pilot: maximum towing capacity commonly 4,500 pounds (2,041 kg) when properly equipped; a 5,000-pound rating is not listed for this generation.
Conclusion: For the 2009–2015 Pilot, towing 5,000 pounds is not supported by the factory rating.
Third generation (2016–present)
Starting with the 2016 model year, Honda raised the Pilot’s towing capacity to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the Tow Package. This higher rating applies to most 2016–present Pilots that have the appropriate factory equipment installed. Exact figures can vary by trim and VIN, so it’s wise to confirm with Honda or a dealer for your specific vehicle.
Before this list, here is the essential update for this generation:
- 2016–present: up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the Tow Package (proper hitch, wiring, and cooling provisions as designed by Honda).
Conclusion: From 2016 onward, the Pilot can tow 5,000 pounds with the proper Tow Package.
Tow package and safety considerations
To tow 5,000 pounds safely, you’ll need the right equipment and adherence to weight limits. The Tow Package is a common requirement, and it typically includes a combination of hardware and performance upgrades designed to handle heavier loads.
Before this list, here are the core safety and equipment considerations:
- Tow Package components: factory hitch, wiring harness, and typically upgrades such as engine and transmission cooling to support heavier towing.
- Trailer brakes: many jurisdictions require trailer brakes for heavier loads; verify local regulations and the trailer’s braking system requirements.
- Vehicle and trailer weight limits: do not exceed the Pilot’s GCWR (gross combined weight rating) and ensure the trailer’s GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) fits within limits.
- Weight distribution: practice proper tongue weight and load distribution, and use appropriate towing mirrors and lighting.
- VIN-specific factors: the exact towing rating can vary by trim, options, and market; always confirm the rating for your exact vehicle with the dealer or owner’s manual.
Conclusion: Verify your exact vehicle configuration and follow Honda’s towing guidelines to ensure safe operation.
Summary
In short, model years 2016 and newer generally tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the Tow Package. The 2009–2015 generation tops out at about 4,500 pounds. For any planned heavy towing, confirm the Tow Package status for your VIN and adhere to all safety and regulatory requirements.
Which Honda Pilot can tow 5000 lb?
Honda Pilot Towing Capacity By Year and Trim
| Honda Pilot Trims | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2022 Honda Pilot EX-L | 3,500 lbs. / 5,000 lbs. (FWD / AWD) |
| 2022 Honda Pilot Special Edition | 3,500 lbs. / 5,000 lbs. (FWD / AWD) |
| 2022 Honda Pilot Touring | 3,500 lbs. / 5,000 lbs. (FWD / AWD) |
| 2022 Honda Pilot Elite | N/A / 5,000 lbs. (FWD / AWD) |
Which Honda Pilot is best for towing?
Which Honda Pilot trim has the highest towing capacity? The 2025 Honda Pilot Sport, EX-L, and Touring can all achieve a max towing capability of 5,000 pounds1 when equipped with the available AWD system.
How much can a 2016 Honda Pilot tow?
The 2016 Honda Pilot's towing capacity depends on its drivetrain: two-wheel-drive (2WD) models have a maximum capacity of 3,500 pounds, while all-wheel-drive (AWD) models can tow up to 5,000 pounds, provided a dealer-installed transmission cooler is added to AWD models to reach the 5,000 lb limit.
2WD models
- Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds.
AWD models
- Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds without an accessory transmission cooler.
- Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds when equipped with the Honda accessory towing package and an automatic transmission fluid (ATF) cooler.
Important considerations
- Towing package: For all models, the towing capacity requires the installation of a Honda accessory towing kit, trailer harness, and hitch ball, which are typically installed by a dealer.
- Transmission cooler: For AWD models to achieve the 5,000-pound towing capacity, an automatic transmission fluid (ATF) cooler must be added.
- Owner's manual: Always consult your owner's manual for specific details and recommendations related to your vehicle and towing.
What year was a bad year for Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot years to avoid include 2003, 2004, 2005, 2011, 2016, and 2017 due to common issues like transmission failures, airbag problems (especially the 2003 model), electrical glitches, and premature brake/suspension issues. The 2016 model is also frequently cited as one to avoid as it was the first year of a new generation and had many initial problems.
This video discusses the best and worst years for the Honda Pilot: 52sCar ComfyYouTube · Sep 26, 2025
Model years to avoid
- 2003: Suffered from a significant number of complaints and recalls, including a major airbag defect that led to a "Do Not Drive" advisory in some cases.
- 2004 and 2005: Faced recurring transmission issues, leading to costly repairs.
- 2011: Had a high number of owner complaints and a range of issues, including transmission problems.
- 2016: This model year was the first for the third generation and had numerous problems, including transmission failures and electrical system issues.
- 2017: Continued to have many of the issues from the 2016 model, as Honda was still working to fix them.
Common problems across multiple years
- Transmission: Problems were particularly prevalent in the 2003-2005 and 2016-2017 model years. Older models may have issues with the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which can be addressed with a disabler device.
- Brakes: Owners of 2003-2017 models reported problems with warped brake rotors, leading to vibrations while braking.
- Electrical: Some models, especially the 2016 and 2019, experienced issues with the infotainment system, including frozen screens and loss of connectivity.
- Airbags: The 2003 model was affected by the Takata airbag defect, leading to safety concerns and recalls.
