Where are the O2 sensors located on a Honda Pilot?
Typically, a Honda Pilot with the common 3.5-liter V6 engine uses four oxygen sensors—two upstream and two downstream—one pair on each exhaust bank (driver and passenger sides). These sensors monitor exhaust composition to help the engine manage fuel, emissions, and catalyst efficiency.
Oxygen sensors (O2 sensors) are mounted along the exhaust system: upstream sensors sit before the catalytic converters to gauge the incoming exhaust air-fuel mix, while downstream sensors sit after the catalysts to verify catalytic efficiency and emissions results. The Honda Pilot generally follows this two-upstream/two-downstream layout across its conventional V6 models, though exact mounting can vary slightly by generation. This article maps the typical locations and designations to help you locate them quickly for inspection or replacement.
Location Overview
On most Honda Pilots that use the 3.5L V6, you’ll find two O2 sensors before the catalytic converters (upstream) and two after the catalytic converters (downstream). Each sensor pair serves a different bank of the engine’s exhaust system, ensuring accurate readings across both sides of the engine.
Exact Sensor Locations by Bank
Before listing the locations, note that “Bank 1” refers to the side of the engine that contains cylinder number 1. In a typical Honda V6 layout, Bank 1 is the driver-side bank and Bank 2 is the passenger-side bank. The following locations apply to most Pilot configurations with the 3.5L V6:
- Bank 1 Sensor 1 (Upstream) — Driver-side exhaust manifold area, before the catalytic converter. This is the first sensor on that bank.
- Bank 2 Sensor 1 (Upstream) — Passenger-side exhaust manifold area, before the catalytic converter. This is the first sensor on the opposite bank.
- Bank 1 Sensor 2 (Downstream) — After the catalytic converter on the driver-side bank. This sensor checks catalyst effectiveness on this side.
- Bank 2 Sensor 2 (Downstream) — After the catalytic converter on the passenger-side bank. This sensor checks catalyst effectiveness on the other side.
In short, you should expect four sensors total: two upstream and two downstream, one pair on each exhaust bank. They are arranged along the exhaust path near the manifolds and near the catalytic converters, with wiring harnesses leading to the engine computer for data input.
Bank designation explained
Bank 1 includes cylinder 1 and is typically the driver-side bank on most Honda V6 engines, while Bank 2 is the opposite side (passenger side). This convention helps technicians map readings to the correct exhaust path when diagnosing issues or replacing sensors.
Notes by Model Year and Tips for Locating
While the four-sensor arrangement is standard for Honda Pilots with the 3.5L V6, exact mounting points can vary slightly by generation and trim. If you’re uncertain about your specific model year, consult the owner’s manual or a service manual for your Pilot, or have a trained technician verify the locations before replacement.
What to Do If You Need to Replace an O2 Sensor
Before replacing sensors, diagnose using a scan tool to confirm which sensor is failing and to avoid unnecessary replacements. O2 sensors are wired sensors with electrical connectors that thread into the exhaust pipe or manifold. Access is usually from beneath the vehicle or near the engine bay, depending on the sensor’s position. Use proper anti-seize on sensor threads (where applicable) and follow torque specifications from your service manual.
Summary
The Honda Pilot typically houses four O2 sensors: Bank 1 Sensor 1 and Bank 2 Sensor 1 upstream (before the catalytic converters) and Bank 1 Sensor 2 and Bank 2 Sensor 2 downstream (after the catalysts). They are located along the exhaust system—one pair on each bank—near the manifolds and catalytic converters. If you’re unsure of exact locations for your model year, refer to the service manual or consult a professional to avoid damage and ensure accurate diagnostics.
How much does it cost to replace the oxygen sensor on a Honda Pilot?
between $824 and $1,015
The average cost for a Honda Pilot Oxygen Sensor Replacement is between $824 and $1,015. Labor costs are estimated between $63 and $92 while parts are priced between $761 and $922. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.
What are the symptoms of a bad O2 sensor on a Honda?
Here are a few symptoms of bad or failing 02 (oxygen) sensors: The check engine light may come on. Poor fuel efficiency: You may notice a decrease in gas mileage. Bad smells: You may smell something rotten or sulfurous from the exhaust. Black smoke: You may see black smoke coming from the exhaust.
How many oxygen sensors are on a Honda Pilot?
There are 4 o2 sensors on that Honda Pilot.
Where are O2 sensors on Honda Pilot?
Our first connector right here. That is going to come around and go to our O2 sensor. Which is located. Right down over here. We're going to go ahead and reach down below this connector here.
